Elizabeth Poindexter
Executive Director of Communications and Special Projects
University North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Elizabeth Poindexter leads strategic communications efforts for 16 departments that comprise the Division of Student Success. She manages executive communication, internal communication, issues management, media relations, content creation, and strategy for the division and for its departments. Her strategic communications architecture supports the division’s strategic plan and Carolina’s goal of fostering student thriving success while showcasing its culture of compassion and care.

Danny Nguyen
Student Affairs IT Director
University North Carolina, Chapel Hill

Danny Nguyen is the Director of Student Affairs Information Technology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he leads the strategy, development, and delivery of technology solutions that support student success and campus engagement. With over 25 years of experience at UNC, Danny has led major initiatives spanning enterprise systems integration, mobile platforms, and digital transformation. He served as the technical lead for the award-winning Hello Heels mobile app redesign, helping create a personalized, mobile-first gateway for the Carolina community.

Aaron Rester
Assistant Vice President of Web Strategy & Development
Roosevelt University

Since graduating from Oberlin College in 1999, Aaron Rester has led web design and development efforts in higher education. At Roosevelt University, he oversees the website, mobile app, intranet, and other digital tools. He is a member of Digital Collegium, helps organize its annual conference, and has presented nationally on topics ranging from content strategy to social media.

Mandi Tyryfter
Operations and Communications Coordinator

University of North Dakota

Mandi Tyryfter is the Operations and Communications Coordinator for University Information Technology at the University of North Dakota. In her role, she oversees UIT’s communications and marketing efforts, supporting everything from campus-wide events and service promotions to strategic storytelling around technology initiatives.
Mandi led the App Quest campaign strategy, logistics, and promotion, working closely with application team to identify high-impact features and translate them into clear, engaging marketing content within the app and across campus channels.

Madison Torgeson
IT Project Manager
University of North Dakota

Madison Torgeson is an IT Project Manager for University Information Technology at the University of North Dakota. In her role, she helps lead cross-functional initiatives by aligning stakeholders, defining scope and timelines, managing risks and dependencies, and ensuring teams deliver outcomes that support UIT’s strategic goals.
Madison served as the project manager for App Quest, a gamified marketing campaign designed to increase engagement with the My UND App. 

Dan Jamara
Senior Director, Customer Success, Modo Labs

Dan Jamara is the Senior Director of Higher Education Customer Success at Modo, where he leads the team responsible for partnering directly with institutions to ensure their portals and native apps thrive within their campus communities. He is also a familiar face to many as the host of Modo’s monthly User Group (MUG) calls. Prior to his current role, Dan led Modo’s implementation and support teams and served as Head of Customer Experience at a medical technology startup.

Phil Kirschner
Future of Work Expert, PK Consulting

Phil is a global thought leader with over 20 years of experience at the intersection of employee experience, corporate real estate, and technology strategy. He leverages data-driven insights to help organizations enhance productivity, talent retention, and engagement. Passionate about the future of work, Phil advocates for dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive workplaces that uplift human potential.

Adam Stoltz
Cofounder, Former AmLaw Workplace Experience Operations

Adam Stoltz is a corporate real estate and workplace experience leader with over 15 years of experience in strategy, operations, and employee services. He specializes in managing global portfolios, workplace strategy, and employee experiences, with expertise in occupancy management, vendor relations, wellness programs, and design and construction. Adam is passionate about creating efficient, engaging work environments that enhance productivity and employee satisfaction.

Marc Grainger
Chief People Officer, Debevoise & Plimpton

Marc Grainger is an experienced HR leader with over 15 years in talent development, leadership, and diversity. As Chief People Officer at Debevoise & Plimpton, he leads strategic initiatives to drive culture, performance, and employee engagement. Previously, Marc spent over a decade at Credit Suisse, where he held global leadership roles in People Development and Diversity & Inclusion. He is an expert in shaping high-performing, inclusive workplaces.

Laurie Rothenberg
Global Real Estate & Workplace Strategy Lead Counsel, Pfizer

Laurie Rothenberg is a leader in Global Workplace and Corporate Real Estate Strategy with 17 years at Pfizer, specializing in shaping resilient, employee-centric workplaces. She has a proven track record in optimizing portfolio strategies, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and integrating ESG principles into real estate decisions. Laurie is passionate about creating inspiring workplaces that enhance employee engagement, operational efficiency, and organizational success.