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Speaker Information

20th Annual Gearing Up Leadership Conference

Speaker Information

20th Annual Gearing Up Leadership Conference

Pathways to Power: Reimagining Gender and Leadership

Wednesday, June 11, 2025

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Betty Francisco

Betty Francisco

Keynote Speaker, CEO of Boston Impact Initiative

Betty Francisco is a business executive, impact investor and a powerful convener for entrepreneurs and investors of color. Recognized as one of the most influential Bostonians in 2024 by Boston magazine, Betty has made a game-changing impact on closing the racial wealth divide.

Currently the CEO of Boston Impact Initiative, a social impact investment fund, Betty makes sure capital gets into the hands of entrepreneurs who lack access to it. She is also the co-founder of Amplify Latinx, a social venture focused on building Latinx economic and political power by significantly increasing civic engagement, economic opportunity and leadership representation in Massachusetts.

Ruby Chan
Ruby Chan
Founder and CEO of FreshZen Foods

Ruby Chan is a mother of 4; she received an MBA from Bentley University. 

After spending 20 years in corporate marketing and working with many companies like HP, Gillette, Staples, and Citizens Bank, she realized it was time to transform how she saw entrepreneurship—as a way to embrace her passions. Today, Ruby is the founder and CEO of FreshZen Foods, the only plant-based and gluten-free Asian pesto on the market, made with clean ingredients, 75% less sodium, and rich flavors passed down through the generations that make cooking healthy, delicious meals fast and easy. "I believe that the food we eat can heal our bodies," says Ruby. "I wanted to show my kids, especially my three daughters, that as a woman, a mother, I can dream big and make something happen out of nothing."

Crissi Cole, Penny Finance
Crissi Cole
Founder and CEO
Penny Finance

Crissi Cole, Bentley '11, is the Founder and CEO of Penny Finance, a fintech startup based in Boston. Crissi started her career investing ultra-high-net-worth portfolios at Goldman Sachs. She then ran product for GS private wealth trading and tech platforms. After 10 years at Goldman Sachs, Crissi bootstrapped Penny Finance until she received a hallmark investment & incubation opportunity from Pivotal Ventures, Melinda Gates investment company. Penny Finance provides digital financial planning to everyone who doesn't have millions (or hundreds) of dollars, and is proud to support over 30,000 women on their journey to wealth. Crissi was named top 500 Inc Magazine female founder for 2025 and is a Forbes Finance contributor. She lives in Boston with husband Jordan, her 3 year old daughter Charlie and 6 month old son Jack.  

Emily Corwin
Dr. Emily Corwin
Assistant Professor, Management
Bentley University

Dr. Emily Corwin is an Assistant Professor of Management at Bentley University. She earned her Ph.D. from the University of Arkansas and holds a Master of Science in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Missouri State University.

Dr. Corwin’s teaching interests include Organizational Behavior, Human Resources, and Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion. Her research explores the role of social class in the workplace, with a particular focus on individuals from working-class backgrounds and those who have experienced social mobility. She also examines emotions in professional settings, the dynamics of interpersonal interactions—such as the performance feedback process—and how individual differences, including gender, religion, disability status, and personality, shape workplace experiences.

Wiley Davi Headshot
Wiley Davi
Professor in English and Media Studies

Wiley Davi is Professor in English and Media Studies (EMS) at Bentley University. Previously, Wiley served as Associate Dean of Arts & Sciences and also as chair of the EMS Department. Wiley has published articles on leadership, on the value of liberal learning in a business curriculum, and on diversity in the classroom. In 2020, Wiley co-authored and published the book Leading with Uncommon Sense: Slowing Down, Looking Inward, Taking Action.  

Fully committed to diversity initiatives, Wiley has served as a facilitator of Bentley’s faculty and staff workshops on diversity, on being an LGBTQ ally, and on being a transgender ally. For this work, Wiley received Bentley’s Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership Award. Wiley has also received numerous awards for their teaching, including Bentley’s Innovation in Teaching Award and the Gregory H. Adamian Award for Excellence in Teaching.   

Since 2015, Wiley has served as a Women in Leadership program facilitator for the Erasmus Center for Women and Organizations (ECWO) out of the Rotterdam School of Management at Erasmus University in the Netherlands. Through ECWO, they have worked with women in organizations such as ING Bank, TNO (a nonprofit that focuses on applied science), and the European Central Bank. Wiley received their PhD from Tufts University.   

Yaro Fong-Olivares
Yaro Fong-Olivares
Executive Director
Center for Women and Business

Dr. Yaro Fong-Olivares (she/her) serves as Executive Director of Gloria Cordes Larson Center for Women and Business at Bentley University, an organization dedicated to advancing women and intersectional gender equity from the classroom to the boardroom. As an Organizational development leader focusing on systems change, equity, and inclusion, she has developed and delivered programs worldwide that focus on advancing an intersectional equity-centered approach to complex, often covert workplace dynamics. Yaro received a doctorate in Organizational and Leadership Psychology with a concentration in the neuroscience of leadership from William James College; she has an M.S. in Organizational Change Management from the Milano School of Management at The New School; and a B.A. Sociology, Barnard College, Columbia University. As part of her commitment to learning and to be of service, she is the Past President of the Executive Committee for the New York Center; a Member of the Center for the Study of Groups and Social Systems; a Co-Creator, of Group Relations International; and a Certified Consultant, at AK Rice Institute for the Study of Social Systems. As a former personal trainer and health coach, she is a big fan of High-Intensity Interval Training, mindfulness, and yoga. 

Liz Kiezulas
Liz Kiezulas
Emerging Technologies Specialist
Dell Technologies

Liz Kiezulas is a rising sales talent at Dell Technologies, where she’s thriving in the company’s competitive Next Gen Sales Academy—an elite program designed to shape tomorrow’s tech sales leaders. With a degree in Professional Sales and Computer Science from Bentley University (’23), Liz began her journey at Dell in July 2024. Her focus on data center infrastructure has enabled her to guide a diverse array of clients through the complexities of the evolving tech landscape.

Recognized as Q4FY25 Teammate of the Quarter, Liz stands out not just for her results, but for her leadership and team-first mindset. She’s a member of the Future Women in Sales group and active mentor, where she supports new reps and helps build a more inclusive, empowered sales culture.

Michelle La Fleur
Michelle La Fleur
Chief Human Resources Officer
Shawmut Design and Construction

Michelle La Fleur is a dynamic Talent Leader at Shawmut Design and Construction, where she excels in aligning people strategy with business goals. With a strong commitment to fostering a "culture of care," Michelle creates an environment that promotes positive employee engagement and well-being.

Her expertise spans across various domains, including Employee Relations, Coaching, Change Management, Onboarding, Training & Development, and Compensation and Benefits Implementation. Michelle's holistic approach ensures that every aspect of the employee experience is thoughtfully managed and optimized for success.

Susan McKay
Susan McKay
Sr. Director, Business Operations & Planning
Office of the CTO, Dell Technologies

Susan is an authentic business leader known for her ability to build and inspire high-performing teams that consistently exceed objectives. As the current head of Business Operations & Planning for the Chief Technology Officer and Chief AI Officer at Dell, she leads a team that drives exceptional outcomes through effective program management and process optimization, always embodying accountability. Before Dell, she led teams at Capgemini as a GM that turned around a struggling consulting unit and returned it to profitability in just 10 months, and at AT&T as VP that consistently exceeded sales objectives. In both assignments, Susan demonstrated her resilience and lifelong passion for excellence. Beyond her professional achievements, Susan is an accomplished athlete, excelling in basketball, field hockey and squash, where she continues to hold a national ranking.  She was also a member of the US Women’s Lacrosse team for three years.  Susan is deeply committed to mentoring female professionals and championing diversity and inclusion in the workplace. 

Rick Miller
Rick Miller
Adjunct Lecturer, Management
Bentley University

Rick Miller serves as adjunct professor and Executive in Residence at Bentley.

After earning a BA from Bentley (‘80) and an MBA from Columbia (‘87), Rick’s career began in sales at Unisys where he rose to become VP/GM of North America. He later served as Global Services President at AT&T, President & COO at Opus360, and Government Services President at Nokia, earning a reputation as a hi-tech turnaround expert. Rick also founded The Balance & Stretch Center as a 501(c)(3) to help other non-profits improve their effectiveness.

In 2007, Rick founded Being Chief LLC where he continues to advise and coach senior business and education leaders. Earlier this year, Real Leaders Inc. ranked Rick as the #2 Top Impact Executive Coach world-wide in 2025.

Rick has written four books on leadership. Be Chief: It’s a Choice, Not a Title is in its second edition and all author proceeds are donated to Easterseals in support of their work with veterans. Casey’s Kite offers children lessons in leadership and all author proceeds are donated to support families with children undergoing cancer treatment via Family Reach.

Rick lives in Marblehead, MA.

Nyacko Pearl Perry
Nyacko Pearl Perry
Adjunct Lecturer
Harvard Graduate School of Education

Nyacko Pearl Perry is a transformational change leader driven by a deep passion for exploring group dynamics, social systems, and how to foster soulful community. With over a decade of experience as an organizational development consultant and executive coach, she is committed to helping organizations align their systems, leadership, and cultures with equity and intention. 

In addition to her consulting work, Nyacko is the co-owner of Comfort Kitchen, a James Beard Award finalist restaurant. Comfort Kitchen is a celebration of the ingredients and flavors of the African diaspora connected from Asia to the Americas, global comfort food. In her role, Nyacko focuses on business strategy, team development, and building strong, sustainable foundations for long-term success. 

Nyacko holds a Master’s in Organization Development with distinction from American University and a Bachelor’s in Counseling Psychology from Lesley University. She is also an Associate Certified Coach (ACC) through the International Coaching Federation. 

Marlene Pelage
Marlene Pelage
Global Chief Financial Officer
Gen II Fund Services, LLC

Marlene Pelage is a seasoned finance executive with over 30 years of leadership experience spanning financial services, private equity, and media/advertising. A recognized global leader, she has successfully navigated complex financial landscapes across multiple industries and geographies, driving strategic growth, operational transformation, and governance excellence.

She currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer of Gen II Fund Services, LLC, one of the largest independent private capital fund administrators in the U.S., overseeing more than $1.4 trillion in private fund capital. Since joining, she has led two major acquisitions, expanding Gen II’s European and service footprint, and executed the firm’s first debt refinancing in the public markets.

From 2021 to 2023, Marlene was the Global CFO of IPG Mediabrands, where she managed a multi-billion-dollar budget across 130 countries. She led a 650-person finance team through record-breaking financial performances and spearheaded a multi-million, multi-year global transformation initiative to enhance efficiency and scale operations.

Previously, Marlene spent over a decade at Charles Schwab, holding multiple CFO roles across its banking and trust divisions. She also played a strategic role as Vice President of Enterprise Finance, supporting investment advisory, data analytics, and institutional services. Her early career included international finance roles in Project Finance and Equity Derivatives at Crédit Agricole Bank.

A proven board leader, Marlene currently serves on the Board of Directors of NetScout Systems Inc. (NTCT), a NASDAQ-listed company specializing in cybersecurity and service assurance. She is deeply committed to advancing financial literacy and gender equity, serving on the Lotus Circle at The Asia Foundation and previously as a Board Trustee of the Charles Schwab Foundation. In March 2025, she was appointed Executive Sponsor of the Women’s Network at Gen II Financial Services, LLC.

Marlene holds a master’s in management from ESCP Business School and an MBA in Finance and Marketing from Drexel University. She is a CFA charter holder and has completed the Securities Industry Institute (SII) Executive Education Program at Wharton. Recognized for her contributions, she was inducted into the ESCP Business School Hall of Fame, alongside esteemed global leaders.

Kiana Pierre-Louis
Kiana Pierre-Louis
Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Kiana Pierre-Louis is an Assistant Dean for Diversity, Equity & Inclusion at Northeastern University School of Law. Prior to Northeastern, Kiana was a Senior Law Lecturer, Pre-law Advisor, and a Course Coordinator at Bentley University in the Law & Taxation Department. In addition to being a Professor at Bentley University, Kiana is also an alumnus of Bentley University having graduated with a Bachelor’s of Science in Business Communications and a minor in English in 1999. She received a Juris Doctorate, from Suffolk University Law School in 2002 cum laude and passed the bar that same year.

Although, Kiana has a passion for teaching, she equally has a passion for Social Justice and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Her work at Bentley centers on social justice. Kiana serves on several committees across the Bentley Community; she is a Co-Chair of the Teaching and Scholarly Activities Committee and is an advisor to three student organizations. Kiana was the 2017 recipient of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Leadership Award, the 2017 and 2018 Innovation in Teaching Award, and the 2019 Joseph M. Cronin Award for Excellence in Academic Advising at Bentley University. She has also won awards for Exemplary Educator, faculty of the year and outstanding alumni through Bentley University.

Kiana also sits on the Board of Directors for KodeConnect, Inc. a non-profit organization helping marginalized youth to get access to STEM classes for little to no cost.

Amy Pocsik
Amy Pocsik
Co-Founder and CEO of the Women's Business League
Founder of Bold Moves

Amy Pocsik is an award-winning champion for business leaders. She’s the Co-Founder and CEO of the Women's Business League and the Founder of Bold Moves, empowering ambitious entrepreneurs and executives to exponentially increase their success. Her professional accomplishments have gained extreme praise with FastCompany hailing her a “national leader in helping others find purpose and success,” Forbes naming her to their prestigious Coaches Council and one of Boston Business Journal’s top 40 Under 40. A Northshore Massachusetts native, she received the honor of Northshore Magazine's Movers & Shakers award.

Michelle Samuel
Michelle Samuel
Senior Vice President
Berkshire Bank

Passionate about innovation and creating impactful solutions, Michelle began her career in private banking in 2005. Her curiosity and analytical skills flourished as she advanced, developing a deep appreciation for financial services. She focuses on uncovering opportunities that benefit clients while fostering meaningful relationships. Her expertise includes being a subject matter expert in banking services and various digital transformation projects. Her commitment to community service drives her volunteer work with organizations focusing on financial literacy, job training, and career transitions. Additionally, she lends her expertise to nonprofit boards and actively participates in panel discussions and speaking engagements, where she shares insights on career development and navigating the finance sector. Michelle is a recent graduate of Boston University’s Questrom School of Business MBA Program, has a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting and Finance from Northeastern University, and is an alumna of the Partnership Inc. Fellows program.

Amanda Sargent Headshot
Amanda C. Sargent, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor, Management
Bentley University

Amanda C. Sargent, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor in the Management Department at Bentley. She earned her Ph.D. in Organizational Science and a Master's degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She also holds a Master's degree in Counseling from Marymount University and is a certified Job and Career Development Coach (JCDC). Her work can be found in publications such as Human Resource Management Review, Gender & Society, Human Performance, and Sociological Compass.

Colleen Tartow, Ph.D.
Colleen Tartow, Ph.D.
Senior Director, Enterprise Data Engineering
Capital One
Colleen Tartow, Ph.D. has over 20 years of experience in data, engineering, analytics, and consulting. Adept at assisting organizations in deriving value from a data-driven culture, she has successfully led large data, engineering, and analytics teams through the development of complex global data management solutions, and architecting front- and back-end SaaS and enterprise data systems. Colleen has a wealth of experience in the world of AI, focusing on the evolution of data infrastructure, data engineering, and bringing value to organizations through cutting-edge data technologies. Her ability to work in depth cross functionally makes her a valued partner to all business functions. Colleen is a seasoned executive with a history of building and leading diverse teams through business reorganization and transforming existing data ecosystems, maturing them into modern and robust technology stacks.  Her breadth of experience and demonstrated excellence in data and engineering leadership makes her a trusted senior advisor among executives and across organizations.  Colleen strives to make engineering organizations better for both humans and business through mentoring, leadership, and streamlining processes. Her passion for both technology and inclusion has led to her speaking at a variety of events in the technology leadership space, and mentoring aspiring leaders in data and technology. She is a prolific author, experienced speaker, valued mentor, and startup advisor.  Colleen is currently Senior Director of Enterprise Data Engineering at Capital One, holds a Ph.D. in astrophysics, and lives in Massachusetts.
Jane White
Jane White
Co-Founder, President & CEO
Granahan Investment Management

Jane White is co-Founder, President & CEO, and a Senior Managing Director of Granahan Investment Management. Jane has an investment expertise in the technology sector.

Prior to founding Granahan Investment Management in 1985, Jane worked at Granahan-Everitt Investments as a Technology Research Analyst. She started her investment career at Loomis-Sayles in Boston where she was a Research Assistant. Jane received her B.A. from Boston University and is a member of the CFA Institute and the CFA Society Boston.

Laura Jackson Young
Laura Jackson Young
Associate Professor of Economics
Bentley University

Laura Jackson Young is an Associate Professor of Economics at Bentley University. She is the founder and co-advisor of WEB: Women in Economics at Bentley. WEB is a network of faculty, current students, and alumni with an interest in supporting women in the discipline of economics and expanding professional opportunities in the field. The mission is to reach out to women both within and not yet in the program at Bentley, with the hopes of advancing diversity of thought, background, and experiences in the field of Economics.

Laura frequently serves as a Visiting Scholar at the Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis, after holding research fellowships at both the Federal Reserve Banks of Boston and Kansas City. She regularly collaborates with leading researchers on questions related to macroeconomics, monetary and fiscal policy, and business cycle dynamics. Her work has been published in top-ranked, international economics journals.

At Bentley, Laura teaches introductory, intermediate, and advanced courses in the Economics-Finance, Business Economics, and Quantitative Economics programs. She is co-advisor to Bentley’s Fed Challenge team, an undergraduate collegiate competition for students interested in monetary policy. Laura holds a Bachelor of Science in Managerial Economics from Bentley University and a Master’s and PhD in Economics from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She now resides in Westford, MA with her husband and son.

Attendee
It’s a beautiful event celebrating women in business with concrete suggestions to help our careers. The networking is easy and I’ve met some really interesting people through it.
Gearing Up Attendee