Amy Adams: Executive Director, Institute for Biohealth Innovation, George Mason University

Amy Adams, Executive Director of George Mason University’s Institute for Biohealth Innovation, is responsible for nurturing and advancing biohealth research and innovation interests of more than 300 faculty and thousands of students who represent a broad range of academic disciplines. Her role includes fostering partnerships, overseeing core laboratory facilities, and creating hubs of innovation. Ms. Adams brings 22 years of experience in higher education and 18 years developing and managing new programs and organizations focused on research, innovation, and workforce development. Ms. Adams is co-leading the development of an Innovation District surrounding Mason’s SciTech campus in collaboration with partners from the City of Manassas, Prince William County, and business community.

Leslie Ashor: AIA, LEED AP, Director of Science + Technology, HOK

Based in San Francisco, Leslie is a director of HOK’s global Science + Technology practice.
Leslie has dedicated the past two decades of her career to research and laboratory facilities. She has led the lab planning, programming and design for more than 150 projects, including several R&D Magazine/SEFA “Lab of the Year” award winners.
Leslie has spoken at dozens of worldwide conferences and authored numerous articles and reports. She is on the Board of Directors of the Scientific Equipment and Furniture Association (SEFA), and a member of the  International Institute for Sustainable Labs (I2SL), Society for College and University Planning (SCUP), American Institute of Architects (AIA).

Maggie Bachenberg: Consultant, Franklin Advisory

Based in San Francisco, Maggie is a Consultant with Franklin Advisory, where she leads projects ranging from advising on the launch of new venture funds to developing strategic plans for innovation initiatives and designing investment programs. Before joining Franklin Advisory, Maggie founded a Techstars- and venture-backed startup out of her dorm room and was named to the Forbes 30 Under 30 list in 2025. She has been featured in Bloomberg and The Boston Globe and has spoken at leading industry events, including TechCrunch Mobility and Micromobility America. Maggie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from Brown University.

Chase Bonhag: MBA, CEO & Co-Founder, FirstIgnite

Chase Bonhag, CEO and Co-founder of FirstIgnite, is a visionary leader revolutionizing university-industry collaboration through AI-powered innovation. With over a decade of experience in startups, venture capital, and corporate innovation, Chase specializes in connecting cutting-edge university research with Fortune 500 companies. An alumnus of Y Combinator and the University of Illinois, Chase’s expertise in tech commercialization and strategic partnerships drives meaningful economic growth for research institutions.

Heather Bray: Corporate Engagement Specialist, Iowa State University Research Park

Heather Bray is currently serving as a Corporate Engagement Specialist at Iowa State University Research Park (ISURP). With a strong background in administrative roles, Heather coordinates visits with various stakeholder groups, hosts corporate visitors, and manages K-12 outreach. Heather also coordinates the research parks marketing strategies. Heather works with ISURP tenants to create opportunities for engagement with the university, community, and statewide resources.
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Harry Brislin: AURP Treasurer; Executive Director, Real Estate Services & Asset Management, USA Technology and Research Park

Harry Brislin, IV currently serves as Executive Director of Real Estate Services and Asset Management at the University of South Alabama (USA). In his position, Harry is tasked with the direction of the USA Technology and Research Park and USA Properties, a fully licensed real estate division of USA, with the oversight of all the University and University Health real estate. Prior to joining USA in 2015, Harry began his career at a regionally recognized real estate corporation, The Mitchell Company, where he served as Broker and Vice President of Commercial Sales, Leasing, and Development. He has been active in all facets of the real estate industry along the Gulf Coast, including residential construction and development, commercial sales and leasing, retail and office property management and development, and national tenant representation.
As a native Mobilian, Harry received his Bachelor of Arts and Master of Business Administration from the University of South Alabama. He is an active member of a multitude of business and community organizations such as the Gulf Coast Technology Council, the USA Center for Real Estate and Economic Development, the Melton Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and Camp Rap-a-Hope, a Mobile-based children’s oncology summer camp. Most recently Harry was recognized as one of Mobile Bay’s 40 Under 40 Class of 2019.

Tom Burns: Executive Director, Nevada Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED)

Governor Joe Lombardo appointed Tom Burns Nevada Governor’s of Economic Development (GOED) Executive Director on January 30th , 2023.
Burns started his career by attaining his Certified Public Accountant designation with Deloitte and was subsequently the Assistant Corporate Controller at United Gaming, the predecessor of Light & Wonder. For more than 30 years he was an insurance executive in Southern Nevada, specializing in commercial insurance surety.
Burns has served on numerous professional boards, including charitable organizations and government-appointed committees. He served on the Government Affairs Committees and Board of Trustees for numerous civic and trade group organizations including: the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce where he also served as chair for two years beginning in 2020. He was named to the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance Board in 2023.
A University of Nevada, Reno graduate, Burns enjoys spending time with his wife of 38 years, Shelly and his two children, JT and Megan.

Danielle Casey: President and CEO, Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance

Ms. Casey brings extensive and diverse experience in leadership, public administration, marketing, business development, and strategic planning as the leader of the Las Vegas Global Economic Alliance, a nonprofit organization working to create a prosperous and diverse economy for Southern Nevada.
Previously, as the President & CEO of the Albuquerque Regional Economic Alliance, she made groundbreaking progress in completing a regional strategic plan and transforming a traditional business association to a mission-based public private partnership. Prior to AREA, she served as the Executive Vice President for the Greater Sacramento Economic Council and oversaw business development, marketing and communications, investor engagement, research, and strategic initiatives. Even during COVID-19, the organization reached all its annual metrics and job creation goals and launched a regional business retention and expansion outreach program. From 2013 – 2018, Danielle served the City of Scottsdale, Arizona as its Economic Development Director. During her tenure, the department was directly involved in projects accounting for more than $24 million in 5-year direct revenue impact to the city, $7 billion in 5-year total economic impact, 4,428 or more new jobs in the first 12 months of business operation alone and $160 million in new capital investment. Prior to her time in Scottsdale, Ms. Casey served in various executive roles in the City of Maricopa, Arizona, lastly as the Assistant City Manager.
Ms. Casey received her bachelor’s degree from Arizona State University and Master of Administration from Northern Arizona University. She is both a Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) as well as a certified Economic Development Finance Professional (EDFP). She is a member of the International Economic Development Council and serves on its Board of Directors as Vice Chair. She also serves as an instructor and Board Member at the Oklahoma University Economic Development Institute.
In May 2010, Ms. Casey was the honored recipient of the ‘Economic Developer of the Year – Small Community’ award from the Arizona Association for Economic Development and in January 2017 she was recognized as a national top ‘40 under 40 Rising Star’ in economic development by Development Counsellors International.
An Air Force brat, Ms. Casey has had the great privilege of living in Texas, Ohio, Alabama, Louisiana, Utah, Rhode Island, Arizona, California and New Mexico. A past frequent visitor, she is thrilled to now call Las Vegas, Nevada her permanent home, along with her trusty English bulldog Sophie, heeler/cattle dog mix Persie, and amazing and supportive husband Steve.

Merry Hunter Caudle: CEcD, Director – Economic Development, Georgia Institute of Technology

Merry Hunter Caudle is the Director for Economic Development at Georgia Tech. In this role, she is responsible for developing strategic relationships that connect economic development needs and opportunity to transformative technology and talent. In support of city, state, and regional economic development efforts, Merry Hunter identifies and aligns higher education resources and capabilities to support the recruitment of new companies and overall industry ecosystem expansion in Metro Atlanta and Georgia.Working closely with both new and established corporate partners, Merry Hunter also helps innovation, technology, and other teams create and maintain meaningful engagements across the Georgia Tech campus. She supports and advances the economic development and ecosystem initiatives in Georgia Tech’s Technology Square and Science Square. She builds those communities of innovation and the surrounding areas by supporting the recruitment of large corporate operations, startup and innovation ecosystem programming, and public sector engagement. She previously served as Education Policy Advisor, responsible for early childhood, K-12, and higher education policy, as well as Deputy Director of Communications for Georgia Governor Nathan Deal. Merry Hunter holds a B.S. in Public Policy from Georgia Tech, a M.A. in Communications with a research emphasis on crisis rhetoric in higher education from Georgia State University, and a M.B.A. from Georgia Tech. She is a member of the Alliance Theatre’s Advisory Board and the Atlanta Fire Rescue Foundation’s Young Executives Board. Merry Hunter is a member of the LEAD Atlanta Class of 2020, the Zell Miller Leadership Institute Class of 2019, and is an active volunteer with the Junior League of Atlanta. Merry Hunter received the Association of University Research Parks (AURP) Rising Star Award in 2020. She and her family reside in Atlanta.

Stephen Coulston: AIA, LEED AP BD+C, Principal, Perkins&Will

Stephen Coulston is a Principal with Perkins&Will and a leader within the firm’s urban design and planning practice. An architect with a passion for shaping knowledge communities, Stephen has spent his career working at the intersection of higher education, research, healthcare, government, and the private sectors with a focus on strategizing, planning, and designing the built and natural form.
He has helped craft the vision for 20+ vibrant, mixed-use innovation communities from coast-to-coast, including Churchill Technology Park, UC Davis Aggie Square, NeoCity Florida, University of Wisconsin West District, Clark County Innovation District, and the Oklahoma City Innovation District, among others.

Brian Darmody: Chief Strategy Officer, AURP

Brian Darmody leads AURP initiatives including expanding membership, international partnerships and funding in order to build out additional member benefits. Prior to joining AURP, Brian served as Associate Vice President (AVP) of Corporate Engagement at the University of Maryland (UMD). At UMD, Brian was responsible for developing the overall university strategy for corporate relationships, as well as the development of projects and policies to support these initiatives centrally and through the colleges and schools on campus of the University of Maryland. Previously, he was the University’s AVP for Corporate and Foundation Relations in the Division of University Relations, AVP for Research and Economic Development, Assistant Vice Chancellor for Technology Development, Director of State and Federal Relations in the President’s Office and has served in the university’s legal counsel office. He serves on national and state boards, including: Fraunhofer USA, the Maryland Economic Development Association, and the Maryland Tech Council. He holds a Juris Doctorate from the University of Baltimore and he received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Maryland, College Park.

Keisha Demps, Director, Office of Partnerships, Centennial Campus, North Carolina State University

Keisha assists in leading the partnership development team, while building strategic relationships with industry and government organizations. Working with current and prospective corporate partners, she fosters collaboration opportunities with faculty and students. Keisha earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Arizona.
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Alison Doyle: Associate Director, Iowa State University Research Park; Director of Corporate Engagement, Iowa State University

Alison Doyle (Associate Director/CRO) joined the Research Park in 2008 and has decades of experience in business development, public relations, marketing, communications, community, and event-building. During her tenure, she has helped hundreds of organizations- including multinational companies, find the perfect space to move their operations forward and establish pathways to a robust partnership with Iowa State University.
In addition to having a wide network of connections in the Ames and Iowa State business communities, Alison has specialized knowledge that aids organizations in streamlining the often-complex process of selecting a location, executing a lease, and building, expanding, or relocating operations.

Stacy Dreyer: Associate Director of Corporate Engagement, Iowa State University Research Park

Stacy Dreyer is the Associate Director of Corporate Engagement at Iowa State University Research Park, where she connects over 140 tenant companies with university and statewide resources. With a background in banking and economic development, Stacy has held leadership roles at America’s SBDC Iowa and First National Bank Ames. She is recognized for her expertise in project management, relationship building, and business development. Stacy is a Leadership Iowa graduate and has received numerous accolades, including the ISU Achievement in Economic Development Award. She is involved in numerous boards and committees, contributing to the economic growth of the community she serves.

Thomas Flynn: CEcD, Economic Development Advisor, Prince William County Economic Development and Tourism

Thomas Flynn is a certified Economic Developer with over 20 years of experience in economic development, public management, and public policy. He has attracted investments and jobs from major corporations like Siemens, IKEA, Amazon, and FedEx, and worked on over $1 billion in public/private partnerships. Before joining Prince William County, Tom held economic development roles in Loudoun County, Virginia, and Charlotte, N.C. He is a past Board Member of the International Economic Development Council and serves on its Accredited Economic Development Organization Committee. Tom holds an MPA from the LBJ School of Public Affairs and a BA from Kalamazoo College.

Randal Froebelius: Project Executive and Senior Advisor, MaRS Discovery District

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Lizz Harrell: Vice President of GTM, Halo

As an executive at Halo, Lizz Harrell advances collaboration between enterprises and academic researchers to accelerate innovation. With nearly two decades in technology startups, she has guided many organizations through digital transformation – leveraging human-centered design, agile practices, and data-driven strategy to reshape how teams work and scale. Lizz’s background spans revenue leadership, go-to-market strategy, and customer success across high-growth tech companies. She holds a BA in Chinese Language and Literature from GeorgetownUniversity and an MBA. from Columbia University, combining cross-cultural insight with business acumen to bridge innovation between academia and industry.

Jessica Halsey: Managing Director, Electrify Nevada Accelerator, Gener8tor

Jessica Halsey leads the Electrify Nevada Accelerator at gener8tor in Reno, Nevada, where she supports founders advancing renewable energy solutions and material circularity.  
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Bruce Hunter: JD, MBA, Chief innovation Officer, University of Utah

Bruce Hunter is the Chief Innovation Officer at the University of Utah. He holds a BA, MBA, and JD from the University of Iowa. He founded a computer imaging company at the university’s incubator and later sold it to a publicly traded market leader. He also launched a business lifestyle magazine in Denver. Hunter taught business at Lone Star College in Houston and consulted for Fortune 500 companies on innovation and creativity. His university leadership roles include Executive Director positions in tech transfer and entrepreneurship at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and University of California, Office of the President.

Len Jessup: Managing Director, Desert Forge Ventures

Len Jessup has 18+ years as startup advisor and angel investor. He is the former president of UNLV and Claremont Graduate University. He is also Co-founder of XAP VC and accelerator with successful exits and pivots.
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Ray Liu: CEO & Co-Founder, Vena Vitals

Ray has 20+ years of experience in digital health and medical devices, leading both startups and large multinational organizations. Prior to Vena Vitals, Ray was the head of product for two healthtech startups, helping them to successful acquisitions by Vizient and Cigna, respectively. He has helped build and launch digital health engagement platforms to over 8M health insurance subscribers at Cigna, and developed large-scale digital challenge platforms used by large employers like Disney. Ray also has deep medical device expertise from Siemens and GE Healthcare, where he orchestrated product launches, new market entries, and turnarounds, covering the patient monitoring, healthcare diagnostics, and ultrasound businesses. Ray holds an MBA from Harvard Business School, an MS in Electrical Engineering from the University of California at Berkeley, and a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Rod McSherry: Associate VP for Innovation and Economic Development, University of Texas at San Antonio

Mr. Rod McSherry is the Associate Vice President for Innovation and Economic Development at The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). Mr. McSherry oversees the Institute for Economic Development and the Office of Commercialization and Innovation and manages a staff of over 140. His mission includes expanding the reach of current programs, building new relationships with stakeholders, and developing new funding sources, both from the public and the private sectors. He reports directly to the Vice President for Research, Economic Development, and Knowledge Enterprise (VPREDKE).
Established in 1979, UTSA’s Institute for Economic Development hosts ten centers and a variety of programs that facilitate economic, community, and business development at the local, regional, and national levels. The ten centers are the South-West Texas Border Small Business Development Center (SBDC) Network; the UTSA Small Business Development Center; the SBDC International Trade Center; the SBDC Technology Commercialization Center; the SBDC National Information Clearinghouse; the SBDC Center for Government Contracting; the Procurement Technical Assistance Center; the Center for Community and Business Research; the Southwest Trade Adjustment Assistance Center; and the Minority Business Development Center. Programs serve a range of entrepreneurs, from those who are just starting a business to experienced business owners looking for new markets to communities seeking to improve their economic health.
Mr. McSherry has over 35 years of experience in the field of global economic, community, and business development. He has held a variety of positions, most recently as the Associate Provost, International and Border Programs, at New Mexico State University. He has over 30 years of service in the United States Department of Agriculture culminating in his service as a Senior Foreign Service Officer. Additionally, he held postings in Afghanistan, the United Kingdom, Iraq, Thailand, Venezuela, Mexico, and Russia.
Mr. McSherry earned a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture, Chemistry, and Biology degree from New Mexico State University in 1984, a Master of Arts in International Agricultural Economics degree from New Mexico State University in 1986, and is currently a Doctor of Economic Development Candidate at New Mexico State University. He is fluent in both English and Spanish and is proficient in Russian, Thai, and French.

Christina Morris: Economic Development Director, Osceola County Government, Florida

Christina Morris is a seasoned Economic Development professional with over a decade of experience driving growth, innovation, and community revitalization. As Economic Development Director for Osceola County, she specializes in business recruitment, expansion, and retention; confidential project management; expedited permitting; and redevelopment strategies.
Her work includes advancing redevelopment in the East 192 CRA and supporting NeoCity, the County’s 500-acre master-planned technology campus dedicated to advanced microelectronics packaging. NeoCity is home to pioneering partners including BRIDG, SkyWater Technologies, and imec.
Dedicated to community engagement, Christina serves on the boards of Experience Kissimmee, the Early Learning Coalition of Osceola County, and The Hope Partnership. A proud Florida native, she earned her Certified Economic Developer (CEcD) designation in 2017, one of the profession’s highest credentials, awarded by the International Economic Development Council.

Commissioner Michael N. Naft, District A, Clark County, Nevada

Commissioner Naft has served District A since January 2019. He has prioritized traffic safety, improving emergency response times, animal welfare, and increasing travel and tourism to southern Nevada. He is a member of the Las Vegas Convention and Visitor’s Authority Board of Directors, the County’s Debt Management Commission, and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Fiscal Affairs Committee; he is Chairman of the Big Bend Water District and Clark County Audit Committee.
In 2021, Commissioner Naft successfully improved ambulance response times by requiring underperforming ambulance companies to come into compliance. In 2022, he brought forth the Safe Sidewalk ordinance, requiring all future roadways 60 feet or more to have a detached sidewalk, improving safety and increased property values. In 2024, he spearheaded the expansion of crossing guards at all Clark County middle schools; previously, guards were only required at elementary schools. In 2022, Commissioner Naft sponsored an ordinance banning the sale of dogs, cats, rabbits, and potbellied pigs in pet stores across unincorporated Clark County.
Prior to joining the Commission, Michael served the residents of Clark County as District Director to Congresswoman Dina Titus. In that role, he worked with hundreds of federal agencies, departments, and commissions overseeing outreach and constituent services for more than 700,000 Nevadans. He has worked and consulted for numerous local, state, and federal officials and advised several national and local nonprofit organizations. He attended the Las Vegas Academy of Performing Arts and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Michael lives in Henderson with his wife, Dr. Lauren Naft, and their two children.

David Norfolk, Jr.: Vice President of Construction & Development, COPT Defense Properties

David Norfolk, Jr. is Vice President of Construction & Development for the Government & Data portfolio of COPT Defense Properties (COPT Defense). In this role, he manages the overall development process for all government clients, data centers, and interior projects. His responsibilities also extend to lease negotiations and new development opportunities in the Company’s Defense/IT Portfolio.
David has been with COPT Defense for 20+ years and during that time, he has led multiple teams in Maryland, Virginia, and Texas delivering millions of square feet of highly technical mission critical space. He has worked extensively with hyperscalers and multiple intelligence agencies delivering space operating in the most stringent of security requirements.
David has a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance from Salisbury University. He also holds a Project Management Professional (PMP) certification and is a member of the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME).

Laura O’Blenis: President & CEO, Stiletto: Make A Point

Laura O’Blenis is a North American leader in innovation cluster development, economic strategy, and ecosystem building. With nearly 30 years of experience, she has helped governments, academia, and industry turn bold visions into measurable results. A former research park director, Laura has led more than 1,000 stakeholder engagements and developed strategies that drive sustainable economic growth. She serves on the board of the Association of University Research Parks. Recognized as a top female entrepreneur, Laura brings practical, results-driven leadership to innovation districts, ensuring long-term community success and global competitiveness.

Aaron Olver: Managing Director, University Research Park, University of Wisconsin – Madison

Aaron Olver is the Managing Director of the University Research Park. Established in 1984, University Research Park, a University of Wisconsin-Madison affiliate, is an internationally recognized research and technology park that supports early-stage, and growth-oriented businesses in a range of sectors, including engineering, computational and life sciences. Olver previously served as Wisconsin Secretary of Commerce and City of Madison Director of Economic Development. He has an undergraduate degree from UW-Madison and a graduate degree from Oxford University, where he was a Rhodes Scholar.

Vickie Palmer: CEO, AURP

Vickie Palmer was appointed CEO in 2022, following 15 years’ experience significantly expanding the Association’s membership and sponsorship community. During her time with AURP, she has led the organization’s membership, event management and overall operations while working closely with the organization’s prior CEOs, Board of Directors and membership community. Recipient of the 2021 AURP Vision Award, Vickie brings to a proven record of success in association management primarily with The Kellen Company, a global association management company, and Management Plus, Ltd. She has over 25 years leadership experience with such associations as the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Elder Life Care Planners (formerly known as the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers) and the National Guardianship Association. Prior to her jump into the non-profit sector, she held executive convention management positions at the Hilton El Conquistador Resort in Tucson, AZ (formerly ITT Sheraton). Vickie obtained a bachelor of science with major in hotel and restaurant management from Northern Arizona University’s W.A. Franke College of Business. Additionally, she is a commissioned Stephen Minister.

Larry Peterson: Executive Director, Texas Foundation for Innovative Communities

Larry Peterson is an investor, serial tech entrepreneur, and Executive Director for the Texas Foundation for Innovative Communities (TFIC).
TFIC assists regions in architecting robust and financially sustainable innovation systems, employing the same principles that drove the success of the designed-from-scratch Austin innovation ecosystem advanced by Dr. George Kozmetsky (co-founder of F500 Teledyne, and the principal architect of the Austin “Technopolis” model).
Projects include development of the largest Texas venture accelerator; a statewide cluster organization for aerospace-defense; successful attraction of Army Futures Command; the Army Software Factory; and numerous methods for analyzing and accelerating regional innovation systems.

Jordan Peterson: Chief Operations Officer, Collaborative Real Estate

Jordan leads property operations and community networking navigation services for innovation districts and research properties managed by Collaborative Real Estate on behalf of both private and institutional clients.  With nearly 20 years of experience in corporate and institutional real estate transactions, strategy, and operations spanning more than 25 million square feet of real estate, Jordan has spent the last five years working specifically on community building, development, and management of university-anchored research properties and innovation districts.
Jordan has presented at conferences hosted by AURP (aurp.org), InBIA (inbia.org), NACRO (nacrocon.org), and UIDP (uidp.org) on improving the environment for individual collaboration in university-anchored innovation ecosystems; as well as at IFMA (ifma.org) on technology-enabled property management strategies.  Jordan’s experience engaging with university, business, and civic leadership coupled with his ability to connect seemingly minor operational details to “big picture” strategic considerations makes him naturally gravitate toward the relationships of our properties with the broader research goals and community networks that surround them.

Katie Pettinger: MBA, Chief Innovation Officer, NSF Futures Engines of the Southwest / ASU

Katie Pettinger is Chief Innovation Officer for the Southwest Sustainability Innovation Engine (SWSIE), a $160M NSF-funded initiative advancing climate and resource resilience in Arizona, Utah, and Nevada. She leads strategy and investment for emerging technologies in air, water, and energy. Previously, she co-founded and led Gadusol Laboratories, a biomaterials startup spun out of Oregon State University, through product development, SBIR funding, and acquisition. Her experience spans startups, academia, nonprofits, industry, and the U.S. Department of Energy. Katie holds an MBA in Technology Commercialization from Oregon State and has advised dozens of early-stage deep tech ventures nationwide.

Allen Phelps: CPP, PCI, CISSP, CISA, Founder & CEO, IPTalons, Inc.

Allen Phelps is the Founder and CEO of IPTalons, a managed research security service provider headquartered in Dallas. Allen is a board-certified security and cybersecurity professional and has decades of experience in corporate security, research security, trade secret protection, and insider risk management. His expertise lies in countering foreign influence threats and deploying AI-enabled technologies to support research institutions in protecting their researchers, research pipelines, intellectual property, and research portfolios.
Before founding IPTalons, Allen developed Merck’s trade secret protection program to safeguard early-discovery research pipelines from insider and external threats, including Nation-State-Sponsored threat actors. Allen also served almost 20 years with the CIA as an Operations Officer.

Tom Sadowski: CEO/Executive Director, Maryland Economic Development Corporation

Over his 36-year career, Tom’s projects exceed $10 billion in value. These projects have resulted in creation of more than 50,000 jobs and include the 2005 BRAC win for the U.S. Army Aberdeen Proving Ground; numerous headquarter, research lab and industrial projects for major private sector and non-profit clients; the construction of new student housing for 2,000+ students; delivery of critical transit-oriented development and infrastructure projects; and funded build-out of five certified SCIF facilities supporting military communities across the state.
During his tenure as Vice Chancellor for Economic Development with the University System of Maryland, he launched the USMs $10 million Maryland Momentum Fund which co-invested in more than 24 early/late-stage firms across a variety of industry sectors.
In 2025, Tom led MEDCO to its most productive year, issuing more than $1.6 billion in revenue bond financing for projects statewide.  His work at MEDCO is focused on providing public/private partnership solutions to fuel business expansion, investment and the provision of strategic infrastructure— growth that creates jobs, drives innovation, inspires equitable economic development and enhances Maryland’s competitiveness and quality of life.

John Sawyer: Executive Director, Mid-Atlantic Quantum Alliance; Director, Strategic Research Initiatives, University of Maryland

John Sawyer is the Director of Strategic Research Initiatives for the University of Maryland, where he builds and manages major programs and partnerships that enhance the impact and visibility of the university. Sawyer previously served as a senior researcher at UMD’s National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism (START), where he co-founded a research program incubator and served as START’s Commercialization Director, and in the private sector as a business development consultant. John graduated from UMD with degrees in History and Government and Politics before earning an M.A. in Security Studies and Ph.D. in Government from Georgetown University.

Neil Schneider: MPA, Director, Churchill Technology & Business Park Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission, Louisiana

Neil Schneider, Director of the Churchill Technology & Business Park, leads their innovation and real estate initiatives. Following career stops strategic planning for a not-for profit organization recovering from Hurricane Katrina and fourteen years managing manufacturing facilities operations, Neil returned to his public sector roots and the Jefferson Parish Economic Development Commission. Churchill Park is the last large greenfield in the largely developed Jefferson Parish. Through coordinated government initiatives Churchill is highlighted in Jefferson’s economic development strategy. Churchill installed an education and workforce training ecosystem and Neil is now opening the park for commercial development emphasizing technology-based industry recruitment.

Jamie Schwartz: Director, Industry and Business Engagement, Office of Economic Development; Associate Director, UNLV Research Foundation

Jamie Schwartz is the director of industry and business engagement for UNLV’s Office of Economic Development and the associate director of UNLV’s Research Foundation. Both are located within the Black Fire Innovation hub at the Harry Reid Research & Technology Park, where Schwartz is a former lead business advisor for the Small Business Development Center at UNLV. The SBDC is part of a nationwide nonprofit that offers free, confidential assistance with business plans, loan and grant applications, and educational workshops to small businesses and startup entrepreneurs.
Schwartz has a background in business consulting, valuation analysis, financial analysis, banking, commercial real estate and business sales, and acquisitions. Prior to running a business strategy and valuation firm locally, she spent many years as a partner in a pharmaceutical research firm, specializing in business expansion, marketing, and new study acquisition.
The Las Vegas native has spoken to media outlets on topics such as navigating supply chain issues and business closures during the COVID-19 pandemic, the impact of inflation on small businesses, the startup ecosystem in southern Nevada, and economic diversification.

Sarah Sheppard: Director, Office of Talent and Workforce, Division of Innovation and Growth, Maryland Department of Commerce

Sarah Sheppard is the Director of the Office of Talent and Workforce at the Maryland Department of Commerce, where she develops education and workforce strategies, oversees over $600 million in federal funding, and manages the Maryland E-Nnovation Initiative Fund. Ms. Sheppard previously worked as Director of Workforce Engagement at the Maryland Department of Labor and Director of Policy and Planning for the Division of Unemployment Insurance. Prior public service, Sarah was a registered lobbyist with nearly 20 years of experience working with levels of government. She holds a BA in Political Science and Studio Art, a JD, and an MPA.

Tracy Shickel: Associate Vice President, Corporate Engagement, University of Delaware

Tracy Shickel is the Associate Vice President of Corporate Engagement at the University of Delaware (UD). In this role, Tracy leads university-wide external engagement and innovation-based economic development including growth of the University’s Science Technology and Advanced Research (STAR) Campus. Tracy’s background prior to UD includes extensive strategy development and commercial leadership with chemicals, biologics and advanced materials innovators such as WL Gore, DuPont, FMC and Monsanto. Tracy is a connector, supporter and facilitator of regional innovation and entrepreneurship activities and has served on various boards committed to creating vibrant ecosystems including Delaware Bioscience Association, UD Horn Entrepreneurship, the University Science Center, Association of University Research Parks (AURP) and PHLLife Congress. Tracy holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration and Marketing Management from the University of Delaware.

Jeffery Smith: Director, Research Parks, Michigan State University Research Foundation

Jeff Smith is the Director of Research Parks for the MSU Research Foundation. In this role, Jeff manages and directs the real estate and economic development opportunities on behalf of the MSU Foundation. This includes development and construction within the University Health Park, the Alliance Building, the VanCamp Incubator, City Center, and the Technology Innovation Center.
His goal continues to focus on leveraging university, corporate research, and community technologies toward commercialization and expansion of the marketplace.
Jeff is a Board Member of the Association of University Research Parks (AURP), the Michigan Economic Development Corporation Advisory Board for Redevelopment Ready Communities, the Lansing Regional Chamber Policy Committee, the East Lansing DDA, BRA, and EDC.

Carol Stewart: Vice President, Tech Parks Arizona, University of Arizona

Carol Stewart, a long-standing authority on research parks, is the Vice President for Tech Parks Arizona at the University of Arizona. Carol Stewart leads the UA Tech Park at Rita Road and is developing the UA Tech Park at The Bridges. She is also president of the University of Arizona Center for Innovation (UACI), a technology business incubator network serving the University of Arizona, Tucson and international community.
Stewart’s expertise in university research parks spans decades and nations with more than 20 years of experience working with research parks, technology commercialization, business incubation, governmental relations and business development.
As a pioneer in the research parks world, she has driven national policy, standardized programs, created national and international networks, built technology clusters, engaged stakeholders, and assisted countries with the development of their national science and technology policies.
Stewart is passionate about her community and serves as a champion in university-based economic development. She is a member of Southern Arizona Leadership Council, Flinn Foundation Steering Committee, a member of the Canadian Global Mentor Program and she also serves on the Board of Directors for Tucson Metro Chamber of Commerce, Pima County’s Workforce Investment Board, Arizona Technology Council, Desert Angels, and is the Vice President on the national University Economic Development Association (UEDA) board, and a member of the North American CEO Council for Commercial Real Estate Women (CREW).
She also serves as the North American Division President for the International Association of Science Parks and Areas of Innovation (IASP). IASP is the worldwide network of science parks and areas of innovation. IASP has nearly four hundred members in 74 countries. Previously, Stewart served as the Chief Executive Officer of the Association of University Research Parks (AURP), which represents 170 research parks in North America. She collaborates with numerous leaders world-wide to build and grow university-related research parks through education, unification, and collaboration. She helps to expand and advance the impact of research parks and areas of innovation by showcasing best practices across the globe.
Her proven success record also includes co-founding the Canadian chapter of the Association of University Research Parks, founding director of the David Johnston Research + Technology Park at the University of Waterloo spearheading the development of the park, advancing the park to over the one-million-square-foot milestone, leading the marketing efforts and launching the professional services division of Maplesoft, a global spin-off company from the University of Waterloo, and enhancing the entrepreneurial culture of Canada at the Canadian Industrial Innovation Centre (CIIC).

Harold Strong: Executive Director, STAR Park, Texas State University

Harold Strong is a respected leader in innovation, commercialization, and entrepreneurship within research park environments. He has held key roles at Texas A&M University and the University of North Texas, where he advanced research infrastructure, technology transfer, and public-private partnerships. Now serving as Executive Director of STAR Park at Texas State University, Harold drives development at the San Marcos and Round Rock campuses, building industry consortia and strategic programs that support the university’s R1 research goals. With a career spanning academia, nonprofits, and business, he brings a collaborative, results-driven approach to workforce development and technology-led economic growth.

Michael Swords: VP Government and International Relations, Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator, National Coalition of Clean Energy Incubators (NCCEI)

Michael Swords is the Vice President of Government and International Relations for the Los Angeles Cleantech Incubator  (LACI). In this role, he is responsible for managing the organization’s relationships with policymakers at the local, regional, state and federal level. Swords also manages the LACI-led National Coalition of Clean Energy Incubators (NCCEI) and international partnerships for LACI.
From 2006-2014, Swords served as the Executive Director of Strategic Research Initiatives and Global Partnerships at UCLA. In this role, he was responsible for developing large, multi-disciplinary research centers and institutes. He was also responsible for developing partnerships with government agencies, foundations, industry and non-profits, both here in the United States and abroad.
Michael served as Board President for CleanTech Los Angeles (CTLA) from 2011-2014. CTLA was a consortium established to make Los Angeles the global leader in the research, commercialization, and deployment of clean technologies. CTLA was originally established as a multi-institutional collaboration between major research universities, utilities, major industry partners, cleantech start-ups and the City of Los Angeles. Michael currently serves on the board of Climate Resolve, and has previously served on the Executive Advisory Committee for the UCLA Luskin Center for Innovation and the Los Angeles League of Conservation Voters (LALCV). Michael also serves on the LA-Israel Cooperation Task Force and is an Assistant Scout Leader with Troop 139 in Sherman Oaks, CA.

Jeffery Talbot: Vice President for Research, Roseman University of Health Sciences

Dr. Jeff Talbot is the Vice President for Research and Dean of the College of Graduate Studies at Roseman University of Health Sciences. Dr. Talbot holds bachelor’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Nevada and the University of Nebraska Medical Center. Prior to joining Roseman, Dr. Talbot served as a National Institute on Drug Abuse Research Fellow at the University of Michigan Medical School and as Assoc. Professor at the Ohio Northern University College of Pharmacy. Most recently, Dr. Talbot served as the Asst. Dean for Research and Faculty Development at the Roseman University College of Pharmacy. His research and service interests focus on psychiatric drug discovery and substance use disorders and supporting the growing bioscience industry in Nevada.

David Tyndall: Founder & CEO, Collaborative Real Estate

David is the Founder and CEO of Collaborative Real Estate, a full-service real estate firm specializing in innovation districts and university-anchored real estate. Working for over 40 years in real estate and development, moving from construction field engineer to company owner, David has learned firsthand what it takes to produce and maintain quality buildings. As CEO, David maintains daily involvement in all of Collaborative Real Estate’s property management, leasing, and development services. His specific experience in building and managing university-based research and commercialization facilities – including 20+ years of managing (and officing daily in) the Technology Square area of Midtown Atlanta, combined with his past experience as a real estate attorney, venture investor, and commercial contractor to give David unique insight into the needs of technology-related developers, landlords, property managers, and tenants. David has spent the last decade crafting very specialized management and operational techniques that Collaborative uses to ensure the continuous delivery of the engagement and collaboration value owners, tenants, and visitors are looking for – even long after the hardhats and cranes are gone.
Known in the industry as a thoughtful and innovative manager of innovation-related real estate as well as a successful developer and investor in those asset sub-classes, David is a frequently invited speaker for national and international organizations and associations on the subjects of creating collaborative real estate environments, issues of coordinating the needs and constraints of academic and corporate researchers, and future trends in the role of culture and community in the workplace generally.