This discussion will take a deep dive into the root concerns of the customer service experiences in our communities/businesses and how to improve the systems and processes with the integration of the human experience and technology. -
Felicia Shakespeare, Host
Felicia Renee Shakespeare is a native Chicagoan who has achieved calculated success in both the business and the education sectors. She is a bestselling author, brand strategist, speaker, entrepreneur, and empowerment coach. Felicia's career experience spans through many years in both the business and education sectors, working for Fortune 500 companies and supporting one of the largest school districts in America. Some of her pivotal business exposure came while working for former tech giant IBM Corporation in areas of Sales, Operations and Account Management in the Global Financing and Global Services Divisions. Felicia understands well the challenges that can face women as well as women of color. Felicia redirected her skills to the education sector and has held a number of successful roles at both the school and the central office district level.
Katherine Darnstadt, Panelist
Katherine Darnstadt is the founder of Boombox Chicago, a new, innovative micro space solution for small businesses in Chicago that revitalizes underutilized spaces. Katherine is an architect, educator and founder of Latent Design, a practice at the intersection of architecture and community development creating social, economic and environmental impact beyond the building. She is winner of the 2013 American Institute of Architects Young Architects Honor Award, 2014 Crain's Chicago 40 Under 40, teaches at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago and Northwestern University.
Jamilah Parham, panelist
Jamila Parham is an IT Project Manager in the Department of Innovation and Technology at the City of Chicago. She leads application development, innovative and operational improvement efforts. Affectionately known as The Tech Unicorn, Jamila is an IT Leader, STEM Advocate, and a Champion for Diversity and Inclusion. She was recently recognized for her achievements by The Root, MADE Magazine and the 40 Under 40 Young Women Professionals League.
Ryan K Priester, Panelist
Ryan leads the work of Community Programs through coordinating collaborations between UChicago faculty, students, and staff and local nonprofits. He manages the Community Programs Accelerator, which supports the success of nonprofits whose work benefits mid-South Side neighborhoods. A native of Chicago’s South Side, Ryan began his career working with youth and families in the Woodlawn neighborhood. Previously, Ryan served in several leadership roles in community-based nonprofits, including as the Associate Director for the Woodlawn Public Safety Alliance. He holds a BA from the University of Chicago and attended the Divinity School for graduate studies.
Etosha Ottey, Panelist
Etosha Ottey is the founder of Chicago Black Women in Tech (CBWiT), a resource hub that helps black women tackle challenges in their tech career with a community instead of as individuals. The mission of the organization is to make black women in technology stronger and more confident, especially in controlling their careers and asserting their rights. CBWiT offers a range of programs and services from technical skills development to entrepreneurial guidance and mentorship. Prior to starting CBWiT, Etosha was an Industrial Engineer at NASA’s Kennedy Space Center and an analytics consultant for GE Healthcare. Etosha is the 2018 Chicago Foundation for Women, Pioneer of the Year Honoree. The Pioneer Award recognizes leaders under 30, whose work is already impacting women and girls and shows great promise for the future.-- .
Dave fratantoni, Microsoft Business Expert
I started at Microsoft May of last year and stepped into role as the Business Expert in December. A typical day ranges from working with walk-ins to prepping quotes to off-site trainings and presentations. Having a large history and passion for youth, I absolutely love working with our partners in education. Empowering all people to do more is not only a priority for myself, but the mission of Microsoft.
RICO BRYANT,i.c.stars|* RECRUITMENT MANAGER
Business and technology professional dedicated to delivering technology that contributes to the organizations competitiveness and overall performance. Highly motivated, tech-savvy professional with experience in fast paced consulting environments. Extensive experience in high-profile technology projects.