One of only a handful of African Americans to earn a PhD in entomology, Dr. Sammy Ramsey is an inspirational science leader and communicator who has defied the odds to achieve his dreams and is a testament to the power of grit, determination, and an unwavering commitment to one’s purpose. When people said he didn’t have what it took to make his mark in entomology, he proved them wrong by making a breakthrough discovery in the field of bee research — one that could potentially reverse a devastating pandemic in bee populations. And when people told him he didn’t “look” like a scientist, he remained true to himself and redefined what a scientist could look like. Dr. Ramsey has mastered the art of unconventional thinking to arrive at innovative solutions to some of the most significant challenges shaping the future of our society and teaches organizations and individuals how they can do the same as they address their most-pressing challenges in business and life head-on.

With more questions than answers in today’s economic landscape, Dana Peterson, chief economist for the Conference Board, has established herself as a visionary, and the go to expert providing insightful analysis and predictions to corporations, associations, and government organizations looking for clarity and foresight into how economic drivers might impact their businesses in the short- and long-term. With over a decade of experience in the field, she serves as the globally recognized think tank’s public face and primary spokesperson on all things related to the economy.

Chike Aguh (Chee-kay Ah-Goo) works across sectors on creating a future of work for all. He is the inaugural Head of Economic Mobility Pathways for the Education Design Lab where he focuses on creating innovative models to bring together higher education and employers to create a future of work for all. He is also a Technology and Human Rights Fellow at the Harvard Carr Center for Human Rights Policy where he is writing a book on the future of work and racial inequality. He previously worked as a senior principal at McChrystal Group, and the firm's director of strategy. In this role, he worked with colleagues on the McChrystal Group’s Solutions Team to create and deliver new offerings that help organizations better implement their strategies. Additionally, Chike writes and speaks nationally on the future of work and served as the McChrystal Group’s subject matter expert.