Alumni Speaker Bios

LaVada English is a professional development coach, human resource executive, writer, seasoned instructor, community leader, and avid student of neurological science and psychology. She holds an MBA in Management and a BA in communications and journalism. With more than 20 years of experience, LaVada has been instrumental in creating strategies that improve self-esteem, presentation skills, and ability to influence others, boost self-confidence and produce significant results. She believes everyone can have a fulfilling life and career if they prepare themselves with the knowledge and skills needed to follow their true instincts.

Melissa Welch is a Senior Partner at Growthink, a Los Angeles based strategic advisory and investment banking firm focused on startups and SMEs and a Growth Advisor for Guiding Metrics, a cloud based executive dashboard platform that helps executives and entrepreneurs better manage their businesses. Since joining Growthink in 2007, she has been committed to fulfilling the company's mission (and personal passion) to help entrepreneurs and executive teams launch, grow and exit their businesses. Melissa earned her MBA from Pepperdine University's Graziadio Business School in 2011 and is an active member of the Nation Association of Women MBAs.

Rick Leon is the founding partner of Executive Dynamics Search, Inc. His firm is dedicated to placing Executive level talent in General Management, Sales and Marketing, and HR roles. Prior to forming Executive Dynamics Search, Inc. Rick held multiple positions at Procter and Gamble, Schering Plough, and Frito Lay.