Vip Members

Dr. Geoffrey Thompson is an endocrine surgeon, stationed in Rochester, Minnesota. With 34 years of experience as a surgeon, Dr. Thompson feels privileged to have had all of his years in medicine being served with the Mayo Clinic, which is the nation's largest non-profit medical clinic, academic institution and research organization. On a daily basis, he conducts surgeries that remove or inhibit the growth of hormone-induced tumors involving the endocrine glands. Within his specialization of endocrine surgery, he has conducted thousands of successful tumor removals throughout his career. As a passionate health care professional, Dr. Thompson's main goal with each procedure is to maintain an exceptionally high rate of patient recovery and health following their surgeries. Aside from his daily involvement in conducting medical surgeries, Dr. Thompson is an avid participant in medical research and discoveries. He has a personal catalog of over 200 independent and featured publications, in a wide range of different medical journals. Through his research, he has conducted various case studies through the Mayo Clinic, which have aided in the overall understanding of endocrine malfunctions and tumors within the human body. His works in the World Journal of Surgery in particular has served to educate medical professionals worldwide. Because of his devout work in endocrinology, he currently serves as a member of the editorial board for the World Journal of Surgery. Dr. Thompson took an interest in the medical field at a very young age. As a child, his curiosity was sparked by viewing different family members have operations performed on them. In his spare time, he enjoys gardening, golfing and partaking in photography. Dr. Thompson aspires to become the president of the Association of Endocrine Surgeons Foundation for Research in the near future.

Cristina started her career in Law in 1998 were she received her Bachelor of Humanistic Studies from Saint Mary's College (Indiana). She then continued on to receive her JD in Mexico at Universidad Iberoamericana where she graduated in 2003. In 2009, Christina became a Partner for Sánchez-DeVanny Eseverri, S.C. where she was the 1st Female Partner. Christina's specialization is in Corporate, Transactional, and Antitrust Law. She advises multinational companies regarding corporate and transactional matters, including sale and purchase of shares and assets of Mexican companies. She also advises clients on antitrust issues, including control of mergers and acquisitions and corporate structures. She represented a multinational group in the first administrative procedure to determine the responsibility for absolute monopolistic practices in Mexico, and in the procedure for reduction of penalties. She has worked with representing a Multinational chemical company along with representing a Japanese auto-part manufacturing company in the establishment of a plant to manufacture shock absorbers in Guanajuato. Some co-authored books of hers, include; “Doing Business – Starting a Business – Mexico,” World Bank; “Digest of Commercial Laws of the World” (Chapter about Mexico), Oceana Publishing “Getting the Deal Through - Corporate Governance 2010 – 2012,” Law Business Research Ltd., International Tax and Investment Services,” Center for International Legal Studies.

Chloe Jacob is currently the advisor of Direction of Trade Policy in the Ministry of the Economy, Innovation and Exports. She also specializes in diplomatic and official extensive international experience acquired both in Quebec and in Europe, Germany, Belgium and South America Uruguay. She was also involved in the organization of events conference, seminars and research activities. Chloe is a highly motivated individual who has excelled in her academic career as well as her professional career. She continues to grow in her industry through her vast knowledge and political background. Chloe strives to strengthen the bonds between the government and political issues by establishing ways to change her nations economic crisis. Chloe is a remarkable women who will continue to impact change in her field.

Bill Raben is the fourth generation of farmers. Bill and his brother took over their family farm. Bill plants soy beans and corn. Bill goes through the process of working the ground planting seeds and growing edible plants. Bill has no major plans for expanding their farm however, if the opportunity arise for purchasing more land the Raben's would look into it. Through hard work and working from sun up to sun down is what made the Raben's fourth generations farm successful.

Frank Mento has been playing the organ for over 56 years. He was Titular Organist at Saint-Jean de Montmartre Church in Paris, France, for 36 years, and Professor of Harpsichord at the Conservatory of the 18th district, also in Paris, for 18 years. He has an Emeritus status in both positions, and has been retired for the past year, but continues to teach privately, and is currently working on completing his Online Harpsichord Method : harpsichord-method.com Frank was inspired to learn the piano at the young age of 8 years old. He was the winner of the Youngstown Symphony Society Piano Competition in 1968, as well as the winner of the Concours International de l'UFAM in 1979. He attributes his success to perseverance, meeting the right people at the right time, and being proficient in his field. His goal is to continue to give concerts on demand, teaching privately, and subbing when needed. Frank enjoys traveling, reading, movies and hiking in his spare time. http://www.bachorgan.com/YourStoriesOnline.html

Arthur Murphy is a disabled Marine Corps Veteran who has many years of experience in Energy. He worked for the Department of Energy for over 20 years. After retirement, Arthur decided to start his own business and birthed AEMS where he is the president and CEO. AEMS is also known for energy but AEMS specializes in using scrap paper to make fire logs. AEMS have recycling programs and they also specialize in hazardous waste. By giving back Arthur hires people who are disabled to help with his work. Arthur is looking forward to growing AEMS over the next couple of years.

Wilfredo Segarra Linares studied at Grand Canyon University receiving his Doctorate degree in 2016. He retired about 5 years ago from a 25 year old career with the Department Of Defense. Within the DODEA, he taught Mathematics for 10 years and was an Educational Technologist for 15 years. Wilfredo often was invited to be a key note speaker to several High school professionals such as teachers and faculty to speak related to curriculum, program software and grading. In the future, Wilfredo would like to start consulting and serve as a mentor on a part time basis. He is looking forward to connecting and broadening his network with like-minded professionals.

Patricia Portier is an accomplished change management and policy expert with over 20 years of experience in government, research, and sustainability. For the past three years, she has served as Policy Advisor for IBiSA (Institute of a Healthy and Active Living) and for two years prior, she served as Policy advisor for the Minister of Public Health and Sports. Her key responsibilities involve advising the minister on special projects, overseeing the operational side, team management, and policy for health science, sports, and lifestyle. In addition to policy, Patricia's areas of expertise are management, team leadership, coaching, and nutrition. She speaks fluent English, Dutch, Spanish and German, as well as Papiamento, a Creole language. Patty graduated with a Bachelor of Laws from the Faculty of Law at University of Aruba in 2012 and earned a Master of Science in Nutrition & Health at Wageningen University and Research Centre in 1994. There were about 800 students studying at Wageningen and they all benefitted from being internationally educated and she stays in contact with friends who reconnect at LatAm and Caribbean conferences. Originally, Patty wanted to do lab research and had an interest in physical chemistry, but studied both Western and non-Western sciences so she could work anywhere. She started out her career in the Department of Agriculture, Husbandry and Fisheries in Aruba where Patty worked for 15 years, then moving on to the Minister of Health where she oversaw several projects and was their only subject matter expert for health education infrastructure. In addition, Patty was a member of the Royal Association of Engineers. Going forward, she wants to get the institution further established and enhance their health and nutrition directives. Patty is keen to network, increase her exposure, and enhance her branding, and increase quality connections for international conferences, as well. The key to her success is perseverance, not taking 'no' for an answer, her people skills, and her ability to work in both a team and as an individual. Indeed, her dedication over the years has enabled her to foster strong professional relationships in government and beyond. When she's not working, Patty likes going out, dancing, and as a single mom, supports her 9 year old son and his school activities. She also enjoys swimming, aerobics, Zumba, horseback riding and going to the beach. Patty supports various organizations, school sports, and runs or walks benefitting them, as well.

Michelle Baxter graduated from Emerson College class of 2015. Michelle is currently a Program Director with Cambridge Center for Adult Education where she has been for the last 5 years. Her main role is to plan, and design programs for teams, interested in particular classes, hire teachers, produce writers conferences, oversee a catalog in which she puts together a team of people. Michelle has been the director of programming for the city for a number of years. Michelle also has been a theater director as well. Michelle was prompted to get involved in this profession as she always wanted to understand the relationship between community and social change. Michelle was also impacted from her parents that were civil activists. In the next few years Michelle plans to be doing more teaching on a college level. Michelle is most proud of working with various populations.

Grisselle has been an educator for over 25 years and has been very accomplished. She is about to complete her Ph.D in 2017 in Education with an emphasis on Curriculum and Neuroscience. She is currently a Professor at Escuela de Artes Plasticas y Diseño. Grisselle has taught Human Development, Theories of Learning, Philosophic Foundations of Education, Technology and Art, and Theory and Methodology of Teaching Art. Her lines of interest are neuroaesthetic, aesthetic emotions, aesthetic education, new models of teaching art linking cognitive neuroscience with art through the aesthetic experience, aesthetic reflection, knowledge and transformation. Grisselle has a Department of Education Teacher Certification, Microsoft Office Certification, Linguistic Certification, and has been honoured to meet Maxine Greene at Lincoln Centre Institute for Arts in Education and The Recognition of Excellence Award in Education in Art as well as receiving The Medal of Excellence from The Association of Teachers in Puerto Rico. Grisselle is very active in community organizations including The Casa Pueblo in Adjuntas, and The Conservatory of Music of Puerto Rico, as well as being a volunteer at the Social Worker Workshop and an Advisor at The School Improvement Grants Project Educational Department from Fundación Comunitaria de Puerto Rico and for the Contemporary Museum Of Art in Puerto Rico. She has work as Director of Fine Arts Department of the Department of Education and as Director for Title IV of NCLB Act; 21st Community Learning Centers projects Such Arte con Sentido in the Municipality of Camuy in low income communities integrating arts to learning process. Grisselle has been published in many different publications and is also on line in interviews and articles and has been speaker and workshop leader in many local and international congress of education, art and neuroeducation.

Mrs. Debbi Moore is an accomplished professional with over 25 years of experience providing educational leadership, as well as training and developing her clients. She is an active member of multiple Boards, which include the Greater Las Cruces Chamber of Commerce, Outstanding Women Governing Board, and Western Regional Hospital Association. Debbie is proactive in helping abused women with their recovery and providing support and relief to give them added vocational and career opportunities. She makes an impact in her community helping people to thrive and succeed as social and responsible leaders. She enjoy reading, attending art exhibits, and purchasing rare collectibles.

Carol Anne Orvis is an illustrious educator who established strong, equitable learning environment to meet the needs of adolescent and child learners (senior faculty member). She leveraged in-depth knowledge of school composition instruction to design, develop, and lead a variety of classes. Managed diverse student population while meeting learning objectives set forth by senior faculty. She researched and investigated new sources to ensure up-to-date and accurate materials. She presented dynamic instruction to ensure students and remained engaged in learning. Carol built a reputation for strong classroom management and capacity to deliver broad range of detailed lesson plans. She maintained exceptionally high degree of professionalism while interacting with support staff, peer teachers, and administrators. Carol is a skilled mentor with success meeting needs of diverse students. She inspires and directs adolescents in reaching high educational standards. She facilitates development of consistent learner outcomes through board attendance and steadfast participation in curricular and extracurricular committees.

Victor Lebron is a very educated and distinguished historian, with over 20 years of experiences that can help young politicians, students, and like-minded professionals. With his vast knowledge of history, Victor continues to learn and educate students within his community of Puerto Rico. Victor has chosen to pursue history on a professional level to have an impact on his society by learning the origins of the problems plaguing society today by understanding the history that has lead up to this point. Victor's fascination for history fuels his passion to impact politics in his country and the young minds as well. Victor is now hoping to have an impact on young minds by providing motivation and insight at the Interamerican University of Puerto Rico. Victor attributes his success to his focus and passion for history and learning how to use his experience to impact others. Victor loves to read about history as he wishes to learn more about different perspectives also information that can also help him become a successful educator.

Samir Latic is the director of operations for a major distributions and transportation company. He coordinates and organizes the layout for the policies, procedures, and programs for the company operations. Samir's main responsibilities include directing the operations and activities of a trucking company that seeks to transport raw materials across long destinations. He sets the company plan and goals to meet the industry Standards and Policies. He is a leader in innovation and business entrepreneurship which enables the business to thrive in a diversified changed economic climate. Part of Samir's job responsibilities includes creating the company financials, customer care, and operational administration.

Rafael Damiron is a master in the field of engineering and has over 25 years experience in this profession. He started his career when he was accepted to the university and graduated with a degree in Engineering in 1968. He continued his academics and graduated with a master's degree in hydro engineering from The Delft University of Technology in The Netherlands in 1973. Rafael also studied computer systems in 1991. Rafael went on to open his own successful business Damiron & Asociados, S. A., which has been practice since 1984. As the president and project manager, he also works as a civil engineer and private consultant. His business deals with the design, construction, and maintenance of the physical and naturally built environment, including roads, bridges, canals, dams, and buildings throughout the Dominican Republic. Rafael prefers to do several things at once. He has recently worked on the design and construction of a water supply. In the next 3-5 years, Rafael would like to continue doing his consultant work. Rafael considers his work ethic and studying every day to be the key to his success. One of Rafael's greatest accomplishments is being able to work at the level in which he does at his age with no plans on retiring. In addition to his engineering career, he is very active in the sports business in Santo Domingo. Sports has played a very big part of his life. He was the head of the delegation for National Olympic Committee Barcelona and the president of Olympic Academy which he attended for the past 20 years. In his spare time, Rafael enjoys chess. He was once the president of Chess Federation and an International Chess Arbiter. Rafael is fluent in English and Spanish.

Elizabeth St John is the regional technology education manager at Fresenius Kidney Care. Inspired by her mother's family values of putting your best foot forward, Elizabeth obtained her master's degree from Alverno College while working full-time. In her current position, Elizabeth has worked in the nursing profession since 1995. Her commitment to growing and making a difference led to a shift to nephrology nursing where she works on a regional level. Empowered by a pride in work, she successfully overcame her fear of public speaking and delivered a dynamic presentation at the ANNA National Symposium. She also has an abstract published in the Nephrology Nursing Journal. Continuing on the path of leadership and success in her field, Elizabeth sees herself growing and expanding from the regional level to the divisional level in her prestigious career.

Carlos Orgeon is a distinguished professional for Thinkbox Technology Group as the Vice President/principle consultant since 2012, as a principle consultant Carlos manages a team of 25 across the globe, Carlos prides himself on leading a successful team; providing his team with the right tools for success and growth. Carlos found his love for technology while serving in the military working in intelligence sector for 10 years while working in intelligence he began learning the various benefits of technology as well he discovered his passion for cutting edge technology. His strong work ethic, drive, and determination has allowed Carlos to pursue his goals, within the last year Carlos has managed to enter a larger market overseas in the Netherlands and plans to further expand Thinkbox. Carlos plans on taking Thinkbox technology group to the General public after the company has expanded into the overseas market such as Asia and Europe, Carlos acknowledges the opportunity he still has to grow within the technology industry and someday wishes to start his own company with all of the experience he has obtained in over 10 years of experience in the technology industry. Carlos still finds time to give back to his community by volunteering with the Urban Chamber of commerce, he also is still a part of the Air force reserves, which will allow Carlos to share his experiences and knowledge of cutting edge technologies.

Aimee is an advertising professional with a bachelor's degree from the Universidad APEC. She is a creative artist and has a keen interest in fashion design, and jewelry accessories. Some of her other interests include apparel, merchandising, cultural exhibits, and children's books. She is a dedicated and hard working marketing specialist that is willing to go the extra mile to land a client. She began her career as a public relations specialist working for a marketing firm in the Dominican Republic. Her primary focus was external communication with her clients to promote and develop their brand message and company vocation. She played a significant role in helping the organization grow and expand into new market areas. Her presence helped to establish the brand's image throughout the company's network. She eventually went on to receive her degree in licensed advertising and applied communications. She currently serves as a member of the board for the laboratory clinic, where the company seeks to help children build a strong foundation in ethical awareness. Some of their main interests include maintaining a balance between the Economic goals and neighborhood development. She has an interest in theater, photography, women's rights, and she is an advocate for social responsibility. She is also a creator, editor, and writer of children's Christian's values novels and magazines.

Rodger Ricketts has worked extensively examining and understanding the intersection of psychology with Buddhism. Rodger works under contract to various institutions. Currently, his main activity is working at the International Language School as an instructor of English as a second language. There Rodger is responsible for developing class materials and presentations and acts as the class instructor. He has authored three books detailing his insights into Buddhist thought. Two of them are: "The Buddha's Radical Psychology: Explorations", 2016 and "The Buddha's Teachings: Seeing Without Illusion", 2015. Both are available in Print and Electronic formats on Amazon. Rodger has published on the University of Chicago Wisdom Research website as well as Academia.edu in the areas of psychology, mindfulness, Buddhism, physics and other topics. After completing his B.A. degree in Sociology/Social work, Rodger was caught up in the zeitgeist of the 1970's which focused on helping people and improving society. This rich time motivated Rodger to go on to his advanced degrees to acquire more insights and tools for working in psychology. Rodger is looking forward to continuing his current work as an instructor of English as a Second Language as well as teaching mindfulness and writing another book dealing with the topic of Relapse Prevention as Personality Transformation . He wants to make his research more public and move into communicating with multimedia. Rodger's success comes from following what he is truly interested. The more research he does, the more he is fascinated and that leads to more research. It also pleases him a great deal to see his students and clients improve quantitatively and qualitatively as they become happier and function more effectively in their lives.

Hong Shih graduated with his bachelor's of science degree from Penn State University, class of 1986. Hong is an accomplished professional with over 20 years of experience in technical research and application. He holds a Ph.D. from the University of Southern California in Electro-Mechanical Engineering. He is the senior technology director for LAM research. His responsibilities include overseeing the technology strategy for an organization, developing and implementing technological solutions that will enhance the company's operating efficiency, and reduce the risk of data corruption. His technical expertise includes implementing new software and hardware systems as well as system upgrades. He also contributes in establishing the policies and goals for the department.