Celeste Cuffie
Keynote: "The Value of Being You - Embracing Your Full Potential!"
Celeste Cuffie has a zeal for life and lives it to the fullest through teaching, empowering and motivating others to live in the same manner. Her care for people, effective communication skills, and her can-do attitude makes her a success in all endeavors that she strives towards. The understanding that technology is for the people and not vice versa and maintaining that focus, enabled her to smoothly transition from banking to information technology. Through her corporate banking and information technology roles at various organizations including Continental Savings Bank, M&I Bank, Associated Bank, and Johnson Controls, she has been a thought leader as she supported and facilitated process & project development, portfolio management, and most importantly, leader development.
She has been honored to have spoken and consulted for organizations including Johnson Controls, Northwestern Mutual, Milwaukee Urban League, and Concordia University Wisconsin. Further, she is reaching her goals through her own business, Life Empowered Consulting Services, in which she helps individuals reach their personal and professional goals through training, development, teaching transformational skills such as communication, leadership, and goal achievement. She is the author of three books and is currently working on a fourth. Most recently, Celeste has joined the John Maxwell Leadership team and is an Adjunct Professor at Concordia University Wisconsin. Celeste has her Bachelor's in Management & Communication and her Master's of Business Administration in Finance, both from Concordia University, Mequon.
She has been honored to have spoken and consulted for organizations including Johnson Controls, Northwestern Mutual, Milwaukee Urban League, and Concordia University Wisconsin. Further, she is reaching her goals through her own business, Life Empowered Consulting Services, in which she helps individuals reach their personal and professional goals through training, development, teaching transformational skills such as communication, leadership, and goal achievement. She is the author of three books and is currently working on a fourth. Most recently, Celeste has joined the John Maxwell Leadership team and is an Adjunct Professor at Concordia University Wisconsin. Celeste has her Bachelor's in Management & Communication and her Master's of Business Administration in Finance, both from Concordia University, Mequon.
Dr. Daniel Sem
Welcome: Concordia University Wisconsin School of Business
Dr. Sem has over 20 years of experience in healthcare entrepreneurship and innovation, first in the biotechnology industry, then in academia. He has over 50 published papers and book chapters, 10 issued patents, and has co-founded several companies. Dr. Sem works extensively with Universities, Industries and Government in Southeast Wisconsin to build shared business development resources for the region, and strategic partnerships for the School of Business. He received his B.S. degree from UW-Milwaukee, his Ph.D. from UW-Madison (1990), and then worked in biotechnology in San Diego where he co-founded Triad Therapeutics, ranked one of the top 10 biotech startups in the US (later acquired by Novartis). He joined the faculty at Marquette in 2002 and served as Assistant then Associate Professor, before joining Concordia University’s new School of Pharmacy in 2011, transitioning to his current position as Dean of Business in July of 2015. He also has Law and MBA degrees from Marquette. His passion is helping students and community entrepreneurs turn their dreams and innovative ideas into sustainable business models with lasting economic and social impact, based on his belief in the power of individuals armed with God-given talents – not governments – to solve society’s biggest problems.
Sheldon Cuffie
"Mission Possible: How to Manage Disruption & Maintain Relevance"
Sheldon is a technology thought-leader of 20+ years focused on enabling business outcomes through technology and innovation. In his role at Northwestern Mutual, he leads the information protection program of 300 cyber-security, risk management, & disaster recovery professionals responsible for the protection of information across Northwestern Mutual’s insurance and investment portfolios. Earlier in his career, Sheldon served in the Wisconsin Army National Guard and led technology teams for Kohl’s Department Stores, M&I Bank, Harley-Davidson, and Abbott Laboratories.
As an executive leader, Sheldon is passionate about helping others identify, cultivate, and embrace their full potential. This mindset is put to good use as a trustee of the Northwestern Mutual Foundation board, as he helps to guide the strategic giving of Wisconsin’s largest corporate foundation. In 2017, Sheldon joined the board of the Milwaukee Urban League (MUL) and in 2018 led the remodeling and development of a new STEM computer learning center in the heart of Bronzeville for MUL.
Sheldon graduated from the US Army Signal Center in Ft. Gordon, GA with a technical diploma in telecommunications, earned a BA in Management & Communications from Concordia University Wisconsin (Mequon, WI), an MS in Organizational Leadership from Quinnipiac University (Hamden, CT), and in 2013 was inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma, the international academic honor society recognizing excellence for business students graduating in the top 10% of their class.
As an executive leader, Sheldon is passionate about helping others identify, cultivate, and embrace their full potential. This mindset is put to good use as a trustee of the Northwestern Mutual Foundation board, as he helps to guide the strategic giving of Wisconsin’s largest corporate foundation. In 2017, Sheldon joined the board of the Milwaukee Urban League (MUL) and in 2018 led the remodeling and development of a new STEM computer learning center in the heart of Bronzeville for MUL.
Sheldon graduated from the US Army Signal Center in Ft. Gordon, GA with a technical diploma in telecommunications, earned a BA in Management & Communications from Concordia University Wisconsin (Mequon, WI), an MS in Organizational Leadership from Quinnipiac University (Hamden, CT), and in 2013 was inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma, the international academic honor society recognizing excellence for business students graduating in the top 10% of their class.
Chez Misko
"Starting Somewhere...and Growing From There!"
Bio coming soon!
Thaddeus Hannah
Mastermind Panelist: Insights for Succeeding in Business
Thaddeus Hannah is Assistant Vice President and Relationship Manager at Corporate Payment Solutions an extension of the US Bancorp Franchise.
One word describes Thaddeus - RESILIENT. Some may say it stemmed from his results driven attitude. Hannah holds high service standards when dealing with the public and has an eye for the needs of the people. Thaddeus views himself as a servant leader in any capacity that he is afforded to serve in.
Thaddeus learned how to serve early in the church where he says that he received his best teaching. Congregant and Trustee Board Member of Greater Mount Sinai Church of God In Christ, Thaddeus assist with the daily operations of this 501C3 non-profit organization. He serves as Assistant Controller and formally served as the Youth Department President for five consecutive years.
Alumni of Concordia University- Wisconsin Thaddeus earned his degree in Human Resource Management. During his studies Thaddeus successfully completed an internship with the Senior Vice President of Human Resources at US Bank Bancorp. With the knowledge that Thaddeus obtained during his studies and hands on training, he took on the task of applying this knowledge to his church and to Vince Lamar Clothier LLC where he serves at the Chief Operating Officer.
Though his resume is lengthy and his responsibilities are more than few, Thaddeus still manages to donate his time to volunteer to the local community while receiving awards from the City of Milwaukee for his labor. He enjoys going to church, traveling, spending time with loved ones, and mentoring youth.
One word describes Thaddeus - RESILIENT. Some may say it stemmed from his results driven attitude. Hannah holds high service standards when dealing with the public and has an eye for the needs of the people. Thaddeus views himself as a servant leader in any capacity that he is afforded to serve in.
Thaddeus learned how to serve early in the church where he says that he received his best teaching. Congregant and Trustee Board Member of Greater Mount Sinai Church of God In Christ, Thaddeus assist with the daily operations of this 501C3 non-profit organization. He serves as Assistant Controller and formally served as the Youth Department President for five consecutive years.
Alumni of Concordia University- Wisconsin Thaddeus earned his degree in Human Resource Management. During his studies Thaddeus successfully completed an internship with the Senior Vice President of Human Resources at US Bank Bancorp. With the knowledge that Thaddeus obtained during his studies and hands on training, he took on the task of applying this knowledge to his church and to Vince Lamar Clothier LLC where he serves at the Chief Operating Officer.
Though his resume is lengthy and his responsibilities are more than few, Thaddeus still manages to donate his time to volunteer to the local community while receiving awards from the City of Milwaukee for his labor. He enjoys going to church, traveling, spending time with loved ones, and mentoring youth.
Jim Rosetti
Mastermind Panelist: Insights for Succeeding in Business
Jim Rosetti is an author, speaker, broadcaster, musician / entertainer, and entrepreneur. Jim has 30-plus years as a sales and marketing executive, and as an entrepreneur. He owned and operated his own marketing consulting business and his own infomercial production company, AMERICAN MARKETING PROMOTIONS where he introduced products worldwide through television, radio and the worldwide web. His companies were headquartered in South Florida where he resided for many years.
He also served on the staff at The Small Business Development Center at Florida Atlantic University. At the SBDC Jim launched the nationally syndicated radio talk show “BIZ TALK” and hosted the nationally syndicated PBS-TV series entitled “Start Your Own Business”.
Jim has consulted to large and small business entrepreneurs all over the country including Fortune 500 companies. He authored the book “BOOT -STRAP MARKETING, STREETWISE STRATEGIES”. He continues to lecture and present business and “Guerrilla Marketing” seminars at various Chambers of Commerce. Jim has vast experience in negotiating on behalf of his clients and has been instrumental in procuring millions of dollars in venture and angel seed capital for many national corporations and start-ups. Some of those clients started small and are now listed in the esteemed Inc. Magazine 500 group.
He also served on the staff at The Small Business Development Center at Florida Atlantic University. At the SBDC Jim launched the nationally syndicated radio talk show “BIZ TALK” and hosted the nationally syndicated PBS-TV series entitled “Start Your Own Business”.
Jim has consulted to large and small business entrepreneurs all over the country including Fortune 500 companies. He authored the book “BOOT -STRAP MARKETING, STREETWISE STRATEGIES”. He continues to lecture and present business and “Guerrilla Marketing” seminars at various Chambers of Commerce. Jim has vast experience in negotiating on behalf of his clients and has been instrumental in procuring millions of dollars in venture and angel seed capital for many national corporations and start-ups. Some of those clients started small and are now listed in the esteemed Inc. Magazine 500 group.
Dr. Laci Robbins
"How to Build Yourself While Building Others"
Experience in the field of elementary education, museum education, the visual arts and non-profit management offer the foundation for Dr. Laci Robbins' current career. She has served the Milwaukee community and schools through her visual practice, as well as, in her current role as Executive Director of the Milwaukee Teacher Education Center (MTEC). In conjunction with special programs, Dr. Robbins has participated as a guest artist and/or lecturer with Alverno College, the Milwaukee Art Museum, Marquette University, Northwestern University, Milwaukee Public Schools and most recently as an expert via TEDx.
In 2017 Dr.Laci.com, an affiliate of Robbins' Nest Consulting, LLC began. The goal, to support current and aspiring female leaders to move from process to practice through education and empowerment.
Dr. Robbins’ education includes a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree from Fisk University, Post Baccalaureate in fine arts with an emphasis in photography from Studio Art Centers International, and both a Master’s Degree, with an emphasis in leadership and a Doctorate in Education, with an emphasis in metacognition, leadership, and professional practice, from Trevecca Nazarene University.
Dr. Robbins serves on the Executive Board for the African American Art Alliance of the Milwaukee Art Museum, Board of Directors for Northwest Side Community Development Cooperation, Advisor to Compel Family Life Center, a member of Professional Dimensions, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Milwaukee Alumnae Chapter.
Dr. Robbins is married to Superintendent W. Aaron Robbins, Sr.
In 2017 Dr.Laci.com, an affiliate of Robbins' Nest Consulting, LLC began. The goal, to support current and aspiring female leaders to move from process to practice through education and empowerment.
Dr. Robbins’ education includes a Bachelor’s of Arts Degree from Fisk University, Post Baccalaureate in fine arts with an emphasis in photography from Studio Art Centers International, and both a Master’s Degree, with an emphasis in leadership and a Doctorate in Education, with an emphasis in metacognition, leadership, and professional practice, from Trevecca Nazarene University.
Dr. Robbins serves on the Executive Board for the African American Art Alliance of the Milwaukee Art Museum, Board of Directors for Northwest Side Community Development Cooperation, Advisor to Compel Family Life Center, a member of Professional Dimensions, and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated, Milwaukee Alumnae Chapter.
Dr. Robbins is married to Superintendent W. Aaron Robbins, Sr.
Bernell Hooker
Mastermind Panelist: Insights for Succeeding in Business
Bernell Hooker, born and raised in Milwaukee is the President of the Midwest Women’s Sports Group LLC a catalyst for innovative and creative women sports and entertainment. Focusing on creating a product that provides memorable experiences, entertainment, and an amazing atmosphere for fans of all walks. MWSG produce events catered to women and girls to establish reparable programs that maximizes earning potential for both long and short term goals through professional sports leagues, youth and adult training camps, tournaments and community events.
Bernell graduated from Concordia University in Management Criminal Justice. She coached collegiately for 25 years and retired as the Senior Woman Administrator and Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Mount Mary University.
Producer and Host of the only Women’s Sports Talk Show on the IHeart Radio the Big 920AM that airs 8:30AM on Saturdays. If you miss it, download the free IHeart App to listen in!
Bernell graduated from Concordia University in Management Criminal Justice. She coached collegiately for 25 years and retired as the Senior Woman Administrator and Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Mount Mary University.
- Owner of the Milwaukee Aces Professional Women’s Basketball Team, is in its 4th season. The second women’s Pro basketball team behind the Herstorical 1978 Milwaukee Does.
- Founder and CEO of IOU Sports a nonprofit organization providing a Unique, Cultural, Educational and Athletic experience for girls and women.
- Producer of the IOU Sports Show a YouTube sports educational, news and highlight show to provide coverage of #WomenBusinessSports at a level that reflects the actual existence of Women in Business and Sports; and to educate the community about the issues surrounding Women in Business and Sports to excavate social change.
Producer and Host of the only Women’s Sports Talk Show on the IHeart Radio the Big 920AM that airs 8:30AM on Saturdays. If you miss it, download the free IHeart App to listen in!
Laniece McGee
Mastermind Panelist: Insights for Succeeding in Business
Laneice McGee, from Milwaukee, WI, has over 16 years of experience working in the Department of Workforce Development; currently she serves as the District Director for the Department of Workforce Development in Waukesha, Ozaukee& Washington Counties. She graduated from Fisk University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology, and as a Master’s degree in Human Services from Springfield College.
Laneice is the founder of “Future Entrepreneurs Moving Ahead” An establishment that looks to motivate and spur youths to be strong, resource driven and goal-oriented entrepreneurs by providing mentorship programs. She is also the co-founder of “Big, Beautiful and Blessed,” an organization that looks to promote positive self-image in women through modeling, youth workshops and seminars.
Laneice is on the decision makers' board of the Workforce Development Board, Generosity Project & NAMI, Waukesha. With her true heart to give back, she was elated to be a member of Generosity Project-Giving Circle, which helps organizations and people overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities by giving small grants. The strength of this group is that they impact lives directly, and expeditiously.
Laneice feels that is not just about creating a NAME but creating an IMPACT, intentionally living her life to reach others.
Laneice is the founder of “Future Entrepreneurs Moving Ahead” An establishment that looks to motivate and spur youths to be strong, resource driven and goal-oriented entrepreneurs by providing mentorship programs. She is also the co-founder of “Big, Beautiful and Blessed,” an organization that looks to promote positive self-image in women through modeling, youth workshops and seminars.
Laneice is on the decision makers' board of the Workforce Development Board, Generosity Project & NAMI, Waukesha. With her true heart to give back, she was elated to be a member of Generosity Project-Giving Circle, which helps organizations and people overcome challenges and capitalize on opportunities by giving small grants. The strength of this group is that they impact lives directly, and expeditiously.
Laneice feels that is not just about creating a NAME but creating an IMPACT, intentionally living her life to reach others.
Ginny Finn
"The Crooked Line to Success & It's Lessons"
Ginny is Chief Development Officer for YWCA Southeast Wisconsin and President of Athlone Consulting LLC. In her role at the YWCA she oversees strategic communications and fund development, while serving as a member of the executive leadership team. In addition, as an attorney with over two decades of business and tax exempt organization experience, through Athlone she facilitates the work of family foundations and nonprofits, with an emphasis on education and projects addressing health disparities.
Her career includes an unorthodox yet connected path of a life in the theatre (in San Francisco and metro New York City, law practice and social sector work for both nonprofit organizations and universities. After leaving full-time law practice at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, Ginny served as Development Director for UWM’s College of Letters and Science and for nearly 10 years served as Executive Director of ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis. She is a past Board member of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin, Future Milwaukee, Inc. Fondy Food Center and Present Music, among others. Currently, Ginny serves on the Boards of LIFT, Inc., a youth development field hockey program and Rhymes Over Beats, a New York City collective of hip hop and theater artists. She serves on the Ascension Wisconsin Institutional Review Board and the Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Center’s Community Advisory Board.
An alumna of the Milwaukee Forum and Milwaukee Mosaic programs, she is a graduate of Coe College, Purdue University, the University of Wisconsin Law School and Harvard Business School’s Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management program.
Her career includes an unorthodox yet connected path of a life in the theatre (in San Francisco and metro New York City, law practice and social sector work for both nonprofit organizations and universities. After leaving full-time law practice at Michael Best & Friedrich LLP, Ginny served as Development Director for UWM’s College of Letters and Science and for nearly 10 years served as Executive Director of ABCD: After Breast Cancer Diagnosis. She is a past Board member of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin, Future Milwaukee, Inc. Fondy Food Center and Present Music, among others. Currently, Ginny serves on the Boards of LIFT, Inc., a youth development field hockey program and Rhymes Over Beats, a New York City collective of hip hop and theater artists. She serves on the Ascension Wisconsin Institutional Review Board and the Medical College of Wisconsin Cancer Center’s Community Advisory Board.
An alumna of the Milwaukee Forum and Milwaukee Mosaic programs, she is a graduate of Coe College, Purdue University, the University of Wisconsin Law School and Harvard Business School’s Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management program.