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2018 Ascend National Convention & Career Fair
August 20-22, 2018
San Francisco Marriott Marquis | CA

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Published by Ascend, 2018-09-05 14:44:49

2018 Ascend National Convention & Career Fair

2018 Ascend National Convention & Career Fair
August 20-22, 2018
San Francisco Marriott Marquis | CA

2018 National Convention
& Career Fair

August 20–22, 2018
San Francisco Marriott Marquis

PLATINUM GOLD

JADE THANK YOU TO OUR PARTNERS
PEARL

2 CONNEC T. INSPIRE. ASCEND.TM

SILVER

BRONZE

SUPPORTER HOST
MOBILE APP

2018 ASCEND NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR 3

2 Thank You To Our Partners TABLE OF CONTENTS
5 Welcome From The President WELCOME FROM THE PRESIDENT
8 This Is Ascend
9 Ascend Chapters
10 Ascend Programs
12 Connect With Ascend
14 Lifetime Members
16 Awards & Scholarships
18 Ascend National Team & Convention Contributors
22 Career Fair
25 Agenda & Sessions
28 Student Agenda & Sessions
32 Professional Agenda & Sessions
43 Speakers & Mentors

4 CONNEC T. INSPIRE. ASCEND.TM

Dear Convention Guests,

It is with great joy that I welcome you to Ascend’s 2018 National Convention & Career Fair located
in the innovation capital of the world, San Francisco!!! It has always been one of my dreams to hold
our National Convention in San Francisco and I’m incredibly pleased and proud to be here with all
of you.

Our theme “INNOVATE & EVOLVE” inspired us to create highly impactful programming with sessions
tackling some of the hottest topics in technology – from Blockchain to artificial intelligence – while
also continuing to augment and grow our content related to personal innovation and career
transformation. We have an incredible line up of speakers for this year’s event, many of whom
are familiar faces to those located in Silicon Valley. We are proud to be able to showcase Andrea
Jung, CEO of Grameen – in conversation with Emily Chang of Bloomberg Technology; the hugely
successful serial entrepreneurs, Justin and Dan Kan; and Jeff Wong, Chief Innovation Officer of EY
as well as many other inspirational and knowledgeable speakers. What unites these speakers is how
they each represent breakthrough leadership – a quality that is key in today’s business world.

Given the location of this year’s event it was also essential for us to ensure the discussion would
be challenging and unapologetic. It was important for us to acknowledge that while San Francisco is
home to one of the most diverse populations in the United States, diversity in technology leadership
roles has generally stagnated over the last decade, as our recent Ascend Foundation research found.
Against this backdrop, we see this year’s Convention as an opportunity to celebrate the leaders who
have broken through this bamboo ceiling and who continue to help empower those who are actively
improving diversity and inclusion among their workforce.

In addition, we hope that through engaging with each other you will take away the skills needed to
gain competitive advantage. Ultimately, we hope that this year’s content will inspire you to achieve
your success through an increased awareness of your cultural, emotional and business intelligence. I
also hope you will utilize the Convene App to maximize your experience at the National Convention
as well as find various opportunities to connect by following us on Twitter and by tagging your
photos with our hashtags - #Ascendleadership and #Ascend2018. You can also ‘Like’ us on
Facebook and become a part of our highly engaged LinkedIn group.

Finally, I want to express how grateful I am to all of our partners, sponsors and supporters. Ascend
continues to grow as one of the largest non-profit Pan-Asian organizations for business professionals
in North America and this growth would not have been possible if it were not for the tireless
dedication of everyone involved. It is this sense of community that continues to inspire me during
this extraordinary time for Ascend.

Let's build a diverse and inclusive future together! In that vein, please join me at my opening
remarks on Monday as I hope to have a “little surprise” for everyone.

Jeff Chin
National President, Ascend

2018 ASCEND NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR 5

AlixPartners proudly
supports Ascend’s 2018
National Convention
& Career Fair

When it really matters. alixpartners.com

Diverse perspectives are
a recipe for innovation.

We value the impact of an inclusive and diverse culture.

At KPMG, we believe our people must be as diverse as the clients and
communities we serve and that their unique backgrounds, experiences,
and talents are essential to our success. We’re proud that at every level
of our firm, our professionals take ownership of creating a diverse and
inclusive culture.
We appreciate our alliance with Ascend, and value our shared commitment
to develop next generation leaders. Learn more at kpmg.com/us/careers.

Anticipate tomorrow. Deliver today.

©2018 KPMG LLP, a Delaware limited liability partnership and the U.S. member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative
(“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity. Some of the services or offerings provided by KPMG LLP are not permissible for its audit clients or affiliates. NDPPS 767116

We’re stronger together.

We believe there’s even greater power in working together. Because when we combine our
unique abilities as a team, our strength multiplies. Every day across 38 countries, our team
members collaborate using their collective skills to better serve our company and our customers.

We’re currently hiring in multiple areas. See how far you can go.
Join our team to learn, grow, and excel in your career.

To learn more and apply, visit wellsfargojobs.com.

Wells Fargo is a proud sponsor of the 2018 Ascend National Convention and Career Fair.

Relevant military experience is considered for veterans and transitioning service men and women.
Wells Fargo is an Affirmative Action and Equal Opportunity Employer, Minority/Female/Disabled/
Veteran/Gender Identity/Sexual Orientation.
© 2018 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. All rights reserved.

THIS IS ASCEND WHO WE ARE OBJECTIVES

Ascend is the largest, non-profit Pan-Asian • Connect Pan-Asian leaders across industries
membership organization for business professionals through a network of seasoned professionals
in North America. Established in 2005, our network and emerging leaders
includes over 60,000 senior executives, professionals,
and MBA/undergraduate students involved in 17 • Enable young professionals and emerging
professional chapters and 40 student chapters*. leaders to pursue their dreams and achieve
As a career lifecycle organization, we offer robust new professional heights
leadership and professional development and
networking programs designed to cultivate Pan-Asian • Assist our partners and sponsors to achieve
talent by supporting our members in reaching their business growth through world-class
career potential and by supporting our corporate diversity and inclusion practices
partners to develop a strong, diverse, and inclusive
workforce to achieve business growth.

*Includes AscendNAAMBA chapters

VALUE OF ATTENDING OUR 2018 CONVENTION

FOR OUR CORPORATE SPONSORS FOR OUR PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS

1. Experience business growth through newly 1. Fantastic networking opportunities with
built connections with top industry speakers, Pan-Asian business leaders and peers
panelists, and Fortune 500 global executives
2. Actionable insight and latest trends from
2. Meet top talent from the attending pool of top industry experts and speakers
high-potential candidates and emerging leaders
3. Unique career development opportunities
3. Align diversity and inclusion objectives through one-on-one sessions with executive
through partnerships with Employee Resource mentors and exposure to decision makers at
Groups and Ascend’s networks our Career Fair

8 CONNEC T. INSPIRE. ASCEND.TM

ASCEND CHAPTERS VA N C O U V E R University of British Columbia Univ. of Connecticut
Simon Frasier University Yale University

Univ. of Washington Fairfield University Univ. of Massachusetts–Amherst
Seattle University Binghamton State University Bentley University
S E AT T L E NEW ENGLAND
Univ. of Rochester– Brandeis University
Darden School of Business Suffolk University
CONNECTICUT & WESTCHESTER
Ryerson University
University of Toronto

York University
University of Waterloo

TORONTO
TWIN CITIES

Penn State University

Univeristy of Michigan GREATER NEW YORK METRO
Northern Illinois University PHILADELPHIA Queens College, CUNY
MIDWEST Baruch College
N O RT H E R N DePaul University Ohio State Fordham University
CALIFORNIA University New York University
Purdue University Pace University
Univ. of California–Berkeley St. John's University
San Francisco State University Univ. of Illinois–Urbana Champaign Indiana University Rutgers–Newark
Rutgers–New Brunswick
LOS ANGELES METRO Univ. of Southern California GREATER ATLANTA CHARLOTTE NEW JERSEY
Univ. of California–Los Angeles Drexel University
Emory University Temple University
Georgia State University Univ. of Maryland–College Park
GREATER WASHINGTON
Arizona State University Univ. of North Texas Univ. of Texas at Dallas George Washington University
Univ. of Virginia–
NORTH TEXAS Darden School of Business
Southern Methodist University

Professional HOUSTON

Student

Business School Alliance
/Graduate Affiliate Program

PROFESSIONAL CHAPTERS
Our growing number of professional chapters in North America include a membership base of corporate
executives, managers, and professionals across various industries. In an effort to cultivate and advance Pan-Asian
professionals, our chapters organize a variety of local events and social gatherings, and deliver local programs
such as professional development workshops, regional conferences and mentoring programs. They also
encourage and promote civic engagement through community service.

STUDENT CHAPTERS
Our student chapters focus on fostering the next generation of Pan-Asian leaders. Student chapters organize
networking events, company visits, and deliver programs focusing on leadership training and provide resume
and interview coaching. These chapters bring unique value to their members by creating a platform for career
development and by helping them build a network of mentors and coaches.

List of our chapter presidents can be found on page 18.
To become a member, please visit www.ascendleadership.org.

2018 ASCEND NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR 9

PINNACLE - THE PAN-ASIAN
CORPORATE BOARD INITIATIVE

ASCEND PROGRAMS STANFORD ADVANCED
LEADERSHIP PROGRAM (ALP)

CORPORATE EXECUTIVE
INITIATIVE (CEI)

EXECUTIVE INSIGHT
SERIESTM (EIS)

EXECUTIVE INSIGHT
FOR WOMEN (EIW)

EXECUTIVE
PRESENCE (EP)

MYTHS OF ASIAN
LEADERSHIP

ELEVATE - EARLY CAREER
LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

MENTORSHIP
PROGRAMS

LEADERSHIP, EMPOWERMENT,
ADVANCEMENT AND DEVELOPMENT
SERIES (LEAD)

INSPIRING ACROSS GENERATIONS
CONFERENCES (IAG)

ASCENDNAAMBA - ASSOCIATION OF

10 CONNEC T. INSPIRE. ASCEND.TM ASIAN MBAS

STANFORD ADVANCED EXECUTIVE INSIGHT ELEVATE - EARLY CAREER
LEADERSHIP PROGRAM (ALP) SERIESTM (EIS) LEADERSHIP PROGRAM

• First-of-its-kind program to • Assists high-potential Pan- • First-of-its-kind leadership

address the gap in effective Asian talent attain leadership program for early career
training for high-achieving Asian- roles in major North American professionals
American executives corporations
• Offers advice on skills and
• Learn global business leadership • Provides insight into key
meaningful behaviors needed
skills from Stanford GSB faculty characteristics, specific behaviors for success, such as effective
and meet successful Asian- and competencies required to communications, situation
American leaders and hear reach the executive level handling, influencing team
personal stories from the C-suite members and decision-making

ASCEND Ascend Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization with a mission to educate,
FOUNDATION advocate, and enable Pan-Asian business leaders to reach their full potential. The
Foundation’s goal is to make a difference in the Pan-Asian community through
research, thought leadership, scholarships and education.

Donate Now to the Ascend Foundation. Visit www.ascendleadership.org/foundation

PINNACLE - THE PAN-ASIAN Pinnacle was launched by Ascend to focus on Asian American corporate board
CORPORATE BOARD INITIATIVE directors on US company boards.

VISION GOAL

Help corporations enhance their business objectives Create a platform to network, leverage and support current Asian
by increasing the number of Asian American corporate American corporate board directors; develop aspiring candidates
board directors. for future board service; and provide thought leadership regarding
corporate board issues. The goal is that each year, the number of
new Asian Americans on Fortune 500 boards should reflect the Asian
population in the United States (6.8 percent in 2015).

2 018 A S C E N D N AT I O N A L C O N V E N T I O N & C A R E E R FA I R 11

CONNECT WITH ASCEND DOWNLOAD THE EVENT APP

We are excited to be featuring the Convene mobile app by
Thomson Reuters. The easy-to-use app will include helpful event
information, as well as information on the agenda and speakers.
Available on iOS and Android smartphones and tablets, Convene
provides you with a one-stop resource to get the most from the
event.

Install Convene today to get the latest Ascend National
Convention & Career Fair information at your fingertips!

SHARE YOUR CONVENTION PHOTOS! STAY CONNECTED WITH ASCEND

#Ascendleadership www.ascendleadership.org
#Ascend2018
fb.com/ascendleadership
instagram.com/ascendleader
Group: Ascend
twitter.com/ascendleader
youtube.com/ascendleadership

12 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

Build your story
and create the future.

allstate.jobs

IF YOU LIVE FOR IT,
WE’LL HELP YOU
PLAN FOR IT.

We’re here to help you do the things that matter
most, with the people who matter most—now and
years from now. Because when you’re in control of
your money and start realizing your financial goals,
planning looks less like planning and more like living.
Get started with an advisor at nm.com.

SPEND YOUR LIFE LIVING

Northwestern Mutual is the marketing name for The Northwestern Mutual Life Insurance Company (NM),
Milwaukee, WI and its subsidiaries.

LIFETIME MEMBERS Ascend’s Lifetime Membership Program provides members a way to demonstrate
their dedication to Ascend and the Pan-Asian community.
Thank you to these and other committed Lifetime Members!

BECOME ONE TODAY!

We encourage everyone to join this program to gain exclusive member benefits.
To become a part of this outstanding group of leaders, please visit
www.ascendleadership.org today.

Minaz Abji Stacey Kim Punit Renjen
Barbara Adachi J. Michael Kirkland Satish Rishi
Ajay Anand Judy Kopa Kiran Rudraiah
Kapila Anand Patricia Kozu Faye Sahai
Roger G. Arrieux Jr. Ashok Krishna Amy Shang
Sam Balaji Michael Ku Ashok Shenoy
Cheemin Bo-Linn C. G. Kum Porcia Silverberg
Irene Chang-Britt Kim Le Ekta Singh-Bushell
Christine Cadena Chris Lee Aakash Singhal
Cathy Campbell Jessica Lee Rajendra Sisodia
Phyllis Campbell Jane Li Leo Soong
Richard J. Caturano Hong Xia Liu Mark Sue
Paul WS Chan Laurie Liu Mohan Tavorath
David Chang Yanshuai Liu Rajiv Thadani
Larry Chang Helen Loh Mehul Thakkar
Michael Chen Wade Loo Lee Ting
Robert Chen Darcy Lopes Khanh Tran
Thomas Chen Andrew Ly Caroline Tsay
Jeff Chin Wendy Mai Emilio Umeoka
Livia Ching Kumar Malavalli Jolie Vu
Jyoti Chopra Ranjan Manoranjan Parshotam Wadhwani
Jeannette Chu Sara Mathew Sandeep Wattal
Julian Chu Nitin Mehta Dennis Wong
Jeannie Diefenderfer Denny Minami Janet Wong
Evelyn Dilsaver Zubin Mogul Dennis Wu
Loretta Doon Sarita Mohapatra Christiane Wuillamie
Daniel Eng Anna W. Mok James Xiao
Li Fan Samuel T. Mok Jirong Xiao
Joey Fong Susan Mostajo Elizabeth Xu
Erby Foster Sri Muthu Jana Yamamoto
Earl Fry Kamesh Nagarajan Christopher Yamashita
Michael Fung Kumar Narayanan Jan Yanehiro
Marjorie Galban Chitra Nawbatt Yi Yang
Hubert Glover Arun Nayar Eugene Yano
S. K. Gupta Daniel Ngo Don Yee
Jim Han Stuart Ogawa Marlon Young
Hussain Hasan Lisa Ong Joseph Yuen
Winson Heng Glenn Osaka Jing Zhang
Wes Hom Steven Pae Chao Zheng
Seong (Samuel) Hong Carin Pai
Sheila Hooda Samir Pandiri (As of 07/2018)
John Hotta Nilesh Patel
Chenming Hu Rosalia Patton
Priya Huskins Denise Peck
Bill Imada Marissa Peterson
Balakrishnan Iyer Hoshi Printer
Shakti Jauhar Chrissa Qiu
Ananda Kanapathy Sridhar Ramamoorti
Tariq Khan Susan Rani
Shane Kim Kirthiga Reddy

14 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

AT&T is leadership
<br >

We each have a unique background and range of experience. We
encourage our employees to reach their highest potential.
That's why we are proud to support the 2018 ASCEND National
Convention & Career Fair.

<br >

www.att.com/diversity
<br >

© 2018 AT&T Intellectual Property. AT&T, Globe logo, Mobilizing Your World and DIRECTV are registered trademarks of AT&T
Intellectual Property and/or AT&T affiliated companies. All other marks are the property of their respective owners.

<br >

AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS ASCEND 2018 AWARDS

ASCEND INSPIRING ACROSS GENERATIONS (IAG)
INSPIRATIONAL LEADER AWARD
Anne Chow President, National Business, AT&T Business

ASCEND INSPIRING ACROSS GENERATIONS (IAG)
HIGH-IMPACT LEADER AWARD
Binita Pradhan Partner, BDO

ASCEND INSPIRING ACROSS GENERATIONS (IAG)
RISING STAR AWARD
Yimei Lin Director, PwC
Judy To Senior Manager, Assurance Services, EY

ASCEND AFFINITY/ERG LEADERSHIP AWARD
IMPACT BNY Mellon
Oracle Professional Asian Leadership (OPAL) Oracle Corporation

ASCEND EXCELLENCE IN DIVERSITY & INCLUSION (D&I) AWARD
Metlife

ASCEND ICON AWARD
Andrea Jung President & CEO, Grameen America

ASCEND 2018 CORPORATE SCHOLARSHIPS

Rachel McKenna Baruch College Pearl Koc Indiana University
Brian Hua Temple University
Jiwon Chae Indiana University
Louise Jiang Baruch College Emily Chan Queens College
Roger Khuu University of Houston Linda Chen Temple University
Justina Liaw Binghamton University
Sharon Wong Baruch College FOUNDATION
Jully Zhong New York University

16 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

It’s only
impossible
until it works

Ready to pioneer?
Apply at Amazon.jobs

Amazon is an Equal Opportunity Employer

© 2018 JPMorgan Chase & Co.

STRONGER TOGETHER OUR PURSUIT OF EXCELLENCE
BEGINS WITH A PASSION
At JPMorgan Chase, diversity and inclusion are the cornerstones FOR DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION.
of our corporate culture. We’re passionate about creating a work
environment where everyone has a voice and different perspectives At Liberty Mutual, we foster an
are valued. By recruiting the highest quality people reflecting the atmosphere of trust and respect,
customers and communities that we serve, we increase our ability where our collective di erences and
to deliver the best solutions. similarities constantly inspire and
empower us. We are proud to sponsor
We are proud to support Ascend Pan–Asian Leaders 2018 National organizations like Ascend that support
Convention & Career Fair. and promote diversity and inclusion.

LMI.co/Diversity We are an equal opportunity employer.

ASCEND NATIONAL TEAM & ASCEND NATIONAL BOARD Amy Shang Treasurer
CONVENTION CONTRIBUTORS Yogesh Bahl Board Member
Jeff Chin National President Susan Chung Board Member
Anna W. Mok Executive Vice President Sharmila Fowler Board Member
Wes Hom Vice President of External Affairs Hussain T. Hasan Board Member
Jenny Wei Vice President of Internal Affairs Steven Pae Board Member
Sandeep Gupta Vice President of Chapter Affairs David Pang Board Member
Tariq Khan Vice President of Student Affairs
Andy Hahn Secretary

ASCEND ADVISORY BOARD Samuel T. Mok Managing Member, Condor
International Advisors LLC
Kenneth Bouyer Americas Director, EY
Christine Cadena Senior Vice President, Elena Richards US Minority Initiatives & Talent
Multicultural Initiatives, The Walt Disney Studios Management Leader, PwC
Richard J. Caturano Partner, National Leader of
Culture, Diversity & Inclusion, RSM US LLP Dennis Wu Founder, WuHoover & Co
Ragu Gurumurthy Chief Innovation Officer & Chief Linda Zhang Partner in-Charge, US-China Practice,
Digital Officer, Deloitte KPMG

ASCEND CHAPTER PRESIDENTS New England Bartholomew Jae
New Jersey Ananda Kanapathy
Charlotte Huy H. Dinh New York Metro Christine del Rosario
Connecticut & Westchester Henry Hu & Rohit North Texas Lana Tran
Prabhu Northern California Darcy Lopes
Greater Atlanta Suraj Amarnani Seattle Zhe ( Jay) Wu
Greater Philadelphia Elaine Cheong Toronto, Canada Kelvin Tran
Greater Washington Johnny Yu Twin Cities Vivian Chow
Houston Linda Luong Vancouver, Canada Jeffer Hsu & Conrad Rego
Los Angeles Metro Karen Chung & Thomas Phelps
Midwest Kate Seitz & RoseAnn Abraham

ASCEND NATIONAL EXECUTIVE ADVISORS Wes Hom Former Vice President & Managing
Director, IBM
Larry Chang Retired, Hewlett-Packard Executive
Michael Fung Former Senior Vice President and Wade Loo Retired, KPMG Partner
Chief Financial Officer, Wal-Mart US Denise Peck Retired, Cisco Executive
Buck Gee Retired, Cisco Executive Janet Wong Retired, KPMG Partner
S. K. Gupta Retired, Lockheed Martin Executive

ASCEND HEADQUARTERS TEAM Daniel Melville Summer Intern
Angelo Nepomuceno Finance & Administration
Sarah Chen West Coast Region Intern Tifanny Papish National Convention Director
Livia Ching-Gerring Regional Executive Director, Sofia Poyhonen Public Relations, Ascend Foundation
West Coast Robina Singh National Director, Membership
Daniel Falcones Finance & Operations Assistant Operations
Peyen Fong National Programs & Marketing Advisor
Andrew Hahn Summer Intern Selina Tan West Coast Region Intern
Andrea Jeng Summer Intern Anna Wei National Director of Business
Marie-Helene Kennedy-Payen Programs Consultant Development
Kathy Lee National Director, Executive Initiatives
Winnie Li Manager, Office Operations and Finance Jully Zhong National Office Volunteer
Emily Lin Multimedia Design Associate

18 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

ASCEND NORTHERN CALIFORNIA CHAPTER BOARD
Binita Pradhan Partner, BDO
Monica Hira Principal, PwC

ASCEND NORTHERN CALIFORNIA CHAPTER
OFFICERS
Darcy Lopes President
Livia Ching-Gerring Regional Executive Director, West Coast
Sam Wijesekera Executive Gala Co-Chair
Miriam Lopez Executive Gala Co-Chair
Buck Gee Vice President of Corporate Executive Initiative
Faye Sahai Vice President of Corporate Executive Initiative
Shawn Mattar Co-Chair of IAG Conferences & Vice President
of Memberships & Sponsorships
Stephanie Tom Co-Chair of IAG Conferences
Judy Kopa Vice President of Mentoring
JJ Lara Vice President of Student Affairs
Diana Hernandez Co-Chair of IAG Conferences & Vice
President of Marketing
Andrew Line Chapter Mentor & Advisor

ASCEND SCHOLARSHIP COMMITTEE
Jenny Wei Vice President of Internal Affairs
Tariq Khan Vice President of Student Affairs

RESUME COACHES
Sam Aina Senior Manager, Risk Consulting, Crowe
Tahir Ajaz Vice President, BNY Mellon
Alexander Chen Principal Counsel, The Walt Disney Company
Sarinya Hartgrove Vice President, BNY Mellon
Ron Mullins Vice President, Morgan Stanley
Kwan Segal Chief Executive Officer & Founder, ICAway
Chan-Yu Wang Senior Manager, Tax, Crowe

19

Read it. Click it. Get it.

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DiversityComm is proud to sponsor ASCEND

Download your complimentary issue:

www.DiversityComm.net/ASCEND

Join the Conversation!

Be present and
accounted for.

You’re the future of the accounting profession.
Become a CPA and join a highly
respected profession.
Succeed in a high-demand career.
Enjoy limitless opportunities.

Let’s get to work. Visit aicpa.org/diversity.

2018 Association of International Certified Professional Accountants. All rights reserved. AICPA and American Institute of CPAs are trademarks of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants
and are registered in the United States, the European Union and other countries. The Globe Design is a trademark owned by the Association of International Certified Professional Accountants and
licensed to the AICPA. 1807-8374

1807-8374_D&I Present and Accounted Ad Rebrand_Half page.indd 1 7/27/18 12:51 PM

“The more diverse our backgrounds, the deeper our insights.”

Career Opportunities at BDO.

There are many world-class accounting and consulting firms. Far fewer that offer a culture so rich in professional
opportunity, personal fulfillment, and long-term growth. At BDO, we understand that exceptional service to our clients
begins—and ends—with exceptional regard for our people. Because at its core, our business is not about numbers
or spreadsheets, dollars or cents, but about people working with, for, and in service of others. In short, because
relationships matter.

Accountants and Advisors www.bdo.com/careers

© 2018 BDO USA, LLP. All rights reserved.

CAREER FAIR GOLDEN GATE EXHIBIT

114 217 313 415
112 215 314
213 312
113

211 310

108 209 308

106 107 207 306 307 407

205 304

104 103 202 203 302 303 402

101 201 301 401

100 400
ENTRANCE

22 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

HALL 509 AIG
501 AlixPartners
515 PRIVATE AND GENERAL INTERVIEW ROOMS IR600 IR601 407 Allstate
IR700 IR701 301 Amazon
IR602 211 AT&T
513 IR707 IR706 IR705 IR702 303 Bank of America
511 IR711 IR710 104 BDO
509 IR712 IR713 IR714 IR709 507 Bristol-Myers Squibb
IR721 310 CalCPA
ENTRANCE IR717 505 Central Intelligence Agency
IR726 402 Crowe
507 IR719 IR718 400 Deloitte
RC504 307 EY
505 RC501 RC502 RC503 RC505 217 Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC)
503 308 Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA)
RESUME COACHING 302 Grainger
101 Grant Thornton LLP
501 213 Guggenheim Partners
107 HSBC
304 JPMorgan Chase
415 KPMG
201 Liberty Mutual
103 MERCK
108 Microsoft
312 Moody's Corporation
511 Northwestern Mutual
503 Oracle
207 Protiviti
401 PwC
205 Robert Half
113 RSM US LLP
314 Seiler LLP
202 The Boeing Company
306 The Clorox Company
513 TIAA
515 Twitter
203 U.S. Bank
313 United Airlines
209 United States Postal Service
112 United States Secret Service/Department of Homeland Security
114 University of California, San Francisco
106 UPS
100 Wells Fargo

2 018 A S C E N D N AT I O N A L C O N V E N T I O N & C A R E E R FA I R 23

Your perspectives
shape ours.

Everyone who works at RSM has an interesting and unique outlook that helps
power our understanding of the middle market. That’s just one of the many
reasons we support diversity, inclusion and everything that makes you, uniquely
you. Different perspectives enhance how we develop global leadership and
exceed the expectations of our clients. Your talents and experiences make
you one of a kind and a true value to the RSM team. Because when your
insights combine with ours, there’s no limit to what we can achieve together.
Experience the power of being you.
Apply today at rsmus.com/careers.

RSM US LLP is the U.S. member firm of RSM International, a global network of independent audit, tax and consulting firms. Visit rsmus.com /aboutus for more information regarding RSM US LLP and RSM International.
EOE/AA - Minorities/Females/Disabled/Veterans.

We are proud to support Ascend’s 2018 National Convention & Career Fair

As an employer, we aim to provide a flexible, open and supportive working environment where employees feel able to speak up,
where everyone is valued and respected, and where progression is based on merit.

We believe that diversity at HSBC brings benefits for our customers, our business and our people. The more different perspectives
we have, the better equipped we’ll be to meet the demands of our diverse global customer base – whether they are starting a business,
exporting to new markets or planning for retirement.

Together we thrive

Issued by HSBC Bank USA, N.A. Member FDIC. ©2018 HSBC Bank USA, N.A.

AGENDA & SESSIONS

2 018 A S C E N D N AT I O N A L C O N V E N T I O N & C A R E E R FA I R 25

STUDENT AGENDA AT A GLANCE

SUNDAY, AUGUST 19 pages 28 – 29

1:00pm – 3:30pm STUDENT ORIENTATION [Nob Hill]
Program & Networking
4:00pm – 5:00pm Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone & Getting Ahead
4:00pm – 5:00pm Getting Real with RSM
5:15pm – 6:15pm
5:15pm – 6:15pm Employer Showcase: United Airlines: Diversity in Talent & Opportunities at United Airlines [Yerba Buena Salon 10]
Employer Showcase: Allstate—We Are More Than Just Insurance! [Yerba Buena Salon 11]
Employer Showcase: Bristol Myers Squibb—Working Together For Our Patients [Yerba Buena Salon 10]
Perform in Confidence M.O.D.E. - presented by AICPA [Nob Hill]

MONDAY, AUGUST 20 pages 29 – 30

AGENDA AT A GLANCE 8:00am – 1:30pm Career Fair [Golden Gate Ballroom]
8:30am – 11:00am Resume Coaching – Session 1 [Golden Gate Ballroom]
11:00am – 1:30pm Resume Coaching – Sesson II [Golden Gate Ballroom]
10:00am – 11:00am Resume Writing Tips - presented by PwC [Nob Hill]
12:30pm – 1:30pm Job Hunting Success - Insider Tips for International Students [Nob Hill]
2:00pm – 3:30pm Welcome Remarks & The Making of Disney PIXAR Bao - presented by Disney [Yerba Buena Ballroom]
3:30pm – 4:30pm Ascend Talks Re-Imagined: Personal Innovation - presented by General Motors [Yerba Buena Ballroom]
4:30pm – 5:00pm Ascend Talks: Make Boldness Your Genius [Yerba Buena Ballroom]

PROFESSIONAL AGENDA AT A GLANCE

SUNDAY, AUGUST 19 page 32

8:30am – 5:00pm Executive Insight SeriesTM (EIS) (Separate Registration Required) [Yerba Buena Salon 5-6]
8:30am – 5:00pm Executive Insight for Women (EIW) (Separate Registration Required) [Yerba Buena Salon 3-4]

MONDAY, AUGUST 20 pages 32 – 33

8:00am – 12:30pm CEI (Corporate Executive Initiative) and Pinnacle (Corporate Board Initiative) Session (Invite Only)
8:00am – 1:30pm Career Fair [Golden Gate Ballroom]
8:30am – 11:00am Resume Coaching – Session 1 [Golden Gate Ballroom]
Resume Coaching – Sesson II [Golden Gate Ballroom]
11:00am – 1:30pm Welcome Remarks & The Making of Disney PIXAR Bao - presented by Disney [Yerba Buena Ballroom]
2:00pm – 3:30pm Ascend Talks Re-Imagined: Personal Innovation - presented by General Motors [Yerba Buena Ballroom]
3:30pm – 4:30pm Ascend Talks: Make Boldness Your Genius [Yerba Buena Ballroom]
4:30pm – 5:00pm Welcome Reception [Atrium]
5:30pm – 6:30pm

26 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

TUESDAY, AUGUST 21 pages 33 – 36

7:30am – 8:30am Breakfast [Yerba Buena Ballroom ]
8:30am – 9:30am Elevate Part 1: Respect is a Two-Way Street - presented by Ascend [Yerba Buena Ballroom ]
9:45am – 11:15am 4TH Annual ERG/BRG Leaders' Forum - presented by EY and Bristol Meyers Squibb (Invite Only)
10:00am – 11:00am BREAKOUT SESSIONS

10:00am – 11:00am Leadership & Dexterity: Your Cultural Advantage & Workplace Success [Golden Gate A]
11:30am – 1:30pm Driving Community Change [Golden Gate B]
2:00pm – 3:00pm The Promise & Perils of Artificial Intelligence: How AI Will Reshape the World [Golden Gate C]
Doctors' Offices (Pre-Registration Required)
2:00pm – 3:00pm Scholarship Luncheon - presented by EY [Yerba Buena Ballroom]
2:30pm – 5:30pm BREAKOUT SESSIONS
3:30pm – 5:00pm Blockchain & Future of Banking [Golden Gate A]
6:00pm – 7:00pm Autonomous Vehicles (AV) & the Future of Mobility [Golden Gate B]
Earn, Save, Spend: How to Start Taking Control of Your Finances [Golden Gate C]
Doctors' Offices (Pre-Registration Required)
Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) Forum (Invite Only)
Ascend Innovation Challenge - presented by Ascend Northern California (NorCal) Chapter [Yerba Buena Ballroom]
Yoga (Pre-Registration Required) [Nob Hill AB]

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 22 pages 37 – 40 AGENDA AT A GLANCE

8:00am – 9:30am Breakfast & Raising Your Own B.A.R. - presented with PwC [Yerba Buena Ballroom]
10:00am – 11:00am BREAKOUT SESSIONS

10:00am – 11:00am Bitcoin & Future of Money [Golden Gate A]
11:30am – 1:30pm Elevate Part II: Respect is a Two-Way Street [Golden Gate B]
2:00pm – 3:00pm Group Wisdom: Hope to Someday be a Great Leader? [Golden Gate C]
Doctors' Offices (Pre-Registration Required)
2:00pm – 3:00pm Leadership & Awards Luncheon [Yerba Buena Ballroom]
3:30pm – 4:30pm BREAKOUT SESSIONS
4:35pm – 5:00pm Careers in Media: Authenticity, Innovation & Storytelling [Golden Gate A]
6:30pm – 7:15pm Mindfulness: The Power of Mindful Leadership [Golden Gate B]
6:30pm – 7:15pm The Wealth Management Industry - Technology Trends & Asian Wealth [Golden Gate C]
7:30pm – 9:30pm Doctors' Offices (Pre-Registration Required)
Advancing Your Career and Your Community - Vision for Tomorrow [Yerba Buena Ballroom]
Ascend Talks: Unleashing the Power of Your Authentic Self [Yerba Buena Ballroom]
Networking Reception [Yerba Buena Grand Assembly]
President's Reception (Invite Only)
Awards Dinner [Yerba Buena Ballroom]

CERTIFICATE OF COMPLETION - All CPE eligible sessions are at basic level. CPE eligible sessions
PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION from Monday to Wednesday offer 1 credit.

FIELD OF STUDY Attendees must scan in and scan out of session and complete
evaluation to receive certificate of course completion.
Personal Development
Information Technology Additional CPE information is available on the Convene App.

2018 ASCEND NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR 27

STUDENT - SUNDAY, AUGUST 19

STUDENT AGENDA & SESSIONS SUNDAY, AUGUST 19 4:00pm–5:00pm
Yerba Buena Salon 10 | Lower B2 Level
1:00pm–3:30pm
Nob Hill | Lower B2 Level EMPLOYER SHOWCASE: UNITED AIRLINES: DIVERSITY IN TALENT &
OPPORTUNITIES AT UNITED AIRLINES
ASCEND WELCOME & STUDENT PROGRAM
At United Airlines, attracting, developing and retaining diverse talent
Welcome to San Francisco! is key. In addition to ensuring that we have the best talent, we also
offer a wide array of career opportunities. Engineering! Marketing!
Join us as we kick start the convention program by sharing Ascend's Finance! eCommerce! Legal! Sales! And more!
value for students and by providing insightful information on how to
navigate the convention & career fair. You will also hear testimonials speaker Gregory Jones, Chief Diversity Officer, United Airlines
from young professionals who will share the impact Ascend has had
on their academic and professional lives and how they are giving back 4:00pm–5:00pm
to the community with the objective to propel rising Pan-Asian talent Yerba Buena Salon 11 | Lower B2 Level
to leadership roles.
EMPLOYER SHOWCASE: ALLSTATE—WE ARE MORE THAN JUST
speaker Tariq Khan, Founder & CEO, Global Diversity Marketing; Adjunct INSURANCE!
Professor, Marketing, New York University
testimonial Kelly Zheng, Customer Engagement Manager, Celonis Why Allstate? We are an inclusive company of doers and dreamers,
testimonial John Yeun, Accounting and Finance Manager, The Clorox committed to our customers, our communities, and making the world
Company a safer and better place. You’ll find a purpose-driven organization
where bright people are bringing the best products and programs to
STEPPING OUT OF YOUR COMFORT ZONE & GETTING AHEAD life—and we’re doing it together. Sure, we are financial and insurance
professionals, but we are also data scientists, industrial engineers,
We all have comfort zones. Yours may have grown out of your parents’ marketers and software developers. All employees are empowered
overly narrow definition of success, pressure to conform to ethnic or to lead and drive change here and they are supported with mentor
gender stereotypes, or memories of a bad experience. Remaining and career development opportunities. Allstaters are translating their
in your comfort zone is easy but it limits you from reaching your passions and purpose into meaningful careers. Learn more, do more,
fullest potential and becoming your best, most satisfied self. Join us be more—with us! Still not sure if Allstate is a fit for you? Come visit
for a fireside chat with CIA Officer, War Veteran, Ultramarathoner, our Employer Showcase!
and Triathlete, Stacy, as she talks about how stepping out of your
comfort zone and challenging your fears are essential components speaker Danny Bui, Lead Scrum Master, Allstate Insurance
to achieving a fulfilling academic experience and career. One of the speaker Aisha Ghori Ozaki, Manager, Inclusive Diversity, Allstate
greatest discoveries you can make is to find out you are capable of Insurance
feats you’ve long been afraid to try. speaker Kimberly Grable, Diversity Recruiting Lead Consultant, Allstate
Insurance
speaker Stacy, Executive Staff Officer, CIA speaker Cindy Moy, Team Leader, Allstate Insurance

GETTING REAL WITH RSM

Honest and open dialogue on topics that concern, affect or perhaps
inspire you, as you enter the workforce. We will discuss how to
effectively transition into a professional work environment, manage
workplace conflict, optimize opportunities, personal and professional
ethics, and so much more. This session will give you tips and tools
to navigate the next steps; from the interview process, to earning
your colleagues' trust, and learning what is expected of you as a
young professional. You will be given a roadmap to success, tools to
use along the way, and examples of best practices. Join RSM for this
opportunity to engage young professionals at all different stages in
their career for diverse perspectives.

moder ator Alfred Ko, Director, Risk Advisory Services, RSM US LLP
panelist Michael Alberto, Supervisor, RSM US LLP
panelist Andrea Fong, Campus Recruiter, RSM US LLP
panelist Karen Jong, Partner, Tax Services, RSM US LLP
panelist Vanita Kataria, Supervisor, RSM US LLP

28 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

STUDENT - MONDAY, AUGUST 20

5:15pm–6:15pm MONDAY, AUGUST 20
Yerba Buena Salon 10 | Lower B2 Level
8:00am–1:30pm
EMPLOYER SHOWCASE: BRISTOL-MYERS SQUIBB - WORKING Golden Gate Ballroom | B2 Level
TOGETHER FOR OUR PATIENTS CAREER FAIR

Bristol-Myers Squibb is one of the world’s biopharmaceutical leaders, See page 22–23 for career fair exhibitors.
committed to creating innovative medicines for patients fighting
serious diseases. At the same time, we also nurture our own team
with inspiring work and challenging career options.

At Bristol-Myers Squibb, our people are our competitive advantage. RESUME COACHING
We attract, retain and develop the world’s top, diverse talent and
leverage their unique insights to drive business results. We offer an Resume coaching takes place in parallel to the Career Fair, offering an
engaging work environment where all are encouraged to pursue invaluable opportunity for job seekers to have their resumes reviewed
innovative ideas, develop leadership capabilities and gain valuable, by coaches who provide constructive tips for improving one’s resume
diverse experiences to shape exciting careers. No matter what for optimal results.
your role, we are united by our mission to help patients prevail over
serious diseases. 8:30am–11:00am 11:00am–1:30pm
SESSION 1 SESSION II
Please join us for our employer showcase. Bristol-Myers Squibb will
host a panel session featuring employees from across our company. 10:00am–11:00am STUDENT AGENDA & SESSIONS
They will discuss how employees with diverse geographical, social and Nob Hill | Lower B2 Level
educational backgrounds work together for patients.
RESUME WRITING TIPS - Presented by PwC
After the showcase, please come meet the Bristol-Myers Squibb
team at the Ascend Career Fair at booth #507. Join PwC to learn about the resume do’s and don’ts to get your
resume noticed through the thousands of resumes many employers
moder ator CeLois Steele, Director, Global Diversity/Inclusion & receive. Your resume is the first impression of you before meeting
Partnership Engagement, Bristol-Myers Squibb your potential employer and we will share all the things we look for
panelist Kristin Alongi, Candidate Sourcing Specialist, Talent Acquisition, in an applicant.
Bristol-Myers Squibb
panelist Priscilla Ko, Manager, Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation speaker Debbie Shih, Advisory Business Recruiting Lead, PwC
panelist Jing Yang, Senior Principal Scientist, Bristol-Myers Squibb
12:30pm–1:30pm
5:15pm–6:15pm Nob Hill | Lower B2 Level
Nob Hill | Lower B2 Level
JOB HUNTING SUCCESS - INSIDER TIPS FOR INTERNATIONAL
PERFORM IN CONFIDENCE M.O.D.E. - Presented by AICPA STUDENTS

Join us for an informative discussion about the way confidence impacts Join us to learn best practices in navigating the recruiting process
our lives. Research shows positive affirmations isn’t the formula, for international students and developing a mindset that will entirely
we must take action and teach ourselves new patterns to change change your career approach. You will hear insider perspectives from
the behavior. Participants will learn how to evaluate and build the the cofounder of UniCareer, one the largest career development
components of their own confidence M.O.D.E: Mastery, Obstacles, platforms for international talents, with practical tips on professional
Determination and Execution. networking and acing your job interviews, and get behind the scenes
of how decisions are made at large financial institutions. Through
speaker Dr. Florence Holland, Lead Manager, Pipeline Initiatives, interactive case studies, you will also learn how to manage “how other
Association of International Certified Professional Accountants (AICPA) people perceive you”, which is important not only for landing a job
offer, but also for advancing your career.

speaker Denise Wang, Co-Founder, UniCareer

2018 ASCEND NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR 29

STUDENT AGENDA & SESSIONS STUDENT - MONDAY, AUGUST 20

2:00pm–3:30pm
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level
WELCOME REMARKS & THE MAKING OF DISNEY PIXAR BAO -
Presented by Disney

Join us for a discussion with the creative masterminds behind Pixar’s
newest short film, Bao, which made its debut in theaters with
Incredibles 2. Domee Shi, who directed Bao, is the first woman in
the studio’s history to direct a short film. She will be joined on the
panel by Rona Liu, a production designer at Pixar and Becky Neiman-
Cobb for a lively discussion about their creative process and how they
incorporated Asian American culture and food into the longest Pixar
short film to date.

welcome remarks Jeff Chin, National President, Ascend
speaker Becky Neiman-Cobb, Producer, Pixar Animation Studios
speaker Rona Liu, Production Designer, Pixar Animation Studios
speaker Domee Shi, Director, Pixar Animation Studios

3:30pm–4:30pm
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level
ASCEND TALKS RE-IMAGINED: PERSONAL INNOVATION - Presented
by General Motors

Innovation is defined as a “change in the thought process for doing
something.” It’s about new ideas, improvement and advancement.
Personal Innovation is about rethinking the way you do things and
becoming better at what you do.

We are proud to present Ascend Talks Re-Imagined, showcasing
brothers Justin Kan and Dan Kan, moderated by Michael Huang.
Join us to hear their success stories as entrepreneurs, triumphs as
business leaders, and how personal innovation underpins their
accomplishments.

remarks Ken Barrett, Global Chief Diversity Officer, General Motors
moder ator Michael Huang, Deputy Editor, ESPN International, NBA
keynote speaker Dan Kan, Co-Founder & COO, Cruise Automation
keynote speaker Justin Kan, CEO, Atrium

4:30pm–5:00pm
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level
ASCEND TALKS: MAKE BOLDNESS YOUR GENIUS

Don't ask. Tell!! Also, use exclamation points!

Dare to be bold! Be as bold as Brian Wong, 27 year old co-founder
and CEO of Kiip who started college at age 14 and launched his own
company at age 19. Brian knows all about shortcuts. Shortcuts as
simple as getting a trademark haircut or as complicated as knowing
his super power. Join us as he shares some of his cheat codes on how
to get ahead quickly.

keynote speaker Brian Wong, Co-Founder & CEO, Kiip

30 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

BUILD Kristina Kassem
SOMETHING Manufacturing Engineer
AMAZING
6/4/18 12:35 PM
That’s What We Do, Every Day.

Join a diverse team that is united in
pushing the boundaries of imagination
and excellence. Come shape the
future with us.

www.boeing.com/careers/ascend

Boeing is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment decisions are made without regard to race,
color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, physical or mental
disability, genetic factors, military/veteran status or other characteristics protected by law.

311375_27_Ascend_AQFNL.indd 1

Supporting great causes: Robert Half is pleased to sponsor the
a commitment that’s 2018 Ascend National Convention
as much a part of UPS & Career Fair.
as our brown trucks.
As the world’s leading provider of specialized staffing and consulting
UPS is proud to support the Ascend solutions, Robert Half has emphasized diversity and inclusive business
National Convention & Career Fair. practices since our founding in 1948.

ups.com To learn more about Robert Half career opportunities, please visit
roberthalf.com/work-for-robert-half.
© 2018 United Parcel Service of America, Inc. UPS, the UPS logo, and the color brown are trademarks of United Parcel Service of America, Inc. All rights reserved.
Call us today at 888.557.2989
roberthalf.com

© 2018 Robert Half International Inc. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disability/Veterans. RH-0318

PROFESSIONAL - SUNDAY, AUGUST 19 – MONDAY, AUGUST 20

SUNDAY, AUGUST 19 2:00pm–3:30pm
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level
8:30am–5:00pm
Yerba Buena Salon 5-6 | Lower B2 Level WELCOME REMARKS & THE MAKING OF DISNEY PIXAR BAO -
EXECUTIVE INSIGHT SERIESTM (EIS) (Separate Registration Required) Presented by Disney

8:30am–5:00pm Join us for a discussion with the creative masterminds behind Pixar’s
Yerba Buena Salon 3-4 | Lower B2 Level newest short film, Bao, which made its debut in theaters with
EXECUTIVE INSIGHT FOR WOMEN (EIW) (Separate Registration Required) Incredibles 2. Domee Shi, who directed Bao, is the first woman in
the studio’s history to direct a short film. She will be joined on the
panel by Rona Liu, a production designer at Pixar and Becky Neiman-
Cobb for a lively discussion about their creative process and how they
incorporated Asian American culture and food into the longest Pixar
short film to date.

PROFESSIONAL AGENDA & SESSIONS MONDAY, AUGUST 20 welcome remarks Jeff Chin, National President, Ascend
speaker Becky Neiman-Cobb, Producer, Pixar Animation Studios
8:00am–12:30pm speaker Rona Liu, Production Designer, Pixar Animation Studios
CEI (CORPORATE EXECUTIVE INITIATIVE) AND PINNACLE speaker Domee Shi, Director, Pixar Animation Studios
(CORPORATE BOARD INITIATIVE) SESSION (Executives - Invite Only)
3:30pm–4:30pm
This session will cover a variety of topics that are relevant to seasoned Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level
executives such as corporate culture, technology and innovation, and ASCEND TALKS RE-IMAGINED: PERSONAL INNOVATION - Presented
board readiness. by General Motors

8:00am–1:30pm Innovation is defined as a “change in the thought process for doing
Golden Gate Ballroom | B2 Level something.” It’s about new ideas, improvement and advancement.
CAREER FAIR Personal Innovation is about rethinking the way you do things and
becoming better at what you do.
See page 22–23 for career fair exhibitors.
We are proud to present Ascend Talks Re-Imagined, showcasing
RESUME COACHING brothers Justin Kan and Dan Kan, moderated by Michael Huang.
Join us to hear their success stories as entrepreneurs, triumphs as
Resume coaching takes place in parallel to the Career Fair, offering business leaders, and how personal innovation underpins their
an invaluable opportunity for job seekers to have their resumes accomplishments.
reviewed by coaches who provide constructive tips for improving
one’s resume for optimal results. moder ator Michael Huang, Deputy Editor, ESPN International, NBA
keynote speaker Dan Kan, Co-Founder & COO, Cruise Automation
8:30am–11:00am 11:00am–1:30pm keynote speaker Justin Kan, CEO, Atrium
SESSION 1 SESSION II
4:30pm–5:00pm
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level
ASCEND TALKS: MAKE BOLDNESS YOUR GENIUS

Don't ask. Tell!! Also, use exclamation points!

Dare to be bold! Be as bold as Brian Wong, 27 year old co-founder
and CEO of Kiip who started college at age 14 and launched his own
company at age 19. Brian knows all about shortcuts. Shortcuts as
simple as getting a trademark haircut or as complicated as knowing
his super power. Join us as he shares some of his cheat codes on how
to get ahead quickly.

keynote speaker Brian Wong, Co-Founder & CEO, Kiip

32 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

PROFESSIONAL - TUESDAY, AUGUST 21

5:30pm–6:30pm 10:00am–11:00am PROFESSIONAL AGENDA & SESSIONS
Atrium | Second Level
WELCOME RECEPTION BREAKOUT SESSIONS

Join fellow attendees at the Welcome Reception. The reception is Golden Gate A | B2 Level
a great way to meet and network with colleagues and peers while LEADERSHIP & DEXTERITY: YOUR CULTURAL ADVANTAGE &
getting the convention off to a terrific start! WORKPLACE SUCCESS

TUESDAY, AUGUST 21 What do all high performers know? How do you navigate all groups
and different levels within your organization to gain advantage? Join us
7:30am–8:30am for a compelling conversation about advancing within the workplace
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level and how you can leverage culture and dexterity to achieve your
BREAKFAST success. How is credibility and respect earned? What part do you play
on your team or at your firm? How do you use your skills to manage
8:30am–9:30am up? This session is not about memorizing a technical method, but
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level becoming aware of your cultural, emotional and business intelligence
ELEVATE PART 1: RESPECT IS A TWO-WAY STREET - Presented by and how to use it to your advantage.
Ascend
moder ator Tracey Walker, National Senior Director of Government
We all want to be respected - by our leaders, our colleagues, and our Affairs; Culture Diversity and Inclusion, RSM US LLP
friends and family. panelist Soukie Chanhdara, Program Manager, National Learning &
Professional Development, RSM US LLP
But it takes work to earn that respect. Garnering respect in the panelist Hussain T. Hasan, Principal, Risk Advisory Services, RSM US LLP
workplace can be frustrating at times especially between multiple
generations. You have to learn to give respect, act and think with Golden Gate B | B2 Level
confidence, and learn to be trusted. Find out how our own Ascend DRIVING COMMUNITY CHANGE
star, Ajay, and guest commentators navigate the challenging path to
gaining and giving respect. Community change and evolution does not happen overnight and
driving it is certainly not simple. It requires thoughtful planning,
remarks Wes Hom, Vice President of External Affairs and National Board innovative thinking, strategic alliances, application of sustainable
Member, Ascend; Former Vice President & Managing Director, IBM practices, and above all, compassionate leadership. Join Ascend as
moder ator Denise Peck, Executive Advisor, Ascend; Retired, Cisco we bring together a panel of leaders who will provide insights into
Executive what it means to drive community change and how it can be mutually
panelist Jonathan Chew, Assistant Producer, Walt Disney Imagineering rewarding for parties involved. Through real business examples, we
panelist Michael So, Assistant Program Engineering Manager - will also explore how large corporations, small businesses, grassroots
Autonomous Vehicles, General Motors organizations, and entrepreneurs can work together for the common
goal of improving lives and giving back.

moder ator David Hsiang, AVP, Cybersecurity Innovation, Bank of America
panelist Eric Batongbacal, AVP, California State Regulatory, AT&T
panelist Reba Dominski, Chief Social Responsibility Officer & President,
U.S. Bank Foundation, U.S. Bank

9:45am–11:15am Golden Gate C | B2 Level
THE PROMISE & PERILS OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI): HOW AI
4TH ANNUAL ERG/BRG LEADERS FORUM - Presented by EY and WILL RESHAPE THE WORLD
Bristol Meyers Squibb (Executives - Invite Only)
The market for AI is growing rapidly, an estimated $12B in 2017
Each year, the forum gives employee/business resource group (ERG and $57.6B by 2021. And, the buzz around artificial intelligence is
and BRG) leaders an opportunity to build connections with leaders enormous – tasks previously seen as human-only such as chess and
from other organizations and to share ideas to strengthen the groups. jeopardy, are becoming dominated by intelligent algorithms running on
This year, leaders will focus on identifying action items that you can massive amounts of computing power. In industry, intelligent systems
implement to advance your network, based on its maturity level. The that interact with customers, automate tasks, and learn over time, are
session will begin with a keynote introduction, launching directly into being deployed to supplement traditional human intelligence. In this
table discussions. session we will talk about the grounding concepts in AI and how the
world will change as AI becomes a part of everything we do.
welcome remarks Jeff Chin, National President, Ascend
remarks CeLois Steele, Director, Global Diversity/Inclusion & Partnership moder ator John Lee, Director, KPMG Data & Analytics Center of
Engagement, Bristol-Myers Squibb Excellence, the Lighthouse
panelist Ellen Campana, Director, Data Science, KPMG
panelist Viral Chawda, Principal, Innovation & Enterprise Solutions, KPMG
panelist Ryan Lau, Senior Associate, KPMG Data & Analytics Center of
Excellence, the Lighthouse

2018 ASCEND NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR 33

YOU ARE

IS NEEDED HERE.

The things that matter to you – family, friends, country –
matter to us. At the CIA, you can utilize your inherent culture,
values and patriotism to make a meaningful contribution to
our national security. We’re collaborative. We’re inclusive.
And we work tirelessly on behalf of a grateful nation.

Join an organization that strives to be as diverse as the
country it serves.

THE WORK OF A NATION. For additional information and to apply, visit:
THE CENTER OF INTELLIGENCE.
cia.gov/careers

Applicants must have US citizenship and the ability to successfully complete medical examinations and security
procedures, including a polygraph interview. An equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workforce.

CHF113288m_Diversity_ChineseMale_Ascend_8.5x5.5.indd 1 7/16/18 11:55 AM

Bring your whole self
to Grant Thornton

Because our people are our business, we invest in them. Bring your whole self to thrive in
our community, both personally and professionally, as you serve diverse clients worldwide.
Grant Thornton has been involved with Ascend since inception and is proud to continue our 2018
sponsorship of the Ascend National Convention & Career Fair. Visit members of our Pan Asian and
allies business resource group — at the career expo.
Explore how you can grow your whole self at gt.com/careers

“Grant Thornton” refers to Grant Thornton LLP, the U.S. member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd (GTIL), and/or refers to the brand under which the independent network of GTIL
member firms provide services to their clients, as the context requires. GTIL and each of its member firms are not a worldwide partnership and are not liable for one another’s acts or omissions. In the
United States, visit grantthornton.com for details. © 2018 Grant Thornton LLP | All rights reserved | U.S. member firm of Grant Thornton International Ltd

PROFESSIONAL - TUESDAY, AUGUST 21

10:00am–11:00am 2:00pm–3:00pm PROFESSIONAL AGENDA & SESSIONS

DOCTORS’ OFFICES (Pre-Registration Required) BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Golden Gate A | B2 Level
This is your chance to be mentored by our ‘Doctors of Leadership’, BLOCKCHAIN & FUTURE OF BANKING
seasoned executives who have risen to the top, on topics that affect
us all in the workplace. In a small intimate group setting, hear first- The end of 2017 has made bitcoin and cryptocurrencies a household
hand how they navigated their careers, used their strengths and seized name. Underpinning this new wave is the blockchain technology, a
opportunities as well as faced and overcame challenges throughout secure distributed ledger system that enables participants to transact
their professional lives culminating in an executive position and with each other without the need for a third-party intermediary. Our
powerful networks. Create connections and learn lessons that could panelists will give an overview of the technology and discuss:
impact the future of your career.
• What areas of banking are most likely to be transformed by
Yerba Buena 2 | Lower B2 Level blockchain?
WHY HUMILITY MATTERS FOR MANAGERS
Miriam Shou, Advanced Risk & Compliance Analytics Director, PwC • What are some of the current use cases in the financial industry?

Yerba Buena 3 | Lower B2 Level • What are the regulatory concerns?
KNOWING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BOSS AND A MENTOR
Alpa Inamdar, Head of Americas Business Change Group, BNY Mellon moder ator Trudie Kanter, Senior Manager, Crowe LLP
panelist Jennifer Corr, Assurance Partner, BDO USA, LLP
Yerba Buena 4 | Lower B2 Level panelist Laura M. Fontana, Product Strategy Consultant for Distributed
UNDERSTANDING THE IMPORTANCE OF ACCOUNTABILITY IN Ledger Technology, Wells Fargo
BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS panelist Kevin Li, Co-Founder & Head of Strategy, Athena Blockchain
Ami Gupta, Executive Director, Applications R&D and Asia, Praxair
Golden Gate B | B2 Level
Yerba Buena 5 | Lower B2 Level AUTONOMOUS VEHICHLES (AV) & THE FUTURE OF MOBILITY
NAVIGATING DIFFICULT INTERACTIONS AT WORK
Michael Yap, Head of Business Development, Gen Mobile Self-driving vehicles and innovations in mobility are believed to
contribute to air quality improvements, cut congestion, boost safety
Yerba Buena 6 | Lower B2 Level and create thousands of skilled jobs. But are we ready for them? In
BUILDING VALUABLE VIRTUAL BUSINESS RELATIONSHIPS this session, a panel of experts will discuss how the growth of this
Rishi Chugh, Partner, KPMG LLP new type of vehicle will impact society, consumers and organizations.

11:30am–1:30pm moderator Paul Bi, Assistant Director of Product Analysis - National
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level Insurance General Liability, Liberty Mutual Insurance
panelist Karen Chae, Managing Director, Enterprise Architect, Accenture
SCHOLARSHIP LUNCHEON - Presented by EY panelist Deeksha Joshi, Mananging Director, Liberty Mutual
panelist Andrew Ko, Managing Director for Global Education, Amazon
Ascend, along with EY and other partners, will honor university Web Services Worldwide Public Sector
students who demonstrate scholastic excellence, leadership, and
commendable community service. Come join us and hear from Golden Gate C | B2 Level
our Scholarship Luncheon keynote speaker Jeff Wong, Global Chief EARN, SAVE, SPEND: HOW TO START TAKING CONTROL OF YOUR
Innovation Officer at EY. FINANCES

keynote speaker Jeff Wong, Global Chief Innovation Officer, EY Making (or striving for) a good salary doesn’t guarantee a sound
future; you also have to manage that paycheck wisely. Northwestern
Mutual financial advisors Neal Takahashi and Toby Eng talk about how
to build a strong financial foundation so you can tackle debt, save and
spend smarter, managing competing priorities for your money, and
plan for the future as you grow in your career.

speaker Julia Chang, Deputy Editor, Northwestern Mutual
speaker Toby Eng, District Director, Northwestern Mutual
speaker Dan McLennon, Senior Advanced Planning Attorney, Northwestern
Mutual
speaker Neal Takahashi, Wealth Management Advisor, Northwestern
Mutual

2018 ASCEND NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR 35

PROFESSIONAL - TUESDAY, AUGUST 21

PROFESSIONAL AGENDA & SESSIONS 2:00pm–3:00pm 3:30pm–5:00pm
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level
DOCTORS’ OFFICES (Pre-Registration Required)
ASCEND INNOVATION CHALLENGE PRESENTED BY NORTHERN
This is your chance to be mentored by our ‘Doctors of Leadership’, CALIFORNIA (NORCAL) CHAPTER
seasoned executives who have risen to the top, on topics that affect
us all in the workplace. In a small intimate group setting, hear first- In today’s constantly changing world, Innovation is more important
hand how they navigated their careers, used their strengths and seized than ever. Society looks for and awards the "next best thing." This is
opportunities as well as faced and overcame challenges throughout why Ascend has gathered the most innovative ideas for this year's
their professional lives culminating in an executive position and National Convention, hosted by our Northern California (NorCal)
powerful networks. Create connections and learn lessons that could Chapter. In the past six months, applicants from across the country
impact the future of your career. have been polishing and pitching their ideas to us for a chance to win
the Challenge. This session will showcase some of the most creative
Yerba Buena 3 | Lower B2 Level ideas we received for you to experience and hear about. Who knows?
BENEFITS & CHALLENGES OF BEING YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF AT Maybe you'll want to partner with these groups or maybe this will
WORK spark creative ideas of your own. Join us for an exciting session. May
Yogesh Bahl, Managing Director, AlixPartners LLP the most innovative idea win.

Yerba Buena 4 | Lower B2 Level welcome remarks Darcy Lopes, Assurance Partner, EY
LEARNING TO DELEGATE remarks Monica Hira, Principal, PwC
Kate Seitz, Partner, RSM US LLP remarks Faye Sahai, Board Director, Ayogo Health Inc.
host Chris Chang, MBA Candidate, University of Pennsylvania
Yerba Buena 5 | Lower B2 Level host Yunice Fong, Assistant Comptroller, KeepTruckin
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR MANAGER judge Ashwin Hira, Investor, Softbank
Jackson Chou, Tax Director, PwC judge Crystal Lee, Host & Producer, This is SF
judge Katie McCann, Startup Consultant/Advisor, Angel Investor
Yerba Buena 6 | Lower B2 Level closing remarks Livia Ching-Gerring, Regional Executive Director, West
PREPARING FOR PERFORMANCE APPRAISAL Coast, Ascend
Thomas Phelps IV, Vice President of Corporate Strategy & CIO, Laserfiche

2:30pm–5:30pm 6:00pm–7:00pm
Nob Hill AB | Lower B2 Level
CHIEF DIVERSITY OFFICER (CDO) FORUM (Executives - Invite Only)
YOGA
Ascend’s Chief Diversity Officer (CDO) Forum consists of business
thought leaders and executives who are highly committed to Come stretch your muscles physically and mentally at a mid-
advancing diversity and inclusion in the workplace. As diversity convention yoga session. Whether you are a beginner or a regular
champions and advocates in their respective businesses, these practitioner, join us to learn some effective postures and techniques
thought leaders provide valuable insight on topics important to the to de-stress and gain control of your personal and professional life -
advancement of Ascend and our mission. The Forum members also and meet others who enjoy it as well!
serve as advocates within their organizations and communities for
the advancement and development of Pan-Asian professionals. This All are welcome and no prior experience is necessary. Yoga mats are
session will bring collaborative, results-oriented leaders together to provided. Bring water and dress in appropriate attire. The session will
connect, engage and work through topics most important in the D&I be led by Cecilia Tse, certified yoga instructor, PwC Director, and
space, while sharing research findings and inspiring action through EVP of Operations for the Ascend New York Metro (NYM) Chapter.
thought leadership.
certified yoga instructor Cecilia Tse, Director, PwC

36 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

PROFESSIONAL - WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 22

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 22 Golden Gate B | B2 Level PROFESSIONAL AGENDA & SESSIONS
ELEVATE: RESPECT IS A TWO-WAY STREET PART II
8:00am–9:30am
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level Respect is a two-way street. Keeping an open mind, listening and
understanding everyone’s positions are just some of the key ways
BREAKFAST & RAISING YOUR OWN B.A.R. - Presented with PwC to gaining the respect that we all desire. Learn from our guest
commentators and our own Ascend star, Ajay, what are some
With a myriad of opinions as to what we should, could, and would additional behaviors one must demonstrate to give and gain sustained
do in our career and personal lives - we all need to periodically step respect that we all want in the workplace. “Will Ajay get what he
back and evaluate what's truly important to us - setting our own "bar" wants?”
for things we want to achieve and be fulfilled by. As a daughter of an
immigrant "Tiger Mom" and a very religious father - every aspect of welcome remarks Wes Hom, Vice President of External Affairs and
Jane Chinhua's youth was strictly managed. Now a PwC Partner, single National Board Member, Ascend; Former Vice President & Managing
mom, and a runner - she's pleased to share her journey to defining Director, IBM
her own aspirations, discussing specific advice in 3 key dimensions: moder ator Denise Peck, Executive Advisor, Ascend
Personal, Career, and Community/Society, and what her B.A.R. (each panelist Jonathan Chew, Assistant Producer, Walt Disney Imagineering
letter representing 1 of 3 key themes) is for each. panelist Michael So, Assistant Program Engineering Manager - Autonomous
Vehicles, General Motors
speaker Jane Chinhua Allen, Advisory Services, Principal, PwC
Golden Gate C | B2 Level
10:00am–11:00am GROUP WISDOM: HOPE TO SOMEDAY BE A GREAT LEADER? FIND
OUT WHY LEVERAGING YOUR INTERNAL NETWORK IS A SMART
BREAKOUT SESSIONS MOVE - Presented by EY
Golden Gate A | B2 Level
BITCOIN & FUTURE OF MONEY Today’s ladder to the top won’t necessarily take you “up.” As the
nature of work itself changes, companies are trading the traditional
During 2017, Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies exploded in vertical approach to career advancement for a collaborative, team-
popularity, creating a wave of opportunities for investors and based model. While participating in workplace professional groups
entrepreneurs that hasn’t been seen since the rise of the internet. has always been a good idea, this evolution of our working world
During this session, our panel will discuss the history of bitcoin makes the experience even more worthwhile. An increasing reliance
and rise of other cryptocurrencies, as well as the current risk and on collaboration and teamwork means that companies will be looking
opportunity set in the space. Panelists will also specifically address for employees who demonstrate strong group leadership skills, make
mining, the current investing and regulatory landscape, and the scene meaningful contributions and show enthusiasm for, and dedication to,
on campus and opportunities for students. their profession. In this breakout session, presented by EY and Bristol-
Myers Squibb, hear what others have to say about the ways that being
• What areas of banking are most likely to be transformed by active in a network such as an employee/business resource group
blockchain? (ERGs and BRGs) helped to advance them in their careers.

• What are some of the current use cases in the financial industry?
• What are the regulatory concerns?

moder ator Ignacio L. Griego, Assurance Partner, Asset Management
Practice, BDO USA, LLP
panelist Anish Agarwal, Machine Learning Engineer, Tesla, Inc.
panelist Anthony DiPrinzio, Head of Consulting, Blockchain at Berkeley
panelist Sina Nader, Managing Partner, CryptoLux Capital

2018 ASCEND NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR 37

Susie Choy, Partner
Firmwide Diversity & Inclusion Advisor

Organizations must continuously innovate
to grow. Innovation requires…

Diversity of thought
and cultures.

Our commitment to diversity, innovation, and an inclusive work environment are just
some of the reasons national groups have named us one of the best places to work.
To learn more about a career with Crowe, visit gocrowe.com, or contact
Susie Choy at +1 415 230 4969 or [email protected].

GoCrowe.com

Visit us at the career fair in booth #402 and
attend our breakout session on blockchain
and cryptocurrencies.

Audit / Tax / Advisory / Risk / Performance Smart decisions. Lasting value.™

Visit www.crowe.com/disclosure for more information about Crowe LLP, its subsidiaries, and Crowe Global. Crowe is not responsible for any loss incurred by any person who relies on the information discussed GS-19007-004
in this document. © 2018 Crowe LLP.

PEOPLE

STORIES Entertain. Enlighten. Inspire.

The Walt Disney Company is proud to sponsor
the Ascend National Convention and support the
leadership development and business potential

of Pan-Asian professionals.

POSSIBILITIES © Disney

PROFESSIONAL - WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 22

10:00am–11:00am 2:00pm–3:00pm PROFESSIONAL AGENDA & SESSIONS

DOCTORS’ OFFICES (Pre-Registration Required) BREAKOUT SESSIONS

This is your chance to be mentored by our ‘Doctors of Leadership’, Golden Gate A | B2 Level
seasoned executives who have risen to the top, on topics that affect CAREERS IN MEDIA: AUTHENTICITY, INNOVATION &
us all in the workplace. In a small intimate group setting, hear first- STORYTELLING
hand how they navigated their careers, used their strengths and seized
opportunities as well as faced and overcame challenges throughout At Disney, we tell heartwarming and inspiring stories that bring
their professional lives culminating in an executive position and people together. It takes teams made up of producers, actors, finance
powerful networks. Create connections and learn lessons that could managers, lawyers, designers, engineers and hundreds of other roles
impact the future of your career. to bring stories to life around the world. Join us for a panel discussion
with Disney professionals and hear how their authentic stories and
Yerba Buena 3 | Lower B2 Level expertise contribute to their roles at Disney.
IMPORTANCE OF TRANSFERABLE SKILLS
Tariq Khan, Founder & CEO, Global Diversity Marketing; Adjunct Professor, moder ator Kristen Sze, News Anchor, KGO-TV
Marketing, New York University panelist Tra-Mi Callahan, Executive Director of Communications, Disney
ABC Television Group
Yerba Buena 4 | Lower B2 Level panelist Julie Peng, Senior Manager of Talent & Production, ILMxLAB
BENEFITS & CHALLENGES OF BEING YOUR AUTHENTIC SELF AT panelist John So, Vice President of Business Planning & Development,
WORK Disney ABC Television Group
Chi Ngo, Director, Risk Assurance, PwC panelist Loretta Yee, Director, Financial Systems, The Walt Disney
Company

Yerba Buena 5 | Lower B2 Level Golden Gate B | B2 Level
JUGGLING BUSINESS TRAVEL AND PROJECTS MINDFULNESS: THE POWER OF MINDFUL LEADERSHIP
Jimmy Agustin, Managing Director, Head of Engineering, Banking RegTech,
Moody’s Analytics The Institute of Mindful Leadership defines mindful leader as
"someone who embodies leadership presence by cultivating focus,
Yerba Buena 6 | Lower B2 Level clarity, creativity, and compassion in the service of others." Join us
DEFINING YOUR VALUE PROPOSITIONS for this panel discussion to learn about why mindfulness matters
Jenny Chan, Partner, Advisory, EY in leadership, how mindful leadership skills are developed and how
leaders can implement mindfulness.
11:30am–1:30pm
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level moder ator Karan Gulati, Director of Strategy, Investments, Allstate
LEADERSHIP LUNCHEON Insurance
panelist Jana Arbanas, Principal, Deloitte & Touche LLP
Come join us at the Leadership & Awards Luncheon to celebrate panelist Melinda Yee Franklin, Managing Director of Corporate &
individuals who have dedicated themselves to promoting Pan-Asian Government Affairs, Western Region, United Airlines
leadership in business and within the community. panelist Cecilia Tse, Director, PwC

master of ceremonies Jan Yanehiro, Broadcast Journalist; Director, Golden Gate C | B2 Level
Academy of Art University THE WEALTH MANAGEMENT INDUSTRY - TECHNOLOGY TRENDS
& ASIAN WEALTH
moder ator Anna W. Mok, Co-Founder, Ascend Pinnacle; National
Executive Vice President, Ascend; Partner, Deloitte & Touche LLP BNY Mellon invites you to a discussion about the trends in the
Wealth Management Industry and the opportunities they present for
keynote speaker Emily Chang, Anchor & Executive Producer, Bloomberg Asian Wealth. Rob Kricena will present an overview of the Wealth
Technology Management Industry in the US, how robo-technology and passive
investment vehicles are disrupting the industry, and BNY Mellon’s
strategy working with Asian clients. Justin Miller will discuss the
importance of planning and tax considerations for wealth management
clients, especially those with assets in multiple jurisdictions. Jennifer
Ma will share her experience working with cross-border Asian
clients, and her perspective on building a successful career in Wealth
Management focused on the Pan-Asian community.

speaker Robert Kricena, President U.S. Markets – Northwest, BNY Mellon
speaker Jennifer Ma, Senior Wealth Manager, BNY Mellon
speaker Justin Miller, National Wealth Strategist, BNY Mellon

2018 ASCEND NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR 39

PROFESSIONAL - WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 22

PROFESSIONAL AGENDA & SESSIONS 2:00pm–3:00pm 4:35pm–5:00pm
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level
DOCTORS’ OFFICES (Pre-Registration Required) ASCEND TALKS: UNLEASHING THE POWER OF YOUR AUTHENTIC
SELF
This is your chance to be mentored by our ‘Doctors of Leadership’,
seasoned executives who have risen to the top, on topics that affect Do you sometimes feel that it’s hard to “be real” or “be yourself?”
us all in the workplace. In a small intimate group setting, hear first- How do you manage to not lose your authenticity, especially during
hand how they navigated their careers, used their strengths and seized times of stress and hardship, and stay grounded in what’s most
opportunities as well as faced and overcame challenges throughout important? Each one of us has unique attributes and aspirations, as
their professional lives culminating in an executive position and each of us comes from a background and set of experiences that
powerful networks. Create connections and learn lessons that could only we can claim. To realize our fullest potential, it’s imperative that
impact the future of your career. we be true to ourselves and to our values and be real. It actually
takes significantly more energy trying to be something or someone
Yerba Buena 2 | Lower B2 Level that you are not. And losing your authenticity is a slippery slope, as
LEADING CHANGE WITHOUT ALIENATING YOUR COLLEAGUES it’s inextricably linked to your integrity and your character. We can
Dan Hu, Partner, Capco only truly unleash our own GREATNESS when we’re being true to
ourselves.
Yerba Buena 3 | Lower B2 Level
BUILDING COALITIONS TO GET THE WORK DONE keynote speaker Anne Chow, President, National Business, AT&T
Della Ng, Vice President, Multicultural Marketing, U.S. Bank Business

Yerba Buena 4 | Lower B2 Level 6:30pm–7:15pm
WHY HUMILITY MATTERS FOR MANAGERS Yerba Buena Grand Assembly | Lower B2 Level
Miriam Shou, Advanced Risk & Compliance Analytics Director, PwC NETWORKING RECEPTION

Yerba Buena 5 | Lower B2 Level Come join us and unwind after three days of career and leadership
IMPORTANCE OF TRANSFERABLE SKILLS development.
Susie Choy, Partner, Crowe LLP
6:30pm–7:15pm
Yerba Buena 6 | Lower B2 Level PRESIDENT'S RECEPTION (Invite Only)
KNOWING THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A BOSS AND A MENTOR
Sudhir Kondisetty, Principal, RSM US LLP 7:30pm–9:30pm
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level
3:30pm–4:30pm AWARDS DINNER
Yerba Buena Ballroom | Lower B2 Level
They lead people. They live the vision now. They raise standards. They
ADVANCING YOUR CAREER AND YOUR COMMUNITY - VISION FOR are leaders, managers, coaches. They create leaders. According to
TOMORROW the American Management Association, these are the top five traits
embodied by breakthrough leaders.
Engage to achieve your aspirations!
Join us for a conversation with Andrea Jung, the President and CEO
In an increasingly demanding world, Ascend continues to enhance and of Grameen America, moderated by Emily Chang, Bloomberg TV
evolve to meet the changing needs of our Pan-Asian community with anchor. Andrea epitomizes breakthrough leadership as the first
breakthrough world-class programs for early career through mid- ever Asian-American female CEO of a fortune 500 company (Avon
career professionals, as well as the prestigious program at Stanford Corp.). She is a business pioneer, a philanthropist and a champion for
University for Asian Executives. This session showcases recent women's empowerment.
successes and upcoming Ascend initiatives, and how you can take part
in the Stanford program. Join senior leaders and supporters in this We will continue the tradition of honoring individuals who have made
interactive session to learn about the latest initiatives and what they significant contributions to the Pan-Asian community. The celebration
mean for you and the community. will include inspirational speeches, recognition of exceptional leaders,
and much more!
speaker Wes Hom, Vice President of External Affairs and National Board
Member, Ascend; Former Vice President & Managing Director, IBM
speaker Yogesh Bahl, Managing Director, AlixPartners LLP

welcome remarks Jeff Chin, President, Ascend

keynote speaker Andrea Jung, President & CEO, Grameen America

moder ator Emily Chang, Anchor & Executive Producer, Bloomberg
Technology

master of ceremonies Vicky Nguyen, Anchor & Senior Investigative
Reporter, NBC Bay Area

40 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

TURN YOUR Hilton has more than 5,300 hotels
RESUME in 106 countries and territories,
which means a world of possibilities
PassportINTOYOUR for our Team Members.

Hilton 2018 Ascend Ad - Half Page_01.indd 1 Learn more about how your experience and
passion can lead to a successful career with
Hilton by visiting jobs.hilton.com, or visit our
Facebook page at fb.com/hiltoncareers.
Hilton is a proud Silver Level Partner of the 2018
Ascend National Convention & Career Fair.

Where will a Hilton career take you? Follow us to find out:

6/28/18 2:56 PM

DIVERSITY PERSPECTIVE

At Bristol-Myers Squibb, we are
working together for patients

Embracing the diverse perspectives of our people and clients is what Our mission is clear — we discover, 5asd
defines our culture and our approach to solving business challenges. develop and deliver innovative
medicines that help patients prevail bms.com
© 2018 Protiviti Inc. An EOE M/F/D/V. PRO-0718 over serious diseases. Our sense of
urgency is real — we work every day
to push the boundaries of scientific
discovery and to make a meaningful
difference in the lives of patients.

It’s what we do. It’s why we do it.

© 2018 Bristol-Myers Squibb Company.

Be brilliant.
Together.

Inclusive cultures can embrace
individuality and give voice to a broad
range of perspectives. Because nothing
outshines authenticity. Look again™.
See what inclusion powers at
deloitte.com/us/inclusion.

Copyright © 2018 Deloitte Development LLC.
All rights reserved.

SPEAKERS & MENTORS

2 018 A S C E N2D01N7AAT ISOCNEANLDCNO ANTVIEONNT IAOLNC&OCNAVREENE RT IFOA INR 43

SPEAKERS & MENTORS ANISH AGARWAL ERIC JENNY CHAN
Machine Learning BATONGBACAL Partner, Advisory, EY
Engineer, Tesla, Inc. AVP, California State
Regulatory, AT&T EMILY CHANG
JIMMY AGUSTIN Anchor & Executive
Managing Director, Head PAUL BI Producer, Bloomberg
of Engineering, Banking Assistant Director Technology
RegTech, Moody’s of Product Analysis
Analytics - National Insurance JULIA CHANG
General Liability, Liberty Deputy Editor,
MICHAEL ALBERTO Mutual Insurance Northwestern Mutual
Supervisor, RSM US LLP
DANNY BUI LARRY CHANG
JANE CHINHUA Lead Scrum Master, Executive Advisor, Ascend;
ALLEN Allstate Insurance Retired, Hewlett-Packard
Advisory Services, Executive
Principal, PwC CHRISTINE
CADENA SOUKIE
JANA ARBANAS Vice President, CHANHDARA
Principal, Deloitte & Multicultural Initiatives, Program Manager,
Touche LLP The Walt Disney National Learning &
Company Professional Development,
YOGESH BAHL RSM US LLP
Managing Director, TRA-MI CALLAHAN
AlixPartners LLP Executive Director of VIRAL CHAWDA
Communications, Disney Principal, Innovation &
KEN BARRETT ABC Television Group Enterprise Solutions,
Global Chief Diversity KPMG
Officer, General Motors ELLEN CAMPANA
Director, Data Science, JEFF CHIN
KPMG National President,
Ascend
KAREN CHAE
Managing Director,
Enterprise Architect,
Accenture

44 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

JACKSON CHOU ANDREA FONG AMI GUPTA
Tax Director, PwC
Campus Recruiter, RSM Executive Director,
ANNE CHOW US LLP Applications R&D and
President, National Asia, Praxair
Business, AT&T Business
LAURA FONTANA S. K. GUPTA SPEAKERS & MENTORS
SUSIE CHOY Product Strategy Executive Advisor, Ascend;
Partner, Crowe LLP Consultant for Distributed Managing Director & Co-
Ledger Technology, Wells Founder, Ascend Pinnacle;
RISHI CHUGH Fargo Retired, Lockheed Martin
Partner, KPMG LLP Executive
MELINDA YEE
ANTHONY FRANKLIN SANDEEP GUPTA
DIPRINZIO Managing Director of Partner, Deloitte; Vice
Head of Consulting, Corporate & Government President of Chapter
Blockchain at Berkeley Affairs, Western Region, Affairs, Ascend
United Airlines
REBA DOMINSKI HUSSAIN T. HASAN
Chief Social Responsibility AISHA GHORI Principal, Risk Advisory
Officer & President, U.S. OZAKI Services, RSM US LLP
Bank Foundation, U.S. Manager, Inclusive
Bank Diversity, Allstate ASHWIN HIRA
Insurance Investor, Softbank
TOBY ENG
District Director, KIM GRABLE
Northwestern Mutual Diversity Recruiting Lead
Consultant, Allstate
Insurance

IGNACIO L. DR. FLORENCE
GRIEGO HOLLAND

Assurance Partner, Asset Lead Manager, Pipeline
Management Practice, Initiatives, Association
BDO USA, LLP of International Certified
Professional Accountants

KARAN GULATI For bios, see the Convene
App or visit:
Director of Strategy, www.ascendleadership.org/
Investments, Allstate conv2018speakers
Insurance

2018 ASCEND NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR 45

WES HOM DEEKSHA JOSHI ALFRED KO
Vice President of External
Affairs and National Mananging Director, Director, Risk Advisory
Board Member, Ascend; Liberty Mutual Services, RSM US LLP
Former Vice President &
SPEAKERS & MENTORS Managing Director, IBM ANDREA JUNG ANDREW KO
President & CEO, Managing Director for
DAVID HSIANG Grameen America Global Education, Amazon
AVP, Cybersecurity Web Services Worldwide
Innovation, Bank of DAN KAN Public Sector
America Co-Founder & COO,
Cruise Automation SUDHIR
DAN HU KONDISETTY
Partner, Capco JUSTIN KAN Principal, RSM US LLP
CEO, Atrium
MICHAEL HUANG ROBERT KRICENA
Deputy Editor, ESPN President U.S. Markets –
International, NBA Northwest, BNY Mellon

ALPA INAMDAR TRUDIE KANTER EVA KWONG
Head of Americas Senior Manager, Crowe
Business Change Group, LLP Client & Business
BNY Mellon Management Executive,
VANITA KATARIA U.S. Trust, Bank of
GREGORY JONES Supervisor, RSM US LLP America Private Wealth
Chief Diversity Officer, Management
United Airlines
RYAN LAU
KAREN JONG
Partner, Tax Services, RSM Senior Associate, KPMG
US LLP Data & Analytics Center
of Excellence, the
46 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM Lighthouse

TARIQ KHAN For bios, see the Convene
App or visit:
Founder & CEO, Global www.ascendleadership.org/
Diversity Marketing; conv2018speakers
Adjunct Professor,
Marketing, New York
University

© 2018 Moody's Corporation and/or its licensors and affiliates. All rights reserved. We have impact.
So will you.

For over 100 years, Moody’s success has been built on
diversity of thought and differing perspectives. We foster
an inclusive work environment where all views matter, and
proactively promote a culture where all employees can
achieve their career goals.
Moody’s strongly supports a diverse and inclusive
workplace. For more information about exciting career
opportunities at Moody’s, please visit
moodys.com/careers.
Moody’s is proud to sponsor the ASCEND
New York Metro chapter.

Inclusion is Innovation @ Oracle

We believe that a talented, diverse and inclusive workforce with a broad range of
experiences drives creativity, productivity, innovation and business success.
Explore our exciting career opportunities at: oracle.com/careers

Oracle Diversity and Inclusion: Innovating through diverse points of view

Oracle is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for
employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability
and protected veterans status or any other characteristic protected by law.

SPEAKERS & MENTORS CRYSTAL LEE JUSTIN T. MILLER VICKY NGUYEN
Host & Producer, This National Wealth Anchor & Senior
is SF Strategist, BNY Mellon Investigative Reporter,
NBC Bay Area
JOHN LEE ANNA W. MOK
Director, KPMG Data Co-Founder, Ascend DENISE PECK
& Analytics Center of Pinnacle; National Executive Advisor, Ascend;
Excellence, the Lighthouse Executive Vice President, Retired, Cisco Executive
Ascend; Partner, Deloitte
KEVIN LI & Touche LLP JULIE PENG
Co-Founder & Head Senior Manager of Talent
of Strategy, Athena CINDY MOY & Production, ILMxLAB
Blockchain Team Leader, Allstate
Insurance THOMAS PHELPS IV
RONA LIU Vice President of
Production Designer, Pixar SINA NADER Corporate Strategy & CIO,
Animation Studios Managing Partner, Laserfiche
CryptoLux Capital
JENNIFER MA BINITA PRADHAN
Senior Wealth Manager, BECKY NEIMAN- Partner, BDO
BNY Mellon COBB
Producer, Pixar Animation KATE SEITZ
KATIE MCCANN Studios Partner, RSM US LLP
Startup Consultant/
Advisor, Angel Investor DELLA NG AMY SHANG
Vice President, Ascend National Board
DAN MCLENNON Multicultural Marketing, Member, Former
Senior Advanced Planning U.S. Bank HSBC - EVP, Strategic
Attorney, Northwestern Implementation for North
Mutual CHI NGO America
Director, Risk Assurance,
PwC

48 C O N N E C T. I N S P I R E . A S C E N D.TM

DOMEE SHI NEAL TAKAHASHI JEFF WONG SPEAKERS & MENTORS
Director, Pixar Animation Wealth Management Global Chief Innovation
Studios Advisor, Northwestern Officer, EY
Mutual
DEBBIE SHIH JAN YANEHIRO
Advisory Business CECILIA TSE Broadcast Journalist;
Recruiting Lead, PwC Director, PwC Director, School of
Communications & Media
MIRIAM SHOU TRACEY WALKER Technologies, Academy of
Advanced Risk & National Senior Director Art University
Compliance Analytics of Government Affairs;
Director, PwC Culture Diversity and MICHAEL YAP
Inclusion, RSM US LLP Head of Business
JOHN SO Development, Gen Mobile
Vice President of Business DANYE (DENISE)
Planning & Development, WANG LORETTA YEE
Disney ABC Television Co-Founder, UniCareer Director, Financial
Group Systems, The Walt Disney
JENNY WEI Company
MICHAEL SO Managing Director, PwC
Assistant Program JOHN YEUN
Engineering Manager - BRIAN WONG Accounting and Finance
Autonomous Vehicles, Co-Founder & CEO, Kiip Manager, The Clorox
General Motors Company

STACY KELLY ZHENG
Executive Staff Officer, Customer Engagement
CIA Manager, Celonis

KRISTEN SZE JANET S. WONG For bios, see the Convene
ABC7 News Anchor App or visit:
Executive Advisor, Ascend; www.ascendleadership.org/
Partner (Retired), KPMG conv2018speakers

2018 ASCEND NATIONAL CONVENTION & CAREER FAIR 49

Save the Date

August 24-26, 2019

See you in Washington D.C. in 2019!

www.ascendleadership.org


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