Gregory L. Deshields

Biography

Executive Director with experience in strategic planning, financial management, board relations, and partnership development in the nonprofit and hospitality industries, who has led national inclusion conferences and secured over $250,000 in fundraising through targeted relationship-building efforts.

Knowledgeable of program development concepts, including program development, implementation, and management. Skilled at building and strengthening community engagement, conducting fundraising campaigns, and recruiting and leading teams to drive impact measurement and revenue growth.

  • Session 2 Summary – Beyond the Hype: How AI is Reshaping Work & Leadership
    Time: 11:45 AM
    Speakers: Gregory DeShields, Ary Aranguiz, Kristin Mayo

    This session explores how AI is transforming business operations, leadership, and career development. Attendees will gain practical insights on using AI to boost efficiency and growth, while learning how to adapt to an evolving job market. Key takeaways include strategies for integrating AI responsibly, protecting your brand, developing irreplaceable human skills, and navigating the ethical and security challenges of AI. Participants will leave with a roadmap to thrive in an AI-driven world.

  • Business Roundtable Summary: How AI is Reshaping Work & Leadership

    Time: 3:30 PM
    Speakers: Gregory DeShields, Ary Aranguiz, Kristin Mayo

    Join a dynamic conversation exploring the impact of AI on business and leadership at the 2025 Workforce Development Conference. This roundtable will offer actionable strategies for leveraging AI to improve operations, fuel growth, and stay competitive. Participants will learn how to integrate AI responsibly, safeguard their brand, and emphasize the uniquely human skills that technology can’t replace. The session will also highlight emerging risks, ethical considerations, and new career opportunities, equipping attendees with tools to lead effectively in the AI era while staying grounded in their core values.

Executive Director Greg DeShields Consulting LLC

Sessions

Ary Aranguiz

Biography

As Operations Manager, I lead the strategic and tactical roadmaps for improving the design and delivery of learning experiences across the organization. I leverage my skills in agile development and custom content development to drive the creation of engaging and effective learning solutions for various platforms and modalities. My mission is to empower teams with the tools and strategies they need to succeed in the digital age. I'm fascinated by artificial intelligence and have created a podcast leveraging the power of ChatGPT-4 to explore all of the diverse applications of artificial intelligence.

I have a Master's degree in Digital Education from the University of Edinburgh, and I am a published author and a certified educator in the field of online learning and academic technologies.

  • Session 2 Summary – Beyond the Hype: How AI is Reshaping Work & Leadership
    Time: 11:45 AM
    Speakers: Gregory DeShields, Ary Aranguiz, Kristin Mayo

    This session explores how AI is transforming business operations, leadership, and career development. Attendees will gain practical insights on using AI to boost efficiency and growth, while learning how to adapt to an evolving job market. Key takeaways include strategies for integrating AI responsibly, protecting your brand, developing irreplaceable human skills, and navigating the ethical and security challenges of AI. Participants will leave with a roadmap to thrive in an AI-driven world.

  • Summary - Business Roundtable: How AI is Reshaping Work & Leadership

    Time: 3:30 PM
    Speakers: Gregory DeShields, Ary Aranguiz, Kristin Mayo

    Join a dynamic conversation exploring the impact of AI on business and leadership at the 2025 Workforce Development Conference. This roundtable will offer actionable strategies for leveraging AI to improve operations, fuel growth, and stay competitive. Participants will learn how to integrate AI responsibly, safeguard their brand, and emphasize the uniquely human skills that technology can’t replace. The session will also highlight emerging risks, ethical considerations, and new career opportunities, equipping attendees with tools to lead effectively in the AI era while staying grounded in their core values.

Founder & CEO Future-Ready AI Group

Sessions

Kristin Mayo

Biography

A passionate social entrepreneur, Kristin has founded multiple businesses and is committed to bridging gaps in education, employment, and economic opportunity. Under her leadership, Community Nexus fosters partnerships with businesses, educators, and industry leaders to create sustainable, inclusive career pathways. Known for her strategic vision and dedication to empowering individuals of all abilities, Kristin is driving lasting change in workforce development and community resilience.

  • Summary – Beyond the Hype: How AI is Reshaping Work & Leadership
    Time: 11:45 AM
    Speakers: Gregory DeShields, Ary Aranguiz, Kristin Mayo

    This session explores how AI is transforming business operations, leadership, and career development. Attendees will gain practical insights on using AI to boost efficiency and growth, while learning how to adapt to an evolving job market. Key takeaways include strategies for integrating AI responsibly, protecting your brand, developing irreplaceable human skills, and navigating the ethical and security challenges of AI. Participants will leave with a roadmap to thrive in an AI-driven world.

  • Session 2 Summary – Beyond the Hype: How AI is Reshaping Work & Leadership
    Time: 3:30 PM
    Speakers: Gregory DeShields, Ary Aranguiz, Kristin Mayo

    This session explores how AI is transforming business operations, leadership, and career development. Attendees will gain practical insights on using AI to boost efficiency and growth, while learning how to adapt to an evolving job market. Key takeaways include strategies for integrating AI responsibly, protecting your brand, developing irreplaceable human skills, and navigating the ethical and security challenges of AI. Participants will leave with a roadmap to thrive in an AI-driven world.

Founder & CEO Community Nexus

Sessions

Stacy Mason

Biography

Stacy Mason is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, a Certified Spelling to Communicate Practitioner, and the Proud Mom of her two nonspeaking autistic sons, Trevor and Tyler.  Stacy has been a Parent Trainer, Psychotherapist and tireless advocate for individuals with Developmental Disabilities for over 20 years. She loves to share the story of how her sons finally learned to communicate by spelling on a letterboard in their 20's and how their lives have changed dramatically as a result. 

  • Session Summary – Reimagining Employment for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities: Letter Boards Are the Key to Independence
    Time: 10:45 AM
    Speakers: Stacy Mason, Trevor Mason, Tyler Mason

    This session introduces Spelling to Communicate (S2C)—a groundbreaking method that empowers non-speaking individuals with developmental disabilities to engage fully in education, employment, and community life. Attendees will discover how the use of letter boards is opening new pathways to independence, skill-building, and workforce inclusion. The session will feature inspiring success stories, practical implementation tips, and insights on how adopting this approach can help mission-driven employers access a broader, untapped talent pool.

LCSW, Certified Spelling to Communicate (S2C) Practitioner & Director of Infinite Possibilities, NY

Sessions

Trevor Mason

Biography

Trevor Mason is a 27-year-old young adult with nonspeaking autism.  Trevor can't speak with his mouth but he has a lot to say.  Trevor finally learned to communicate by spelling on a letter board at the age of 23.  He loves to share about his Spelling to Communicate journey, to bring hope to other nonspeakers and their families.  Trevor is currently a student at Westchester Community College, majoring in Human Services. He is also a published poet, short story writer and song lyricist. He lives at home with his family in Carmel NY. 

  • Session Summary – Reimagining Employment for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities: Letter Boards Are the Key to Independence
    Time: 10:45 AM
    Speakers: Stacy Mason, Trevor Mason, Tyler Mason

    This session introduces Spelling to Communicate (S2C)—a groundbreaking method that empowers non-speaking individuals with developmental disabilities to engage fully in education, employment, and community life. Attendees will discover how the use of letter boards is opening new pathways to independence, skill-building, and workforce inclusion. The session will feature inspiring success stories, practical implementation tips, and insights on how adopting this approach can help mission-driven employers access a broader, untapped talent pool.

Nonspeaking Autistic Self-Advocate

Sessions

Tyler Mason

Biography

Tyler Mason is a 25-year-old young adult with nonspeaking autism. Tyler works part-time as a Nonspeaking Coordinator for the Spellers & Allies Advocacy Network which is the advocacy branch of the International Association for Spelling as Communication (I-ASC).  Tyler coordinates the Communication Equity Campaign which is working to bring access to S2C to more BIPOC nonspeakers. He is also a college student at Westchester Community College majoring in Human Services.  He is a published poet, short story writer and song lyricist.  Tyler loves to share about his Spelling to Communicate journey by speaking at conferences and public forums whenever he has the opportunity. He lives with his family in Carmel NY.  .

  • Session Summary – Reimagining Employment for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities: Letter Boards Are the Key to Independence
    Time: 10:45 AM
    Speakers: Stacy Mason, Trevor Mason, Tyler Mason

    This session introduces Spelling to Communicate (S2C)—a groundbreaking method that empowers non-speaking individuals with developmental disabilities to engage fully in education, employment, and community life. Attendees will discover how the use of letter boards is opening new pathways to independence, skill-building, and workforce inclusion. The session will feature inspiring success stories, practical implementation tips, and insights on how adopting this approach can help mission-driven employers access a broader, untapped talent pool.

Executive Director Greg DeShields Consulting LLC

Sessions

Sarah Santos

Biography

I came into this field by volunteering and eventually working as a peer for a syringe exchange program. I went on to work as a Regional Care Coordinator for MATTERS, a digital referral platform across NYS. I developed partnerships with hospitals, jails, outpatient clinics, CBOs, and peer networks in 6 counties in the Hudson Valley, NY.

I am now the Program Director of the Hudson Valley Clubhouse, a therapeutic working community for adults living with mental illness. The Hudson Valley Clubhouse offers people living with serious mental illness a supportive community to foster long term recovery.

  • Session 3 Summary – Mental Health & Workforce Reintegration: Investing in People Through the Coworking Model
    Time: 2:30 PM
    Speakers: Sarah Santos, Sarah Kadish

    This session highlights the Clubhouse model—an evidence-based, strengths-focused approach to psychosocial rehabilitation that supports individuals living with mental illness in achieving personal and professional goals. Through structured, task-oriented activities in collaborative units (such as culinary, clerical, and maintenance), Clubhouses help members develop soft skills, build confidence, and prepare for transitional employment.

    Attendees will explore how Clubhouses operate as restorative, community-centered environments that promote autonomy, purpose, and belonging—key drivers of recovery and workforce reintegration. Designed for professionals, decision-makers, and employers, this session will examine the broader economic and social benefits of the model, including reduced hospitalization rates and increased community engagement. Participants will gain insights into how investing in inclusive, peer-driven spaces creates pathways to employment, independent living, and long-term participation in the labor market.

Sessions

Sarah Kadish

Biography

Executive Director with experience in strategic planning, financial management, board relations, and partnership development in the nonprofit and hospitality industries, who has led national inclusion conferences and secured over $250,000 in fundraising through targeted relationship-building efforts.

Knowledgeable of program development concepts, including program development, implementation, and management. Skilled at building and strengthening community engagement, conducting fundraising campaigns, and recruiting and leading teams to drive impact measurement and revenue growth.

  • Session 3 Summary – Mental Health & Workforce Reintegration: Investing in People Through the Coworking Model
    Time: 2:30 PM
    Speakers: Sarah Santos, Sarah Kadish

    This session highlights the Clubhouse model—an evidence-based, strengths-focused approach to psychosocial rehabilitation that supports individuals living with mental illness in achieving personal and professional goals. Through structured, task-oriented activities in collaborative units (such as culinary, clerical, and maintenance), Clubhouses help members develop soft skills, build confidence, and prepare for transitional employment.

    Attendees will explore how Clubhouses operate as restorative, community-centered environments that promote autonomy, purpose, and belonging—key drivers of recovery and workforce reintegration. Designed for professionals, decision-makers, and employers, this session will examine the broader economic and social benefits of the model, including reduced hospitalization rates and increased community engagement. Participants will gain insights into how investing in inclusive, peer-driven spaces creates pathways to employment, independent living, and long-term participation in the labor market.

Program Director Hudson Valley Clubhouse

Hudson Valley Clubhouse member

Sessions

Nadine Daley

Biography

Nadine Daley is an esteemed leader in human services, specializing in advocacy, analysis, policy design, and public speaking with a focus on enhancing the lives of individuals with disabilities. With over 15 years of experience in senior management roles and a strong foundation in nonprofit governance, Nadine excels in leading teams, driving strategic growth, fostering collaborative environments, and achieving measurable outcomes.

She adeptly manages change with compassion and commitment to the mission while remaining adaptable to various contexts and audiences. Additionally, Nadine is a Certified Quality Improvement (CQI) instructor and interviewer.

Nadine is a visionary leader at The Center for Family Support (CFS), advocating through innovation and technology. She has led multiple technology improvement projects and holds a SHIFT certification. CFS is a nonprofit that supports thousands of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families using a person-centered approach.

  • Session 3 Summary – Tech First: New Tools and Funding for Independent Living
    Time: 2:30 PM
    Speakers: Meghan O'Sullivan, SimplyHome; Nadine Daley, The Center for Family Support Inc.

    This session explores the Tech First approach—leveraging enabling technology to support individuals with disabilities in living more independently. With expanded funding now available through New York State’s HES waiver, families and providers have greater access to assistive tools like smart home systems, remote supports, and telehealth services.

    Presenters will share how these technologies promote safety, autonomy, and dignity of risk while reducing the need for traditional staffing. From cooking safety alerts to motion sensors and two-way audiovisual communication, attendees will see how tailored tech solutions can adapt to individual needs. The session includes real-world examples, steps to access funding, and guidance for families, advocates, and professionals committed to fostering independence through innovation.

Senior VP of Organizational Engagement, Innonvations & Advocacy: The Center for Family Support

Sessions

Meghan O'Sullivan

Biography

Meghan O'Sullivan began her professional career as a nurse in New York City before transitioning her focus to the use of technology as a support for independence. She has been working and collaborating with SimplyHome since 2010 and is currently their North Eastern Sales Representative. SimplyHome has emerged as a leader in pioneering new support models. Through customized enabling technology solutions, training and advocacy SimplyHome partners with organizations to achieve more independence for individuals and more efficiencies with group homes

  • Session 3 Summary – Tech First: New Tools and Funding for Independent Living
    Time: 2:30 PM
    Speakers: Meghan O'Sullivan, SimplyHome; Nadine Daley, The Center for Family Support Inc.

    This session explores the Tech First approach—leveraging enabling technology to support individuals with disabilities in living more independently. With expanded funding now available through New York State’s HES waiver, families and providers have greater access to assistive tools like smart home systems, remote supports, and telehealth services.

    Presenters will share how these technologies promote safety, autonomy, and dignity of risk while reducing the need for traditional staffing. From cooking safety alerts to motion sensors and two-way audiovisual communication, attendees will see how tailored tech solutions can adapt to individual needs. The session includes real-world examples, steps to access funding, and guidance for families, advocates, and professionals committed to fostering independence through innovation.

Sessions

Elliot Livingston Wilson

Biography

As the Founder, CEO and Design Lead of FUTUR, Wilson’s passion for the past twenty years is rooted in developing and implementing real solutions to the housing deficit in the context of our ecological crises. As a rising ESG leader (Environmental Social Governance) Eliot is engaged in evolving new, best-practice standards in CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) development.

The international team of professionals that Eliot has gathered around him to realize FUTUR, reflects both the global nature and the very real impact these crises have in all of our daily lives, regardless of where we are geographically. The rich perspectives that converge in such an international team of experts are invaluable, creating unforeseen synergies in the evolution of regenerative practice.

  • Breakout Session Summary – Building the Future: Regenerative Housing in the Wellbeing Economy
    Time: 11:45 AM
    Location: Marist University | Friday, June 27th
    Speakers: Elliot Livingston Wilson, Bretagne Elia, Peter Van Geldern
    Organization: Futur.Earth

    This breakout session explores how regenerative housing can serve as the foundation for more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient communities. As the world shifts beyond outdated, growth-at-all-costs economic models, attendees will learn how to embrace an approach centered on dignity, fairness, connection, and ecological renewal. Presenters will share how housing can become a hub for care, education, and community life, while also supporting livelihoods for vulnerable and neurodiverse populations. The session introduces the Regenerative Community model and offers insight into FUTUR, a next-generation firm designing modular, inclusive housing solutions. Attendees will leave inspired and equipped to help shape a future where homes foster belonging, resilience, and planetary healing.

  • Breakout Session Summary – Manufacturing Regenerative Healthy Homes: Linking Sustainable Housing to Workforce Innovation
    Time: 2:30 PM
    Location: Marist University | Friday, June 27th
    Speakers: Elliot Livingston Wilson, Bretagne Elia, Peter Van Geldern

    As demand grows for healthy, affordable, and environmentally responsible housing, this breakout session explores how regenerative housing innovation can drive both sustainability and workforce equity. Attendees will learn how modular construction and regenerative design are being used to accelerate housing production while creating inclusive job opportunities in construction, design, logistics, and engineering. The session will highlight strategies for linking housing to real-world career pathways, fostering public-private partnerships, and meeting ESG and DEI goals. Featuring insights from Futur.Earth, this session offers practical examples and actionable approaches for organizations looking to scale sustainable housing solutions and build an equitable green economy.

North East Regional Sales Representative: SimplyHome

Futur. Earth Founder & CO-CEO

Sessions

Bretagne Elia

Biography

Bret moves through life with quiet power, rooted in her Italian-Irish heritage and guided by the flow of nature, solitude, and family. A devoted yogi with a deep love of embodiment, she honors the wisdom of the body and what can be felt but not seen, allowing this intuition to guide her path. As co-CEO of FUTUR, she leads with vision and grace, gently shaping the future of the company with the same mindful presence and quiet intensity that define.

  • Breakout Session Summary – Building the Future: Regenerative Housing in the Wellbeing Economy
    Time: 11:45 AM
    Location: Marist University | Friday, June 27th
    Speakers: Elliot Livingston Wilson, Bretagne Elia, Peter Van Geldern
    Organization: Futur.Earth

    This breakout session explores how regenerative housing can serve as the foundation for more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient communities. As the world shifts beyond outdated, growth-at-all-costs economic models, attendees will learn how to embrace an approach centered on dignity, fairness, connection, and ecological renewal. Presenters will share how housing can become a hub for care, education, and community life, while also supporting livelihoods for vulnerable and neurodiverse populations. The session introduces the Regenerative Community model and offers insight into FUTUR, a next-generation firm designing modular, inclusive housing solutions. Attendees will leave inspired and equipped to help shape a future where homes foster belonging, resilience, and planetary healing.

  • Breakout Session Summary – Manufacturing Regenerative Healthy Homes: Linking Sustainable Housing to Workforce Innovation
    Time: 2:30 PM
    Location: Marist University | Friday, June 27th
    Speakers: Elliot Livingston Wilson, Bretagne Elia, Peter Van Geldern

    As demand grows for healthy, affordable, and environmentally responsible housing, this breakout session explores how regenerative housing innovation can drive both sustainability and workforce equity. Attendees will learn how modular construction and regenerative design are being used to accelerate housing production while creating inclusive job opportunities in construction, design, logistics, and engineering. The session will highlight strategies for linking housing to real-world career pathways, fostering public-private partnerships, and meeting ESG and DEI goals. Featuring insights from Futur.Earth, this session offers practical examples and actionable approaches for organizations looking to scale sustainable housing solutions and build an equitable green economy.

Executive Director Greg DeShields Consulting LLC

Sessions

Peter Van Geldern

Biography

Peter van Geldern is a visionary architect in regenerative design, dedicated to developing transitional ecological practices for over two decades. He focuses on creating holistic building systems that address housing and environmental challenges, blending technical innovation with a deep connection to the human experience. His journey began with natural building techniques and formal studies in architecture, guided by a commitment to solving pressing ecological issues like climate change and mass extinction. Peter’s work is driven by a vision of a just world, where humanity and nature thrive in harmony.

Innovative Design Leader, Architecture Professional,
Entrepreneur, Teacher, Coach and Design Manager. I am driven by a passion to pioneer new categories of transformation, possibility and impact for people, communities, companies and the world. I currently run a local Design Leadership Agency here in CT called UnFOLD <unfoldcreative.com> producing many sophisticated and impactful projects all over the region.

  • Breakout Session Summary – Building the Future: Regenerative Housing in the Wellbeing Economy
    Time: 11:45 AM
    Location: Marist University | Friday, June 27th
    Speakers: Elliot Livingston Wilson, Bretagne Elia, Peter Van Geldern
    Organization: Futur.Earth

    This breakout session explores how regenerative housing can serve as the foundation for more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient communities. As the world shifts beyond outdated, growth-at-all-costs economic models, attendees will learn how to embrace an approach centered on dignity, fairness, connection, and ecological renewal. Presenters will share how housing can become a hub for care, education, and community life, while also supporting livelihoods for vulnerable and neurodiverse populations. The session introduces the Regenerative Community model and offers insight into FUTUR, a next-generation firm designing modular, inclusive housing solutions. Attendees will leave inspired and equipped to help shape a future where homes foster belonging, resilience, and planetary healing.

  • Breakout Session Summary – Manufacturing Regenerative Healthy Homes: Linking Sustainable Housing to Workforce Innovation
    Time: 2:30 PM
    Location: Marist University | Friday, June 27th
    Speakers: Elliot Livingston Wilson, Bretagne Elia, Peter Van Geldern

    As demand grows for healthy, affordable, and environmentally responsible housing, this breakout session explores how regenerative housing innovation can drive both sustainability and workforce equity. Attendees will learn how modular construction and regenerative design are being used to accelerate housing production while creating inclusive job opportunities in construction, design, logistics, and engineering. The session will highlight strategies for linking housing to real-world career pathways, fostering public-private partnerships, and meeting ESG and DEI goals. Featuring insights from Futur.Earth, this session offers practical examples and actionable approaches for organizations looking to scale sustainable housing solutions and build an equitable green economy.

Executive Director Greg DeShields Consulting LLC

Sessions

Randi L. Rios-Castro

Biography

Dedicated professional with over 25 years of multi-faceted experience in the Human Services Field; leading organization through periods of substantial growth and transition. Excellent communication, problem solving, and analytical skills. Extensive knowledge of both state and federal regulations and the developmental disabilities field. Strong ability to motivate and lead others to attain corporate objectives.

  • Session Summary – Inclusive Employment Models Driving Economic Growth: Brick It Again & The Jawonio Commercial Cleaning Company
    Time: 11:45am
    Speakers: Randi L. Rios-Castro, Sara Trowers, Michele Curtis

    This session showcases how Jawonio is redefining workforce development through mission-driven businesses that create sustainable employment opportunities for people of all abilities. Attendees will learn how to build revenue-generating social enterprises that also advance inclusion, support underserved populations, and align with broader goals in social responsibility and community engagement. The session features two standout models: Brick It Again, a LEGO® resale store providing hands-on vocational training, and the Jawonio Commercial Cleaning Company, a $7M enterprise that combines high-quality service with inclusive hiring practices. Participants will walk away with actionable insights for launching sustainable, purpose-driven businesses that strengthen both communities and the economy.

Chief Executive Officer at Jawonio

Sessions

Sara Trowers

Biography

As Chief Program Officer, I oversee a dynamic range of programs that promote inclusion, independence, and well-being for individuals with disabilities and special needs. My portfolio includes an Article 16 Clinic, Behavioral Health, Day Services, Fleet Management, the Recreation Program, and the Brick It Again LEGO Resale Store - a social enterprise that combines community engagement with pre-vocational opportunities.

With a master’s in mental health counseling and over a decade of nonprofit leadership experience, I bring a strategic, mission-driven approach to program development, team building, and operational excellence. I’m a proud graduate of Leadership Rockland and actively seeking opportunities to serve on a nonprofit board where I can contribute my expertise and passion for systems change and community impact.

  • Session Summary – Inclusive Employment Models Driving Economic Growth: Brick It Again & The Jawonio Commercial Cleaning Company
    Time: 11:45am
    Speakers: Randi L. Rios-Castro, Sara Trowers, Michele Curtis

    This session showcases how Jawonio is redefining workforce development through mission-driven businesses that create sustainable employment opportunities for people of all abilities. Attendees will learn how to build revenue-generating social enterprises that also advance inclusion, support underserved populations, and align with broader goals in social responsibility and community engagement. The session features two standout models: Brick It Again, a LEGO® resale store providing hands-on vocational training, and the Jawonio Commercial Cleaning Company, a $7M enterprise that combines high-quality service with inclusive hiring practices. Participants will walk away with actionable insights for launching sustainable, purpose-driven businesses that strengthen both communities and the economy.

Chief Executive Officer at Jawonio

Sessions

Michele Curtis

Biography

Experienced Program Director with a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit organization management industry. Strong consulting professional skilled in Nonprofit Organizations, Coaching, Government, Conflict Resolution, and Event Management.

Affiliations:
NYSRA Business Development Forum
ARM: Association of Rehab Marketing
Rockland Business Association
Mahwah Regional Chamber of Commerce
NYSID New York State Industries for the Disabled (NYSID)

  • Session Summary – Inclusive Employment Models Driving Economic Growth: Brick It Again & The Jawonio Commercial Cleaning Company
    Time: 11:45am
    Speakers: Randi L. Rios-Castro, Sara Trowers, Michele Curtis

    This session showcases how Jawonio is redefining workforce development through mission-driven businesses that create sustainable employment opportunities for people of all abilities. Attendees will learn how to build revenue-generating social enterprises that also advance inclusion, support underserved populations, and align with broader goals in social responsibility and community engagement. The session features two standout models: Brick It Again, a LEGO® resale store providing hands-on vocational training, and the Jawonio Commercial Cleaning Company, a $7M enterprise that combines high-quality service with inclusive hiring practices. Participants will walk away with actionable insights for launching sustainable, purpose-driven businesses that strengthen both communities and the economy.

Executive Director Greg DeShields Consulting LLC

Sessions

Laura Kiesbye

Biography

Laura Kiesbye is the current Executive Director of Mid Hudson Works and she started this role in May 2022. Laura has spent most of her career in for-profit corporate environments where she primarily focused on the Finance and Accounting field. Laura loves to work with numbers and has a passion for finding reconciliation discrepancies. She has held a variety of positions that include the construction and real estate world, Universities/Colleges, and most recently held the position as Regional Finance Manager for Sports Facilities Management (SFM).

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Executive Director at Mid Hudson Works

Sessions

Kirk Maraglia

Biography

Kirk is a Senior Vice President and Private Wealth Advisor with LPL Financial and Gladstone Wealth Partners. Kirk, who earned his M.B.A. at Ashford University, has worked in financial services and offers comprehensive financial planning to individuals and organizations for over 2o years. His experience of managing multiple sales teams and individually offering holistic financial analysis has been recognized by the various global organizations that he has been employed with (HSBC Bank, Merrill Lynch, LPL Financial). Kirk lives in Dutchess County with his three children and supports the development of the community.

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Board Member at Mid Hudson Works

Sessions

Andreas Benzing

Biography

As a co-founder of A.M.Benzing Architects, AM.51, and Fractalize™, I lead innovative and high-performance architectural projects in North America, with a focus on passive house building systems and sustainable design. I have over 23 years of experience in the field of architecture, and I hold a master degree from Bauhaus-Universität Weimar, as well as certifications in passive house, LEED, and registered architecture in four states.

My mission is to create spaces that are energy-efficient, comfortable, and aesthetically pleasing, integrating passive house principles with architectural excellence. I have been recognized for my achievements in sustainable architecture by the Urban Green Council and New York Passive House, which I co-founded and served as president and executive director. I also share my knowledge and expertise in passive house and environmental design as a faculty member and part-time assistant professor at Columbia University and Parsons School of Design. I am passionate about advancing the field of sustainable architecture and educating the next generation of architects.

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Co-Founder, New York Passive House

Sessions

Chester Birchwood

Biography

Designer of renewable energy systems using solar thermal with geothermal.Chill water systems . hybrid energy using indigenous engineering practises. An air to water heat pump installer using Stiebel Eltron, Viessmann and Chilltrix.
Currently,we are installing air to water heat pumps in NYC and has linked up with ALL ADVANCE SERVICES of Lawrenceville, Georgia to showcase air to water heat pumps in that state.

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Heating & Ventilation Engineer/ Renewable Energy Engineer

Sessions

Itai Kaitano

Biography

Executive Director with experience in strategic planning, financial management, board relations, and partnership development in the nonprofit and hospitality industries, who has led national inclusion conferences and secured over $250,000 in fundraising through targeted relationship-building efforts.

Knowledgeable of program development concepts, including program development, implementation, and management. Skilled at building and strengthening community engagement, conducting fundraising campaigns, and recruiting and leading teams to drive impact measurement and revenue growth.

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Executive Director Greg DeShields Consulting LLC

Sessions

Johan Tijssen

Biography

I have over 40 years of global experience, I am a pioneer in sustainable construction, notably in hemp-based building materials. As Founder and Technical Director of HEMPBLOCK INTERNATIONAL, I lead initiatives across the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa, and Europe. My tenure at HempCrete Australia saw the very first official certification of hempcrete, in the world, as a building material and the development of training associated programs. I've innovated application methods and collaborated on advancements in hempcrete pumping and tilt up fiber-reinforced construction technology. Recognitions include nominations for the 2017 Australian Sustainability Awards.

In more recent times, I've secured patents and trademarks, obtained certifications, and fostered international partnerships to promote industrial hemp. Through roles at Hempcrete Australia and as Director of AHI Australian Hemp Innovations, I've shaped the industry landscape, providing consultancy, publishing manuals, and facilitating sustainable construction practices globally, with a steadfast commitment to innovation and excellence.

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President HempblockUSA

Sessions

Hennie Botes

Biography

Hennie Botes, CEO and Inventor of the Moladi Construction Technology, has gained more than 30 years’ experience in the construction industry. An astute product designer, inventor, passionate entrepreneur and born philanthropist. Hennie travels extensively and continues to provide consulting services to international Governments, Advisors and Institutions to eradicate global poverty and housing shortages, simultaneously driving the continued development of Moladi Technology in more than 26 countries. He was won numerous accolades acknowledging his contribution and unique insight into the complexities of Governments and Businesses working together.

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President Moladi Housing Solutions

Sessions

Charles Kovess

Biography

After 20 years of high-level legal practice as a tax-lawyer, in 1993 I changed career to become a professional speaker, facilitator, author and passion provocateur. I have added value to many large and small organisations by acting as a 'laxative' and unblocking constipated minds and human spirits. The benefits are remarkable. Take a look at my website at www.kovess.com and also at my two books "Passionate People Produce" and "Passionate Performance". My vision is to add value to a selection of the world's 200 largest corporations who want sustainable and outstanding business outcomes.
Specialties: Leadership development, sensational team building programs, key note speeches at conferences that lead to passionate performance by inspired team members. I am also CEO of Textile & Composite Industries, making the world's best decorticators to process industrial hemp.

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Executive Director Greg DeShields Consulting LLC

Sessions

Gregory L. Deshields

Biography

Executive Director with experience in strategic planning, financial management, board relations, and partnership development in the nonprofit and hospitality industries, who has led national inclusion conferences and secured over $250,000 in fundraising through targeted relationship-building efforts.

Knowledgeable of program development concepts, including program development, implementation, and management. Skilled at building and strengthening community engagement, conducting fundraising campaigns, and recruiting and leading teams to drive impact measurement and revenue growth.

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Sessions

Torrance Harvey

Biography

Executive Director with experience in strategic planning, financial management, board relations, and partnership development in the nonprofit and hospitality industries, who has led national inclusion conferences and secured over $250,000 in fundraising through targeted relationship-building efforts.

Knowledgeable of program development concepts, including program development, implementation, and management. Skilled at building and strengthening community engagement, conducting fundraising campaigns, and recruiting and leading teams to drive impact measurement and revenue growth.

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Executive Director Greg DeShields Consulting LLC

Mayor for The City of Newburgh

Sessions