With degrees in Applied Mathematics, Aerospace Engineering, and Computational Neuroscience, Paolo Gaudiano jokes that he had literally done rocket science and brain surgery before turning to a really hard problem: how to create companies that have happier employees while making more money.

A former tenured professor turned entrepreneur, Paolo is Chief Scientist of Aleria, President of ARC, Adjunct at NYU Stern School of Business, and Chairman of the annual Diversity & Inclusion Research Conference. These activities combine Paolo's decades of experience in business, technology, and academia, to transform how people think about DEI and what they do about it, with the ultimate goal of making our society more inclusive and equitable.

Paolo is a sought-after speaker, having presented his work at several hundred conferences and events around the world, including two TEDx talks. He is the author of dozens of academic papers and over 100 blogs in major online publications.

Cynthia Overton has spent her career helping leaders leverage data and best practices to drive successful outcomes. As is a recognized leader in inclusive workplace practices and talent management, she led the creation of a 26-module certificate program to maximize employee engagement and performance, and has convened top professionals to advance innovative workplace practices. As a seasoned public speaker, Cynthia delivers keynote addresses and leads discussions at national and international forums, empowering organizations to build resilient, high-performing teams.

Her expertise extends to healthcare leadership, where she champions person-centered care and authored Clear Cane Chronicles: Shaping the future of healthcare through person-centered care, offering insights to transform patient experiences and outcomes.

Cynthia is the founder of Triple Edge Advising LLC, where she advises organizational leaders-including those in healthcare-on practical strategies for achieving their goals and producing desired results.