Annie Aggens is the director of PolarExplorers, a Wilmette-based company specializing in guided polar expeditions. She has led numerous ski trips to the North Pole, South Pole, Greenland, and other icy regions, sharing her deep passion for the Earth's cryosphere. As the author of The Encyclopedia of Outdoor and Wilderness Skills, Annie frequently speaks on polar exploration, history, and the Expedition Mindset—an ethos for tackling challenges with resilience and joy. A founding board member of the International Polar Guide Association, she also educates others on the delicate balance of polar ecosystems and their connection to global human activity. Her favorite ways to pass time in a tent include playing her ukelele, holding poetry slams, and drinking hot chocolate.

Kayce Ataiyero is the Chief External Affairs Officer at The Joyce Foundation, overseeing strategic communications, the Journalism Program, and community grants. She has extensive experience in journalism, politics, and communications, previously serving as director of external affairs for the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office and in leadership roles for several Illinois government offices. A former journalist, Kayce has written for the Chicago Tribune, Washington Post, and other major publications. She holds a degree in journalism from the University of Maryland and serves on multiple nonprofit boards. Kayce has been recognized with numerous awards, including being named one of Crain’s Notable Black Leaders and Executives.

Gizelle Clemens is a strategic leader and national voice on equity, belonging, and care as critical infrastructure. Drawing on lived experience, cultural wisdom, and philanthropic leadership, she advances initiatives that center deliberately marginalized communities. Her work reimagines how we build connection—by designing systems rooted in mutual care and being deeply woven into one another’s lives.

Amber Johnson is a leadership coach and consultant who believes great leaders ask the right questions. She helps organizations strengthen relationships, define strategy, and drive results. Amber’s insights have appeared in Forbes, Psychology Today, and her Substack newsletter, Better than Fine. A specialist in Appreciative Inquiry, she holds a Ph.D. in leadership and has worked with global organizations as a communicator and change leader. Amber lives in Chicago with her husband and teenage children.

Tara May is the CEO of Aspiritech, a tech company employing over 100 autistic adults, and a leading advocate for neurodiversity in the workplace. With more than 20 years in the corporate media and tech space, she has driven dramatic revenue growth and digital transformation for top brands like Hershey’s, Disney, and Wells Fargo. Tara is also a co-director of Neurowrx and a member of HAAPE, focusing on neurodiversity and employment on national and international levels. Known for empowering teams and fostering high-performing, collaborative environments, Tara believes in the power of kindness and transparency to drive business success. She is passionate about neurodiversity, both in her professional life and as the mother of an autistic preteen. Tara lives in Chicago with her husband, teens and tweens.

Stacey Woehrle joined Infinity Strategic Partners in 2019, bringing 15 years of experience in finance as a CPA, auditor, and financial analyst, including roles at Ernst & Young and Oracle Corporation. She also served as a Trustee on the Illinois State Board of Investment, managing over $23 billion for state pensions. Stacey believes strongly in female financial literacy, understanding that for women, learning about investing and finances goes beyond personal gain—it's a ripple effect that strengthens their communities. Stacey lives in Wilmette with her husband and their two sons.