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Shakira M. Johnson is the Founder and Chief Impact Officer of Maple & Monroe, a Social Impact Think and Do Tank, formerly known as Johnson PR & Events. With a mission to drive social change, Maple and Monroe empowers organizations to catalyze their social impact by creating and executing innovative and sustainable Environmental, Social, and Governance campaigns, initiatives, & events that move the needle.

Shakira's portfolio includes collaborations with esteemed brands such as Google, Microsoft, Prudential, MTV Entertainment Group, Johnson & Johnson, and MetLife Stadium. She has also forged impactful alliances with non-profit organizations and government agencies, amplifying her ability to effect change.

As a solution based thinker and speaker, Shakira possesses expertise in strategic planning, marketing communication, social impact, ESG, design thinking, and comprehensive meeting and event planning. Her innovative approaches have garnered recognition and accolades, including the title of "Mover, Shaker & Deal Maker" by the American Marketing Association, a member of World’s Best Events, and being named a Top Event Planner by NJBiz. Shakira's dedication to excellence in public relations has been repeatedly honored by the Public Relations Society of America Pyramid Awards, where she secured the coveted Best in Show Award. She was also honored as part of the inaugural cohort for Diversity Action Alliance's Distinguished Communicators of Color. The prestigious honor recognizes Shakira’s formidable communication skills and the unique perspectives she brings to the table.

Shakira is set to release her first book, entitled "Over the Veil: 21 Keys for Leaders Who Want More" this fall. The insightful guide promises to provide practical takeaways and wisdom for leaders looking for personal and professional fulfillment. Currently, Shakira is a member of the 2023 Social Impact.

Mukesh Patel is an Asst. Professor of Professional Practice at Rutgers Business School and Law School. He has dedicated 25 years to entrepreneurship, supporting and helping foster the startup ecosystem in the US and NJ. Experienced in private equity, venture capital, innovation, business law, and education, he has founded numerous ventures, worked with 100+ investors and strategic partners, and advised more than 1,000 organizations.

Professor Patel has created and teaches more than ten entrepreneurial university courses to more than 700 students per year, collaborating across undergraduate and graduate schools of business, law, medicine, computer science, and engineering and has taught in five countries, receiving the university’s Presidential Award for Excellence and Innovation in Education.

Mukesh holds five directorships across the University, breaking the traditional silos of education. As a lead-faculty in the executive education program, he has taught and coached executives and management in major global corporations, non-profit organizations, educational institutions, and the US military.

Professional Sales and Leadership Coach Betty Robinson, MSML, has been a top performer throughout her career. Betty understands what it takes to excel in sales, cultivate and maintain client relationships, and build high-performing teams. Her expertise lies in coaching individuals to execute effective strategies based on the knowledge and insights gained through their connection with her.

As a coach, Betty is committed to partnering with clients to unlock their potential, identify areas for growth, and empower them in their professional development. With a focus on transformational leadership, Betty is recognized for her exceptional ability to bring out the best in others, guiding them toward excellence as a natural part of their journey.

Betty’s career spans a variety of industries, including education, healthcare, information technology, and business operations. She has played a key role in the development of sales organizations and leadership teams across the United States. Notably, she has led groundbreaking educational seminars focused on empowerment and education awareness for first-generation college students, firmly embracing the philosophy of “Each One, Teach One.”

One of Betty’s greatest passions is helping individuals recognize that they hold the power within themselves to chart their own path and achieve success. She believes that everyone has the potential to relentlessly pursue happiness and be their best selves effortlessly.

Silver leads the Global Procurement function at Flatiron Health, where she oversees strategic sourcing, procurement operations, accounts payable, third-party risk management, contracting, and the company’s corporate travel, expense, and card programs.

Prior to joining Flatiron, Silver spent 10 years driving strategic sourcing, category management, and procurement operations across a wide range of indirect spend categories, including IT, Facilities, Real Estate, Travel, Marketing, and Professional Services. She holds CPSM (Certified Professional in Supply Management) and PMP (Project Management Professional) certifications and serves on the Strategic Committee for the CPSM Exam update.