Behind the Work

Emma Willis is a visionary entrepreneur and ecosystem builder at the intersection of technology, equity, and community transformation. As the Founder and CEO of Impact Period LLC, Emma leads strategic consulting initiatives designed to empower communities, foster inclusive innovation, and scale impact-driven ventures. Her flagship project, the "City of Entrepreneurs" partnership, has catalyzed multi-million dollar investments in local economic mobility.

Emma’s career spans fintech, public policy, and nonprofit leadership—most notably serving as Chief Operating Officer at Sootchy, a fintech startup advancing access to debt-free education. She also held the role of Executive Director of the Arkansas Education Investment Plan, where she led assets from $600 million to $1 billion and launched the nation’s first state-run 529 savings app.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Founded Impact Period LLC, advising cross-sector partners on economic empowerment and equitable growth strategies.
• Led operations at Sootchy, scaling savings innovations for underserved communities.
• Transformed Arkansas’s 529 Plan through digital innovation and state policy leadership.

Relevance to Future of Work Startups:

• Deep expertise in building community-aligned ventures that address financial inclusion, workforce development, and upskilling.
• Proven ability to drive cross-sector partnerships and implement technology solutions with public sector impact.
• Experienced in scaling platforms that bridge capital, education, and opportunity for underserved populations.

How Emma Willis Can Support Founders:
Emma helps Future of Work founders design inclusive business models that drive social impact and long-term sustainability. Her background across public-private sectors equips startups to scale with integrity—navigating partnerships, policy environments, and equity-focused growth with clarity and purpose.

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Dr. Joseph Canada is an Assistant Professor at Rutgers School of Business–Camden. With a Ph.D. in Business Administration from the University of Central Florida and a B.S. in Accounting from Florida A&M University, Dr. Canada specializes in the intersection of integrated information technology and accounting systems. His research delves into how enterprise systems influence managerial empowerment and strategic flexibility, with publications featured in leading journals such as the Journal of Information Systems. 

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Research Excellence: Authored influential studies on enterprise risk management and IT controls, contributing to the understanding of how integrated systems impact organizational performance.
• Educational Leadership: Implemented innovative teaching methodologies that enhance student engagement and practical skill development in accounting information systems.
• Professional Recognition: Recipient of multiple awards for teaching and civic engagement, reflecting a dedication to both academic and community advancement.

Relevance to Emerging Tech Startups:

• Expertise in integrating accounting systems with emerging technologies, providing insights into scalable and efficient financial infrastructures.
• Deep understanding of enterprise systems and their role in enhancing managerial decision-making and strategic agility.
• Proven ability to translate complex accounting and IT concepts into actionable strategies for technology-driven organizations.

How Dr. Joseph Canada Can Support Founders:

Dr. Canada provides critical insight for emerging tech founders seeking to implement scalable financial infrastructures. His expertise helps startups align technology adoption with operational goals, navigate system integration challenges, and ensure regulatory compliance—all key pillars for sustainable growth and investor readiness.

Dr. Darlene Walley is a seasoned biotech executive and health innovation leader with over 30 years of experience driving success across the life sciences and consumer health sectors. From executive roles at Procter & Gamble, Gillette/Oral-B Laboratories, and Arm & Hammer to CEO positions at early-stage pharma and biotech firms, Dr. Walley has consistently delivered high-impact results through product innovation, market expansion, and capital strategy.

She has raised over $100 million in capital and contributed to exits exceeding $1 billion, bringing a wealth of strategic and operational expertise to emerging health ventures. As a board member and advisor, she works closely with startups and investment firms to scale companies, navigate commercialization, and drive value creation.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Successful Exits: Contributed to over $1B in acquisition and exit value across multiple health-focused ventures.
• Capital Strategy: Raised over $100M across private and institutional funding rounds for early-stage biotech and medtech companies.
• Intellectual Property Leadership: Holds 12 patents primarily in consumer health and diagnostics, with over 15 peer-reviewed publications.
• Corporate and Startup Leadership: Led high-profile initiatives across Fortune 500 and startup ecosystems, bringing multiple health products to market.
  
  

Relevance to Health Tech Startups:

• Expertise in launching and scaling health and wellness technologies from R&D through to commercialization.
• Deep understanding of investor expectations, fundraising strategy, and product-market alignment in health-focused markets.
• Experience across regulated environments including pharma, diagnostics, and consumer health tech.

How Dr. Walley Can Support Founders:Dr. Walley supports health tech founders by helping them navigate early-stage growth, refine go-to-market strategies, and secure capital. Her combination of executive experience, startup agility, and scientific expertise makes her a trusted advisor for scaling innovation in health and wellness.

Dr. Réda Fayek is a distinguished engineer, commercialization expert, and transformational executive with over 25 years of experience leading health tech companies through innovation, growth, and turnaround. He has successfully revitalized multiple struggling ventures, developed over 15 regulated health products, and guided firms through fundraising, product-market alignment, and strategic exits.

With deep cross-disciplinary expertise spanning medical devices, digital pathology, diagnostics, robotics, and imaging systems, Dr. Fayek is known for transforming technical complexity into scalable solutions. As former CEO of Huron Digital Pathology, he led the company from near-collapse to global recognition—delivering six new clinical products in two years and securing $3.8M in funding. Earlier, as President & COO of Dynacon Inc., he doubled shareholder value and executed a successful acquisition by Becton Dickinson.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Health Tech Turnaround Leadership: Directed major transformations of medtech firms, including product portfolio expansion, international regulatory compliance (FDA QSR, ISO 13485), and capital raise execution.
• Commercial MedTech Success: Delivered multiple health-focused technologies from lab to market, including rapid COVID-19 diagnostics, robotic systems, and award-winning digital pathology platforms.
• Ecosystem Leadership: Mentored over 50 health tech startups through organizations like Innovation Guelph and HalTech, specializing in funding strategy, product readiness, and investor engagement.
• Academic & Clinical Engagement: Current Professor at Conestoga College, former Adjunct Professor at University of Waterloo, and frequent collaborator with clinicians, labs, and translational researchers.

Relevance to Health Tech Startups:

• Proven ability to align medical innovation with clinical needs, regulatory pathways, and commercialization goals.
• Deep knowledge of device development, diagnostics workflows, and emerging health informatics.
• Track record of guiding founders through fundraising, M&A readiness, and global go-to-market execution.

How Dr. Réda Fayek Can Support Founders:Dr. Fayek helps health tech startups translate R&D into patient-centric, investor-ready solutions. He offers founders strategic guidance on regulatory navigation, cross-functional team building, and product lifecycle management—bringing clarity and momentum to complex medical innovation journeys.

Bruce Shepard is a healthcare strategist and Managing Partner at FocusPoint Strategy Partners, where he leads organizations through strategic transformation initiatives. With nearly a decade of leadership experience in both provider and vendor environments, Bruce has a proven track record of developing innovative solutions to complex healthcare challenges. 

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Value-Based Care & Market Expansion: Bruce specializes in developing and implementing value-based care models, expanding healthcare services, and creating new market entry strategies. His work focuses on aligning payors, providers, and community stakeholders to create sustainable, patient-centered healthcare systems.
  
  
• Executive Leadership: Prior to FocusPoint, Bruce held executive roles at PayrHealth and Community Health Systems, where he drove revenue growth, spearheaded partnerships, and enhanced care delivery models.
  
  

Relevance to HealthTech Startups:

• Expertise in value-based care transformation and healthcare market expansion.
• Experience in developing innovative solutions to complex healthcare challenges.
• Strong background in strategic leadership within both provider and vendor environments.
  
  

How Bruce Sheppard Can Support Founders:

Bruce assists startups in navigating the complexities of healthcare transformation, particularly in implementing value-based care models and expanding into new markets. His strategic insights and leadership experience are invaluable for emerging companies aiming to create sustainable, patient-centered healthcare solutions.

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Georgie Kovacs is a healthcare strategist, advisor, and founder of Fempower Health, a platform dedicated to reshaping the conversation on women's health. With over 20 years of experience in biopharma, consulting, and healthcare innovation—spanning roles at Pfizer, Syneos Health, IQVIA, and Bristol-Myers Squibb—she bridges the gap between research, patient needs, and industry strategy. 

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Biopharma & Healthcare Strategy: Held strategic roles at leading healthcare organizations, including Pfizer, Syneos Health, IQVIA, and Bristol-Myers Squibb, focusing on aligning patient needs with industry strategies.  
• Fempower Health: Founded in 2020, Fempower Health is a pioneering platform that empowers women with evidence-based insights and support. Through the Fempower Health Podcast, Georgie has interviewed top experts, translating complex healthcare challenges into actionable insights. 
• Advocacy & Thought Leadership: Member of the Springboard Enterprises Women’s Health Council, where she helps select and mentor startups innovating in women’s health. Her work has been featured in CBS This Morning, GoodRx, Authority Magazine, and the Endometriosis Foundation of America.  

Relevance to HealthTech Startups:

• Expertise in healthcare strategy and innovation, particularly in women's health. 
• Experience in guiding organizations towards strategic execution, growth, and improved performance.
• Strong network within the biopharma and healthcare consulting industries. 

How Georgie Kovacs Can Support Founders:

Georgie helps startups navigate the complexities of healthcare, from commercialization strategies to regulatory landscapes. Her deep market knowledge and industry network are invaluable for emerging companies aiming to make a meaningful impact in women's health.

Devin Wingfield is a digital content strategist specializing in storytelling, strategic partnerships, and marketing. A graduate of Notre Dame, he has helped both startups and established brands expand their audience engagement through innovative content strategies.

Ryan Jones is an analyst with a passion for supporting high growth companies. She holds an MBA from Howard University and an MPH from Tulane University. Passionate about venture capital, she is dedicated to supporting innovative businesses that drive meaningful impact.

Krisha Chheda is a graduate student in Quantitative Finance at the University of Maryland with a strong analytical background and leadership experience. She thrives in fast-paced, innovation-driven environments and is passionate about leveraging financial strategies to drive business growth.

Will Tier is a Quantitative Finance graduate student at the University of Arkansas with expertise in capital markets, financial analysis, and investment strategy. He is the Founding President of the University Venture Capital Society, where he fosters innovation and connects students with opportunities in early-stage investing. Will is passionate about leveraging data-driven insights to drive investment decisions and support high-growth startups.

Michael Reid is a former startup founder and a seasoned product manager with experience in both startups and big tech. Experience includes Senior Associate in Product Strategy & Business Operations at LinkedIn, where he oversaw multi-billion-dollar portfolios. Before that, he led business operations at Phil, Inc. and co-founded Reach Me, a SaaS platform for influencers. A Harvard graduate and Ron Brown Scholar, Michael is passionate about supporting startup founders and driving strategic innovation in technology.

Darrius Cook is a communications and content strategy professional with experience at NPR, where he oversaw operations and production across its platform and podcast network. A recent graduate of Baldwin Wallace University, he is passionate about storytelling, content strategy, and innovation. He is also a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Alexandria Washington is the CEO/Managing Principal of The BIG Agency, where she and her team serve as the go-to brand architects for clients across the country — employing over 30 young Black and Brown creatives. Previously, Washington served over a decade as a broadcaster in a number of cities from coast to coast — and still serves as an award-winning radio personality with Bradford Media Group, and TV host with a resume of media titans such as TMZ, Fox News, Viacom and Radio One. 

Washington is a graduate of The University of Alabama, where she earned her bachelor degree in public relations, and her MBA from the historic Philander Smith University, graduating at the top of university’s inaugural cohort with honors.

Cyril Djoukeng is a talented attorney, and litigation counsel for Verizon in Washington, DC. Cyril’s professional experience spans 10 plus years in the law industry, and brings that voice to the High Street Equity Partners team as a Venture Fellow. Cyril is instrumental in due diligence, and team deal flow, with key insights about online marketplaces, and the future of work. Cyril is intent on building the economy through venture capital and higher education. He is a graduate of Nicholls State, and received his J.D. from the University of North Carolina Law School.

Douglas Finley is a seasoned software engineer and entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience spanning startups, Fortune 500 companies, and government agencies. As the founder of Starline Ventures, he has led the development of innovative technology solutions, emphasizing user-centric design and technological advancements that enhance efficiency. 

Douglas's expertise encompasses backend, frontend, mobile, cybersecurity, and infrastructure applications. His proficiency in cloud computing platforms such as AWS and GCP has been instrumental in evaluating and implementing scalable, secure, and automated cloud solutions. 

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Founder of Starline Ventures: Established a technology venture focused on developing innovative solutions that meet market demands and advance technological efficiency.
• Software Developer at Carrollton Tech: Contributed to significant software projects that improved the company's technological capabilities and software performance.
• Educational Background: Holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and Mathematics from Georgetown University, providing a strong foundation in analytical and problem-solving skills.

Relevance to Emerging Tech Startups:

• Extensive experience in full-stack development and cloud infrastructure, enabling startups to build robust and scalable solutions.
• Proven track record in leading agile development teams and delivering innovative products in fast-paced environments.
• Deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities inherent in technology-driven ventures across various organizational settings.

How Douglas Finley Can Support Founders:
Douglas offers strategic insights into technology ecosystems, helping startups identify and capitalize on emerging trends. His comprehensive experience across different sectors equips him to guide founders in making informed decisions that drive sustainable growth and value creation.

Serafina Lalany is a recognized leader in the startup and innovation ecosystem, known for her work bridging early-stage founders with capital and catalyzing inclusive entrepreneurship. As Executive Director of StartupNWA, an initiative of the Northwest Arkansas Council, she is leading efforts to position the region as a national hub for Future of Work innovation.

Previously, as Executive Director of Houston Exponential, Serafina spearheaded initiatives to mobilize $10 billion in venture capital for Houston startups by 2030. She launched the VC Immersions Program—facilitating over 350 curated meetings between founders and VCs—and built a fund-of-funds strategy that expanded access to capital for emerging managers. Her career has consistently focused on lowering barriers to entrepreneurship for underrepresented communities.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• VC Immersions Program: Connected hundreds of startups with investors, generating term sheets and funding outcomes through curated matchmaking.
• Innovation Ecosystem Leadership: Built scalable frameworks to support startup acceleration, talent attraction, and inclusive capital formation.
• Regional and National Influence: Elevated the profiles of emerging tech hubs through coalition building and strategic public-private partnerships.

Relevance to Future of Work Startups:

• Deep expertise in architecting startup ecosystems that support workforce innovation, talent development, and digital upskilling.
• Proficient in helping Future of Work startups access capital, pilot partnerships, and build traction with enterprise and government customers.
• Advocate for workplace equity and inclusion—key pillars in the evolution of modern work platforms and technologies.

How Serafina Lalany Can Support Founders:
Serafina brings ecosystem insight and capital strategy to Future of Work startups aiming to scale solutions for tomorrow’s workforce. She supports founders in building investor-ready narratives, forming regional alliances, and accessing institutional capital. Her experience in ecosystem design and inclusive growth makes her a trusted partner for startups shaping the future of how we work.

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Dr. Rashawn Ray is a Professor of Sociology at the University of Maryland and a Senior Fellow at The Brookings Institution. He also serves as Vice President and Executive Director of the AIR Opportunity Fund, a $225 million initiative focused on addressing disparities in workforce development, education, public safety, and community health.

As the founding Executive Director of the Lab for Applied Social Science Research (LASSR), Dr. Ray has developed innovative tools that explore the intersection of technology, bias, and organizational behavior—including virtual reality training simulations and applied AI use cases. He has delivered large-scale implicit bias training programs and designed interventions used by major employers and public institutions to shape more inclusive workplace environments.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Policy Influence: Testifies regularly before federal and state lawmakers on issues related to racial equity, workforce policy, and AI ethics.
• Academic Thought Leadership: Author of over 50 peer-reviewed publications and co-editor of Contexts Magazine, which reaches over one million annual readers.
• National Tech Advisory: Member of the National Artificial Intelligence Advisory Committee, offering guidance on responsible AI deployment in government and industry settings.

Relevance to Future of Work Startups:

• Deep expertise in how emerging technologies shape workforce behavior, productivity, and equity.
• Proven success in integrating sociological insights into product and platform development, including virtual training, employee analytics, and AI tools.
• Unique ability to help startups navigate the ethical, regulatory, and cultural implications of tech-driven workforce transformation.

How Dr. Rashawn Ray Can Support Founders:
Dr. Ray helps Future of Work startups embed equity, ethics, and social intelligence into the core of their technologies. He guides founders on how to build trust, shape inclusive platforms, and anticipate policy dynamics that impact workplace innovation. His insights bridge academic rigor with real-world application—helping startups build better tools for the modern workforce.

Danielle Caldwell is a seasoned legal and privacy leader with deep expertise in global data protection, compliance management, and scaling technology companies. As Senior Director, Privacy Counsel, and Data Protection Officer at 1Password, Danielle plays a critical role in navigating global regulatory environments for one of the world’s most widely used SaaS security platforms.

With over a decade of experience across healthcare, fitness, home design, and enterprise SaaS, Danielle has successfully built privacy programs and compliance strategies for companies operating in fast-paced, distributed environments. Her legal background and strong command of global data privacy laws enable her to bridge legal rigor with business practicality—making her a strategic ally to startups operating in the Future of Work space.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Leads global data protection and compliance strategy for 1Password, a leading password manager and identity security platform.
• Built and scaled legal frameworks to support rapid international growth in privacy-intensive sectors.
• Recognized for simplifying complex regulatory challenges into actionable, business-friendly solutions.

Relevance to Future of Work Startups:

• Expert in designing scalable compliance strategies for remote-first, SaaS-based, and global workforce platforms.
• Proficient in embedding privacy and risk management into the product lifecycle of Future of Work tools.
• Deep understanding of legal standards in emerging work technologies, from remote collaboration to employee data management.

How Danielle Caldwell Can Support Founders:Danielle helps founders navigate the legal complexities of building Future of Work platforms—from privacy-by-design to global compliance readiness. Her expertise empowers startups to move fast while staying compliant, creating trust-driven products that can scale securely in regulated and international markets.

Dr. Kevin Sexton is a surgeon, clinical informaticist, and medical technology innovator, specializing in predictive analytics, AI-driven diagnostics, and digital health transformation.

With dual board certifications in Surgery and Clinical Informatics, Dr. Sexton has developed and commercialized multiple healthcare technologies, including AI-powered patient monitoring tools and predictive analytics solutions for hospital systems.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Medical AI & Predictive Analytics: Invented Midas+ Live™, a predictive analytics system that enhances early detection of patient complications, later acquired by Xerox.
• MedTech & Digital Health Entrepreneurship: Developed novel venous waveform technology for real-time patient monitoring, licensed to Fortune 500 companies like Baxter International.
• Academic & Research Leadership: Serves as Associate Professor at UAMS, leading multiple research projects on AI applications in healthcare.

Relevance to HealthTech Startups:

• Expertise in AI-driven healthcare innovation and hospital technology adoption
• Experience in medical device development and commercialization
• Deep understanding of clinical informatics and health data analytics

How Dr. Sexton Can Support Founders:

Dr. Sexton helps startups bridge the gap between AI-driven innovations and real-world clinical adoption, ensuring that technology solutions align with provider workflows and hospital reimbursement models.

Dr. Sachin Nagrani is a board-certified physician, HealthTech leader, and expert in home-based care models, having served as the Medical Director at Heal, a groundbreaking tech-enabled home healthcare company that was acquired by Humana in 2023.

With extensive experience in integrating telemedicine, AI-driven diagnostics, and home-based primary care, Dr. Nagrani has been at the forefront of reinventing healthcare delivery for aging populations, chronic disease management, and underserved communities.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Home Healthcare Pioneer: Led Heal’s efforts to scale nationwide operations, successfully integrating telemedicine, predictive analytics, and mobile medical teams into a seamless healthcare experience.
• Technology & Healthcare Integration: Advocated for AI-driven patient monitoring and remote diagnostic tools, allowing for early intervention and reduced hospital readmissions.
• Successful Exit: Instrumental in growing Heal’s valuation and structuring a strategic acquisition by Humana, positioning the company as a model for home-based primary care at scale.

Relevance to HealthTech Startups:

• Expert in scaling HealthTech startups through strategic partnerships
• Strong understanding of payer-provider dynamics and value-based healthcare models
• Experience integrating AI and remote patient monitoring into clinical workflows

How Dr. Nagrani Can Support Founders:

Dr. Nagrani can help founders develop scalable care models, navigate payer reimbursements for home-based care, and integrate AI-driven decision support tools into their platforms.

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Luke Squire is a mission-driven product leader and clean tech strategist dedicated to democratizing access to sustainable energy. With a career that began in progressive public policy and transitioned into clean energy innovation, Luke is passionate about leveraging technology to drive social, environmental, and economic equity.

At Arcadia, Luke led the development of cutting-edge energy reporting and billing systems that empowered consumers with renewable choices. Now at Solstice, he oversees product, data, and design—developing platforms that expand community access to affordable solar energy.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Clean Energy Product Innovation: Led the launch of consumer-facing energy tools at Arcadia, enabling widespread renewable energy access.
• Community Solar Advocacy: Drives product and design efforts at Solstice to make solar affordable and inclusive for underserved communities.
• Public Policy & Equity Leadership: Co-founded LaunchProgress to elevate diverse leaders and bring equity into policy-making.

Relevance to Clean Tech Startups:

• Expert in building inclusive, user-friendly clean energy products.
• Deep understanding of community-based solar programs and regulatory frameworks.
• Experience scaling digital solutions in mission-aligned clean tech startups.

How Luke Squire Can Support Founders:Luke offers strategic insight into designing consumer-focused clean energy solutions, navigating policy and market challenges in community solar, and aligning product design with social and environmental impact.

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Joel Kanter, President of Windy City, Inc. since 1986, is a seasoned investment professional with a diverse background in both the public and private sectors. His career is marked by his tenure as President and CEO of Walnut Financial Services, Inc., a publicly traded company specializing in financing small to medium-sized businesses in particular Healthcare companies. Under his leadership, Walnut Financial grew significantly, eventually IPO’d and culminated in a successful $400 million sale to Tower Hill Capital Group in 1999.

Kanter's early career included impactful roles in government and legislative affairs. From 1978 to 1980, he served as a Legislative Assistant to Congressman Abner J. Mikva, contributing to federal criminal code reform efforts. He then advanced to Special Assistant at the National Association of Attorneys General from 1980 to 1983, where he played a key role in legislative initiatives for environmental protection, including the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act.

From 1983 to 1985, Kanter was the Staff Director of the House Rules Committee's Subcommittee on Legislative Process, actively involved in Democratic Party policy development and debate format innovation. Following this, he served as Managing Director of The Investors' Washington Service, advising major corporations on the impact of federal decisions on markets.

In the corporate realm, Kanter has held board positions in several public companies, including Magna-Labs, Inc. and WaferGen, contributing to advancements in medical and biotechnological fields. His involvement extends to private companies like Fibralign Corporation and First Wave Technologies, innovating in medical devices and healthcare solutions.

Dr. Fernando Porter is an accomplished board-certified family medicine physician, entrepreneur, and HealthTech executive, currently serving as the Medical Director of Privia Health. With over a decade of experience in clinical leadership, medical practice management, and telehealth innovation, Dr. Porter has consistently pushed the boundaries of how technology can improve patient outcomes, streamline healthcare operations, and enhance physician workflows.

At Privia Health, Dr. Porter has played a key role in developing and implementing cutting-edge healthcare models that prioritize patient engagement, coordinated care, and the seamless integration of digital health solutions. He has championed initiatives that modernize patient care delivery, ensuring that providers can operate efficiently while improving accessibility and quality of care for diverse patient populations.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Private Practice Leadership: Founder and lead physician at Capital City Primary and Immediate Care, where he successfully integrated telemedicine and AI-driven healthcare solutions into traditional practice.
• Telehealth Innovation: As the former Medical Director of Doctor on Demand, he was instrumental in launching and scaling the company’s telehealth operations, pioneering new virtual care workflows that are now industry standards.
• HealthTech & Entrepreneurship: Beyond his clinical work, Dr. Porter has been a driving force in advising and supporting healthcare startups that focus on digital transformation, patient engagement, and practice efficiency.

Relevance to HealthTech Startups:

• Expert in virtual health, AI-driven care, and provider adoption of technology
• Experience scaling and operationalizing telemedicine services
• Deep understanding of provider networks and reimbursement strategies

How Dr. Porter Can Support Founders:

Dr. Porter can offer direct insights into how startups can successfully integrate digital health tools into provider workflows, navigate telemedicine regulations, and scale virtual health operations while maintaining high-quality patient care.

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Deondra Randle is a seasoned technology executive and clean tech innovator with over a decade of experience advancing environmentally sustainable solutions across both enterprise and startup environments. He brings a unique combination of systems engineering, logistics coordination, and product leadership focused on reducing environmental impact through clean technology.

With a strong foundation in eco-focused rolling stock and signaling design, Deondra has led global-scale transportation and logistics projects that prioritize sustainability, efficiency, and innovation. He is known for using data-driven approaches to launch impactful clean tech products that meet market demands while enhancing environmental outcomes.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Green Logistics & Infrastructure: Spearheaded clean transportation systems emphasizing sustainability in signaling, design, and operational efficiency.
• Product Innovation in Clean Tech: Led clean tech product launches using strategic planning and customer-centric design to meet ESG goals.
• Operational Leadership: Successfully implemented waste-reduction and maintenance strategies across global infrastructure projects.

Relevance to Clean Tech Startups:

• Deep expertise in sustainable transportation and systems design.
• Proven ability to scale clean tech innovations from concept to execution.
• Strong technical background with a strategic approach to market adoption.

How Deondra Randle Can Support Founders:

Deondra helps startups align technical development with sustainability goals, navigate large-scale clean tech deployments, and apply data-driven methods to scale eco-friendly innovations that resonate with regulators, investors, and climate-conscious markets.

Brandon Andrews is a multifaceted entrepreneur, innovation strategist, and advocate for inclusive entrepreneurship. As Co-Founder of Gauge—a mobile market research platform powered by AI—Brandon is redefining how brands engage with diverse consumers in real-time. He also serves as Senior Consultant at Values Partnerships, where he drives initiatives at the intersection of technology, storytelling, and equity.

Brandon has helped shape inclusive innovation ecosystems through high-profile roles with platforms like ABC’s Shark Tank and REVOLT’s Bet on Black, identifying and elevating underrepresented entrepreneurs. He is a Global Innovation Fellow with the U.S. Department of State and leads global entrepreneurship programs that empower founders through mentorship, storytelling, and access to capital. His career spans public affairs, tech policy, and community engagement, with a proven ability to build dynamic networks that fuel innovation.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Co-founded Gauge, an AI-driven consumer insights platform used by Fortune 500 brands and government agencies.
• Led national entrepreneur engagement campaigns that have surfaced thousands of diverse founders.
• Recognized by the U.S. Department of State as a Global Innovation Fellow for international leadership in entrepreneurship.

Relevance to Future of Work Startups:

• Expert in inclusive innovation, startup storytelling, and market engagement strategy.
• Proven ability to scale founder networks, mentorship platforms, and narrative-driven fundraising ecosystems.
• Strong understanding of technology policy, equity-driven platform design, and public-private collaboration.

How Brandon Andrews Can Support Founders:
Brandon helps Future of Work founders elevate their narratives, connect with diverse customers, and build scalable community-driven platforms. His expertise bridges innovation, inclusivity, and tech-forward storytelling—ensuring startups resonate in both the boardroom and the marketplace.

Adrian Jordan is a healthcare executive, public policy strategist, and payer innovation leader, currently serving as Plan President of Amerigroup DC, a subsidiary of Elevance Health (formerly Anthem). With responsibility for over 500,000 Medicaid members, Jordan is a recognized leader in managed care, value-based healthcare, and community health innovation.

With a career spanning healthcare policy, government affairs, and executive leadership, Jordan has been instrumental in advancing Medicaid innovation, integrating technology-driven solutions to address social determinants of health (SDOH), and forging strategic partnerships that enhance care delivery for underserved populations.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Medicaid Managed Care Leadership: Leads strategy and execution for DC’s largest Medicaid plan, ensuring high-quality, cost-effective care for half a million residents.
• HealthTech & Data-Driven Innovation: Spearheaded new technology initiatives to improve patient engagement, enhance care coordination, and reduce healthcare disparities.
• Public Policy & Advocacy: Former Senior Government Relations Director at Anthem, where he shaped healthcare budgets, influenced policy, and advocated for regulatory improvements impacting Medicaid and Medicare.

Relevance to HealthTech Startups:

• Deep expertise in Medicaid, payer strategy, and managed care operations
• Experience implementing HealthTech solutions for large-scale patient populations
• Strong network of payer executives and policymakers who influence funding and reimbursement

How Adrian Jordan Can Support Founders:

Jordan can help startups understand how to navigate payer partnerships, secure reimbursement contracts, and integrate SDOH-driven innovations that align with the evolving healthcare landscape.

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Rayshun Williams is a member of the Investment Team at High Street Equity Partners, where he supports deal sourcing and diligence. With nearly a decade of professional experience spanning finance, analytics, and business strategy, Rayshun brings a data-informed perspective to evaluating early-stage investments in today’s rapidly evolving economy.

A graduate of Morehouse College with a degree in Financial Management Services, Rayshun has held roles as a Sales and Business Analyst across several sectors. His work has focused on financial forecasting, reporting, market analysis, and process improvement—equipping him with the analytical tools and operational acumen critical for high-growth startup environments.

He is passionate about the intersection of capital, innovation, and impact, and supports HSEP’s mission of investing in diverse founders and transformative technologies.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Led financial reporting and forecasting initiatives to inform strategic decision-making for client portfolios.
• Supported business process redesign and operational analysis across multiple business units.
• Contributed to market insights and diligence for early-stage venture investments.

Relevance to Early-Stage VC:

• Background in financial analysis and market research, with direct relevance to sourcing and evaluating early-stage opportunities.
• Experience navigating complex data environments to support investment decisions.
• Commitment to inclusive innovation and economic empowerment through venture capital.

How Rayshun Williams Can Support Founders:

Rayshun brings strong analytical skills and operational insight to help founders navigate key early-stage challenges. He supports portfolio companies with financial modeling, market validation, and strategic planning, helping teams stay focused and metrics-driven as they scale.

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Shannon McFarland is a Publicist and Venture Associate in the Urbana-Champaign and Atlanta, GA areas, focusing on news and community development. Her experience includes publicity for academic and youth development providers, professional athletes, entrepreneurs and e-commerce brands. Shannon is the lead for communications and content strategy at High Street Equity Partners.

Shannon has served as a college sports coach, media coordinator, director of women’s basketball operations and freelance publicist in top 10 sports markets. She received her bachelor’s degree in Public Relations Management and her Master’s in Recreation and Sports Management before founding communications studio Champion Diaries Management. She brings media, operational, and event support to organizations, institutions, athletes, and businesses, impacting communities in cities like Chicago, Atlanta, Miami.

Currently, Shannon is on the Board of Directors for youth sports league First String, Inc, women, student and family support group Dream Girls Academy, and leads operations for STEAM Genius, a STEM ILLINOIS extension, driving innovative technology in teens as Interim Site Supervisor at the Don Moyer Boys & Girls Club.

Shannon is passionate about literacy, news, framing exceptional concepts of storytelling, and designing positive social engagement experiences– Whether in real life or online. She studies yoga, loves to read; celebrate, and collects magazines.

Natasha Valley joined High Street Equity Partners in early 2021, as a Venture Associate to identify new investment trends and opportunities, perform due diligence, and create an ecosystem for founders. She is a trend-setting brand strategist who has led creative marketing, digital media, social media, and public relations strategy for world-class athletes, entertainers, influencers and brands.
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Natasha grew up in England with American parents, which gave her a global view of sports, entertainment, and business, and lit her flame for branding. After receiving a Bachelor's & Master's from Florida A&M University in 2009, she began increasing the profitability of brands
through strategy and storytelling.
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In the past few years, she’s joined the founding team of three incredible tech startups. At KiddieKredit (an app designed to teach children about the credit system through activity completion and reward redemption), Natasha is the Head of Brand Strategy. She is the Chief Marketing Officer at Soulace, a virtual therapy app for Black people with Black providers. Natasha also served as the Chief Marketing Officer at THE MOST (a startup disrupting the hair care space with tech enabled tools for women with textured hair) for a year.
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It was 2020 when she founded a Strategic Communications agency called “atus” to empower startups, professional athletes, and other amazing brands.
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and lives in Houston, TX.

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Jessica Grant is the Chief of Staff at High Street Equity Partners, where she leads internal operations, coordinates strategic initiatives, and supports the firm’s investment processes. With over a decade of experience in business operations and development across NGOs and venture-backed startups, Jessica brings a systems-oriented approach to scaling mission-driven organizations.

Her career has spanned domestic and international markets, where she has designed and implemented operational frameworks that enable sustainable growth. Jessica has played a key role in due diligence, internal review processes, and strategic visioning—equipping her with a deep understanding of how to align execution with impact.

Passionate about inclusive innovation, Jessica has a strong interest in closing the global wealth gap by adapting business models for emerging and underserved markets. Her work continues to advance HSEP’s mission of driving economic opportunity through early-stage investing.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Designed and implemented growth systems for NGOs and startups in multiple global markets.
• Led strategic planning initiatives to align organizational mission with measurable outcomes.
• Built operational infrastructure to support investment readiness and long-term sustainability.

Relevance to Early-Stage VC:

• Expertise in due diligence, internal operations, and systems design for mission-aligned ventures.
• Experience navigating cross-border growth and adapting business models for international contexts.
• Operational leader with a track record of turning strategic plans into scalable processes.

How Jessica Grant Can Support Founders:

Jessica supports founders by bringing structure to strategy—helping teams align vision with execution. From due diligence to operational readiness, she ensures early-stage companies build the internal capabilities necessary for sustainable growth and impact.

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George Darden is a seasoned software product executive and management consultant with extensive experience in corporate restructuring, performance improvement, and strategic advisory roles across the private equity industry. His expertise in deep diligence spans across sectors including Healthcare, Defense Tech, FinTech, Media & Entertainment, and Retail.

As a Venture Partner at High Street Equity Partners, George brings a wealth of knowledge in product development, enterprise software architecture, financial modeling, cost reduction, and scaling organizations. His approach emphasizes system thinking, design thinking, strategy, human capital, and economics, ensuring that the right people and processes are in place to drive success.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Strategic Advisory Roles: Provided consulting services to startups, private equity firms, venture capitalists, and strategic buyers, focusing on performance improvement and corporate restructuring.
• Industry Expertise: Led initiatives across multiple industries, including FinTech, Healthcare, HighTech, and IoT, delivering scalable solutions and driving operational excellence.
• Operational Leadership: Implemented cost reduction strategies and organizational scaling for various companies, enhancing efficiency and profitability.

Relevance to Early-Stage Venture Capital:

• Expertise in evaluating and improving operational performance of portfolio companies, ensuring alignment with investment goals.
• Proven track record in guiding startups through growth phases, focusing on scalability and sustainable development.
• Deep understanding of the challenges faced by early-stage companies, offering strategic solutions to navigate complex business landscapes.

How George Darden Can Support Founders:

George offers invaluable insights into building robust operational frameworks for early-stage companies. His experience in performance improvement and strategic planning equips founders with the tools necessary to scale effectively, optimize resources, and achieve long-term success.

Dr. William Bowser is a Principal at High Street Equity Partners, where he serves on the Investment Committee and leads quantitative research and due diligence. With over 15 years of experience as an economist, data scientist, and financial engineer, William brings a rigorous analytical approach to venture capital, investment strategy, and product innovation.

Prior to joining HSEP, William led quantitative analytics at Freddie Mac for its Single Family Credit Portfolio Strategy. There, he developed stochastic capital models and proprietary predictive tools to support the firm’s credit derivatives business. He has also worked in academic and international research institutions, where he helped bridge the gap between applied economics and financial market insights.

William holds a Ph.D. in Applied Economics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and the Certificate in Quantitative Finance (CQF), the global standard in financial engineering. In addition to his research and investment work, he has contributed to fintech product development alongside data science teams at the frontier of innovation.

He is a former Venture Fellow at Nassau Street Ventures, Alumni Ventures, and 27Point, and remains deeply engaged in the broader early-stage investment ecosystem. William resides in Washington, D.C. with his family.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Developed stochastic capital modeling and predictive analytics tools at Freddie Mac to guide credit portfolio strategy.
• Led fintech research and product innovation for data-driven financial technologies.
• Earned advanced credentials in applied economics and financial engineering.

Relevance to Early-Stage VC:

• Expertise in quantitative modeling, risk analytics, and financial systems design.
• Deep understanding of fintech and credit innovation, with a focus on scalable infrastructure.
• Venture experience through top-tier fellowships supporting data-first investment theses.

How Dr. William Bowser Can Support Founders:

William supports founders by applying data-driven insights to product development, risk modeling, and financial strategy. His expertise helps early-stage companies optimize performance, understand capital dynamics, and translate technical innovation into investor confidence and long-term value.

Tristan Wilkerson is the Founding General Partner of High Street Equity Partners, where he supports portfolio strategy and ecosystem building. A multidisciplinary operator and policy strategist turned investor, Tristan brings a unique blend of public affairs expertise, entrepreneurial leadership, and capital stewardship to early-stage venture investing.

Before co-founding HSEP, Tristan built and led Think Rubix, a culture-first public affairs firm that scaled into a seven-figure enterprise. In parallel, he cultivated deep experience in civic capital, raising over $100 million for projects focused on economic mobility, healthcare access, and technology equity. He also served as a senior Congressional aide, managing policy initiatives aimed at improving conditions in distressed communities.

Tristan is a passionate advocate for inclusive innovation and currently serves on the board of the Little Rock Technology Park Authority. He remains actively engaged in ecosystem development through philanthropy and public-private partnerships.

A native of Little Rock, Arkansas, Tristan is a graduate of the historic Little Rock Central High School. He holds a degree in political economics, a certification in nonprofit management, and completed business studies at the Fogelman College of Business and Economics. He is a wine and culinary enthusiast and maintains strong ties to Washington, DC, where HSEP is headquartered.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Raised $100M+ in civic and philanthropic capital for economic development and tech equity initiatives.
• Founded and scaled Think Rubix into a multi-year, seven-figure consulting firm.
• Advised Congressional leadership on economic and healthcare policy for underserved communities.

Relevance to Early-Stage VC:

• Deep experience in capital flows, stakeholder engagement, and ecosystem strategy.
• Proven ability to scale mission-driven organizations and deliver impact through policy and investment.
• Board leadership in tech infrastructure and entrepreneurial ecosystem development.

How Tristan Wilkerson Can Support Founders:

Tristan offers founders a powerful combination of strategic insight, relationship building, and narrative framing to unlock growth and investment opportunities. His background in public policy, fundraising, and inclusive innovation makes him a vital partner for startups creating solutions that span both economic and social value.

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Mitch Brooks is the Managing Partner of High Street Equity Partners, an early-stage venture capital firm investing in high-growth technology companies. He brings over two decades of experience in executive leadership, operations, and business development to support and scale exceptional management teams. A multidisciplinary operator turned investor, Mitch’s career spans early-stage startups, enterprise software, and corporate finance.

Before founding HSEP, Mitch served as Chief Operating Officer and Partner at DSI, an enterprise SaaS firm and consultancy. In this role, he was instrumental in scaling operations, nurturing client relationships, and building high-performing teams. He led a team of 150 across firm operations and business development, contributing directly to the company’s substantial growth and an eventual equity exit for him.

Deeply rooted in Washington, DC, Mitch is committed to strengthening the local innovation economy. He serves on the national board of Higher Achievement, advises several HSEP portfolio companies, and supports numerous philanthropic initiatives focused on equity and education.

Mitch resides in the Historic Fort Lincoln neighborhood of Washington, DC. Guided by faith and family, he has a passion for entrepreneurship, sports, and live entertainment.

Career Highlights & Achievements:

• Led DSI through 20X growth, culminating in an equity exit.
• Launched an accredited investor syndicate supporting entrepreneurs across capital stacks and asset classes.

Relevance to Early-Stage VC:

• Trusted Advisor: Served on the boards of over a dozen private companies and charitable organizations.
• Trusted Advisor: Served on the boards of over a dozen private companies and charitable organizations.
• Demonstrated success as both a peacetime and wartime executive, with a deep understanding of the evolving needs of growth-stage companies.
• Experience building sales organizations from the ground up and guiding strategic go-to-market expansion.
• Skilled in identifying founder strengths, scaling teams, and developing operational infrastructure.‍
  

How Mitch Brooks Can Support Founders:

Mitch provides early-stage startups with pragmatic, hands-on guidance to navigate the challenges of growth and investment readiness. His expertise in operations, market development, and team leadership makes him a valuable partner to founders building the next generation of transformative companies.