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.

Widely respected for his determined dedication to upholding American values and democracy, The Honorable Ken Buck represented Colorado’s 4th Congressional District in the United States House of Representatives during one of the most transformative periods in our nation’s history. Republican Congressman Buck was first elected to Congress in 2014 and served an impactful five terms until making the decision to resign in 2024. Throughout his decade-long tenure in Congress, Buck sought to affect change to policy and politics from inside the beltway and championed legislation in favor of small government, less debt, and antitrust initiatives. Following his time in Congress, Buck retains his unwavering passion for driving meaningful change in politics and solving problems for the American people.

Mark McKinnon is the co-host of the hit Showtime weekly documentary series The Circus: Inside the Greatest Political Show on Earth, which provides unique access and insights into the 2016 presidential campaign. As the former lead media strategist for five winning presidential primary and general election campaigns, McKinnon reveals the strategies behind successful political campaigns.

A renowned advertising and corporate photographer, Steve Uzzell believes the open road never fails to open our mind; and once our mind is opened, the boundless power of imagination is unlocked. Showing his work to the audience, Uzzell uses his photography as metaphors for possibility and creativity. He teaches others to be open to unexpected solutions and how to prepare for that kind of eye-opening experience.

Kevin Asbjörnson is a composer, pianist, inspirational speaker, and author. He focuses on the areas of global leadership, creativity and innovation in the workplace, and coaching for performance and potential. With the idea that high-impact leaders have a lot in common with artists, he explores the artistry of leadership while demonstrating techniques through live piano performances. His presentations are fresh and entertaining, with solid content and messaging.

Cory Gardner is focused on empowering people to better lives through innovation and creativity in public policy, diplomacy and the economy. He is a fifth-generation Coloradan, and was born and raised in Yuma, a tiny town on the Eastern Plains of Colorado where his family owned a farm implement dealership for over 106 years. He lives in the same prairie house his great-grandparents lived in and that his grandfather called home. He believes in common sense solutions and making institutions throughout government and the economy more accountable to the people of this country.