Speakers from the 5th Annual Cause Marketing Summit in NYC
6.19.19
We hand picked some of the best cause marketers, nonprofit and corporate social responsibility professionals from all over the U.S. to help guide and expand the eminent creative campaigns for good.
Whitney Allgood, CEO, National School Climate Center
As CEO of the nation’s oldest research and technical assistance center dedicated to supporting development of positive climate in schools, Whitney Allgood leads a team of researchers, practitioners and advocates to help make schools better places to learn and teach. Founded in 1997, the National School Climate Center has been serving schools and communities through use of research-based surveys and coaching support to diagnose challenges and strengthen school climates so that students, families, and staff can reach their individual and shared potential.
As CEO of the nation’s oldest research and technical assistance center dedicated to supporting development of positive climate in schools, Whitney Allgood leads a team of researchers, practitioners and advocates to help make schools better places to learn and teach. Founded in 1997, the National School Climate Center has been serving schools and communities through use of research-based surveys and coaching support to diagnose challenges and strengthen school climates so that students, families, and staff can reach their individual and shared potential.
Denise Bidot, Activist, TV Personality & Founder of No Wrong Way
Denise Bidot, 32, born in Miami, FL, is of Puerto Rican and Kuwaiti descent. Denise has traveled the world as a Curve Model and can be recognized for her groundbreaking movements within the Fashion Industry. Her work for straight and plus-size brands has positioned her to be a leading figure for women of all sizes.Presently, Denise is represented by CAA in NYC & LA.
In 2014 Denise broke barriers by becoming the first plus-size model to walk multiple runways during New York Fashion Week. She walked for straight-size brands, CHROMAT and Serena Williams' HSN fashion line. Since then Denise has walked runways in London and Copenhagen.In addition to her success as a model, Denise has been featured on several television shows and commercials. Denise starred in the documentary “Straight/Curve” which was released in spring 2017 and was a festival favorite and was a part of HBO Latino’s hit series “Habla : Women” . As a mom to her 10-year-old daughter Joselyn, Denise wanted to spread more awareness that "being you is what defines real beauty.” During the summer of 2016, she launched a lifestyle movement called "The No Wrong Way Movement." Denise hopes this movement will inspire people from every walk of life to claim and own their unique individuality and beauty. You can read more about the movement here
Denise Bidot, 32, born in Miami, FL, is of Puerto Rican and Kuwaiti descent. Denise has traveled the world as a Curve Model and can be recognized for her groundbreaking movements within the Fashion Industry. Her work for straight and plus-size brands has positioned her to be a leading figure for women of all sizes.Presently, Denise is represented by CAA in NYC & LA.
In 2014 Denise broke barriers by becoming the first plus-size model to walk multiple runways during New York Fashion Week. She walked for straight-size brands, CHROMAT and Serena Williams' HSN fashion line. Since then Denise has walked runways in London and Copenhagen.In addition to her success as a model, Denise has been featured on several television shows and commercials. Denise starred in the documentary “Straight/Curve” which was released in spring 2017 and was a festival favorite and was a part of HBO Latino’s hit series “Habla : Women” . As a mom to her 10-year-old daughter Joselyn, Denise wanted to spread more awareness that "being you is what defines real beauty.” During the summer of 2016, she launched a lifestyle movement called "The No Wrong Way Movement." Denise hopes this movement will inspire people from every walk of life to claim and own their unique individuality and beauty. You can read more about the movement here
Julie Breckenkamp, Managing Director, Corporate Partnerships for CMN Hospitals
Julie Breckenkamp, Managing Director, Corporate Partnerships for CMN Hospitals national office oversees over 200 million dollars in annual fundraising. She is experienced in managing Corporate Partnerships with a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit management industry. Julie is skilled in Strategy, Corporate Social Responsibility, Event Management and Team Building. She is a strong business development professional striving to create successes for partners while building lasting relationships. In her free time Julie spends time with her husband and their 3 sons at their many activities including their love of sports; Tyler 23, Connor 20 and Spencer 16.
Julie Breckenkamp, Managing Director, Corporate Partnerships for CMN Hospitals national office oversees over 200 million dollars in annual fundraising. She is experienced in managing Corporate Partnerships with a demonstrated history of working in the non-profit management industry. Julie is skilled in Strategy, Corporate Social Responsibility, Event Management and Team Building. She is a strong business development professional striving to create successes for partners while building lasting relationships. In her free time Julie spends time with her husband and their 3 sons at their many activities including their love of sports; Tyler 23, Connor 20 and Spencer 16.
Lisa Burke, Culture Coach, Energage
With almost ten years of experience working with top workplaces across the U.S., Lisa Burke has translated survey results from countless organizations into improvement inspired by the best. Her practical, hands-on experience helps her empower leaders across all industries to connect to their employees in meaningful ways with real bottom-line results. All together, this allows her to fulfill her and Energage’s shared passion of making the world a better place to work together.
With almost ten years of experience working with top workplaces across the U.S., Lisa Burke has translated survey results from countless organizations into improvement inspired by the best. Her practical, hands-on experience helps her empower leaders across all industries to connect to their employees in meaningful ways with real bottom-line results. All together, this allows her to fulfill her and Energage’s shared passion of making the world a better place to work together.
Ryan Eckel, Vice President, Product Development Brand & Strategy, Dick’s Sporting Goods.
Ryan Eckel is the Vice President of Product Development Brand & Strategy at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Prior to this role, Eckel held the positions of VP Strategy & Innovation, and VP Brand at Dick’s. He is also an Executive Producer of the Emmy Award-winning documentary “We Could Be King”, the Emmy-nominated film “Keepers of the Game”, and has developed campaigns that have received Grand CLIO, Cannes Gold Lion and Gold Halo awards. Eckel also previously was co-Executive Director of the Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation, and currently serves on the Foundation’s Board. He developed the Foundation’s flagship Sports Matter initiative, which raises awareness and funding to enable youth sports participation nationwide. In 2018, he was inducted to the American Advertising Federation Hall of Achievement.
Prior to Dick’s Sporting Goods, Eckel spent nearly 10 years at PUMA SE, most recently as Head of Marketing for Eastern Europe, Middle East, Africa and India, where he was responsible for leading all aspects of PUMA’s brand growth and localization in those markets. Previously at PUMA, as Global Head of Marketing Strategy and Operations, Eckel led the development of PUMA’s brand strategy and positioning, global category marketing and consumer research. He started at PUMA as a Global Strategic Planner, based in Herzogenaurach, Germany. Eckel holds a B.S. from Yale University and lives in Pittsburgh with his wife and three children.
Ryan Eckel is the Vice President of Product Development Brand & Strategy at Dick’s Sporting Goods. Prior to this role, Eckel held the positions of VP Strategy & Innovation, and VP Brand at Dick’s. He is also an Executive Producer of the Emmy Award-winning documentary “We Could Be King”, the Emmy-nominated film “Keepers of the Game”, and has developed campaigns that have received Grand CLIO, Cannes Gold Lion and Gold Halo awards. Eckel also previously was co-Executive Director of the Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation, and currently serves on the Foundation’s Board. He developed the Foundation’s flagship Sports Matter initiative, which raises awareness and funding to enable youth sports participation nationwide. In 2018, he was inducted to the American Advertising Federation Hall of Achievement.
Prior to Dick’s Sporting Goods, Eckel spent nearly 10 years at PUMA SE, most recently as Head of Marketing for Eastern Europe, Middle East, Africa and India, where he was responsible for leading all aspects of PUMA’s brand growth and localization in those markets. Previously at PUMA, as Global Head of Marketing Strategy and Operations, Eckel led the development of PUMA’s brand strategy and positioning, global category marketing and consumer research. He started at PUMA as a Global Strategic Planner, based in Herzogenaurach, Germany. Eckel holds a B.S. from Yale University and lives in Pittsburgh with his wife and three children.
Phillip Haid, Co-Founder & CEO, PUBLIC
Phillip Haid co-founded PUBLIC in 2008 to disrupt the way companies think about doing “good”. Driven by a passion to prove that social impact is a key business driver to achieve profit with purpose, he set out to build a hybrid company – part consultancy/part creative agency– designing social purpose brands, community impact strategies and social change programs and campaigns. As CEO, he is responsible for overseeing the strategic and creative growth of the business, including oversight on some of PUBLIC’s North American clients including: Tiffany & Co., NBCUniversal, Airbnb, The Body Shop, TD Bank, Sephora and The World Bank. Phillip is also a columnist for Fast Company writing on “profit with purpose”.
Phillip Haid co-founded PUBLIC in 2008 to disrupt the way companies think about doing “good”. Driven by a passion to prove that social impact is a key business driver to achieve profit with purpose, he set out to build a hybrid company – part consultancy/part creative agency– designing social purpose brands, community impact strategies and social change programs and campaigns. As CEO, he is responsible for overseeing the strategic and creative growth of the business, including oversight on some of PUBLIC’s North American clients including: Tiffany & Co., NBCUniversal, Airbnb, The Body Shop, TD Bank, Sephora and The World Bank. Phillip is also a columnist for Fast Company writing on “profit with purpose”.
Luis Hernandez, Executive Director, Youth Over Guns & Engagement Coordinator for Justice League NYC
Luis Hernandez, 17 year old high school Junior, is a youth organizer and activist. He is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Youth Over Guns, the youth advocacy wing of NYAGV. He is a member on the 2019 Women’s March Youth Empower Cohort, and a National Youth Engagement Coordinator with The Gathering For Justice. He has led major demonstrations like the Youth Over Guns march over the Brooklyn bridge, #Enough Walkouts across New York State, and many more. After being personally impacted by the effects of the Criminal Justice System, and Gun Violence he has committed himself to combating all of the injustices that marginalized communities of color face.
Luis Hernandez, 17 year old high school Junior, is a youth organizer and activist. He is the Co-Founder and Executive Director of Youth Over Guns, the youth advocacy wing of NYAGV. He is a member on the 2019 Women’s March Youth Empower Cohort, and a National Youth Engagement Coordinator with The Gathering For Justice. He has led major demonstrations like the Youth Over Guns march over the Brooklyn bridge, #Enough Walkouts across New York State, and many more. After being personally impacted by the effects of the Criminal Justice System, and Gun Violence he has committed himself to combating all of the injustices that marginalized communities of color face.
Brittany Hill, CEO and Co-Founder, Accelerist
As a data seeker and trend translator, Brittany specializes in using analytics and innovations to connect companies and causes to do more good in the world. Brittany Hill leads the product and business development efforts at Accelerist. As a nonprofit entrepreneur, Brittany is behind some of the industry’s newest products and tools that help nonprofits elevate their mission.
Brittany’s extensive background in the nonprofit and agency sectors supports her vision for nonprofit innovations. Mrs. Hill has built multi-channel partnerships and award-winning campaigns with some of the most notable blue-chip nonprofit organizations (American Heart Association, UNICEF, Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Make-A-Wish International) and corporate brands (Pepsico, General Mills, Hasbro, Best Buy).
Brittany’s trendsetting insights have been seen in Huffington Post, TIME, MSN.com, among others. She is a seasoned speaker on the topics of data-driven cause alliances, industry trends, people analytics and cause partnership sales, with previous engagements at SXSW, Cause Marketing Forum, and Momentum.
As a data seeker and trend translator, Brittany specializes in using analytics and innovations to connect companies and causes to do more good in the world. Brittany Hill leads the product and business development efforts at Accelerist. As a nonprofit entrepreneur, Brittany is behind some of the industry’s newest products and tools that help nonprofits elevate their mission.
Brittany’s extensive background in the nonprofit and agency sectors supports her vision for nonprofit innovations. Mrs. Hill has built multi-channel partnerships and award-winning campaigns with some of the most notable blue-chip nonprofit organizations (American Heart Association, UNICEF, Marine Toys for Tots Foundation, Make-A-Wish International) and corporate brands (Pepsico, General Mills, Hasbro, Best Buy).
Brittany’s trendsetting insights have been seen in Huffington Post, TIME, MSN.com, among others. She is a seasoned speaker on the topics of data-driven cause alliances, industry trends, people analytics and cause partnership sales, with previous engagements at SXSW, Cause Marketing Forum, and Momentum.
Loren Hynes, Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility, NBCUniversal, Entertainment & Lifestyle
Loren Hynes is Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at NBCUniversal, where she is responsible for the strategy, development and implementation of social impact initiatives and partnerships for the Entertainment & Lifestyle portfolio (USA Network, SYFY, Bravo, Oxygen, E! Entertainment, Universal Kids, Universal Cable Productions and Wilshire Studios).
Loren has more than 15 years of experience in CSR, cause marketing, crisis communications, media relations, political campaigns, advocacy and government. She understands the opportunities for impact created by public-private partnerships, and the critical role corporate America plays in improving lives and strengthening communities. Passionate about purpose-driven work, in her current role Loren is dedicated to leveraging the power of her company’s reach and influence to create positive impact.
Loren is a graduate of the Yale School of Management, where she earned her Master of Business Administration with a focus on Sustainability. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication from Ohio University, and studied in the university’s master's program in political science. Loren resides Larchmont, NY, with her husband Scott, six-year-old son Henry and three-year-old son Holden.
Loren Hynes is Vice President of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at NBCUniversal, where she is responsible for the strategy, development and implementation of social impact initiatives and partnerships for the Entertainment & Lifestyle portfolio (USA Network, SYFY, Bravo, Oxygen, E! Entertainment, Universal Kids, Universal Cable Productions and Wilshire Studios).
Loren has more than 15 years of experience in CSR, cause marketing, crisis communications, media relations, political campaigns, advocacy and government. She understands the opportunities for impact created by public-private partnerships, and the critical role corporate America plays in improving lives and strengthening communities. Passionate about purpose-driven work, in her current role Loren is dedicated to leveraging the power of her company’s reach and influence to create positive impact.
Loren is a graduate of the Yale School of Management, where she earned her Master of Business Administration with a focus on Sustainability. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Communication from Ohio University, and studied in the university’s master's program in political science. Loren resides Larchmont, NY, with her husband Scott, six-year-old son Henry and three-year-old son Holden.
Stacy Igel, Founder & Creative Director of BOY MEETS GIRL®
Stacy is Founder & Creative Director of BOY MEETS GIRL®, a purposeful, edgy, and young contemporary athleisure brand worn by celebrities such as Rosario Dawson, Mindy Kaling, Nina Dobrev, and Kendall Jenner. BOY MEETS GIRL® brand’s iconic boy and girl silhouette logo has been featured in publications including InStyle, Teen Vogue, Allure, Seventeen, Women’s Wear Daily, BOF and The New York Times, among others. The brand has been giving back since inception after 9/11, with continuous limited edition collections that give back to organizations such as the Young Survival Coalition, The National School Climate Center’s BullyBust Program, Human Rights Watch, and more. BOY MEETS GIRL® seeks to further the message that confidence and courage are trends that never go out of style. Igel’s a proud mom of son @dylanreidigel, industry leader & writes a lifestyle blog, Behind the Seams™ with Stacy Igel. She is also is the co-creator and co-host of the podcast #MOMSGOTTHIS for mompreneurs. As part of her entrepreneurial endeavors, charity is a large focus. She has been a chair several years for the YSCs ILP Gala & is a brand ambassador for the NSCC’s BullyBust Campaign Program. Igel’s received several design awards & honors. She is a lecturer & panelist on subjects such as social media, philanthropy, branding & entrepreneurship. Follow @boymeetsgirlusa & @stacyigel on Instagram & Twitter, & Boy Meets Girl Clothing & Stacy Igel Fan on Facebook.
Stacy is Founder & Creative Director of BOY MEETS GIRL®, a purposeful, edgy, and young contemporary athleisure brand worn by celebrities such as Rosario Dawson, Mindy Kaling, Nina Dobrev, and Kendall Jenner. BOY MEETS GIRL® brand’s iconic boy and girl silhouette logo has been featured in publications including InStyle, Teen Vogue, Allure, Seventeen, Women’s Wear Daily, BOF and The New York Times, among others. The brand has been giving back since inception after 9/11, with continuous limited edition collections that give back to organizations such as the Young Survival Coalition, The National School Climate Center’s BullyBust Program, Human Rights Watch, and more. BOY MEETS GIRL® seeks to further the message that confidence and courage are trends that never go out of style. Igel’s a proud mom of son @dylanreidigel, industry leader & writes a lifestyle blog, Behind the Seams™ with Stacy Igel. She is also is the co-creator and co-host of the podcast #MOMSGOTTHIS for mompreneurs. As part of her entrepreneurial endeavors, charity is a large focus. She has been a chair several years for the YSCs ILP Gala & is a brand ambassador for the NSCC’s BullyBust Campaign Program. Igel’s received several design awards & honors. She is a lecturer & panelist on subjects such as social media, philanthropy, branding & entrepreneurship. Follow @boymeetsgirlusa & @stacyigel on Instagram & Twitter, & Boy Meets Girl Clothing & Stacy Igel Fan on Facebook.
Darren Irby, Executive Director of Donor Marketing, American Red Cross
When Darren Irby was in the second grade his family home was destroyed by a flood and the Red Cross replaced his valued Cub Scout uniform. This was the beginning of a lifelong journey with the Red Cross—first as a volunteer and then as an 20+ year paid employee. He began as the Director of Communication and Public Policy with the Red Cross in Arkansas and then moved to various positions at Red Cross NHQ in Washington, DC. Darren ended his decade of work at NHQ as National Vice President of Public Relations for the organization. He has worked more than 105 national and international disasters with the Red Cross, including the OKC bombing, the events of 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. He now serves as the Executive Driector of Donor Marketing for Biomedical Services, based in Arkansas.
Darren has served in the Office of Special Events and Visitors with the White House and has worked for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and The New York Times as a feature reporter. Among other awards, in 2005, he was named by the Junior Chamber of Commerce as one of the 10 Outstanding Young Americans—something Darren is particularly proud of given his love of Elvis Presley, who won the same award in 1970. After Hurricane Katrina, the Public Relations Society of America named him PR Professional of the Year in 2006. Darren says his greatest accomplishment is that of Dad to his son, Hart and his daughter, Belle.
When Darren Irby was in the second grade his family home was destroyed by a flood and the Red Cross replaced his valued Cub Scout uniform. This was the beginning of a lifelong journey with the Red Cross—first as a volunteer and then as an 20+ year paid employee. He began as the Director of Communication and Public Policy with the Red Cross in Arkansas and then moved to various positions at Red Cross NHQ in Washington, DC. Darren ended his decade of work at NHQ as National Vice President of Public Relations for the organization. He has worked more than 105 national and international disasters with the Red Cross, including the OKC bombing, the events of 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina. He now serves as the Executive Driector of Donor Marketing for Biomedical Services, based in Arkansas.
Darren has served in the Office of Special Events and Visitors with the White House and has worked for the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and The New York Times as a feature reporter. Among other awards, in 2005, he was named by the Junior Chamber of Commerce as one of the 10 Outstanding Young Americans—something Darren is particularly proud of given his love of Elvis Presley, who won the same award in 1970. After Hurricane Katrina, the Public Relations Society of America named him PR Professional of the Year in 2006. Darren says his greatest accomplishment is that of Dad to his son, Hart and his daughter, Belle.
Courtney Junkin, Manager of Donor Marketing, American Red Cross
Hurricane Andrew struck South Florida in 1992 on Courtney’s birthday, and as she walked back and forth to the American Red Cross trucks delivering ice and water to her neighborhood, a passion and interest in the Red Cross mission was born. Courtney began her Red Cross career in Communications in 2007, responding to disasters such as wildfires and tornados, before moving into Biomedical Services Marketing, where she currently serves as a Manager, focusing on corporate and entertainment partnerships, digital content development, and national programs and campaigns. Some of the highlights of Courtney’s work incudes developing and executing Red Cross Racing, a first of it’s kind NASCAR partnership, ideating and building SleevesUp, a powerful digital peer-to-peer platform which empowers blood donation advocates to recruit their social and traditional networks, and the groundbreaking Game of Thrones promotion in 2019.
Courtney has also worked for the Vanguard Group where she advised clients on retirement and investment planning, having graduated from Lehigh University in 2005 with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Economics and Political Science. She is currently based in Auburn, Alabama. @CourtJunkin
Hurricane Andrew struck South Florida in 1992 on Courtney’s birthday, and as she walked back and forth to the American Red Cross trucks delivering ice and water to her neighborhood, a passion and interest in the Red Cross mission was born. Courtney began her Red Cross career in Communications in 2007, responding to disasters such as wildfires and tornados, before moving into Biomedical Services Marketing, where she currently serves as a Manager, focusing on corporate and entertainment partnerships, digital content development, and national programs and campaigns. Some of the highlights of Courtney’s work incudes developing and executing Red Cross Racing, a first of it’s kind NASCAR partnership, ideating and building SleevesUp, a powerful digital peer-to-peer platform which empowers blood donation advocates to recruit their social and traditional networks, and the groundbreaking Game of Thrones promotion in 2019.
Courtney has also worked for the Vanguard Group where she advised clients on retirement and investment planning, having graduated from Lehigh University in 2005 with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Economics and Political Science. She is currently based in Auburn, Alabama. @CourtJunkin
Charles J Lerner, Head of Tao Cares
Charles J Lerner is the head of Tao Cares, the philanthropic and charitable division of the global hospitality company Tao Group. Tao Cares makes a positive impact on the communities and individuals Tao Group serves, specifically supporting causes related to youth development, health and wellness, and cancer research. Charles leads Tao Cares to raise funds through creating unique activities, hosting initiatives in their venues and in our surrounding communities, while enabling employees to give back through exclusive volunteer opportunities with our partner nonprofit organizations. Charles has a degree in Sport Management and Leadership & Stewardship Communications from Syracuse University - Go Orange!
Charles J Lerner is the head of Tao Cares, the philanthropic and charitable division of the global hospitality company Tao Group. Tao Cares makes a positive impact on the communities and individuals Tao Group serves, specifically supporting causes related to youth development, health and wellness, and cancer research. Charles leads Tao Cares to raise funds through creating unique activities, hosting initiatives in their venues and in our surrounding communities, while enabling employees to give back through exclusive volunteer opportunities with our partner nonprofit organizations. Charles has a degree in Sport Management and Leadership & Stewardship Communications from Syracuse University - Go Orange!
Mona Lipson, Director of Strategic Advancement and Corporate Citizenship, Voss Foundation
Mona Lipson is the Director of Strategic Advancement and Corporate Citizenship @ Voss Foundation and spearheads the organization’s WASH fundraising initiatives and corporate citizenship with VOSS Water. One of her most badass work accomplishments to date includes shooting a Virtual Reality film in eSwatini about what it's like to gain access to safe water for the very first time.
After a very brief stint in TV production, Mona Lipson jumped into the social impact world by co-founding the Guatemala Healing Hands Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality and availability of healthcare in Guatemala, in 2004 and hasn't looked back. Since then, Mona has been at the forefront of social impact partnerships with AT&T, Google, Walgreens, Dove, Dell, Kroger, Metlife, Mikimoto, and Visa to name a few. Prior to working at Voss Foundation, Mona managed cause marketing campaigns with the Girl Scouts of the USA, led corporate sponsorship for the Girl Scouts’ National Convention, and ran fund development for TheatreworksUSA.
Mona holds a Master's of Administration in Nonprofit Management from The Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service at New York University and a Bachelor's of Science from Boston University. She’s a total conference junky and loves meeting over sharers. If Mona weren’t working in social impact, she would be working in ice cream.
Mona Lipson is the Director of Strategic Advancement and Corporate Citizenship @ Voss Foundation and spearheads the organization’s WASH fundraising initiatives and corporate citizenship with VOSS Water. One of her most badass work accomplishments to date includes shooting a Virtual Reality film in eSwatini about what it's like to gain access to safe water for the very first time.
After a very brief stint in TV production, Mona Lipson jumped into the social impact world by co-founding the Guatemala Healing Hands Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to improving the quality and availability of healthcare in Guatemala, in 2004 and hasn't looked back. Since then, Mona has been at the forefront of social impact partnerships with AT&T, Google, Walgreens, Dove, Dell, Kroger, Metlife, Mikimoto, and Visa to name a few. Prior to working at Voss Foundation, Mona managed cause marketing campaigns with the Girl Scouts of the USA, led corporate sponsorship for the Girl Scouts’ National Convention, and ran fund development for TheatreworksUSA.
Mona holds a Master's of Administration in Nonprofit Management from The Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service at New York University and a Bachelor's of Science from Boston University. She’s a total conference junky and loves meeting over sharers. If Mona weren’t working in social impact, she would be working in ice cream.
Mollye Rhea, Founder and President, For Momentum
Mollye Rhea founded For Momentum in 2003, she recognized that she was leading one of very few agencies that specialized in cause marketing. On a daily basis, Mollye realizes her goal of strengthening communities by cultivating partnerships between nonprofit organizations and corporations—a goal she envisioned as a result of a volunteer opportunity she had early in her career. Mollye spent eight years with the Arthritis Foundation national headquarters, leaving as Group Vice President of Strategic Marketing Alliances. In this role, she was responsible for overseeing relationships with more than 40 corporate partners and raising millions of dollars in support for the organization. Mollye led the Arthritis Foundation toward greater integration and seamless delivery of key nationwide initiatives, and secured funding through the development and delivery of creative, impactful cause marketing programs.Through her work in nonprofit development, brand marketing and cause marketing, Mollye has a unique 360-degree perspective of what fosters success in strategic cause partnerships. In her 25+ years in the field, she has developed sponsorship strategies for dozens of nonprofit organizations and hundreds of brands.
Mollye Rhea founded For Momentum in 2003, she recognized that she was leading one of very few agencies that specialized in cause marketing. On a daily basis, Mollye realizes her goal of strengthening communities by cultivating partnerships between nonprofit organizations and corporations—a goal she envisioned as a result of a volunteer opportunity she had early in her career. Mollye spent eight years with the Arthritis Foundation national headquarters, leaving as Group Vice President of Strategic Marketing Alliances. In this role, she was responsible for overseeing relationships with more than 40 corporate partners and raising millions of dollars in support for the organization. Mollye led the Arthritis Foundation toward greater integration and seamless delivery of key nationwide initiatives, and secured funding through the development and delivery of creative, impactful cause marketing programs.Through her work in nonprofit development, brand marketing and cause marketing, Mollye has a unique 360-degree perspective of what fosters success in strategic cause partnerships. In her 25+ years in the field, she has developed sponsorship strategies for dozens of nonprofit organizations and hundreds of brands.
Chad Royal-Pascoe, National Vice President of Corporate & Cause Partnerships, Boys and Girls Clubs of America
Chad leads the Corporate Partnerships and Account Relationship teams as well as Cause Marketing at Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA). In his role, he was instrumental in launching the Great Futures Campaign, one of the most ambitious expansions in the organization’s history, securing transformational partnerships and launching a new cause marketing platform. That almost $500M campaign reached its five year goal in slightly over 3.5 years and has fueled massive growth and change across the Movement. BGCA is now embarking on a $2B campaign, doubling revenue and impact. He has overseen the most successful fundraising years for the organization ever, with cause marketing increasing from $2M/year to $25M/year and double digit increases overall for five years running. Chad joined BGCA in May 2013 and leads a team of over 40. BGCA won the 2016 Cause Marketing Golden Halo Award for a partnership with Planet Fitness, the 2014 Cause Marketing Golden Halo Award for a partnership with New Balance and the 2015 Silver Halo Award for a partnership with Old Navy, firsts for the Movement. Selected partnerships include Bridgestone, Coca-Cola, Comcast, Disney, Toyota, Charles Schwab, AT&T, Ross Stores, Lowe’s, Neiman-Marcus, Michael’s Stores, Old Navy, The Gap, Major League Baseball and Comic Relief/Red Nose Day.
Chad leads the Corporate Partnerships and Account Relationship teams as well as Cause Marketing at Boys & Girls Clubs of America (BGCA). In his role, he was instrumental in launching the Great Futures Campaign, one of the most ambitious expansions in the organization’s history, securing transformational partnerships and launching a new cause marketing platform. That almost $500M campaign reached its five year goal in slightly over 3.5 years and has fueled massive growth and change across the Movement. BGCA is now embarking on a $2B campaign, doubling revenue and impact. He has overseen the most successful fundraising years for the organization ever, with cause marketing increasing from $2M/year to $25M/year and double digit increases overall for five years running. Chad joined BGCA in May 2013 and leads a team of over 40. BGCA won the 2016 Cause Marketing Golden Halo Award for a partnership with Planet Fitness, the 2014 Cause Marketing Golden Halo Award for a partnership with New Balance and the 2015 Silver Halo Award for a partnership with Old Navy, firsts for the Movement. Selected partnerships include Bridgestone, Coca-Cola, Comcast, Disney, Toyota, Charles Schwab, AT&T, Ross Stores, Lowe’s, Neiman-Marcus, Michael’s Stores, Old Navy, The Gap, Major League Baseball and Comic Relief/Red Nose Day.
Ambre Stanford, Manager, Impact Partnerships, Upworthy/Good Media Group
Ambre Stanford leads on impact partnerships for Good Media Group, a media brand and social impact company that strives to help people and organizations be forces for good. Previously, she advised the World Bank on public-private partnerships and led impact engagements for some of the world's largest non-profits and corporate foundations She graduated with her Master's in International Relations from NYU and received her MBA from the University of Maryland.
Ambre Stanford leads on impact partnerships for Good Media Group, a media brand and social impact company that strives to help people and organizations be forces for good. Previously, she advised the World Bank on public-private partnerships and led impact engagements for some of the world's largest non-profits and corporate foundations She graduated with her Master's in International Relations from NYU and received her MBA from the University of Maryland.
Keni Thacker, KREATOR at K.R.E.A.T.E. and Sr. Event Technology Specialist, Wunderman Thompson
There are five types of thinkers: creative thinkers, analytical thinkers, intuitive thinkers, logical thinkers and visionary thinkers. Keni Thacker has defied the belief that an individual can only be one of those types, and truly encompasses all five. Keni is a pioneer of change and is committed to expanding diversity efforts, and the impact he has made on future leaders does not go unnoticed. A true exemplar of leadership, Keni an award winning influencer and diversity advocate devoted to outreach programs and mentorship. On February 8th, 2017, he launched the Young Commodores program, a diversity initiative that provides college and high school ad students with an opportunity to apply what they are learning in the classroom to real-life advertising and business. Keni is a powerful force and a creative soul. He is also director, writer and producer of multiple the short documentaries and web content. He is also the KREATOR at his own diversity centric production company called K.R.E.A.T.E. (Kulture is a Relevant Element To Achieve Total Equality) which produces content that focuses on highlighting the achievements of incredible people changing the face of their respective industries, while dismissing the perception of negativity and stereotypes when it pertains to people of color. In 2017, he was named as one of the 4A's 100 People That Make Adverting Great. Keni is the ultimate example of an individual dedicated to making a change in today's society and today's youth and helping us all think differently.
There are five types of thinkers: creative thinkers, analytical thinkers, intuitive thinkers, logical thinkers and visionary thinkers. Keni Thacker has defied the belief that an individual can only be one of those types, and truly encompasses all five. Keni is a pioneer of change and is committed to expanding diversity efforts, and the impact he has made on future leaders does not go unnoticed. A true exemplar of leadership, Keni an award winning influencer and diversity advocate devoted to outreach programs and mentorship. On February 8th, 2017, he launched the Young Commodores program, a diversity initiative that provides college and high school ad students with an opportunity to apply what they are learning in the classroom to real-life advertising and business. Keni is a powerful force and a creative soul. He is also director, writer and producer of multiple the short documentaries and web content. He is also the KREATOR at his own diversity centric production company called K.R.E.A.T.E. (Kulture is a Relevant Element To Achieve Total Equality) which produces content that focuses on highlighting the achievements of incredible people changing the face of their respective industries, while dismissing the perception of negativity and stereotypes when it pertains to people of color. In 2017, he was named as one of the 4A's 100 People That Make Adverting Great. Keni is the ultimate example of an individual dedicated to making a change in today's society and today's youth and helping us all think differently.
Drew Train, Managing Partner, OBERLAND
After racking up more than a dozen national and global awards for cause marketing and driving social change through traditional, digital, social and mobile campaigns, Drew Train set up shop as Managing Partner of OBERLAND, a purpose driven branding agency founded with Bill Oberlander.
Before launching OBERLAND, Drew started the social good practice at J. Walter Thompson New York, called JWT Ethos. In that role, Drew worked with corporate, nonprofit and public sector brands who play a role in driving change on the big-picture issues society faces. By leading an integrated team, Drew leveraged the potential of CSR strategy, communication planning, branding and advertising to create positive, lasting change.
Drew was instrumental in helping grow Services for the UnderServed into one of the most influential and impactful nonprofits in New York City. And, as National Campaign Co-Chair he molded the #IWillListen Campaign for National Alliance on Mental Illness in NYC (NAMI NYC) into a powerful call-to-action to eliminate the stigma against mental illness.
Prior to opening JWT Ethos and OBERLAND, Drew learned his craft through extensive work on global, corporate brands like HSBC, Verizon, UPS, Puma, Lufthansa, and Tiffany & Co. in the US and Shanghai. Drew is 35, and lives in New York with his wife and three children.
After racking up more than a dozen national and global awards for cause marketing and driving social change through traditional, digital, social and mobile campaigns, Drew Train set up shop as Managing Partner of OBERLAND, a purpose driven branding agency founded with Bill Oberlander.
Before launching OBERLAND, Drew started the social good practice at J. Walter Thompson New York, called JWT Ethos. In that role, Drew worked with corporate, nonprofit and public sector brands who play a role in driving change on the big-picture issues society faces. By leading an integrated team, Drew leveraged the potential of CSR strategy, communication planning, branding and advertising to create positive, lasting change.
Drew was instrumental in helping grow Services for the UnderServed into one of the most influential and impactful nonprofits in New York City. And, as National Campaign Co-Chair he molded the #IWillListen Campaign for National Alliance on Mental Illness in NYC (NAMI NYC) into a powerful call-to-action to eliminate the stigma against mental illness.
Prior to opening JWT Ethos and OBERLAND, Drew learned his craft through extensive work on global, corporate brands like HSBC, Verizon, UPS, Puma, Lufthansa, and Tiffany & Co. in the US and Shanghai. Drew is 35, and lives in New York with his wife and three children.
Keesha White, Lead Advisor to the Cause Marketing Summit
Keesha is skilled in the art of collective impact. She knows how to tackle the world's toughest problems through engaging and empowering organizations, corporations and employees. Keesha White leads through service. She takes great joy in seeing people live in their highest possibility and coaches leaders into a realm of massive action and extraordinary results. Keesha has taken her passion for health and happiness from counseling expats in China to equity research in Zimbabwe. Her laughter, leadership and dedication to the human resilient spirit has re-engaged communities in resource poor nations and created new programming in developing cities globally.
Keesha is skilled in the art of collective impact. She knows how to tackle the world's toughest problems through engaging and empowering organizations, corporations and employees. Keesha White leads through service. She takes great joy in seeing people live in their highest possibility and coaches leaders into a realm of massive action and extraordinary results. Keesha has taken her passion for health and happiness from counseling expats in China to equity research in Zimbabwe. Her laughter, leadership and dedication to the human resilient spirit has re-engaged communities in resource poor nations and created new programming in developing cities globally.
