THURSDAY, APRIL 13, 2023 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY CULINARY ACADEMY OF LAS VEGAS 710 W. LAKE MEAD BLVD, N. LAS VEGAS, NV 89030
FOCUSED ON WHAT MAT TERS CREATING STRENGTH THROUGH DIVERSITY. At MGM Resorts, we value diversity, believe in the transformative impact of diverse businesses on our communities and invest resources into extending competitive opportunities to diverse-owned suppliers within our supply chain. Sharing in its vision to advocate for minority owned businesses, MGM Resorts is a proud sponsor of the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. 21-CSR-7689-018 National Minority Supplier Dev Council Ad PP.indd 1 11/9/21 5:59 PM BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 2
FOCUSED ON WHAT MAT TERS CREATING STRENGTH THROUGH DIVERSITY. At MGM Resorts, we value diversity, believe in the transformative impact of diverse businesses on our communities and invest resources into extending competitive opportunities to diverse-owned suppliers within our supply chain. Sharing in its vision to advocate for minority owned businesses, MGM Resorts is a proud sponsor of the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. 21-CSR-7689-018 National Minority Supplier Dev Council Ad PP.indd 1 11/9/21 5:59 PM BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 1 TABLE OF CONTENTS TABLE OF CONTENTS 1 PREMIERE MEMBERS 4 MBE PLATINUM PARTNERS 4 ANNUAL VIDEO PRODUCTION SUPPORTER 4 AGENDA 7 ABOUT WRMSDC 10 WRMSDC TEAM 11 BASE CAMP (GENERAL SESSION) 16 BREAKOUT CAMPS 23 PRIZE GIVEAWAYS 36 CHUCKWAGON LUNCH 38 RESOURCES 57 UPCOMING EVENTS 67
THANK YOU HEADLINE SUPPORTER FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT OF BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 2023
THANK YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE SUPPORTERS OUR BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY IS FREE FOR MBES AND DIVERSE BUSINESSES DUE TO THE GENEROSITY OF OUR MAKE A DIFFERENCE SUPPORTERS.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 4 PREMIERE MEMBERS MBE PLATINUM PARTNERS ANNUAL VIDEO PRODUCTION SUPPORTER
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 5 THANK YOU EVENT SUPPORTERS WRMSDC DEEPLY APPRECIATES THE FOLLOWING COMPANIES FOR THEIR SUPPORT. THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS ENSURE OUR ABILITY TO ADVOCATE FOR AND IMPACT DIVERSE COMMUNITIES. REMEMBER THESE BRANDS WHEN YOU CHOOSE COMPANIES TO DO BUSINESS WITH!
© 2023 Robert Half International Inc. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disability/ Veterans. RH-0323 WE’RE COMMITTED TO EMPOWERING DIVERSE-OWNED BUSINESSES. At Robert Half creating opportunities for businesses to thrive is our passion. We believe a key to successful business relationships is Supplier Inclusion. For several years our program has fostered the promotion, growth, and development of diverse-owned businesses — like yours. If you’re a supplier interested in working with us, register at roberthalf.com/supplier-inclusion BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 6
© 2023 Robert Half International Inc. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disability/ Veterans. RH-0323 WE’RE COMMITTED TO EMPOWERING DIVERSE-OWNED BUSINESSES. At Robert Half creating opportunities for businesses to thrive is our passion. We believe a key to successful business relationships is Supplier Inclusion. For several years our program has fostered the promotion, growth, and development of diverse-owned businesses — like yours. If you’re a supplier interested in working with us, register at roberthalf.com/supplier-inclusion BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 7 11:30am Registration/Check-In 12:00pm-12:45pm Chuckwagon Lunch & Networking 12:45pm Opening, Welcome, Supporters Recognition 1:00pm to 2:30pm Base Camp (General Session) 2:30pm to 2:55pm Transition & Networking Break Chance to explore Opportunity Wall 2:55pm to 4:10pm Breakout Camps 4:10pm to 4:20pm Transition 4:20pm to 4:30pm Camp Closing Camp Reflections, Prize Drawings, etc. 4:30pm Event Ends Business Opportunity Day is a powerful half day for minority and small businesses and other diverse suppliers to gain business growth strategies for success by connecting diverse suppliers with companies across several industries. Also, for Corporations to connect with potential suppliers for upcoming opportunities. Learn about upcoming procurement & contracting opportunities, build REAL-ationships, explore options to access capital, increase business readiness, plus more! ALL TIMES LISTED ARE IN PACIFIC TIME AND ACTIVITIES & TIMES MAY CHANGE AGENDA
DUE TO THE GENEROSITY OF OUR MAKE A DIFFERENCE SPONSORS, THIS EVENT IS FREE FOR MBES AND DIVERSE BUSINESSES. THANK YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE SUPPORTER
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 10 WESTERN REGIONAL MINORITY SUPPLIER DEVELOPMENT COUNCIL The best way to make sure children have access to food, safety, and education is to ensure that parents and caregivers have good jobs. As a family’s income increases, their exposure to violence, poverty, and the likelihood of incarceration decreases. Our programs drive the job and wealth creation essential to thriving underserved communities. Please consider donating to WRMSDC. MISSION We support the growth and welfare of minority communities by championing the use of minority-owned businesses in Northern California, Nevada, and Hawai‘i. HISTORY WRMSDC was founded on September 9, 1977, almost 10 years after the Civil Rights Movement that sparked national awareness about racial discrimination and segregation in the United States. Galvanized by the unequal treatment of minority-owned businesses, we began serving as advocates for impacted minority communities. Our parent organization, the National Minority Supplier Development Council, advances business opportunities for certified MBEs and connects them to 1,450 Corporate Members throughout the network, including America’s top public and privately owned companies as well as universities, hospitals and other buying institutions. Regional Affiliates like WRMSDC certify and match more than 12,000 MBEs with member corporations that want to purchase their products, services, and solutions. Please visit us online at www.wrmsdc.org. ABOUT WRMSDC
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 11 Celebrating 46 years of certifying, connecting, developing, and advocating for people of color. Thank you to our minority businesses, Corporate Members, and partners for your support of our Council! CECIL PLUMMER PRESIDENT & CEO CHRISTINE LIWAI GARCIA [email protected] VP OF PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT & MINORITY BUSINESS SERVICES MICHAEL MCQUARRY [email protected] VP OF OPERATIONS AND CORPORATE SERVICES ROSE DAVIS [email protected] DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE SERVICES & MBE DEVELOPMENT (NEVADA) TAYLOR OVERTON [email protected] DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE & MBE DEVELOPMENT ROSEMARY WETZEL [email protected] DIRECTOR OF CERTIFICATION & ORGANIZATIONAL DEVELOPMENT SHEENA LYONS [email protected] SENIOR EVENTS MANAGER BIANCA GARTRELL [email protected] CERTIFICATION SPECIALIST KELLIE PAYTON [email protected] CERTIFICATION ASSISTANT CHANTEL MILLER [email protected] EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT & SPECIAL PROJECTS COORDINATOR TEDI TAYLOR [email protected] DEVELOPMENT GRANT MANAGER WRMSDC TEAM
HEADLINE SUPPORTER Please join WRMSDC as we celebrate 46 incredible years of working to equalize the treatment of minority business owners and diverse communities in Northern California, Nevada, and Hawai‘i. MBEs/Diverse Suppliers can attend this event FREE of charge, thanks to the generosity of our Make a Difference Supporters! SUPPORT THIS EVENT https://wrmsdc.org/gala/
HEADLINE SUPPORTER Please join WRMSDC as we celebrate 46 incredible years of working to equalize the treatment of minority business owners and diverse communities in Northern California, Nevada, and Hawai‘i. MBEs/Diverse Suppliers can attend this event FREE of charge, thanks to the generosity of our Make a Difference Supporters! SUPPORT THIS EVENT https://wrmsdc.org/gala/ THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF WRMSDC & COMMUNITIES OF COLOR
DUE TO THE GENEROSITY OF OUR MAKE A DIFFERENCE SPONSORS, THIS EVENT IS FREE FOR MBES AND DIVERSE BUSINESSES. THANK YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE SUPPORTER
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 16 BASE CAMP (GENERAL SESSION) WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Cecil Plummer, Host President & CEO Cecil Plummer is the president and a member of the Board of Directors for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. Plummer formerly worked with Robert Half for 17 years and left his most recent position as the Director of CSS Strategic Solutions to join the Council. Plummer has over 13 years of executive leadership experience and possesses a solid background in strategic sourcing, change management, performance and process improvement, Supplier Diversity, strategic planning, and risk management. Rose Davis, Co-Host Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) Rose Davis serves as Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. She has dedicated more than two decades to passionately championing diverse businesses for inclusion within corporate America’s purchasing and supply chain strategies. Rose has over 25 years of experience in supplier diversity, business development, accounting, and finance. Her accomplishments include a 29 percent 5-year net growth in Nevada MBEs from 2017-2021. Recently, she was awarded the 2023 Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Year Award-Urban by the Nevada Small Business Administration. Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee Myisha Boyce Chief Community Engagement Officer Myisha Boyce is currently serving as Chief Community Engagement Officer with the Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee. Myisha is also the founding member and President of M.Y.S. Firm, a Nevada based women- and minority-owned professional services organization established in 2014. She has spent more than a decade directing highstakes programs and diverse teams across public and private industries. Myisha serves as Chair of Allegiant Stadium’s Community Advisory Board, is a Member on the Board of Directors for non-profit, Access Community Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution, as well as non-profit, StartUpNV, a Nevada-focused statewide business accelerator and incubator. She previously served as a legislatively appointed Commissioner and Chair of the Legislative Subcommittee within Nevada Department of Business & Industry’s Commission on Minority Affairs. Myisha earned her degree in Education at the University of California, San Diego. Her focus is building and enhancing strategic professional partnerships that jointly benefit business and community. Renze Consulting Matthew Renze Data Science Consultant, Author, Speaker Matthew Renze is a data science consultant, author, and public speaker. He is the founder of Renze Consulting, an AI consulting company that has trained over 400,000 software developers and IT professionals. His clients range from small tech start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. He is also the President of Serenze Global, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to technology education for underrepresented individuals by empowering the next generation of tech community leaders. Matthew is currently working on his Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a Data Science specialization at Johns Hopkins University. He currently has double degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy with a minor in Economics from Iowa State University. He is a Microsoft MVP in AI, an ASPInsider, the organizer of the Las Vegas AI Meetup, and an author for Pluralsight, Udemy, and Skillshare. His interests include AI, ML, data science, mindfulness, technology education, and tech community leadership. Topic: AI: The Future of Small Business ACCE$$ TO CAPITAL Brought to you by: Stretch your opportunities with the federal government; learn about crowdfunding and innovative solutions and resources to drive growth that enable small- to medium-sized businesses to thrive. Gabriela Wyett VP, Business Community Engagement Officer Through Gabriela’s parallel efforts at Lexicon Bank and the Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs, she continually advocates for local, women, and minority business owners by providing opportunities such as access to capital, banking solutions, technical assistance and above all stellar service. She provides a voice for women and minority entrepreneurs as she understands the complexities they may face in finance. As such, she is launching a vertical at Lexicon Bank for women and minority enterprises. By synchronizing efforts, she serves and works with a variety of community and state partners to provide knowledge and financial proficiency to the business community. Gabriela loves nothing more than to know she has been a part of a business’ journey and growth. Saul Ramos Nevada District Director Saul Ramos, Nevada SBA District Director, has held several leadership positions during his 20-year federal career and is a graduate of the President’s Management Council Program. He has represented SBA in various roles, including International Development Specialist, Senior Area Manager, and oversight of the Economic and Business Development team. Saul leads a passionate, talented and experienced Nevada SBA team focused on putting customers—the nation's small businesses—first. During the COVID19 pandemic, he worked closely with the Nevada District team and partners to provide capital and technical assistance programs to the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses. This was a monumental task that helped small businesses survive and preserved the jobs and livelihoods of millions in Nevada. Ruth E. Hedges CEO & "Queen of Crowdfunding" Forbes Ruth is recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on Equity Crowdfunding for pioneering the bill signed into the JOBS Act on April 5, 2012. Ruth was honored with an invitation to the White House for their "Crowdfunding Champions of Change" event. Her work has landed her in 69 publications, including seven times in Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and INC Magazine. In 2023 in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company, she launched the Rise Up Crowdfunding portal to help more Women, Black, Latin, LGBTQ, and all minority founders and startups raise $5 million in capital using Equity Crowdfunding. Ruth has consulted with government organizations, small business owners, startups, and Fortune 500 companies. Las Vegas Women In Technology recognized her as a ‘Crowdfunding Innovator’ and recipient of the “High Tech Woman Of The Year” for 2017. SBA’s participation or support is not an endorsement of any product, service, or entity. FIRESIDE CHAT “CULTIVATING “REAL”-ATIONSHIPS” Is your business stuck in the selling mode? It’s a fact—people do business with those whom they know and trust. Lean in as participants share the fundamentals to cultivating lasting REAL-ationships that will enable your business to grow and to thrive. Kenyatta Lewis Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement Kenyatta Lewis is the Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement at MGM Resorts International. From her start in procurement at New YorkNew York in 2000, Kenyatta designed, implemented, and expanded the company’s robust supplier diversity program. She is responsible for defining innovative strategies for supplier diversity and providing leadership direction to advance ESG priorities in the supply chain. She also oversees training and development programs for 80+ procurement professionals. Kenyatta was recently named a 2022 Women of Distinction in Hospitality, Retail & Conventions by NAWBO-Southern Nevada. She leads MGM Resorts’ executive Supplier Inclusion Task Force and is a member of the Institute for Supply Management’s Sustainability Committee; the Advertising, Entertainment Media & Sports Industry Group; and the Houston Minority Business Council’s Business Development Advisory Council. Kenyatta earned her degree in Business Management and served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves. D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Mario Stadtlander President Mario Stadtlander is the President of Eagle Promotions, a specialty branded products company. He was born and raised in Las Vegas and grew up working in the family motorcycle shop. The family had another business within the motorcycle shop, EP Performs. It was there that Mario got his start in the apparel and promotional products industry. In 2001, EP Performs merged with Eagle Promotions. At the start of Eagle Promotions, it was Sean Ono, currently CEO; Mario, and eight employees. Fast forward, Eagle Promotions is an award-winning top 40 promotional products distributor with opportunities to work with businesses such as: Disney, Coca-Cola, MLB, Hard Rock, and more. FISHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES Rhoda Hassad Supplier Diversity Manager Rhoda Hassad is the Supplier Diversity Manager for MGM Resorts International. In her role she is focused on building an inclusive environment to increase the participation of diverse suppliers in contracting & procurement and to develop a competitive supplier base that represents the communities served. Rhoda brings over 20 years of experience in Hospitality to her position. Most recently, she was a Hotel Operations Manager at New York-New York, an MGM Resorts property in Las Vegas. Her experience also includes various positions in Hotel Operations at Mandalay Bay and Delano Las Vegas, both MGM Resort International properties. Currently, Rhoda serves as Chair of the Professional Women’s Employee Network Group for MGM Resort’s International. She is a member of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association and the Women in Lodging in Nevada Association. Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. NEW PARTICIPANTS BEING ADDED! KEEP CHECKING BACK FOR UPDATES. 2:55PM TO 4:15PM Breakout Camps are designed to provide a casual setting for Corporate Members, Buyers, and Industry Leaders to speak directly with diverse suppliers about a range of topics. It will also equip diverse suppliers with tools and strategies to increase their business by hearing directly from potential and current clients. Topics Covered Industry Trends Rules of Engagement Sourcing & Contracts I Won/I Didn’t Win the Bid: Now What? Upcoming Opportunities Each Breakout Camp will have a Lead Moderator and Co-Moderator, certified MBEs who have been selected to direct activities and topics within their room. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions when the moderators open the floor for Q&As. Entertainment, Gaming, Sports, Hospitality & F&B Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Reggie Burton Founder/CEO MBE Moderator Shabana Siraj CEO & Founder Ryne Tokunaga Purchasing Buyer Ryne Tokunaga is a purchasing buyer at Sahara Las Vegas, a hotel and casino located on the Las Vegas Strip. He brings a diverse skill set to the organization,having dealt with multiple areas within hospitality procurement. Ryne currently oversees the day-to-day F&B procurement for Sahara Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort in the Meruelo Gaming portfolio. Previously, Ryne worked as a buyer for the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno with a dual degree in Finance and Economics. CERTIFIED MBE Alan Gartrell Vice President of Procurement Alan has over 20+ years of experience in Purchasing & Warehousing Management in the Entertainment & Hospitality Industry. Alan joined Caesars Entertainment in June 2011 and is currently the Vice President of Procurement responsible for overseeing Regional Procurement, Warehousing, Supplier Diversity and Sustainability for all Caesars’ properties. Prior to this role, Alan has held multiple Regional Director positions throughout the country most recently the Senior Director of the Western Region. Before coming to Caesars, Alan spent 4 years as the Purchasing Manager at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in Asheville, NC and 10 years as the Purchasing and Warehouse Manager at Six Flags America in Maryland. Alan went to Mars Hill College for a BA in Music Theory and Performance. Alan resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife, Bianca, and their son, Luca. Neumiia DuncanReed Vice President, Human Resources & Community Affairs Neumiia Duncan-Reed is the Vice President of Human Resources & Community Affairs for ASM Global which operates Allegiant Stadium. She brings years of experience developing and implementing business and HR strategies, programs and processes to drive business results through leadership and management. Neumiia holds a B.S. degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Amy Clark Senior Manager Amy Clark has over 20 years of experience in supply chain in the electric utility and gaming industries. After retiring from the Tennessee Valley Authority, Amy joined NV Energy as a supply chain and procurement manager. Amy is currently a senior manager at Aristocrat focused on supplier diversity, environmental social governance, and compliance. In addition to her supply chain experience, Amy was an adjunct professor at Georgia Northwestern Technical for five years. At GNTC, she taught business law, economics, HR management, leadership and management principles, labor relations, managerial accounting, and employment law. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration. She is a Certified Professional in Supply Management as designated by the Institute for Supply Management, Inc. Amy continues to further her education and will graduate this year with her Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Global Supply Chain Management. Samira SayeghRivera Director of Procurement Samira Sayegh-Rivera is the Director of Procurement at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Samira has been with San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in various roles for more than 25 years. Currently, she oversees the day-to-day procurement operations for all San Manuel entities – including the Palms, Yaamava, and all government operations. She is responsible for delivering excellent performance from the buying team and the hundreds of orders that are placed each day for everything from fire trucks, to audit services to tomatoes. Samira collaborates with San Manuels stakeholders – including operations, vendors, accounts payable and logistics to leverage procurement best practices and ensure effective P2P execution. She is also responsible for managing all policy, performance and reporting related to purchases, vendor management, system optimization and our expanding diversity program. Construction, Infrastructure & Utilities Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Rahul Kuruvilla CEO WRMSDC MBEIC Chair MBE Moderator Jammie Hsu Thompson Owner/Solutions Provider Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Austin Kight Strategic Brand Director Austin Kight joined Martin-Harris Construction in 2003 with a background in Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Administration. In her current role Strategic Brand Director at Martin-Harris, Austin ensures internal and external programs are in align with the company’s strategic goals and core values. Specific to procurement, she oversees the Subcontractor “Opportunity Program” and ensures company policies and procedures support the company’s commitment for awarding contracts and subcontracts to small, minority, women, veteran, and disadvantaged business concerns from all possible sources. The company’s approach to subcontractor and vendor inclusion is three-pronged incorporating Outreach Efforts, Educational Workshops, and Strategic Partnership Events. Founded in 1976, Martin-Harris Construction is currently ranked as the largest General Contractor in Las Vegas by VEGAS INC magazine. Martin-Harris Construction is a leader within the industry and the Southern Nevada community. John Tatum Regional Director of Procurement John Tatum has served 20+ years in the hospitality industry. He joined Caesars Entertainment in July of 2022 as Regional Director of Procurement where he oversees Las Vegas and Laughlin properties. Prior to joining Caesars, John worked in regional procurement management roles with Boyd Gaming, Penn Gaming, and MGM Resorts. He resides in Las Vegas with his wife and three children. Arsie Isip Associate Director, Supply Chain Management Arsie Isip is the Associate Director of Supply Chain Management for NV Energy, a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company. She has served as an operations, procurement, and supply chain professional for over 20 years among the industries of aerospace, aviation, electronics, gaming systems, and now energy solutions. At NV Energy, she strives to develop diverse coalitions with customers, suppliers, and the community to be the best energy company and strengthen sustainable energy solutions for Nevadans. Quentin O’Neal Supplier Diversity Manager Quentin O’Neal is the Supplier Diversity Manager for Layton Construction. Leading and overseeing their diverse business strategy for the Healthcare/Mission Critical Business units. Quentin is also responsible for community involvement and has been recognized internally and externally as a leader in the supplier diversity space as well as receiving accolades in the community. Quentin has over a decade of experience and has led strategic partnerships with minority and women-owned businesses and community organizations. Telma Lopez Manager of Diversity Programs Telma Lopez is the Manager of Diversity Programs for Southwest Gas Corporation. In her position, Telma is part of a team that oversees the company’s Diversity & Inclusion efforts and Supplier Diversity activities in Nevada, California, and Arizona. Telma joined Southwest in 1996 and has previously served in various positions within the organization, including in the Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs, and Public Affairs teams.In addition to her work at Southwest, Telma serves on the advisory board for CPLC Nevada and volunteers with local nonprofits in her community. Holden Hsiao Vice President Holden Hsiao is the Vice President of ShawLundquist Construction and manages its West Region. Shaw-Lundquist is one of the largest minority-owned business enterprises in the U.S. with a focus of building better lives through construction. Holden has held roles in Estimating, Building Information Modeling, as well as Information Technology, and has extensive experience with onsite projects. With contract licenses in Nevada, California, and Arizona, Holden is growing and expanding the business in the West Region. He is responsible for overseeing the project team and keeping construction activities moving forward to meet project milestones and exceed client expectations. CERTIFIED MBE Banking & Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services, Technology & Government Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Christine Maddela Managing Partner MBE Moderator Joylynn Ross Content Creator & Storytelling Expert Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Bruce Wilcox Vice President, Technology Bruce Wilcox orchestrates the method behind the infrastructure of the hardware and software madness that enables clients to conceive and communicate their products among each other and to the world. Before joining R&R Partners, Bruce led IT operations of several consumer brands, helping each to leverage the power of technology to better serve their customers and grow their businesses, including hip scooter manufacturer Razor and athletic footwear marketer L.A Gear. As director of IT & Distribution for Melbourne, Australiaheadquartered Globe International, he was responsible for operational management of all warehouse and IT activities for this designer and marketer of apparel, footwear and skateboard equipment for the action sports and street fashion markets. Bruce earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California. Victor Figueredo Coordinator IV Victor Figueredo is a Buyer IV in the Clark County School District (CCSD) Purchasing Department where he has worked for over a year. He oversees the acquisition of products, equipment, and services for the Transportation, Warehousing, Food Services, and general school transportation & auto shop. Prior to working at CCSD, Victor worked at NV Energy for over 26 years in Supply Chain Management, Transportation Services, and Operation Services. Victor grew up in the Las Vegas community and he received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He also received his MBA from the University of Detroit. His key skills include purchasing/contract management, fleet management, and warehousing/logistics operations. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. US BANK Richard Chacon Director Richard Chacon serves is a Director at US Bank. US Bancorp completed the acquisition of MUFG Union Bank in December 2022. Richard served as the Director of Supplier Diversity & Development for MUFG Union Bank, N.A. He joined Union Bank in 1998 and was the driving force behind an increase in DBE spend from $26MM in 1998 to $250MM in 2020. Richard served 10 years in the U.S. Army, and 13 years with Pacific Bell. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 17 BASE CAMP WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Cecil Plummer, Host President & CEO Cecil Plummer is the president and a member of the Board of Directors for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. Plummer formerly worked with Robert Half for 17 years and left his most recent position as the Director of CSS Strategic Solutions to join the Council. Plummer has over 13 years of executive leadership experience and possesses a solid background in strategic sourcing, change management, performance and process improvement, Supplier Diversity, strategic planning, and risk management. Rose Davis, Co-Host Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) Rose Davis serves as Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. She has dedicated more than two decades to passionately championing diverse businesses for inclusion within corporate America’s purchasing and supply chain strategies. Rose has over 25 years of experience in supplier diversity, business development, accounting, and finance. Her accomplishments include a 29 percent 5-year net growth in Nevada MBEs from 2017-2021. Recently, she was awarded the 2023 Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Year Award-Urban by the Nevada Small Business Administration. Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee Myisha Boyce Chief Community Engagement Officer Myisha Boyce is currently serving as Chief Community Engagement Officer with the Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee. Myisha is also the founding member and President of M.Y.S. Firm, a Nevada based women- and minority-owned professional services organization established in 2014. She has spent more than a decade directing highstakes programs and diverse teams across public and private industries. Myisha serves as Chair of Allegiant Stadium’s Community Advisory Board, is a Member on the Board of Directors for non-profit, Access Community Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution, as well as non-profit, StartUpNV, a Nevada-focused statewide business accelerator and incubator. She previously served as a legislatively appointed Commissioner and Chair of the Legislative Subcommittee within Nevada Department of Business & Industry’s Commission on Minority Affairs. Myisha earned her degree in Education at the University of California, San Diego. Her focus is building and enhancing strategic professional partnerships that jointly benefit business and community. Renze Consulting Matthew Renze Data Science Consultant, Author, Speaker Matthew Renze is a data science consultant, author, and public speaker. He is the founder of Renze Consulting, an AI consulting company that has trained over 400,000 software developers and IT professionals. His clients range from small tech start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. He is also the President of Serenze Global, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to technology education for underrepresented individuals by empowering the next generation of tech community leaders. Matthew is currently working on his Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a Data Science specialization at Johns Hopkins University. He currently has double degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy with a minor in Economics from Iowa State University. He is a Microsoft MVP in AI, an ASPInsider, the organizer of the Las Vegas AI Meetup, and an author for Pluralsight, Udemy, and Skillshare. His interests include AI, ML, data science, mindfulness, technology education, and tech community leadership. Topic: AI: The Future of Small Business ACCE$$ TO CAPITAL Brought to you by: Stretch your opportunities with the federal government; learn about crowdfunding and innovative solutions and resources to drive growth that enable small- to medium-sized businesses to thrive. Gabriela Wyett VP, Business Community Engagement Officer Through Gabriela’s parallel efforts at Lexicon Bank and the Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs, she continually advocates for local, women, and minority business owners by providing opportunities such as access to capital, banking solutions, technical assistance and above all stellar service. She provides a voice for women and minority entrepreneurs as she understands the complexities they may face in finance. As such, she is launching a vertical at Lexicon Bank for women and minority enterprises. By synchronizing efforts, she serves and works with a variety of community and state partners to provide knowledge and financial proficiency to the business community. Gabriela loves nothing more than to know she has been a part of a business’ journey and growth. Saul Ramos Nevada District Director Saul Ramos, Nevada SBA District Director, has held several leadership positions during his 20-year federal career and is a graduate of the President’s Management Council Program. He has represented SBA in various roles, including International Development Specialist, Senior Area Manager, and oversight of the Economic and Business Development team. Saul leads a passionate, talented and experienced Nevada SBA team focused on putting customers—the nation's small businesses—first. During the COVID19 pandemic, he worked closely with the Nevada District team and partners to provide capital and technical assistance programs to the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses. This was a monumental task that helped small businesses survive and preserved the jobs and livelihoods of millions in Nevada. Ruth E. Hedges CEO & "Queen of Crowdfunding" Forbes Ruth is recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on Equity Crowdfunding for pioneering the bill signed into the JOBS Act on April 5, 2012. Ruth was honored with an invitation to the White House for their "Crowdfunding Champions of Change" event. Her work has landed her in 69 publications, including seven times in Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and INC Magazine. In 2023 in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company, she launched the Rise Up Crowdfunding portal to help more Women, Black, Latin, LGBTQ, and all minority founders and startups raise $5 million in capital using Equity Crowdfunding. Ruth has consulted with government organizations, small business owners, startups, and Fortune 500 companies. Las Vegas Women In Technology recognized her as a ‘Crowdfunding Innovator’ and recipient of the “High Tech Woman Of The Year” for 2017. SBA’s participation or support is not an endorsement of any product, service, or entity. FIRESIDE CHAT “CULTIVATING “REAL”-ATIONSHIPS” Is your business stuck in the selling mode? It’s a fact—people do business with those whom they know and trust. Lean in as participants share the fundamentals to cultivating lasting REAL-ationships that will enable your business to grow and to thrive. Kenyatta Lewis Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement Kenyatta Lewis is the Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement at MGM Resorts International. From her start in procurement at New YorkNew York in 2000, Kenyatta designed, implemented, and expanded the company’s robust supplier diversity program. She is responsible for defining innovative strategies for supplier diversity and providing leadership direction to advance ESG priorities in the supply chain. She also oversees training and development programs for 80+ procurement professionals. Kenyatta was recently named a 2022 Women of Distinction in Hospitality, Retail & Conventions by NAWBO-Southern Nevada. She leads MGM Resorts’ executive Supplier Inclusion Task Force and is a member of the Institute for Supply Management’s Sustainability Committee; the Advertising, Entertainment Media & Sports Industry Group; and the Houston Minority Business Council’s Business Development Advisory Council. Kenyatta earned her degree in Business Management and served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves. D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Mario Stadtlander President Mario Stadtlander is the President of Eagle Promotions, a specialty branded products company. He was born and raised in Las Vegas and grew up working in the family motorcycle shop. The family had another business within the motorcycle shop, EP Performs. It was there that Mario got his start in the apparel and promotional products industry. In 2001, EP Performs merged with Eagle Promotions. At the start of Eagle Promotions, it was Sean Ono, currently CEO; Mario, and eight employees. Fast forward, Eagle Promotions is an award-winning top 40 promotional products distributor with opportunities to work with businesses such as: Disney, Coca-Cola, MLB, Hard Rock, and more. FISHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES Rhoda Hassad Supplier Diversity Manager Rhoda Hassad is the Supplier Diversity Manager for MGM Resorts International. In her role she is focused on building an inclusive environment to increase the participation of diverse suppliers in contracting & procurement and to develop a competitive supplier base that represents the communities served. Rhoda brings over 20 years of experience in Hospitality to her position. Most recently, she was a Hotel Operations Manager at New York-New York, an MGM Resorts property in Las Vegas. Her experience also includes various positions in Hotel Operations at Mandalay Bay and Delano Las Vegas, both MGM Resort International properties. Currently, Rhoda serves as Chair of the Professional Women’s Employee Network Group for MGM Resort’s International. She is a member of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association and the Women in Lodging in Nevada Association. Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. NEW PARTICIPANTS BEING ADDED! KEEP CHECKING BACK FOR UPDATES. 2:55PM TO 4:15PM Breakout Camps are designed to provide a casual setting for Corporate Members, Buyers, and Industry Leaders to speak directly with diverse suppliers about a range of topics. It will also equip diverse suppliers with tools and strategies to increase their business by hearing directly from potential and current clients. Topics Covered Industry Trends Rules of Engagement Sourcing & Contracts I Won/I Didn’t Win the Bid: Now What? Upcoming Opportunities Each Breakout Camp will have a Lead Moderator and Co-Moderator, certified MBEs who have been selected to direct activities and topics within their room. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions when the moderators open the floor for Q&As. Entertainment, Gaming, Sports, Hospitality & F&B Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Reggie Burton Founder/CEO MBE Moderator Shabana Siraj CEO & Founder Ryne Tokunaga Purchasing Buyer Ryne Tokunaga is a purchasing buyer at Sahara Las Vegas, a hotel and casino located on the Las Vegas Strip. He brings a diverse skill set to the organization,having dealt with multiple areas within hospitality procurement. Ryne currently oversees the day-to-day F&B procurement for Sahara Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort in the Meruelo Gaming portfolio. Previously, Ryne worked as a buyer for the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno with a dual degree in Finance and Economics. CERTIFIED MBE Alan Gartrell Vice President of Procurement Alan has over 20+ years of experience in Purchasing & Warehousing Management in the Entertainment & Hospitality Industry. Alan joined Caesars Entertainment in June 2011 and is currently the Vice President of Procurement responsible for overseeing Regional Procurement, Warehousing, Supplier Diversity and Sustainability for all Caesars’ properties. Prior to this role, Alan has held multiple Regional Director positions throughout the country most recently the Senior Director of the Western Region. Before coming to Caesars, Alan spent 4 years as the Purchasing Manager at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in Asheville, NC and 10 years as the Purchasing and Warehouse Manager at Six Flags America in Maryland. Alan went to Mars Hill College for a BA in Music Theory and Performance. Alan resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife, Bianca, and their son, Luca. Neumiia DuncanReed Vice President, Human Resources & Community Affairs Neumiia Duncan-Reed is the Vice President of Human Resources & Community Affairs for ASM Global which operates Allegiant Stadium. She brings years of experience developing and implementing business and HR strategies, programs and processes to drive business results through leadership and management. Neumiia holds a B.S. degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Amy Clark Senior Manager Amy Clark has over 20 years of experience in supply chain in the electric utility and gaming industries. After retiring from the Tennessee Valley Authority, Amy joined NV Energy as a supply chain and procurement manager. Amy is currently a senior manager at Aristocrat focused on supplier diversity, environmental social governance, and compliance. In addition to her supply chain experience, Amy was an adjunct professor at Georgia Northwestern Technical for five years. At GNTC, she taught business law, economics, HR management, leadership and management principles, labor relations, managerial accounting, and employment law. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration. She is a Certified Professional in Supply Management as designated by the Institute for Supply Management, Inc. Amy continues to further her education and will graduate this year with her Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Global Supply Chain Management. Samira SayeghRivera Director of Procurement Samira Sayegh-Rivera is the Director of Procurement at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Samira has been with San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in various roles for more than 25 years. Currently, she oversees the day-to-day procurement operations for all San Manuel entities – including the Palms, Yaamava, and all government operations. She is responsible for delivering excellent performance from the buying team and the hundreds of orders that are placed each day for everything from fire trucks, to audit services to tomatoes. Samira collaborates with San Manuels stakeholders – including operations, vendors, accounts payable and logistics to leverage procurement best practices and ensure effective P2P execution. She is also responsible for managing all policy, performance and reporting related to purchases, vendor management, system optimization and our expanding diversity program. Construction, Infrastructure & Utilities Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Rahul Kuruvilla CEO WRMSDC MBEIC Chair MBE Moderator Jammie Hsu Thompson Owner/Solutions Provider Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Austin Kight Strategic Brand Director Austin Kight joined Martin-Harris Construction in 2003 with a background in Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Administration. In her current role Strategic Brand Director at Martin-Harris, Austin ensures internal and external programs are in align with the company’s strategic goals and core values. Specific to procurement, she oversees the Subcontractor “Opportunity Program” and ensures company policies and procedures support the company’s commitment for awarding contracts and subcontracts to small, minority, women, veteran, and disadvantaged business concerns from all possible sources. The company’s approach to subcontractor and vendor inclusion is three-pronged incorporating Outreach Efforts, Educational Workshops, and Strategic Partnership Events. Founded in 1976, Martin-Harris Construction is currently ranked as the largest General Contractor in Las Vegas by VEGAS INC magazine. Martin-Harris Construction is a leader within the industry and the Southern Nevada community. John Tatum Regional Director of Procurement John Tatum has served 20+ years in the hospitality industry. He joined Caesars Entertainment in July of 2022 as Regional Director of Procurement where he oversees Las Vegas and Laughlin properties. Prior to joining Caesars, John worked in regional procurement management roles with Boyd Gaming, Penn Gaming, and MGM Resorts. He resides in Las Vegas with his wife and three children. Arsie Isip Associate Director, Supply Chain Management Arsie Isip is the Associate Director of Supply Chain Management for NV Energy, a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company. She has served as an operations, procurement, and supply chain professional for over 20 years among the industries of aerospace, aviation, electronics, gaming systems, and now energy solutions. At NV Energy, she strives to develop diverse coalitions with customers, suppliers, and the community to be the best energy company and strengthen sustainable energy solutions for Nevadans. Quentin O’Neal Supplier Diversity Manager Quentin O’Neal is the Supplier Diversity Manager for Layton Construction. Leading and overseeing their diverse business strategy for the Healthcare/Mission Critical Business units. Quentin is also responsible for community involvement and has been recognized internally and externally as a leader in the supplier diversity space as well as receiving accolades in the community. Quentin has over a decade of experience and has led strategic partnerships with minority and women-owned businesses and community organizations. Telma Lopez Manager of Diversity Programs Telma Lopez is the Manager of Diversity Programs for Southwest Gas Corporation. In her position, Telma is part of a team that oversees the company’s Diversity & Inclusion efforts and Supplier Diversity activities in Nevada, California, and Arizona. Telma joined Southwest in 1996 and has previously served in various positions within the organization, including in the Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs, and Public Affairs teams.In addition to her work at Southwest, Telma serves on the advisory board for CPLC Nevada and volunteers with local nonprofits in her community. Holden Hsiao Vice President Holden Hsiao is the Vice President of ShawLundquist Construction and manages its West Region. Shaw-Lundquist is one of the largest minority-owned business enterprises in the U.S. with a focus of building better lives through construction. Holden has held roles in Estimating, Building Information Modeling, as well as Information Technology, and has extensive experience with onsite projects. With contract licenses in Nevada, California, and Arizona, Holden is growing and expanding the business in the West Region. He is responsible for overseeing the project team and keeping construction activities moving forward to meet project milestones and exceed client expectations. CERTIFIED MBE Banking & Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services, Technology & Government Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Christine Maddela Managing Partner MBE Moderator Joylynn Ross Content Creator & Storytelling Expert Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Bruce Wilcox Vice President, Technology Bruce Wilcox orchestrates the method behind the infrastructure of the hardware and software madness that enables clients to conceive and communicate their products among each other and to the world. Before joining R&R Partners, Bruce led IT operations of several consumer brands, helping each to leverage the power of technology to better serve their customers and grow their businesses, including hip scooter manufacturer Razor and athletic footwear marketer L.A Gear. As director of IT & Distribution for Melbourne, Australiaheadquartered Globe International, he was responsible for operational management of all warehouse and IT activities for this designer and marketer of apparel, footwear and skateboard equipment for the action sports and street fashion markets. Bruce earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California. Victor Figueredo Coordinator IV Victor Figueredo is a Buyer IV in the Clark County School District (CCSD) Purchasing Department where he has worked for over a year. He oversees the acquisition of products, equipment, and services for the Transportation, Warehousing, Food Services, and general school transportation & auto shop. Prior to working at CCSD, Victor worked at NV Energy for over 26 years in Supply Chain Management, Transportation Services, and Operation Services. Victor grew up in the Las Vegas community and he received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He also received his MBA from the University of Detroit. His key skills include purchasing/contract management, fleet management, and warehousing/logistics operations. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. US BANK Richard Chacon Director Richard Chacon serves is a Director at US Bank. US Bancorp completed the acquisition of MUFG Union Bank in December 2022. Richard served as the Director of Supplier Diversity & Development for MUFG Union Bank, N.A. He joined Union Bank in 1998 and was the driving force behind an increase in DBE spend from $26MM in 1998 to $250MM in 2020. Richard served 10 years in the U.S. Army, and 13 years with Pacific Bell. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified.
FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF WRMSDC & COMMUNITIES OF COLOR THANK YOU CAMP INNOVATION SUPPORTER BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 18
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 19 WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Cecil Plummer, Host President & CEO Cecil Plummer is the president and a member of the Board of Directors for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. Plummer formerly worked with Robert Half for 17 years and left his most recent position as the Director of CSS Strategic Solutions to join the Council. Plummer has over 13 years of executive leadership experience and possesses a solid background in strategic sourcing, change management, performance and process improvement, Supplier Diversity, strategic planning, and risk management. Rose Davis, Co-Host Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) Rose Davis serves as Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. She has dedicated more than two decades to passionately championing diverse businesses for inclusion within corporate America’s purchasing and supply chain strategies. Rose has over 25 years of experience in supplier diversity, business development, accounting, and finance. Her accomplishments include a 29 percent 5-year net growth in Nevada MBEs from 2017-2021. Recently, she was awarded the 2023 Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Year Award-Urban by the Nevada Small Business Administration. Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee Myisha Boyce Chief Community Engagement Officer Myisha Boyce is currently serving as Chief Community Engagement Officer with the Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee. Myisha is also the founding member and President of M.Y.S. Firm, a Nevada based women- and minority-owned professional services organization established in 2014. She has spent more than a decade directing highstakes programs and diverse teams across public and private industries. Myisha serves as Chair of Allegiant Stadium’s Community Advisory Board, is a Member on the Board of Directors for non-profit, Access Community Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution, as well as non-profit, StartUpNV, a Nevada-focused statewide business accelerator and incubator. She previously served as a legislatively appointed Commissioner and Chair of the Legislative Subcommittee within Nevada Department of Business & Industry’s Commission on Minority Affairs. Myisha earned her degree in Education at the University of California, San Diego. Her focus is building and enhancing strategic professional partnerships that jointly benefit business and community. Renze Consulting Matthew Renze Data Science Consultant, Author, Speaker Matthew Renze is a data science consultant, author, and public speaker. He is the founder of Renze Consulting, an AI consulting company that has trained over 400,000 software developers and IT professionals. His clients range from small tech start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. He is also the President of Serenze Global, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to technology education for underrepresented individuals by empowering the next generation of tech community leaders. Matthew is currently working on his Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a Data Science specialization at Johns Hopkins University. He currently has double degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy with a minor in Economics from Iowa State University. He is a Microsoft MVP in AI, an ASPInsider, the organizer of the Las Vegas AI Meetup, and an author for Pluralsight, Udemy, and Skillshare. His interests include AI, ML, data science, mindfulness, technology education, and tech community leadership. Topic: AI: The Future of Small Business ACCE$$ TO CAPITAL Brought to you by: Stretch your opportunities with the federal government; learn about crowdfunding and innovative solutions and resources to drive growth that enable small- to medium-sized businesses to thrive. Gabriela Wyett VP, Business Community Engagement Officer Through Gabriela’s parallel efforts at Lexicon Bank and the Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs, she continually advocates for local, women, and minority business owners by providing opportunities such as access to capital, banking solutions, technical assistance and above all stellar service. She provides a voice for women and minority entrepreneurs as she understands the complexities they may face in finance. As such, she is launching a vertical at Lexicon Bank for women and minority enterprises. By synchronizing efforts, she serves and works with a variety of community and state partners to provide knowledge and financial proficiency to the business community. Gabriela loves nothing more than to know she has been a part of a business’ journey and growth. Saul Ramos Nevada District Director Saul Ramos, Nevada SBA District Director, has held several leadership positions during his 20-year federal career and is a graduate of the President’s Management Council Program. He has represented SBA in various roles, including International Development Specialist, Senior Area Manager, and oversight of the Economic and Business Development team. Saul leads a passionate, talented and experienced Nevada SBA team focused on putting customers—the nation's small businesses—first. During the COVID19 pandemic, he worked closely with the Nevada District team and partners to provide capital and technical assistance programs to the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses. This was a monumental task that helped small businesses survive and preserved the jobs and livelihoods of millions in Nevada. Ruth E. Hedges CEO & "Queen of Crowdfunding" Forbes Ruth is recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on Equity Crowdfunding for pioneering the bill signed into the JOBS Act on April 5, 2012. Ruth was honored with an invitation to the White House for their "Crowdfunding Champions of Change" event. Her work has landed her in 69 publications, including seven times in Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and INC Magazine. In 2023 in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company, she launched the Rise Up Crowdfunding portal to help more Women, Black, Latin, LGBTQ, and all minority founders and startups raise $5 million in capital using Equity Crowdfunding. Ruth has consulted with government organizations, small business owners, startups, and Fortune 500 companies. Las Vegas Women In Technology recognized her as a ‘Crowdfunding Innovator’ and recipient of the “High Tech Woman Of The Year” for 2017. SBA’s participation or support is not an endorsement of any product, service, or entity. FIRESIDE CHAT “CULTIVATING “REAL”-ATIONSHIPS” Is your business stuck in the selling mode? It’s a fact—people do business with those whom they know and trust. Lean in as participants share the fundamentals to cultivating lasting REAL-ationships that will enable your business to grow and to thrive. Kenyatta Lewis Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement Kenyatta Lewis is the Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement at MGM Resorts International. From her start in procurement at New YorkNew York in 2000, Kenyatta designed, implemented, and expanded the company’s robust supplier diversity program. She is responsible for defining innovative strategies for supplier diversity and providing leadership direction to advance ESG priorities in the supply chain. She also oversees training and development programs for 80+ procurement professionals. Kenyatta was recently named a 2022 Women of Distinction in Hospitality, Retail & Conventions by NAWBO-Southern Nevada. She leads MGM Resorts’ executive Supplier Inclusion Task Force and is a member of the Institute for Supply Management’s Sustainability Committee; the Advertising, Entertainment Media & Sports Industry Group; and the Houston Minority Business Council’s Business Development Advisory Council. Kenyatta earned her degree in Business Management and served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves. D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Mario Stadtlander President Mario Stadtlander is the President of Eagle Promotions, a specialty branded products company. He was born and raised in Las Vegas and grew up working in the family motorcycle shop. The family had another business within the motorcycle shop, EP Performs. It was there that Mario got his start in the apparel and promotional products industry. In 2001, EP Performs merged with Eagle Promotions. At the start of Eagle Promotions, it was Sean Ono, currently CEO; Mario, and eight employees. Fast forward, Eagle Promotions is an award-winning top 40 promotional products distributor with opportunities to work with businesses such as: Disney, Coca-Cola, MLB, Hard Rock, and more. FISHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES Rhoda Hassad Supplier Diversity Manager Rhoda Hassad is the Supplier Diversity Manager for MGM Resorts International. In her role she is focused on building an inclusive environment to increase the participation of diverse suppliers in contracting & procurement and to develop a competitive supplier base that represents the communities served. Rhoda brings over 20 years of experience in Hospitality to her position. Most recently, she was a Hotel Operations Manager at New York-New York, an MGM Resorts property in Las Vegas. Her experience also includes various positions in Hotel Operations at Mandalay Bay and Delano Las Vegas, both MGM Resort International properties. Currently, Rhoda serves as Chair of the Professional Women’s Employee Network Group for MGM Resort’s International. She is a member of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association and the Women in Lodging in Nevada Association. Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. NEW PARTICIPANTS BEING ADDED! KEEP CHECKING BACK FOR UPDATES. 2:55PM TO 4:15PM Breakout Camps are designed to provide a casual setting for Corporate Members, Buyers, and Industry Leaders to speak directly with diverse suppliers about a range of topics. It will also equip diverse suppliers with tools and strategies to increase their business by hearing directly from potential and current clients. Topics Covered Industry Trends Rules of Engagement Sourcing & Contracts I Won/I Didn’t Win the Bid: Now What? Upcoming Opportunities Each Breakout Camp will have a Lead Moderator and Co-Moderator, certified MBEs who have been selected to direct activities and topics within their room. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions when the moderators open the floor for Q&As. Entertainment, Gaming, Sports, Hospitality & F&B Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Reggie Burton Founder/CEO MBE Moderator Shabana Siraj CEO & Founder Ryne Tokunaga Purchasing Buyer Ryne Tokunaga is a purchasing buyer at Sahara Las Vegas, a hotel and casino located on the Las Vegas Strip. He brings a diverse skill set to the organization,having dealt with multiple areas within hospitality procurement. Ryne currently oversees the day-to-day F&B procurement for Sahara Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort in the Meruelo Gaming portfolio. Previously, Ryne worked as a buyer for the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno with a dual degree in Finance and Economics. CERTIFIED MBE Alan Gartrell Vice President of Procurement Alan has over 20+ years of experience in Purchasing & Warehousing Management in the Entertainment & Hospitality Industry. Alan joined Caesars Entertainment in June 2011 and is currently the Vice President of Procurement responsible for overseeing Regional Procurement, Warehousing, Supplier Diversity and Sustainability for all Caesars’ properties. Prior to this role, Alan has held multiple Regional Director positions throughout the country most recently the Senior Director of the Western Region. Before coming to Caesars, Alan spent 4 years as the Purchasing Manager at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in Asheville, NC and 10 years as the Purchasing and Warehouse Manager at Six Flags America in Maryland. Alan went to Mars Hill College for a BA in Music Theory and Performance. Alan resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife, Bianca, and their son, Luca. Neumiia DuncanReed Vice President, Human Resources & Community Affairs Neumiia Duncan-Reed is the Vice President of Human Resources & Community Affairs for ASM Global which operates Allegiant Stadium. She brings years of experience developing and implementing business and HR strategies, programs and processes to drive business results through leadership and management. Neumiia holds a B.S. degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Amy Clark Senior Manager Amy Clark has over 20 years of experience in supply chain in the electric utility and gaming industries. After retiring from the Tennessee Valley Authority, Amy joined NV Energy as a supply chain and procurement manager. Amy is currently a senior manager at Aristocrat focused on supplier diversity, environmental social governance, and compliance. In addition to her supply chain experience, Amy was an adjunct professor at Georgia Northwestern Technical for five years. At GNTC, she taught business law, economics, HR management, leadership and management principles, labor relations, managerial accounting, and employment law. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration. She is a Certified Professional in Supply Management as designated by the Institute for Supply Management, Inc. Amy continues to further her education and will graduate this year with her Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Global Supply Chain Management. Samira SayeghRivera Director of Procurement Samira Sayegh-Rivera is the Director of Procurement at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Samira has been with San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in various roles for more than 25 years. Currently, she oversees the day-to-day procurement operations for all San Manuel entities – including the Palms, Yaamava, and all government operations. She is responsible for delivering excellent performance from the buying team and the hundreds of orders that are placed each day for everything from fire trucks, to audit services to tomatoes. Samira collaborates with San Manuels stakeholders – including operations, vendors, accounts payable and logistics to leverage procurement best practices and ensure effective P2P execution. She is also responsible for managing all policy, performance and reporting related to purchases, vendor management, system optimization and our expanding diversity program. Construction, Infrastructure & Utilities Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Rahul Kuruvilla CEO WRMSDC MBEIC Chair MBE Moderator Jammie Hsu Thompson Owner/Solutions Provider Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Austin Kight Strategic Brand Director Austin Kight joined Martin-Harris Construction in 2003 with a background in Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Administration. In her current role Strategic Brand Director at Martin-Harris, Austin ensures internal and external programs are in align with the company’s strategic goals and core values. Specific to procurement, she oversees the Subcontractor “Opportunity Program” and ensures company policies and procedures support the company’s commitment for awarding contracts and subcontracts to small, minority, women, veteran, and disadvantaged business concerns from all possible sources. The company’s approach to subcontractor and vendor inclusion is three-pronged incorporating Outreach Efforts, Educational Workshops, and Strategic Partnership Events. Founded in 1976, Martin-Harris Construction is currently ranked as the largest General Contractor in Las Vegas by VEGAS INC magazine. Martin-Harris Construction is a leader within the industry and the Southern Nevada community. John Tatum Regional Director of Procurement John Tatum has served 20+ years in the hospitality industry. He joined Caesars Entertainment in July of 2022 as Regional Director of Procurement where he oversees Las Vegas and Laughlin properties. Prior to joining Caesars, John worked in regional procurement management roles with Boyd Gaming, Penn Gaming, and MGM Resorts. He resides in Las Vegas with his wife and three children. Arsie Isip Associate Director, Supply Chain Management Arsie Isip is the Associate Director of Supply Chain Management for NV Energy, a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company. She has served as an operations, procurement, and supply chain professional for over 20 years among the industries of aerospace, aviation, electronics, gaming systems, and now energy solutions. At NV Energy, she strives to develop diverse coalitions with customers, suppliers, and the community to be the best energy company and strengthen sustainable energy solutions for Nevadans. Quentin O’Neal Supplier Diversity Manager Quentin O’Neal is the Supplier Diversity Manager for Layton Construction. Leading and overseeing their diverse business strategy for the Healthcare/Mission Critical Business units. Quentin is also responsible for community involvement and has been recognized internally and externally as a leader in the supplier diversity space as well as receiving accolades in the community. Quentin has over a decade of experience and has led strategic partnerships with minority and women-owned businesses and community organizations. Telma Lopez Manager of Diversity Programs Telma Lopez is the Manager of Diversity Programs for Southwest Gas Corporation. In her position, Telma is part of a team that oversees the company’s Diversity & Inclusion efforts and Supplier Diversity activities in Nevada, California, and Arizona. Telma joined Southwest in 1996 and has previously served in various positions within the organization, including in the Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs, and Public Affairs teams.In addition to her work at Southwest, Telma serves on the advisory board for CPLC Nevada and volunteers with local nonprofits in her community. Holden Hsiao Vice President Holden Hsiao is the Vice President of ShawLundquist Construction and manages its West Region. Shaw-Lundquist is one of the largest minority-owned business enterprises in the U.S. with a focus of building better lives through construction. Holden has held roles in Estimating, Building Information Modeling, as well as Information Technology, and has extensive experience with onsite projects. With contract licenses in Nevada, California, and Arizona, Holden is growing and expanding the business in the West Region. He is responsible for overseeing the project team and keeping construction activities moving forward to meet project milestones and exceed client expectations. CERTIFIED MBE Banking & Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services, Technology & Government Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Christine Maddela Managing Partner MBE Moderator Joylynn Ross Content Creator & Storytelling Expert Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Bruce Wilcox Vice President, Technology Bruce Wilcox orchestrates the method behind the infrastructure of the hardware and software madness that enables clients to conceive and communicate their products among each other and to the world. Before joining R&R Partners, Bruce led IT operations of several consumer brands, helping each to leverage the power of technology to better serve their customers and grow their businesses, including hip scooter manufacturer Razor and athletic footwear marketer L.A Gear. As director of IT & Distribution for Melbourne, Australiaheadquartered Globe International, he was responsible for operational management of all warehouse and IT activities for this designer and marketer of apparel, footwear and skateboard equipment for the action sports and street fashion markets. Bruce earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California. Victor Figueredo Coordinator IV Victor Figueredo is a Buyer IV in the Clark County School District (CCSD) Purchasing Department where he has worked for over a year. He oversees the acquisition of products, equipment, and services for the Transportation, Warehousing, Food Services, and general school transportation & auto shop. Prior to working at CCSD, Victor worked at NV Energy for over 26 years in Supply Chain Management, Transportation Services, and Operation Services. Victor grew up in the Las Vegas community and he received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He also received his MBA from the University of Detroit. His key skills include purchasing/contract management, fleet management, and warehousing/logistics operations. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. US BANK Richard Chacon Director Richard Chacon serves is a Director at US Bank. US Bancorp completed the acquisition of MUFG Union Bank in December 2022. Richard served as the Director of Supplier Diversity & Development for MUFG Union Bank, N.A. He joined Union Bank in 1998 and was the driving force behind an increase in DBE spend from $26MM in 1998 to $250MM in 2020. Richard served 10 years in the U.S. Army, and 13 years with Pacific Bell. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. BASE CAMP
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 20 WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Cecil Plummer, Host President & CEO Cecil Plummer is the president and a member of the Board of Directors for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. Plummer formerly worked with Robert Half for 17 years and left his most recent position as the Director of CSS Strategic Solutions to join the Council. Plummer has over 13 years of executive leadership experience and possesses a solid background in strategic sourcing, change management, performance and process improvement, Supplier Diversity, strategic planning, and risk management. Rose Davis, Co-Host Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) Rose Davis serves as Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. She has dedicated more than two decades to passionately championing diverse businesses for inclusion within corporate America’s purchasing and supply chain strategies. Rose has over 25 years of experience in supplier diversity, business development, accounting, and finance. Her accomplishments include a 29 percent 5-year net growth in Nevada MBEs from 2017-2021. Recently, she was awarded the 2023 Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Year Award-Urban by the Nevada Small Business Administration. Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee Myisha Boyce Chief Community Engagement Officer Myisha Boyce is currently serving as Chief Community Engagement Officer with the Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee. Myisha is also the founding member and President of M.Y.S. Firm, a Nevada based women- and minority-owned professional services organization established in 2014. She has spent more than a decade directing highstakes programs and diverse teams across public and private industries. Myisha serves as Chair of Allegiant Stadium’s Community Advisory Board, is a Member on the Board of Directors for non-profit, Access Community Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution, as well as non-profit, StartUpNV, a Nevada-focused statewide business accelerator and incubator. She previously served as a legislatively appointed Commissioner and Chair of the Legislative Subcommittee within Nevada Department of Business & Industry’s Commission on Minority Affairs. Myisha earned her degree in Education at the University of California, San Diego. Her focus is building and enhancing strategic professional partnerships that jointly benefit business and community. Renze Consulting Matthew Renze Data Science Consultant, Author, Speaker Matthew Renze is a data science consultant, author, and public speaker. He is the founder of Renze Consulting, an AI consulting company that has trained over 400,000 software developers and IT professionals. His clients range from small tech start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. He is also the President of Serenze Global, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to technology education for underrepresented individuals by empowering the next generation of tech community leaders. Matthew is currently working on his Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a Data Science specialization at Johns Hopkins University. He currently has double degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy with a minor in Economics from Iowa State University. He is a Microsoft MVP in AI, an ASPInsider, the organizer of the Las Vegas AI Meetup, and an author for Pluralsight, Udemy, and Skillshare. His interests include AI, ML, data science, mindfulness, technology education, and tech community leadership. Topic: AI: The Future of Small Business ACCE$$ TO CAPITAL Brought to you by: Stretch your opportunities with the federal government; learn about crowdfunding and innovative solutions and resources to drive growth that enable small- to medium-sized businesses to thrive. Gabriela Wyett VP, Business Community Engagement Officer Through Gabriela’s parallel efforts at Lexicon Bank and the Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs, she continually advocates for local, women, and minority business owners by providing opportunities such as access to capital, banking solutions, technical assistance and above all stellar service. She provides a voice for women and minority entrepreneurs as she understands the complexities they may face in finance. As such, she is launching a vertical at Lexicon Bank for women and minority enterprises. By synchronizing efforts, she serves and works with a variety of community and state partners to provide knowledge and financial proficiency to the business community. Gabriela loves nothing more than to know she has been a part of a business’ journey and growth. Saul Ramos Nevada District Director Saul Ramos, Nevada SBA District Director, has held several leadership positions during his 20-year federal career and is a graduate of the President’s Management Council Program. He has represented SBA in various roles, including International Development Specialist, Senior Area Manager, and oversight of the Economic and Business Development team. Saul leads a passionate, talented and experienced Nevada SBA team focused on putting customers—the nation's small businesses—first. During the COVID19 pandemic, he worked closely with the Nevada District team and partners to provide capital and technical assistance programs to the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses. This was a monumental task that helped small businesses survive and preserved the jobs and livelihoods of millions in Nevada. Ruth E. Hedges CEO & "Queen of Crowdfunding" Forbes Ruth is recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on Equity Crowdfunding for pioneering the bill signed into the JOBS Act on April 5, 2012. Ruth was honored with an invitation to the White House for their "Crowdfunding Champions of Change" event. Her work has landed her in 69 publications, including seven times in Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and INC Magazine. In 2023 in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company, she launched the Rise Up Crowdfunding portal to help more Women, Black, Latin, LGBTQ, and all minority founders and startups raise $5 million in capital using Equity Crowdfunding. Ruth has consulted with government organizations, small business owners, startups, and Fortune 500 companies. Las Vegas Women In Technology recognized her as a ‘Crowdfunding Innovator’ and recipient of the “High Tech Woman Of The Year” for 2017. SBA’s participation or support is not an endorsement of any product, service, or entity. FIRESIDE CHAT “CULTIVATING “REAL”-ATIONSHIPS” Is your business stuck in the selling mode? It’s a fact—people do business with those whom they know and trust. Lean in as participants share the fundamentals to cultivating lasting REAL-ationships that will enable your business to grow and to thrive. Kenyatta Lewis Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement Kenyatta Lewis is the Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement at MGM Resorts International. From her start in procurement at New YorkNew York in 2000, Kenyatta designed, implemented, and expanded the company’s robust supplier diversity program. She is responsible for defining innovative strategies for supplier diversity and providing leadership direction to advance ESG priorities in the supply chain. She also oversees training and development programs for 80+ procurement professionals. Kenyatta was recently named a 2022 Women of Distinction in Hospitality, Retail & Conventions by NAWBO-Southern Nevada. She leads MGM Resorts’ executive Supplier Inclusion Task Force and is a member of the Institute for Supply Management’s Sustainability Committee; the Advertising, Entertainment Media & Sports Industry Group; and the Houston Minority Business Council’s Business Development Advisory Council. Kenyatta earned her degree in Business Management and served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves. D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Mario Stadtlander President Mario Stadtlander is the President of Eagle Promotions, a specialty branded products company. He was born and raised in Las Vegas and grew up working in the family motorcycle shop. The family had another business within the motorcycle shop, EP Performs. It was there that Mario got his start in the apparel and promotional products industry. In 2001, EP Performs merged with Eagle Promotions. At the start of Eagle Promotions, it was Sean Ono, currently CEO; Mario, and eight employees. Fast forward, Eagle Promotions is an award-winning top 40 promotional products distributor with opportunities to work with businesses such as: Disney, Coca-Cola, MLB, Hard Rock, and more. FISHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES Rhoda Hassad Supplier Diversity Manager Rhoda Hassad is the Supplier Diversity Manager for MGM Resorts International. In her role she is focused on building an inclusive environment to increase the participation of diverse suppliers in contracting & procurement and to develop a competitive supplier base that represents the communities served. Rhoda brings over 20 years of experience in Hospitality to her position. Most recently, she was a Hotel Operations Manager at New York-New York, an MGM Resorts property in Las Vegas. Her experience also includes various positions in Hotel Operations at Mandalay Bay and Delano Las Vegas, both MGM Resort International properties. Currently, Rhoda serves as Chair of the Professional Women’s Employee Network Group for MGM Resort’s International. She is a member of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association and the Women in Lodging in Nevada Association. Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. NEW PARTICIPANTS BEING ADDED! KEEP CHECKING BACK FOR UPDATES. 2:55PM TO 4:15PM Breakout Camps are designed to provide a casual setting for Corporate Members, Buyers, and Industry Leaders to speak directly with diverse suppliers about a range of topics. It will also equip diverse suppliers with tools and strategies to increase their business by hearing directly from potential and current clients. Topics Covered Industry Trends Rules of Engagement Sourcing & Contracts I Won/I Didn’t Win the Bid: Now What? Upcoming Opportunities Each Breakout Camp will have a Lead Moderator and Co-Moderator, certified MBEs who have been selected to direct activities and topics within their room. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions when the moderators open the floor for Q&As. Entertainment, Gaming, Sports, Hospitality & F&B Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Reggie Burton Founder/CEO MBE Moderator Shabana Siraj CEO & Founder Ryne Tokunaga Purchasing Buyer Ryne Tokunaga is a purchasing buyer at Sahara Las Vegas, a hotel and casino located on the Las Vegas Strip. He brings a diverse skill set to the organization,having dealt with multiple areas within hospitality procurement. Ryne currently oversees the day-to-day F&B procurement for Sahara Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort in the Meruelo Gaming portfolio. Previously, Ryne worked as a buyer for the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno with a dual degree in Finance and Economics. CERTIFIED MBE Alan Gartrell Vice President of Procurement Alan has over 20+ years of experience in Purchasing & Warehousing Management in the Entertainment & Hospitality Industry. Alan joined Caesars Entertainment in June 2011 and is currently the Vice President of Procurement responsible for overseeing Regional Procurement, Warehousing, Supplier Diversity and Sustainability for all Caesars’ properties. Prior to this role, Alan has held multiple Regional Director positions throughout the country most recently the Senior Director of the Western Region. Before coming to Caesars, Alan spent 4 years as the Purchasing Manager at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in Asheville, NC and 10 years as the Purchasing and Warehouse Manager at Six Flags America in Maryland. Alan went to Mars Hill College for a BA in Music Theory and Performance. Alan resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife, Bianca, and their son, Luca. Neumiia DuncanReed Vice President, Human Resources & Community Affairs Neumiia Duncan-Reed is the Vice President of Human Resources & Community Affairs for ASM Global which operates Allegiant Stadium. She brings years of experience developing and implementing business and HR strategies, programs and processes to drive business results through leadership and management. Neumiia holds a B.S. degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Amy Clark Senior Manager Amy Clark has over 20 years of experience in supply chain in the electric utility and gaming industries. After retiring from the Tennessee Valley Authority, Amy joined NV Energy as a supply chain and procurement manager. Amy is currently a senior manager at Aristocrat focused on supplier diversity, environmental social governance, and compliance. In addition to her supply chain experience, Amy was an adjunct professor at Georgia Northwestern Technical for five years. At GNTC, she taught business law, economics, HR management, leadership and management principles, labor relations, managerial accounting, and employment law. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration. She is a Certified Professional in Supply Management as designated by the Institute for Supply Management, Inc. Amy continues to further her education and will graduate this year with her Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Global Supply Chain Management. Samira SayeghRivera Director of Procurement Samira Sayegh-Rivera is the Director of Procurement at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Samira has been with San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in various roles for more than 25 years. Currently, she oversees the day-to-day procurement operations for all San Manuel entities – including the Palms, Yaamava, and all government operations. She is responsible for delivering excellent performance from the buying team and the hundreds of orders that are placed each day for everything from fire trucks, to audit services to tomatoes. Samira collaborates with San Manuels stakeholders – including operations, vendors, accounts payable and logistics to leverage procurement best practices and ensure effective P2P execution. She is also responsible for managing all policy, performance and reporting related to purchases, vendor management, system optimization and our expanding diversity program. Construction, Infrastructure & Utilities Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Rahul Kuruvilla CEO WRMSDC MBEIC Chair MBE Moderator Jammie Hsu Thompson Owner/Solutions Provider Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Austin Kight Strategic Brand Director Austin Kight joined Martin-Harris Construction in 2003 with a background in Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Administration. In her current role Strategic Brand Director at Martin-Harris, Austin ensures internal and external programs are in align with the company’s strategic goals and core values. Specific to procurement, she oversees the Subcontractor “Opportunity Program” and ensures company policies and procedures support the company’s commitment for awarding contracts and subcontracts to small, minority, women, veteran, and disadvantaged business concerns from all possible sources. The company’s approach to subcontractor and vendor inclusion is three-pronged incorporating Outreach Efforts, Educational Workshops, and Strategic Partnership Events. Founded in 1976, Martin-Harris Construction is currently ranked as the largest General Contractor in Las Vegas by VEGAS INC magazine. Martin-Harris Construction is a leader within the industry and the Southern Nevada community. John Tatum Regional Director of Procurement John Tatum has served 20+ years in the hospitality industry. He joined Caesars Entertainment in July of 2022 as Regional Director of Procurement where he oversees Las Vegas and Laughlin properties. Prior to joining Caesars, John worked in regional procurement management roles with Boyd Gaming, Penn Gaming, and MGM Resorts. He resides in Las Vegas with his wife and three children. Arsie Isip Associate Director, Supply Chain Management Arsie Isip is the Associate Director of Supply Chain Management for NV Energy, a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company. She has served as an operations, procurement, and supply chain professional for over 20 years among the industries of aerospace, aviation, electronics, gaming systems, and now energy solutions. At NV Energy, she strives to develop diverse coalitions with customers, suppliers, and the community to be the best energy company and strengthen sustainable energy solutions for Nevadans. Quentin O’Neal Supplier Diversity Manager Quentin O’Neal is the Supplier Diversity Manager for Layton Construction. Leading and overseeing their diverse business strategy for the Healthcare/Mission Critical Business units. Quentin is also responsible for community involvement and has been recognized internally and externally as a leader in the supplier diversity space as well as receiving accolades in the community. Quentin has over a decade of experience and has led strategic partnerships with minority and women-owned businesses and community organizations. Telma Lopez Manager of Diversity Programs Telma Lopez is the Manager of Diversity Programs for Southwest Gas Corporation. In her position, Telma is part of a team that oversees the company’s Diversity & Inclusion efforts and Supplier Diversity activities in Nevada, California, and Arizona. Telma joined Southwest in 1996 and has previously served in various positions within the organization, including in the Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs, and Public Affairs teams.In addition to her work at Southwest, Telma serves on the advisory board for CPLC Nevada and volunteers with local nonprofits in her community. Holden Hsiao Vice President Holden Hsiao is the Vice President of ShawLundquist Construction and manages its West Region. Shaw-Lundquist is one of the largest minority-owned business enterprises in the U.S. with a focus of building better lives through construction. Holden has held roles in Estimating, Building Information Modeling, as well as Information Technology, and has extensive experience with onsite projects. With contract licenses in Nevada, California, and Arizona, Holden is growing and expanding the business in the West Region. He is responsible for overseeing the project team and keeping construction activities moving forward to meet project milestones and exceed client expectations. CERTIFIED MBE Banking & Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services, Technology & Government Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Christine Maddela Managing Partner MBE Moderator Joylynn Ross Content Creator & Storytelling Expert Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Bruce Wilcox Vice President, Technology Bruce Wilcox orchestrates the method behind the infrastructure of the hardware and software madness that enables clients to conceive and communicate their products among each other and to the world. Before joining R&R Partners, Bruce led IT operations of several consumer brands, helping each to leverage the power of technology to better serve their customers and grow their businesses, including hip scooter manufacturer Razor and athletic footwear marketer L.A Gear. As director of IT & Distribution for Melbourne, Australiaheadquartered Globe International, he was responsible for operational management of all warehouse and IT activities for this designer and marketer of apparel, footwear and skateboard equipment for the action sports and street fashion markets. Bruce earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California. Victor Figueredo Coordinator IV Victor Figueredo is a Buyer IV in the Clark County School District (CCSD) Purchasing Department where he has worked for over a year. He oversees the acquisition of products, equipment, and services for the Transportation, Warehousing, Food Services, and general school transportation & auto shop. Prior to working at CCSD, Victor worked at NV Energy for over 26 years in Supply Chain Management, Transportation Services, and Operation Services. Victor grew up in the Las Vegas community and he received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He also received his MBA from the University of Detroit. His key skills include purchasing/contract management, fleet management, and warehousing/logistics operations. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. US BANK Richard Chacon Director Richard Chacon serves is a Director at US Bank. US Bancorp completed the acquisition of MUFG Union Bank in December 2022. Richard served as the Director of Supplier Diversity & Development for MUFG Union Bank, N.A. He joined Union Bank in 1998 and was the driving force behind an increase in DBE spend from $26MM in 1998 to $250MM in 2020. Richard served 10 years in the U.S. Army, and 13 years with Pacific Bell. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. BASE CAMP COMMITTED TO A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE CULTURE At MGM Resorts, we understand the transformative power that the success of diverse businesses can have on communities around the world. Through our supplier diversity program, we identify, advocate for, and connect diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within our supply chain. Our Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program pairs businesses with MGM Resorts subject matter experts, arming them with knowledge and tools to compete in the global supply chain. SUPPLIER DIVERSITY AT MGM RESORTS: BY THE NUMBERS • Exceeded our goal of spending 10% of total biddable spend paid annually to diverse suppliers • $4.6 billion spent with diverse-owned suppliers • More than 300-400 diverse suppliers engaged annually • 67 graduates from the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program since 2017, with a goal of 150 graduates by 2025 RECOGNITION • 2022 Supply Chain Trailblazer Organizational Award-Institute for Supply Management • 2022 Warrior Award-Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council • 2023 America’s Top Corporations for Women’s Business Enterprises-Women’s Business Enterprise National Council • 2023 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index • 'One of the Best Places to Work for LGTBQ+ Equality'-Human Rights Campaign • 2022 Leading Inclusion Index Company-Seramount WE ARE FOCUSED ON WHAT MATTERS
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 21 COMMITTED TO A DIVERSE AND INCLUSIVE CULTURE At MGM Resorts, we understand the transformative power that the success of diverse businesses can have on communities around the world. Through our supplier diversity program, we identify, advocate for, and connect diverse-owned suppliers to opportunities within our supply chain. Our Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program pairs businesses with MGM Resorts subject matter experts, arming them with knowledge and tools to compete in the global supply chain. SUPPLIER DIVERSITY AT MGM RESORTS: BY THE NUMBERS • Exceeded our goal of spending 10% of total biddable spend paid annually to diverse suppliers • $4.6 billion spent with diverse-owned suppliers • More than 300-400 diverse suppliers engaged annually • 67 graduates from the MGM Resorts Supplier Diversity Mentorship Program since 2017, with a goal of 150 graduates by 2025 RECOGNITION • 2022 Supply Chain Trailblazer Organizational Award-Institute for Supply Management • 2022 Warrior Award-Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council • 2023 America’s Top Corporations for Women’s Business Enterprises-Women’s Business Enterprise National Council • 2023 Bloomberg Gender-Equality Index • 'One of the Best Places to Work for LGTBQ+ Equality'-Human Rights Campaign • 2022 Leading Inclusion Index Company-Seramount WE ARE FOCUSED ON WHAT MATTERS
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 22
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 23 BREAKOUT CAMPS WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Cecil Plummer, Host President & CEO Cecil Plummer is the president and a member of the Board of Directors for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. Plummer formerly worked with Robert Half for 17 years and left his most recent position as the Director of CSS Strategic Solutions to join the Council. Plummer has over 13 years of executive leadership experience and possesses a solid background in strategic sourcing, change management, performance and process improvement, Supplier Diversity, strategic planning, and risk management. Rose Davis, Co-Host Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) Rose Davis serves as Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. She has dedicated more than two decades to passionately championing diverse businesses for inclusion within corporate America’s purchasing and supply chain strategies. Rose has over 25 years of experience in supplier diversity, business development, accounting, and finance. Her accomplishments include a 29 percent 5-year net growth in Nevada MBEs from 2017-2021. Recently, she was awarded the 2023 Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Year Award-Urban by the Nevada Small Business Administration. Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee Myisha Boyce Chief Community Engagement Officer Myisha Boyce is currently serving as Chief Community Engagement Officer with the Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee. Myisha is also the founding member and President of M.Y.S. Firm, a Nevada based women- and minority-owned professional services organization established in 2014. She has spent more than a decade directing highstakes programs and diverse teams across public and private industries. Myisha serves as Chair of Allegiant Stadium’s Community Advisory Board, is a Member on the Board of Directors for non-profit, Access Community Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution, as well as non-profit, StartUpNV, a Nevada-focused statewide business accelerator and incubator. She previously served as a legislatively appointed Commissioner and Chair of the Legislative Subcommittee within Nevada Department of Business & Industry’s Commission on Minority Affairs. Myisha earned her degree in Education at the University of California, San Diego. Her focus is building and enhancing strategic professional partnerships that jointly benefit business and community. Renze Consulting Matthew Renze Data Science Consultant, Author, Speaker Matthew Renze is a data science consultant, author, and public speaker. He is the founder of Renze Consulting, an AI consulting company that has trained over 400,000 software developers and IT professionals. His clients range from small tech start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. He is also the President of Serenze Global, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to technology education for underrepresented individuals by empowering the next generation of tech community leaders. Matthew is currently working on his Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a Data Science specialization at Johns Hopkins University. He currently has double degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy with a minor in Economics from Iowa State University. He is a Microsoft MVP in AI, an ASPInsider, the organizer of the Las Vegas AI Meetup, and an author for Pluralsight, Udemy, and Skillshare. His interests include AI, ML, data science, mindfulness, technology education, and tech community leadership. Topic: AI: The Future of Small Business ACCE$$ TO CAPITAL Brought to you by: Stretch your opportunities with the federal government; learn about crowdfunding and innovative solutions and resources to drive growth that enable small- to medium-sized businesses to thrive. Gabriela Wyett VP, Business Community Engagement Officer Through Gabriela’s parallel efforts at Lexicon Bank and the Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs, she continually advocates for local, women, and minority business owners by providing opportunities such as access to capital, banking solutions, technical assistance and above all stellar service. She provides a voice for women and minority entrepreneurs as she understands the complexities they may face in finance. As such, she is launching a vertical at Lexicon Bank for women and minority enterprises. By synchronizing efforts, she serves and works with a variety of community and state partners to provide knowledge and financial proficiency to the business community. Gabriela loves nothing more than to know she has been a part of a business’ journey and growth. Saul Ramos Nevada District Director Saul Ramos, Nevada SBA District Director, has held several leadership positions during his 20-year federal career and is a graduate of the President’s Management Council Program. He has represented SBA in various roles, including International Development Specialist, Senior Area Manager, and oversight of the Economic and Business Development team. Saul leads a passionate, talented and experienced Nevada SBA team focused on putting customers—the nation's small businesses—first. During the COVID19 pandemic, he worked closely with the Nevada District team and partners to provide capital and technical assistance programs to the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses. This was a monumental task that helped small businesses survive and preserved the jobs and livelihoods of millions in Nevada. Ruth E. Hedges CEO & "Queen of Crowdfunding" Forbes Ruth is recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on Equity Crowdfunding for pioneering the bill signed into the JOBS Act on April 5, 2012. Ruth was honored with an invitation to the White House for their "Crowdfunding Champions of Change" event. Her work has landed her in 69 publications, including seven times in Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and INC Magazine. In 2023 in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company, she launched the Rise Up Crowdfunding portal to help more Women, Black, Latin, LGBTQ, and all minority founders and startups raise $5 million in capital using Equity Crowdfunding. Ruth has consulted with government organizations, small business owners, startups, and Fortune 500 companies. Las Vegas Women In Technology recognized her as a ‘Crowdfunding Innovator’ and recipient of the “High Tech Woman Of The Year” for 2017. SBA’s participation or support is not an endorsement of any product, service, or entity. FIRESIDE CHAT “CULTIVATING “REAL”-ATIONSHIPS” Is your business stuck in the selling mode? It’s a fact—people do business with those whom they know and trust. Lean in as participants share the fundamentals to cultivating lasting REAL-ationships that will enable your business to grow and to thrive. Kenyatta Lewis Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement Kenyatta Lewis is the Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement at MGM Resorts International. From her start in procurement at New YorkNew York in 2000, Kenyatta designed, implemented, and expanded the company’s robust supplier diversity program. She is responsible for defining innovative strategies for supplier diversity and providing leadership direction to advance ESG priorities in the supply chain. She also oversees training and development programs for 80+ procurement professionals. Kenyatta was recently named a 2022 Women of Distinction in Hospitality, Retail & Conventions by NAWBO-Southern Nevada. She leads MGM Resorts’ executive Supplier Inclusion Task Force and is a member of the Institute for Supply Management’s Sustainability Committee; the Advertising, Entertainment Media & Sports Industry Group; and the Houston Minority Business Council’s Business Development Advisory Council. Kenyatta earned her degree in Business Management and served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves. D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Mario Stadtlander President Mario Stadtlander is the President of Eagle Promotions, a specialty branded products company. He was born and raised in Las Vegas and grew up working in the family motorcycle shop. The family had another business within the motorcycle shop, EP Performs. It was there that Mario got his start in the apparel and promotional products industry. In 2001, EP Performs merged with Eagle Promotions. At the start of Eagle Promotions, it was Sean Ono, currently CEO; Mario, and eight employees. Fast forward, Eagle Promotions is an award-winning top 40 promotional products distributor with opportunities to work with businesses such as: Disney, Coca-Cola, MLB, Hard Rock, and more. FISHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES Rhoda Hassad Supplier Diversity Manager Rhoda Hassad is the Supplier Diversity Manager for MGM Resorts International. In her role she is focused on building an inclusive environment to increase the participation of diverse suppliers in contracting & procurement and to develop a competitive supplier base that represents the communities served. Rhoda brings over 20 years of experience in Hospitality to her position. Most recently, she was a Hotel Operations Manager at New York-New York, an MGM Resorts property in Las Vegas. Her experience also includes various positions in Hotel Operations at Mandalay Bay and Delano Las Vegas, both MGM Resort International properties. Currently, Rhoda serves as Chair of the Professional Women’s Employee Network Group for MGM Resort’s International. She is a member of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association and the Women in Lodging in Nevada Association. Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. NEW PARTICIPANTS BEING ADDED! KEEP CHECKING BACK FOR UPDATES. 2:55PM TO 4:15PM Breakout Camps are designed to provide a casual setting for Corporate Members, Buyers, and Industry Leaders to speak directly with diverse suppliers about a range of topics. It will also equip diverse suppliers with tools and strategies to increase their business by hearing directly from potential and current clients. Topics Covered Industry Trends Rules of Engagement Sourcing & Contracts I Won/I Didn’t Win the Bid: Now What? Upcoming Opportunities Each Breakout Camp will have a Lead Moderator and Co-Moderator, certified MBEs who have been selected to direct activities and topics within their room. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions when the moderators open the floor for Q&As. Entertainment, Gaming, Sports, Hospitality & F&B Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Reggie Burton Founder/CEO MBE Moderator Shabana Siraj CEO & Founder Ryne Tokunaga Purchasing Buyer Ryne Tokunaga is a purchasing buyer at Sahara Las Vegas, a hotel and casino located on the Las Vegas Strip. He brings a diverse skill set to the organization,having dealt with multiple areas within hospitality procurement. Ryne currently oversees the day-to-day F&B procurement for Sahara Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort in the Meruelo Gaming portfolio. Previously, Ryne worked as a buyer for the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno with a dual degree in Finance and Economics. CERTIFIED MBE Alan Gartrell Vice President of Procurement Alan has over 20+ years of experience in Purchasing & Warehousing Management in the Entertainment & Hospitality Industry. Alan joined Caesars Entertainment in June 2011 and is currently the Vice President of Procurement responsible for overseeing Regional Procurement, Warehousing, Supplier Diversity and Sustainability for all Caesars’ properties. Prior to this role, Alan has held multiple Regional Director positions throughout the country most recently the Senior Director of the Western Region. Before coming to Caesars, Alan spent 4 years as the Purchasing Manager at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in Asheville, NC and 10 years as the Purchasing and Warehouse Manager at Six Flags America in Maryland. Alan went to Mars Hill College for a BA in Music Theory and Performance. Alan resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife, Bianca, and their son, Luca. Neumiia DuncanReed Vice President, Human Resources & Community Affairs Neumiia Duncan-Reed is the Vice President of Human Resources & Community Affairs for ASM Global which operates Allegiant Stadium. She brings years of experience developing and implementing business and HR strategies, programs and processes to drive business results through leadership and management. Neumiia holds a B.S. degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Amy Clark Senior Manager Amy Clark has over 20 years of experience in supply chain in the electric utility and gaming industries. After retiring from the Tennessee Valley Authority, Amy joined NV Energy as a supply chain and procurement manager. Amy is currently a senior manager at Aristocrat focused on supplier diversity, environmental social governance, and compliance. In addition to her supply chain experience, Amy was an adjunct professor at Georgia Northwestern Technical for five years. At GNTC, she taught business law, economics, HR management, leadership and management principles, labor relations, managerial accounting, and employment law. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration. She is a Certified Professional in Supply Management as designated by the Institute for Supply Management, Inc. Amy continues to further her education and will graduate this year with her Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Global Supply Chain Management. Samira SayeghRivera Director of Procurement Samira Sayegh-Rivera is the Director of Procurement at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Samira has been with San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in various roles for more than 25 years. Currently, she oversees the day-to-day procurement operations for all San Manuel entities – including the Palms, Yaamava, and all government operations. She is responsible for delivering excellent performance from the buying team and the hundreds of orders that are placed each day for everything from fire trucks, to audit services to tomatoes. Samira collaborates with San Manuels stakeholders – including operations, vendors, accounts payable and logistics to leverage procurement best practices and ensure effective P2P execution. She is also responsible for managing all policy, performance and reporting related to purchases, vendor management, system optimization and our expanding diversity program. Construction, Infrastructure & Utilities Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Rahul Kuruvilla CEO WRMSDC MBEIC Chair MBE Moderator Jammie Hsu Thompson Owner/Solutions Provider Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Austin Kight Strategic Brand Director Austin Kight joined Martin-Harris Construction in 2003 with a background in Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Administration. In her current role Strategic Brand Director at Martin-Harris, Austin ensures internal and external programs are in align with the company’s strategic goals and core values. Specific to procurement, she oversees the Subcontractor “Opportunity Program” and ensures company policies and procedures support the company’s commitment for awarding contracts and subcontracts to small, minority, women, veteran, and disadvantaged business concerns from all possible sources. The company’s approach to subcontractor and vendor inclusion is three-pronged incorporating Outreach Efforts, Educational Workshops, and Strategic Partnership Events. Founded in 1976, Martin-Harris Construction is currently ranked as the largest General Contractor in Las Vegas by VEGAS INC magazine. Martin-Harris Construction is a leader within the industry and the Southern Nevada community. John Tatum Regional Director of Procurement John Tatum has served 20+ years in the hospitality industry. He joined Caesars Entertainment in July of 2022 as Regional Director of Procurement where he oversees Las Vegas and Laughlin properties. Prior to joining Caesars, John worked in regional procurement management roles with Boyd Gaming, Penn Gaming, and MGM Resorts. He resides in Las Vegas with his wife and three children. Arsie Isip Associate Director, Supply Chain Management Arsie Isip is the Associate Director of Supply Chain Management for NV Energy, a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company. She has served as an operations, procurement, and supply chain professional for over 20 years among the industries of aerospace, aviation, electronics, gaming systems, and now energy solutions. At NV Energy, she strives to develop diverse coalitions with customers, suppliers, and the community to be the best energy company and strengthen sustainable energy solutions for Nevadans. Quentin O’Neal Supplier Diversity Manager Quentin O’Neal is the Supplier Diversity Manager for Layton Construction. Leading and overseeing their diverse business strategy for the Healthcare/Mission Critical Business units. Quentin is also responsible for community involvement and has been recognized internally and externally as a leader in the supplier diversity space as well as receiving accolades in the community. Quentin has over a decade of experience and has led strategic partnerships with minority and women-owned businesses and community organizations. Telma Lopez Manager of Diversity Programs Telma Lopez is the Manager of Diversity Programs for Southwest Gas Corporation. In her position, Telma is part of a team that oversees the company’s Diversity & Inclusion efforts and Supplier Diversity activities in Nevada, California, and Arizona. Telma joined Southwest in 1996 and has previously served in various positions within the organization, including in the Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs, and Public Affairs teams.In addition to her work at Southwest, Telma serves on the advisory board for CPLC Nevada and volunteers with local nonprofits in her community. Holden Hsiao Vice President Holden Hsiao is the Vice President of ShawLundquist Construction and manages its West Region. Shaw-Lundquist is one of the largest minority-owned business enterprises in the U.S. with a focus of building better lives through construction. Holden has held roles in Estimating, Building Information Modeling, as well as Information Technology, and has extensive experience with onsite projects. With contract licenses in Nevada, California, and Arizona, Holden is growing and expanding the business in the West Region. He is responsible for overseeing the project team and keeping construction activities moving forward to meet project milestones and exceed client expectations. CERTIFIED MBE Banking & Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services, Technology & Government Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Christine Maddela Managing Partner MBE Moderator Joylynn Ross Content Creator & Storytelling Expert Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Bruce Wilcox Vice President, Technology Bruce Wilcox orchestrates the method behind the infrastructure of the hardware and software madness that enables clients to conceive and communicate their products among each other and to the world. Before joining R&R Partners, Bruce led IT operations of several consumer brands, helping each to leverage the power of technology to better serve their customers and grow their businesses, including hip scooter manufacturer Razor and athletic footwear marketer L.A Gear. As director of IT & Distribution for Melbourne, Australiaheadquartered Globe International, he was responsible for operational management of all warehouse and IT activities for this designer and marketer of apparel, footwear and skateboard equipment for the action sports and street fashion markets. Bruce earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California. Victor Figueredo Coordinator IV Victor Figueredo is a Buyer IV in the Clark County School District (CCSD) Purchasing Department where he has worked for over a year. He oversees the acquisition of products, equipment, and services for the Transportation, Warehousing, Food Services, and general school transportation & auto shop. Prior to working at CCSD, Victor worked at NV Energy for over 26 years in Supply Chain Management, Transportation Services, and Operation Services. Victor grew up in the Las Vegas community and he received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He also received his MBA from the University of Detroit. His key skills include purchasing/contract management, fleet management, and warehousing/logistics operations. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. US BANK Richard Chacon Director Richard Chacon serves is a Director at US Bank. US Bancorp completed the acquisition of MUFG Union Bank in December 2022. Richard served as the Director of Supplier Diversity & Development for MUFG Union Bank, N.A. He joined Union Bank in 1998 and was the driving force behind an increase in DBE spend from $26MM in 1998 to $250MM in 2020. Richard served 10 years in the U.S. Army, and 13 years with Pacific Bell. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 24 BREAKOUT CAMPS WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Cecil Plummer, Host President & CEO Cecil Plummer is the president and a member of the Board of Directors for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. Plummer formerly worked with Robert Half for 17 years and left his most recent position as the Director of CSS Strategic Solutions to join the Council. Plummer has over 13 years of executive leadership experience and possesses a solid background in strategic sourcing, change management, performance and process improvement, Supplier Diversity, strategic planning, and risk management. Rose Davis, Co-Host Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) Rose Davis serves as Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. She has dedicated more than two decades to passionately championing diverse businesses for inclusion within corporate America’s purchasing and supply chain strategies. Rose has over 25 years of experience in supplier diversity, business development, accounting, and finance. Her accomplishments include a 29 percent 5-year net growth in Nevada MBEs from 2017-2021. Recently, she was awarded the 2023 Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Year Award-Urban by the Nevada Small Business Administration. Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee Myisha Boyce Chief Community Engagement Officer Myisha Boyce is currently serving as Chief Community Engagement Officer with the Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee. Myisha is also the founding member and President of M.Y.S. Firm, a Nevada based women- and minority-owned professional services organization established in 2014. She has spent more than a decade directing highstakes programs and diverse teams across public and private industries. Myisha serves as Chair of Allegiant Stadium’s Community Advisory Board, is a Member on the Board of Directors for non-profit, Access Community Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution, as well as non-profit, StartUpNV, a Nevada-focused statewide business accelerator and incubator. She previously served as a legislatively appointed Commissioner and Chair of the Legislative Subcommittee within Nevada Department of Business & Industry’s Commission on Minority Affairs. Myisha earned her degree in Education at the University of California, San Diego. Her focus is building and enhancing strategic professional partnerships that jointly benefit business and community. Renze Consulting Matthew Renze Data Science Consultant, Author, Speaker Matthew Renze is a data science consultant, author, and public speaker. He is the founder of Renze Consulting, an AI consulting company that has trained over 400,000 software developers and IT professionals. His clients range from small tech start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. He is also the President of Serenze Global, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to technology education for underrepresented individuals by empowering the next generation of tech community leaders. Matthew is currently working on his Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a Data Science specialization at Johns Hopkins University. He currently has double degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy with a minor in Economics from Iowa State University. He is a Microsoft MVP in AI, an ASPInsider, the organizer of the Las Vegas AI Meetup, and an author for Pluralsight, Udemy, and Skillshare. His interests include AI, ML, data science, mindfulness, technology education, and tech community leadership. Topic: AI: The Future of Small Business ACCE$$ TO CAPITAL Brought to you by: Stretch your opportunities with the federal government; learn about crowdfunding and innovative solutions and resources to drive growth that enable small- to medium-sized businesses to thrive. Gabriela Wyett VP, Business Community Engagement Officer Through Gabriela’s parallel efforts at Lexicon Bank and the Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs, she continually advocates for local, women, and minority business owners by providing opportunities such as access to capital, banking solutions, technical assistance and above all stellar service. She provides a voice for women and minority entrepreneurs as she understands the complexities they may face in finance. As such, she is launching a vertical at Lexicon Bank for women and minority enterprises. By synchronizing efforts, she serves and works with a variety of community and state partners to provide knowledge and financial proficiency to the business community. Gabriela loves nothing more than to know she has been a part of a business’ journey and growth. Saul Ramos Nevada District Director Saul Ramos, Nevada SBA District Director, has held several leadership positions during his 20-year federal career and is a graduate of the President’s Management Council Program. He has represented SBA in various roles, including International Development Specialist, Senior Area Manager, and oversight of the Economic and Business Development team. Saul leads a passionate, talented and experienced Nevada SBA team focused on putting customers—the nation's small businesses—first. During the COVID19 pandemic, he worked closely with the Nevada District team and partners to provide capital and technical assistance programs to the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses. This was a monumental task that helped small businesses survive and preserved the jobs and livelihoods of millions in Nevada. Ruth E. Hedges CEO & "Queen of Crowdfunding" Forbes Ruth is recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on Equity Crowdfunding for pioneering the bill signed into the JOBS Act on April 5, 2012. Ruth was honored with an invitation to the White House for their "Crowdfunding Champions of Change" event. Her work has landed her in 69 publications, including seven times in Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and INC Magazine. In 2023 in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company, she launched the Rise Up Crowdfunding portal to help more Women, Black, Latin, LGBTQ, and all minority founders and startups raise $5 million in capital using Equity Crowdfunding. Ruth has consulted with government organizations, small business owners, startups, and Fortune 500 companies. Las Vegas Women In Technology recognized her as a ‘Crowdfunding Innovator’ and recipient of the “High Tech Woman Of The Year” for 2017. SBA’s participation or support is not an endorsement of any product, service, or entity. FIRESIDE CHAT “CULTIVATING “REAL”-ATIONSHIPS” Is your business stuck in the selling mode? It’s a fact—people do business with those whom they know and trust. Lean in as participants share the fundamentals to cultivating lasting REAL-ationships that will enable your business to grow and to thrive. Kenyatta Lewis Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement Kenyatta Lewis is the Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement at MGM Resorts International. From her start in procurement at New YorkNew York in 2000, Kenyatta designed, implemented, and expanded the company’s robust supplier diversity program. She is responsible for defining innovative strategies for supplier diversity and providing leadership direction to advance ESG priorities in the supply chain. She also oversees training and development programs for 80+ procurement professionals. Kenyatta was recently named a 2022 Women of Distinction in Hospitality, Retail & Conventions by NAWBO-Southern Nevada. She leads MGM Resorts’ executive Supplier Inclusion Task Force and is a member of the Institute for Supply Management’s Sustainability Committee; the Advertising, Entertainment Media & Sports Industry Group; and the Houston Minority Business Council’s Business Development Advisory Council. Kenyatta earned her degree in Business Management and served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves. D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Mario Stadtlander President Mario Stadtlander is the President of Eagle Promotions, a specialty branded products company. He was born and raised in Las Vegas and grew up working in the family motorcycle shop. The family had another business within the motorcycle shop, EP Performs. It was there that Mario got his start in the apparel and promotional products industry. In 2001, EP Performs merged with Eagle Promotions. At the start of Eagle Promotions, it was Sean Ono, currently CEO; Mario, and eight employees. Fast forward, Eagle Promotions is an award-winning top 40 promotional products distributor with opportunities to work with businesses such as: Disney, Coca-Cola, MLB, Hard Rock, and more. FISHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES Rhoda Hassad Supplier Diversity Manager Rhoda Hassad is the Supplier Diversity Manager for MGM Resorts International. In her role she is focused on building an inclusive environment to increase the participation of diverse suppliers in contracting & procurement and to develop a competitive supplier base that represents the communities served. Rhoda brings over 20 years of experience in Hospitality to her position. Most recently, she was a Hotel Operations Manager at New York-New York, an MGM Resorts property in Las Vegas. Her experience also includes various positions in Hotel Operations at Mandalay Bay and Delano Las Vegas, both MGM Resort International properties. Currently, Rhoda serves as Chair of the Professional Women’s Employee Network Group for MGM Resort’s International. She is a member of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association and the Women in Lodging in Nevada Association. Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. NEW PARTICIPANTS BEING ADDED! KEEP CHECKING BACK FOR UPDATES. 2:55PM TO 4:15PM Breakout Camps are designed to provide a casual setting for Corporate Members, Buyers, and Industry Leaders to speak directly with diverse suppliers about a range of topics. It will also equip diverse suppliers with tools and strategies to increase their business by hearing directly from potential and current clients. Topics Covered Industry Trends Rules of Engagement Sourcing & Contracts I Won/I Didn’t Win the Bid: Now What? Upcoming Opportunities Each Breakout Camp will have a Lead Moderator and Co-Moderator, certified MBEs who have been selected to direct activities and topics within their room. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions when the moderators open the floor for Q&As. Entertainment, Gaming, Sports, Hospitality & F&B Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Reggie Burton Founder/CEO MBE Moderator Shabana Siraj CEO & Founder Ryne Tokunaga Purchasing Buyer Ryne Tokunaga is a purchasing buyer at Sahara Las Vegas, a hotel and casino located on the Las Vegas Strip. He brings a diverse skill set to the organization,having dealt with multiple areas within hospitality procurement. Ryne currently oversees the day-to-day F&B procurement for Sahara Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort in the Meruelo Gaming portfolio. Previously, Ryne worked as a buyer for the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno with a dual degree in Finance and Economics. CERTIFIED MBE Alan Gartrell Vice President of Procurement Alan has over 20+ years of experience in Purchasing & Warehousing Management in the Entertainment & Hospitality Industry. Alan joined Caesars Entertainment in June 2011 and is currently the Vice President of Procurement responsible for overseeing Regional Procurement, Warehousing, Supplier Diversity and Sustainability for all Caesars’ properties. Prior to this role, Alan has held multiple Regional Director positions throughout the country most recently the Senior Director of the Western Region. Before coming to Caesars, Alan spent 4 years as the Purchasing Manager at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in Asheville, NC and 10 years as the Purchasing and Warehouse Manager at Six Flags America in Maryland. Alan went to Mars Hill College for a BA in Music Theory and Performance. Alan resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife, Bianca, and their son, Luca. Neumiia DuncanReed Vice President, Human Resources & Community Affairs Neumiia Duncan-Reed is the Vice President of Human Resources & Community Affairs for ASM Global which operates Allegiant Stadium. She brings years of experience developing and implementing business and HR strategies, programs and processes to drive business results through leadership and management. Neumiia holds a B.S. degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Amy Clark Senior Manager Amy Clark has over 20 years of experience in supply chain in the electric utility and gaming industries. After retiring from the Tennessee Valley Authority, Amy joined NV Energy as a supply chain and procurement manager. Amy is currently a senior manager at Aristocrat focused on supplier diversity, environmental social governance, and compliance. In addition to her supply chain experience, Amy was an adjunct professor at Georgia Northwestern Technical for five years. At GNTC, she taught business law, economics, HR management, leadership and management principles, labor relations, managerial accounting, and employment law. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration. She is a Certified Professional in Supply Management as designated by the Institute for Supply Management, Inc. Amy continues to further her education and will graduate this year with her Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Global Supply Chain Management. Samira SayeghRivera Director of Procurement Samira Sayegh-Rivera is the Director of Procurement at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Samira has been with San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in various roles for more than 25 years. Currently, she oversees the day-to-day procurement operations for all San Manuel entities – including the Palms, Yaamava, and all government operations. She is responsible for delivering excellent performance from the buying team and the hundreds of orders that are placed each day for everything from fire trucks, to audit services to tomatoes. Samira collaborates with San Manuels stakeholders – including operations, vendors, accounts payable and logistics to leverage procurement best practices and ensure effective P2P execution. She is also responsible for managing all policy, performance and reporting related to purchases, vendor management, system optimization and our expanding diversity program. Construction, Infrastructure & Utilities Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Rahul Kuruvilla CEO WRMSDC MBEIC Chair MBE Moderator Jammie Hsu Thompson Owner/Solutions Provider Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Austin Kight Strategic Brand Director Austin Kight joined Martin-Harris Construction in 2003 with a background in Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Administration. In her current role Strategic Brand Director at Martin-Harris, Austin ensures internal and external programs are in align with the company’s strategic goals and core values. Specific to procurement, she oversees the Subcontractor “Opportunity Program” and ensures company policies and procedures support the company’s commitment for awarding contracts and subcontracts to small, minority, women, veteran, and disadvantaged business concerns from all possible sources. The company’s approach to subcontractor and vendor inclusion is three-pronged incorporating Outreach Efforts, Educational Workshops, and Strategic Partnership Events. Founded in 1976, Martin-Harris Construction is currently ranked as the largest General Contractor in Las Vegas by VEGAS INC magazine. Martin-Harris Construction is a leader within the industry and the Southern Nevada community. John Tatum Regional Director of Procurement John Tatum has served 20+ years in the hospitality industry. He joined Caesars Entertainment in July of 2022 as Regional Director of Procurement where he oversees Las Vegas and Laughlin properties. Prior to joining Caesars, John worked in regional procurement management roles with Boyd Gaming, Penn Gaming, and MGM Resorts. He resides in Las Vegas with his wife and three children. Arsie Isip Associate Director, Supply Chain Management Arsie Isip is the Associate Director of Supply Chain Management for NV Energy, a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company. She has served as an operations, procurement, and supply chain professional for over 20 years among the industries of aerospace, aviation, electronics, gaming systems, and now energy solutions. At NV Energy, she strives to develop diverse coalitions with customers, suppliers, and the community to be the best energy company and strengthen sustainable energy solutions for Nevadans. Quentin O’Neal Supplier Diversity Manager Quentin O’Neal is the Supplier Diversity Manager for Layton Construction. Leading and overseeing their diverse business strategy for the Healthcare/Mission Critical Business units. Quentin is also responsible for community involvement and has been recognized internally and externally as a leader in the supplier diversity space as well as receiving accolades in the community. Quentin has over a decade of experience and has led strategic partnerships with minority and women-owned businesses and community organizations. Telma Lopez Manager of Diversity Programs Telma Lopez is the Manager of Diversity Programs for Southwest Gas Corporation. In her position, Telma is part of a team that oversees the company’s Diversity & Inclusion efforts and Supplier Diversity activities in Nevada, California, and Arizona. Telma joined Southwest in 1996 and has previously served in various positions within the organization, including in the Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs, and Public Affairs teams.In addition to her work at Southwest, Telma serves on the advisory board for CPLC Nevada and volunteers with local nonprofits in her community. Holden Hsiao Vice President Holden Hsiao is the Vice President of ShawLundquist Construction and manages its West Region. Shaw-Lundquist is one of the largest minority-owned business enterprises in the U.S. with a focus of building better lives through construction. Holden has held roles in Estimating, Building Information Modeling, as well as Information Technology, and has extensive experience with onsite projects. With contract licenses in Nevada, California, and Arizona, Holden is growing and expanding the business in the West Region. He is responsible for overseeing the project team and keeping construction activities moving forward to meet project milestones and exceed client expectations. CERTIFIED MBE Banking & Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services, Technology & Government Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Christine Maddela Managing Partner MBE Moderator Joylynn Ross Content Creator & Storytelling Expert Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Bruce Wilcox Vice President, Technology Bruce Wilcox orchestrates the method behind the infrastructure of the hardware and software madness that enables clients to conceive and communicate their products among each other and to the world. Before joining R&R Partners, Bruce led IT operations of several consumer brands, helping each to leverage the power of technology to better serve their customers and grow their businesses, including hip scooter manufacturer Razor and athletic footwear marketer L.A Gear. As director of IT & Distribution for Melbourne, Australiaheadquartered Globe International, he was responsible for operational management of all warehouse and IT activities for this designer and marketer of apparel, footwear and skateboard equipment for the action sports and street fashion markets. Bruce earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California. Victor Figueredo Coordinator IV Victor Figueredo is a Buyer IV in the Clark County School District (CCSD) Purchasing Department where he has worked for over a year. He oversees the acquisition of products, equipment, and services for the Transportation, Warehousing, Food Services, and general school transportation & auto shop. Prior to working at CCSD, Victor worked at NV Energy for over 26 years in Supply Chain Management, Transportation Services, and Operation Services. Victor grew up in the Las Vegas community and he received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He also received his MBA from the University of Detroit. His key skills include purchasing/contract management, fleet management, and warehousing/logistics operations. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. US BANK Richard Chacon Director Richard Chacon serves is a Director at US Bank. US Bancorp completed the acquisition of MUFG Union Bank in December 2022. Richard served as the Director of Supplier Diversity & Development for MUFG Union Bank, N.A. He joined Union Bank in 1998 and was the driving force behind an increase in DBE spend from $26MM in 1998 to $250MM in 2020. Richard served 10 years in the U.S. Army, and 13 years with Pacific Bell. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Training people for successful, family-sustaining careers in the Las Vegas hospitality industry 710 W Lake Mead Blvd, North Las Vegas, NV 89030 www.theculinaryacademy.org
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 25 Training people for successful, family-sustaining careers in the Las Vegas hospitality industry 710 W Lake Mead Blvd, North Las Vegas, NV 89030 www.theculinaryacademy.org
Michael Herrera Director of Community Outreach and Supplier Diversity [email protected] WE’RE COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING DIVERSE INDUSTRY PARTNERS AND SUPPLIERS McCarthy is excited to sponsor, attend, and connect with diverse owned businesses at the 2023 WRMSDC Business Opportunity Day Interested in our supplier diversity program? Let’s connect. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 26
Michael Herrera Director of Community Outreach and Supplier Diversity [email protected] WE’RE COMMITTED TO SUPPORTING DIVERSE INDUSTRY PARTNERS AND SUPPLIERS McCarthy is excited to sponsor, attend, and connect with diverse owned businesses at the 2023 WRMSDC Business Opportunity Day Interested in our supplier diversity program? Let’s connect. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 27 BREAKOUT CAMPS WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Cecil Plummer, Host President & CEO Cecil Plummer is the president and a member of the Board of Directors for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. Plummer formerly worked with Robert Half for 17 years and left his most recent position as the Director of CSS Strategic Solutions to join the Council. Plummer has over 13 years of executive leadership experience and possesses a solid background in strategic sourcing, change management, performance and process improvement, Supplier Diversity, strategic planning, and risk management. Rose Davis, Co-Host Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) Rose Davis serves as Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. She has dedicated more than two decades to passionately championing diverse businesses for inclusion within corporate America’s purchasing and supply chain strategies. Rose has over 25 years of experience in supplier diversity, business development, accounting, and finance. Her accomplishments include a 29 percent 5-year net growth in Nevada MBEs from 2017-2021. Recently, she was awarded the 2023 Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Year Award-Urban by the Nevada Small Business Administration. Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee Myisha Boyce Chief Community Engagement Officer Myisha Boyce is currently serving as Chief Community Engagement Officer with the Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee. Myisha is also the founding member and President of M.Y.S. Firm, a Nevada based women- and minority-owned professional services organization established in 2014. She has spent more than a decade directing highstakes programs and diverse teams across public and private industries. Myisha serves as Chair of Allegiant Stadium’s Community Advisory Board, is a Member on the Board of Directors for non-profit, Access Community Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution, as well as non-profit, StartUpNV, a Nevada-focused statewide business accelerator and incubator. She previously served as a legislatively appointed Commissioner and Chair of the Legislative Subcommittee within Nevada Department of Business & Industry’s Commission on Minority Affairs. Myisha earned her degree in Education at the University of California, San Diego. Her focus is building and enhancing strategic professional partnerships that jointly benefit business and community. Renze Consulting Matthew Renze Data Science Consultant, Author, Speaker Matthew Renze is a data science consultant, author, and public speaker. He is the founder of Renze Consulting, an AI consulting company that has trained over 400,000 software developers and IT professionals. His clients range from small tech start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. He is also the President of Serenze Global, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to technology education for underrepresented individuals by empowering the next generation of tech community leaders. Matthew is currently working on his Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a Data Science specialization at Johns Hopkins University. He currently has double degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy with a minor in Economics from Iowa State University. He is a Microsoft MVP in AI, an ASPInsider, the organizer of the Las Vegas AI Meetup, and an author for Pluralsight, Udemy, and Skillshare. His interests include AI, ML, data science, mindfulness, technology education, and tech community leadership. Topic: AI: The Future of Small Business ACCE$$ TO CAPITAL Brought to you by: Stretch your opportunities with the federal government; learn about crowdfunding and innovative solutions and resources to drive growth that enable small- to medium-sized businesses to thrive. Gabriela Wyett VP, Business Community Engagement Officer Through Gabriela’s parallel efforts at Lexicon Bank and the Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs, she continually advocates for local, women, and minority business owners by providing opportunities such as access to capital, banking solutions, technical assistance and above all stellar service. She provides a voice for women and minority entrepreneurs as she understands the complexities they may face in finance. As such, she is launching a vertical at Lexicon Bank for women and minority enterprises. By synchronizing efforts, she serves and works with a variety of community and state partners to provide knowledge and financial proficiency to the business community. Gabriela loves nothing more than to know she has been a part of a business’ journey and growth. Saul Ramos Nevada District Director Saul Ramos, Nevada SBA District Director, has held several leadership positions during his 20-year federal career and is a graduate of the President’s Management Council Program. He has represented SBA in various roles, including International Development Specialist, Senior Area Manager, and oversight of the Economic and Business Development team. Saul leads a passionate, talented and experienced Nevada SBA team focused on putting customers—the nation's small businesses—first. During the COVID19 pandemic, he worked closely with the Nevada District team and partners to provide capital and technical assistance programs to the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses. This was a monumental task that helped small businesses survive and preserved the jobs and livelihoods of millions in Nevada. Ruth E. Hedges CEO & "Queen of Crowdfunding" Forbes Ruth is recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on Equity Crowdfunding for pioneering the bill signed into the JOBS Act on April 5, 2012. Ruth was honored with an invitation to the White House for their "Crowdfunding Champions of Change" event. Her work has landed her in 69 publications, including seven times in Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and INC Magazine. In 2023 in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company, she launched the Rise Up Crowdfunding portal to help more Women, Black, Latin, LGBTQ, and all minority founders and startups raise $5 million in capital using Equity Crowdfunding. Ruth has consulted with government organizations, small business owners, startups, and Fortune 500 companies. Las Vegas Women In Technology recognized her as a ‘Crowdfunding Innovator’ and recipient of the “High Tech Woman Of The Year” for 2017. SBA’s participation or support is not an endorsement of any product, service, or entity. FIRESIDE CHAT “CULTIVATING “REAL”-ATIONSHIPS” Is your business stuck in the selling mode? It’s a fact—people do business with those whom they know and trust. Lean in as participants share the fundamentals to cultivating lasting REAL-ationships that will enable your business to grow and to thrive. Kenyatta Lewis Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement Kenyatta Lewis is the Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement at MGM Resorts International. From her start in procurement at New YorkNew York in 2000, Kenyatta designed, implemented, and expanded the company’s robust supplier diversity program. She is responsible for defining innovative strategies for supplier diversity and providing leadership direction to advance ESG priorities in the supply chain. She also oversees training and development programs for 80+ procurement professionals. Kenyatta was recently named a 2022 Women of Distinction in Hospitality, Retail & Conventions by NAWBO-Southern Nevada. She leads MGM Resorts’ executive Supplier Inclusion Task Force and is a member of the Institute for Supply Management’s Sustainability Committee; the Advertising, Entertainment Media & Sports Industry Group; and the Houston Minority Business Council’s Business Development Advisory Council. Kenyatta earned her degree in Business Management and served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves. D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Mario Stadtlander President Mario Stadtlander is the President of Eagle Promotions, a specialty branded products company. He was born and raised in Las Vegas and grew up working in the family motorcycle shop. The family had another business within the motorcycle shop, EP Performs. It was there that Mario got his start in the apparel and promotional products industry. In 2001, EP Performs merged with Eagle Promotions. At the start of Eagle Promotions, it was Sean Ono, currently CEO; Mario, and eight employees. Fast forward, Eagle Promotions is an award-winning top 40 promotional products distributor with opportunities to work with businesses such as: Disney, Coca-Cola, MLB, Hard Rock, and more. FISHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES Rhoda Hassad Supplier Diversity Manager Rhoda Hassad is the Supplier Diversity Manager for MGM Resorts International. In her role she is focused on building an inclusive environment to increase the participation of diverse suppliers in contracting & procurement and to develop a competitive supplier base that represents the communities served. Rhoda brings over 20 years of experience in Hospitality to her position. Most recently, she was a Hotel Operations Manager at New York-New York, an MGM Resorts property in Las Vegas. Her experience also includes various positions in Hotel Operations at Mandalay Bay and Delano Las Vegas, both MGM Resort International properties. Currently, Rhoda serves as Chair of the Professional Women’s Employee Network Group for MGM Resort’s International. She is a member of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association and the Women in Lodging in Nevada Association. Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. NEW PARTICIPANTS BEING ADDED! KEEP CHECKING BACK FOR UPDATES. 2:55PM TO 4:15PM Breakout Camps are designed to provide a casual setting for Corporate Members, Buyers, and Industry Leaders to speak directly with diverse suppliers about a range of topics. It will also equip diverse suppliers with tools and strategies to increase their business by hearing directly from potential and current clients. Topics Covered Industry Trends Rules of Engagement Sourcing & Contracts I Won/I Didn’t Win the Bid: Now What? Upcoming Opportunities Each Breakout Camp will have a Lead Moderator and Co-Moderator, certified MBEs who have been selected to direct activities and topics within their room. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions when the moderators open the floor for Q&As. Entertainment, Gaming, Sports, Hospitality & F&B Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Reggie Burton Founder/CEO MBE Moderator Shabana Siraj CEO & Founder Ryne Tokunaga Purchasing Buyer Ryne Tokunaga is a purchasing buyer at Sahara Las Vegas, a hotel and casino located on the Las Vegas Strip. He brings a diverse skill set to the organization,having dealt with multiple areas within hospitality procurement. Ryne currently oversees the day-to-day F&B procurement for Sahara Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort in the Meruelo Gaming portfolio. Previously, Ryne worked as a buyer for the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno with a dual degree in Finance and Economics. CERTIFIED MBE Alan Gartrell Vice President of Procurement Alan has over 20+ years of experience in Purchasing & Warehousing Management in the Entertainment & Hospitality Industry. Alan joined Caesars Entertainment in June 2011 and is currently the Vice President of Procurement responsible for overseeing Regional Procurement, Warehousing, Supplier Diversity and Sustainability for all Caesars’ properties. Prior to this role, Alan has held multiple Regional Director positions throughout the country most recently the Senior Director of the Western Region. Before coming to Caesars, Alan spent 4 years as the Purchasing Manager at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in Asheville, NC and 10 years as the Purchasing and Warehouse Manager at Six Flags America in Maryland. Alan went to Mars Hill College for a BA in Music Theory and Performance. Alan resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife, Bianca, and their son, Luca. Neumiia DuncanReed Vice President, Human Resources & Community Affairs Neumiia Duncan-Reed is the Vice President of Human Resources & Community Affairs for ASM Global which operates Allegiant Stadium. She brings years of experience developing and implementing business and HR strategies, programs and processes to drive business results through leadership and management. Neumiia holds a B.S. degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Amy Clark Senior Manager Amy Clark has over 20 years of experience in supply chain in the electric utility and gaming industries. After retiring from the Tennessee Valley Authority, Amy joined NV Energy as a supply chain and procurement manager. Amy is currently a senior manager at Aristocrat focused on supplier diversity, environmental social governance, and compliance. In addition to her supply chain experience, Amy was an adjunct professor at Georgia Northwestern Technical for five years. At GNTC, she taught business law, economics, HR management, leadership and management principles, labor relations, managerial accounting, and employment law. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration. She is a Certified Professional in Supply Management as designated by the Institute for Supply Management, Inc. Amy continues to further her education and will graduate this year with her Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Global Supply Chain Management. Samira SayeghRivera Director of Procurement Samira Sayegh-Rivera is the Director of Procurement at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Samira has been with San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in various roles for more than 25 years. Currently, she oversees the day-to-day procurement operations for all San Manuel entities – including the Palms, Yaamava, and all government operations. She is responsible for delivering excellent performance from the buying team and the hundreds of orders that are placed each day for everything from fire trucks, to audit services to tomatoes. Samira collaborates with San Manuels stakeholders – including operations, vendors, accounts payable and logistics to leverage procurement best practices and ensure effective P2P execution. She is also responsible for managing all policy, performance and reporting related to purchases, vendor management, system optimization and our expanding diversity program. Construction, Infrastructure & Utilities Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Rahul Kuruvilla CEO WRMSDC MBEIC Chair MBE Moderator Jammie Hsu Thompson Owner/Solutions Provider Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Austin Kight Strategic Brand Director Austin Kight joined Martin-Harris Construction in 2003 with a background in Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Administration. In her current role Strategic Brand Director at Martin-Harris, Austin ensures internal and external programs are in align with the company’s strategic goals and core values. Specific to procurement, she oversees the Subcontractor “Opportunity Program” and ensures company policies and procedures support the company’s commitment for awarding contracts and subcontracts to small, minority, women, veteran, and disadvantaged business concerns from all possible sources. The company’s approach to subcontractor and vendor inclusion is three-pronged incorporating Outreach Efforts, Educational Workshops, and Strategic Partnership Events. Founded in 1976, Martin-Harris Construction is currently ranked as the largest General Contractor in Las Vegas by VEGAS INC magazine. Martin-Harris Construction is a leader within the industry and the Southern Nevada community. John Tatum Regional Director of Procurement John Tatum has served 20+ years in the hospitality industry. He joined Caesars Entertainment in July of 2022 as Regional Director of Procurement where he oversees Las Vegas and Laughlin properties. Prior to joining Caesars, John worked in regional procurement management roles with Boyd Gaming, Penn Gaming, and MGM Resorts. He resides in Las Vegas with his wife and three children. Arsie Isip Associate Director, Supply Chain Management Arsie Isip is the Associate Director of Supply Chain Management for NV Energy, a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company. She has served as an operations, procurement, and supply chain professional for over 20 years among the industries of aerospace, aviation, electronics, gaming systems, and now energy solutions. At NV Energy, she strives to develop diverse coalitions with customers, suppliers, and the community to be the best energy company and strengthen sustainable energy solutions for Nevadans. Quentin O’Neal Supplier Diversity Manager Quentin O’Neal is the Supplier Diversity Manager for Layton Construction. Leading and overseeing their diverse business strategy for the Healthcare/Mission Critical Business units. Quentin is also responsible for community involvement and has been recognized internally and externally as a leader in the supplier diversity space as well as receiving accolades in the community. Quentin has over a decade of experience and has led strategic partnerships with minority and women-owned businesses and community organizations. Telma Lopez Manager of Diversity Programs Telma Lopez is the Manager of Diversity Programs for Southwest Gas Corporation. In her position, Telma is part of a team that oversees the company’s Diversity & Inclusion efforts and Supplier Diversity activities in Nevada, California, and Arizona. Telma joined Southwest in 1996 and has previously served in various positions within the organization, including in the Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs, and Public Affairs teams.In addition to her work at Southwest, Telma serves on the advisory board for CPLC Nevada and volunteers with local nonprofits in her community. Holden Hsiao Vice President Holden Hsiao is the Vice President of ShawLundquist Construction and manages its West Region. Shaw-Lundquist is one of the largest minority-owned business enterprises in the U.S. with a focus of building better lives through construction. Holden has held roles in Estimating, Building Information Modeling, as well as Information Technology, and has extensive experience with onsite projects. With contract licenses in Nevada, California, and Arizona, Holden is growing and expanding the business in the West Region. He is responsible for overseeing the project team and keeping construction activities moving forward to meet project milestones and exceed client expectations. CERTIFIED MBE Banking & Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services, Technology & Government Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Christine Maddela Managing Partner MBE Moderator Joylynn Ross Content Creator & Storytelling Expert Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Bruce Wilcox Vice President, Technology Bruce Wilcox orchestrates the method behind the infrastructure of the hardware and software madness that enables clients to conceive and communicate their products among each other and to the world. Before joining R&R Partners, Bruce led IT operations of several consumer brands, helping each to leverage the power of technology to better serve their customers and grow their businesses, including hip scooter manufacturer Razor and athletic footwear marketer L.A Gear. As director of IT & Distribution for Melbourne, Australiaheadquartered Globe International, he was responsible for operational management of all warehouse and IT activities for this designer and marketer of apparel, footwear and skateboard equipment for the action sports and street fashion markets. Bruce earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California. Victor Figueredo Coordinator IV Victor Figueredo is a Buyer IV in the Clark County School District (CCSD) Purchasing Department where he has worked for over a year. He oversees the acquisition of products, equipment, and services for the Transportation, Warehousing, Food Services, and general school transportation & auto shop. Prior to working at CCSD, Victor worked at NV Energy for over 26 years in Supply Chain Management, Transportation Services, and Operation Services. Victor grew up in the Las Vegas community and he received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He also received his MBA from the University of Detroit. His key skills include purchasing/contract management, fleet management, and warehousing/logistics operations. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. US BANK Richard Chacon Director Richard Chacon serves is a Director at US Bank. US Bancorp completed the acquisition of MUFG Union Bank in December 2022. Richard served as the Director of Supplier Diversity & Development for MUFG Union Bank, N.A. He joined Union Bank in 1998 and was the driving force behind an increase in DBE spend from $26MM in 1998 to $250MM in 2020. Richard served 10 years in the U.S. Army, and 13 years with Pacific Bell. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 28 BREAKOUT CAMPS WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Cecil Plummer, Host President & CEO Cecil Plummer is the president and a member of the Board of Directors for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. Plummer formerly worked with Robert Half for 17 years and left his most recent position as the Director of CSS Strategic Solutions to join the Council. Plummer has over 13 years of executive leadership experience and possesses a solid background in strategic sourcing, change management, performance and process improvement, Supplier Diversity, strategic planning, and risk management. Rose Davis, Co-Host Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) Rose Davis serves as Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. She has dedicated more than two decades to passionately championing diverse businesses for inclusion within corporate America’s purchasing and supply chain strategies. Rose has over 25 years of experience in supplier diversity, business development, accounting, and finance. Her accomplishments include a 29 percent 5-year net growth in Nevada MBEs from 2017-2021. Recently, she was awarded the 2023 Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Year Award-Urban by the Nevada Small Business Administration. Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee Myisha Boyce Chief Community Engagement Officer Myisha Boyce is currently serving as Chief Community Engagement Officer with the Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee. Myisha is also the founding member and President of M.Y.S. Firm, a Nevada based women- and minority-owned professional services organization established in 2014. She has spent more than a decade directing highstakes programs and diverse teams across public and private industries. Myisha serves as Chair of Allegiant Stadium’s Community Advisory Board, is a Member on the Board of Directors for non-profit, Access Community Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution, as well as non-profit, StartUpNV, a Nevada-focused statewide business accelerator and incubator. She previously served as a legislatively appointed Commissioner and Chair of the Legislative Subcommittee within Nevada Department of Business & Industry’s Commission on Minority Affairs. Myisha earned her degree in Education at the University of California, San Diego. Her focus is building and enhancing strategic professional partnerships that jointly benefit business and community. Renze Consulting Matthew Renze Data Science Consultant, Author, Speaker Matthew Renze is a data science consultant, author, and public speaker. He is the founder of Renze Consulting, an AI consulting company that has trained over 400,000 software developers and IT professionals. His clients range from small tech start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. He is also the President of Serenze Global, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to technology education for underrepresented individuals by empowering the next generation of tech community leaders. Matthew is currently working on his Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a Data Science specialization at Johns Hopkins University. He currently has double degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy with a minor in Economics from Iowa State University. He is a Microsoft MVP in AI, an ASPInsider, the organizer of the Las Vegas AI Meetup, and an author for Pluralsight, Udemy, and Skillshare. His interests include AI, ML, data science, mindfulness, technology education, and tech community leadership. Topic: AI: The Future of Small Business ACCE$$ TO CAPITAL Brought to you by: Stretch your opportunities with the federal government; learn about crowdfunding and innovative solutions and resources to drive growth that enable small- to medium-sized businesses to thrive. Gabriela Wyett VP, Business Community Engagement Officer Through Gabriela’s parallel efforts at Lexicon Bank and the Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs, she continually advocates for local, women, and minority business owners by providing opportunities such as access to capital, banking solutions, technical assistance and above all stellar service. She provides a voice for women and minority entrepreneurs as she understands the complexities they may face in finance. As such, she is launching a vertical at Lexicon Bank for women and minority enterprises. By synchronizing efforts, she serves and works with a variety of community and state partners to provide knowledge and financial proficiency to the business community. Gabriela loves nothing more than to know she has been a part of a business’ journey and growth. Saul Ramos Nevada District Director Saul Ramos, Nevada SBA District Director, has held several leadership positions during his 20-year federal career and is a graduate of the President’s Management Council Program. He has represented SBA in various roles, including International Development Specialist, Senior Area Manager, and oversight of the Economic and Business Development team. Saul leads a passionate, talented and experienced Nevada SBA team focused on putting customers—the nation's small businesses—first. During the COVID19 pandemic, he worked closely with the Nevada District team and partners to provide capital and technical assistance programs to the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses. This was a monumental task that helped small businesses survive and preserved the jobs and livelihoods of millions in Nevada. Ruth E. Hedges CEO & "Queen of Crowdfunding" Forbes Ruth is recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on Equity Crowdfunding for pioneering the bill signed into the JOBS Act on April 5, 2012. Ruth was honored with an invitation to the White House for their "Crowdfunding Champions of Change" event. Her work has landed her in 69 publications, including seven times in Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and INC Magazine. In 2023 in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company, she launched the Rise Up Crowdfunding portal to help more Women, Black, Latin, LGBTQ, and all minority founders and startups raise $5 million in capital using Equity Crowdfunding. Ruth has consulted with government organizations, small business owners, startups, and Fortune 500 companies. Las Vegas Women In Technology recognized her as a ‘Crowdfunding Innovator’ and recipient of the “High Tech Woman Of The Year” for 2017. SBA’s participation or support is not an endorsement of any product, service, or entity. FIRESIDE CHAT “CULTIVATING “REAL”-ATIONSHIPS” Is your business stuck in the selling mode? It’s a fact—people do business with those whom they know and trust. Lean in as participants share the fundamentals to cultivating lasting REAL-ationships that will enable your business to grow and to thrive. Kenyatta Lewis Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement Kenyatta Lewis is the Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement at MGM Resorts International. From her start in procurement at New YorkNew York in 2000, Kenyatta designed, implemented, and expanded the company’s robust supplier diversity program. She is responsible for defining innovative strategies for supplier diversity and providing leadership direction to advance ESG priorities in the supply chain. She also oversees training and development programs for 80+ procurement professionals. Kenyatta was recently named a 2022 Women of Distinction in Hospitality, Retail & Conventions by NAWBO-Southern Nevada. She leads MGM Resorts’ executive Supplier Inclusion Task Force and is a member of the Institute for Supply Management’s Sustainability Committee; the Advertising, Entertainment Media & Sports Industry Group; and the Houston Minority Business Council’s Business Development Advisory Council. Kenyatta earned her degree in Business Management and served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves. D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Mario Stadtlander President Mario Stadtlander is the President of Eagle Promotions, a specialty branded products company. He was born and raised in Las Vegas and grew up working in the family motorcycle shop. The family had another business within the motorcycle shop, EP Performs. It was there that Mario got his start in the apparel and promotional products industry. In 2001, EP Performs merged with Eagle Promotions. At the start of Eagle Promotions, it was Sean Ono, currently CEO; Mario, and eight employees. Fast forward, Eagle Promotions is an award-winning top 40 promotional products distributor with opportunities to work with businesses such as: Disney, Coca-Cola, MLB, Hard Rock, and more. FISHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES Rhoda Hassad Supplier Diversity Manager Rhoda Hassad is the Supplier Diversity Manager for MGM Resorts International. In her role she is focused on building an inclusive environment to increase the participation of diverse suppliers in contracting & procurement and to develop a competitive supplier base that represents the communities served. Rhoda brings over 20 years of experience in Hospitality to her position. Most recently, she was a Hotel Operations Manager at New York-New York, an MGM Resorts property in Las Vegas. Her experience also includes various positions in Hotel Operations at Mandalay Bay and Delano Las Vegas, both MGM Resort International properties. Currently, Rhoda serves as Chair of the Professional Women’s Employee Network Group for MGM Resort’s International. She is a member of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association and the Women in Lodging in Nevada Association. Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. NEW PARTICIPANTS BEING ADDED! KEEP CHECKING BACK FOR UPDATES. 2:55PM TO 4:15PM Breakout Camps are designed to provide a casual setting for Corporate Members, Buyers, and Industry Leaders to speak directly with diverse suppliers about a range of topics. It will also equip diverse suppliers with tools and strategies to increase their business by hearing directly from potential and current clients. Topics Covered Industry Trends Rules of Engagement Sourcing & Contracts I Won/I Didn’t Win the Bid: Now What? Upcoming Opportunities Each Breakout Camp will have a Lead Moderator and Co-Moderator, certified MBEs who have been selected to direct activities and topics within their room. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions when the moderators open the floor for Q&As. Entertainment, Gaming, Sports, Hospitality & F&B Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Reggie Burton Founder/CEO MBE Moderator Shabana Siraj CEO & Founder Ryne Tokunaga Purchasing Buyer Ryne Tokunaga is a purchasing buyer at Sahara Las Vegas, a hotel and casino located on the Las Vegas Strip. He brings a diverse skill set to the organization,having dealt with multiple areas within hospitality procurement. Ryne currently oversees the day-to-day F&B procurement for Sahara Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort in the Meruelo Gaming portfolio. Previously, Ryne worked as a buyer for the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno with a dual degree in Finance and Economics. CERTIFIED MBE Alan Gartrell Vice President of Procurement Alan has over 20+ years of experience in Purchasing & Warehousing Management in the Entertainment & Hospitality Industry. Alan joined Caesars Entertainment in June 2011 and is currently the Vice President of Procurement responsible for overseeing Regional Procurement, Warehousing, Supplier Diversity and Sustainability for all Caesars’ properties. Prior to this role, Alan has held multiple Regional Director positions throughout the country most recently the Senior Director of the Western Region. Before coming to Caesars, Alan spent 4 years as the Purchasing Manager at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in Asheville, NC and 10 years as the Purchasing and Warehouse Manager at Six Flags America in Maryland. Alan went to Mars Hill College for a BA in Music Theory and Performance. Alan resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife, Bianca, and their son, Luca. Neumiia DuncanReed Vice President, Human Resources & Community Affairs Neumiia Duncan-Reed is the Vice President of Human Resources & Community Affairs for ASM Global which operates Allegiant Stadium. She brings years of experience developing and implementing business and HR strategies, programs and processes to drive business results through leadership and management. Neumiia holds a B.S. degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Amy Clark Senior Manager Amy Clark has over 20 years of experience in supply chain in the electric utility and gaming industries. After retiring from the Tennessee Valley Authority, Amy joined NV Energy as a supply chain and procurement manager. Amy is currently a senior manager at Aristocrat focused on supplier diversity, environmental social governance, and compliance. In addition to her supply chain experience, Amy was an adjunct professor at Georgia Northwestern Technical for five years. At GNTC, she taught business law, economics, HR management, leadership and management principles, labor relations, managerial accounting, and employment law. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration. She is a Certified Professional in Supply Management as designated by the Institute for Supply Management, Inc. Amy continues to further her education and will graduate this year with her Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Global Supply Chain Management. Samira SayeghRivera Director of Procurement Samira Sayegh-Rivera is the Director of Procurement at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Samira has been with San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in various roles for more than 25 years. Currently, she oversees the day-to-day procurement operations for all San Manuel entities – including the Palms, Yaamava, and all government operations. She is responsible for delivering excellent performance from the buying team and the hundreds of orders that are placed each day for everything from fire trucks, to audit services to tomatoes. Samira collaborates with San Manuels stakeholders – including operations, vendors, accounts payable and logistics to leverage procurement best practices and ensure effective P2P execution. She is also responsible for managing all policy, performance and reporting related to purchases, vendor management, system optimization and our expanding diversity program. Construction, Infrastructure & Utilities Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Rahul Kuruvilla CEO WRMSDC MBEIC Chair MBE Moderator Jammie Hsu Thompson Owner/Solutions Provider Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Austin Kight Strategic Brand Director Austin Kight joined Martin-Harris Construction in 2003 with a background in Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Administration. In her current role Strategic Brand Director at Martin-Harris, Austin ensures internal and external programs are in align with the company’s strategic goals and core values. Specific to procurement, she oversees the Subcontractor “Opportunity Program” and ensures company policies and procedures support the company’s commitment for awarding contracts and subcontracts to small, minority, women, veteran, and disadvantaged business concerns from all possible sources. The company’s approach to subcontractor and vendor inclusion is three-pronged incorporating Outreach Efforts, Educational Workshops, and Strategic Partnership Events. Founded in 1976, Martin-Harris Construction is currently ranked as the largest General Contractor in Las Vegas by VEGAS INC magazine. Martin-Harris Construction is a leader within the industry and the Southern Nevada community. John Tatum Regional Director of Procurement John Tatum has served 20+ years in the hospitality industry. He joined Caesars Entertainment in July of 2022 as Regional Director of Procurement where he oversees Las Vegas and Laughlin properties. Prior to joining Caesars, John worked in regional procurement management roles with Boyd Gaming, Penn Gaming, and MGM Resorts. He resides in Las Vegas with his wife and three children. Arsie Isip Associate Director, Supply Chain Management Arsie Isip is the Associate Director of Supply Chain Management for NV Energy, a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company. She has served as an operations, procurement, and supply chain professional for over 20 years among the industries of aerospace, aviation, electronics, gaming systems, and now energy solutions. At NV Energy, she strives to develop diverse coalitions with customers, suppliers, and the community to be the best energy company and strengthen sustainable energy solutions for Nevadans. Quentin O’Neal Supplier Diversity Manager Quentin O’Neal is the Supplier Diversity Manager for Layton Construction. Leading and overseeing their diverse business strategy for the Healthcare/Mission Critical Business units. Quentin is also responsible for community involvement and has been recognized internally and externally as a leader in the supplier diversity space as well as receiving accolades in the community. Quentin has over a decade of experience and has led strategic partnerships with minority and women-owned businesses and community organizations. Telma Lopez Manager of Diversity Programs Telma Lopez is the Manager of Diversity Programs for Southwest Gas Corporation. In her position, Telma is part of a team that oversees the company’s Diversity & Inclusion efforts and Supplier Diversity activities in Nevada, California, and Arizona. Telma joined Southwest in 1996 and has previously served in various positions within the organization, including in the Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs, and Public Affairs teams.In addition to her work at Southwest, Telma serves on the advisory board for CPLC Nevada and volunteers with local nonprofits in her community. Holden Hsiao Vice President Holden Hsiao is the Vice President of ShawLundquist Construction and manages its West Region. Shaw-Lundquist is one of the largest minority-owned business enterprises in the U.S. with a focus of building better lives through construction. Holden has held roles in Estimating, Building Information Modeling, as well as Information Technology, and has extensive experience with onsite projects. With contract licenses in Nevada, California, and Arizona, Holden is growing and expanding the business in the West Region. He is responsible for overseeing the project team and keeping construction activities moving forward to meet project milestones and exceed client expectations. CERTIFIED MBE Banking & Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services, Technology & Government Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Christine Maddela Managing Partner MBE Moderator Joylynn Ross Content Creator & Storytelling Expert Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Bruce Wilcox Vice President, Technology Bruce Wilcox orchestrates the method behind the infrastructure of the hardware and software madness that enables clients to conceive and communicate their products among each other and to the world. Before joining R&R Partners, Bruce led IT operations of several consumer brands, helping each to leverage the power of technology to better serve their customers and grow their businesses, including hip scooter manufacturer Razor and athletic footwear marketer L.A Gear. As director of IT & Distribution for Melbourne, Australiaheadquartered Globe International, he was responsible for operational management of all warehouse and IT activities for this designer and marketer of apparel, footwear and skateboard equipment for the action sports and street fashion markets. Bruce earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California. Victor Figueredo Coordinator IV Victor Figueredo is a Buyer IV in the Clark County School District (CCSD) Purchasing Department where he has worked for over a year. He oversees the acquisition of products, equipment, and services for the Transportation, Warehousing, Food Services, and general school transportation & auto shop. Prior to working at CCSD, Victor worked at NV Energy for over 26 years in Supply Chain Management, Transportation Services, and Operation Services. Victor grew up in the Las Vegas community and he received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He also received his MBA from the University of Detroit. His key skills include purchasing/contract management, fleet management, and warehousing/logistics operations. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. US BANK Richard Chacon Director Richard Chacon serves is a Director at US Bank. US Bancorp completed the acquisition of MUFG Union Bank in December 2022. Richard served as the Director of Supplier Diversity & Development for MUFG Union Bank, N.A. He joined Union Bank in 1998 and was the driving force behind an increase in DBE spend from $26MM in 1998 to $250MM in 2020. Richard served 10 years in the U.S. Army, and 13 years with Pacific Bell. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Martin-Harris Construction is committed to developing long-term, winning relationships through proactive inclusion of Small, Minority, Women, and Veteran Business Enterprises. To learn more about our opportunity program — Innovation Through Inclusion — give us a call or visit our website. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY CONNECTIONS DAY! PROUD SPONSOR OF THE WRMSDC
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 29 Martin-Harris Construction is committed to developing long-term, winning relationships through proactive inclusion of Small, Minority, Women, and Veteran Business Enterprises. To learn more about our opportunity program — Innovation Through Inclusion — give us a call or visit our website. BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY CONNECTIONS DAY! PROUD SPONSOR OF THE WRMSDC
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BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 31 Complete our post-event survey by April 17th and your name will be entered into a drawing to win a 1-on-1 meet and greet with Jana Rygiel, Vice President of Strategic Sourcing for MGM Resorts International. Your feedback is important to us! Please use your camera phone to open the QR Code and complete the survey. Help us continue to bring relevant events and programs to you. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/SLNKC8Z
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BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 33 BREAKOUT CAMPS WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Cecil Plummer, Host President & CEO Cecil Plummer is the president and a member of the Board of Directors for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. Plummer formerly worked with Robert Half for 17 years and left his most recent position as the Director of CSS Strategic Solutions to join the Council. Plummer has over 13 years of executive leadership experience and possesses a solid background in strategic sourcing, change management, performance and process improvement, Supplier Diversity, strategic planning, and risk management. Rose Davis, Co-Host Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) Rose Davis serves as Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. She has dedicated more than two decades to passionately championing diverse businesses for inclusion within corporate America’s purchasing and supply chain strategies. Rose has over 25 years of experience in supplier diversity, business development, accounting, and finance. Her accomplishments include a 29 percent 5-year net growth in Nevada MBEs from 2017-2021. Recently, she was awarded the 2023 Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Year Award-Urban by the Nevada Small Business Administration. Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee Myisha Boyce Chief Community Engagement Officer Myisha Boyce is currently serving as Chief Community Engagement Officer with the Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee. Myisha is also the founding member and President of M.Y.S. Firm, a Nevada based women- and minority-owned professional services organization established in 2014. She has spent more than a decade directing highstakes programs and diverse teams across public and private industries. Myisha serves as Chair of Allegiant Stadium’s Community Advisory Board, is a Member on the Board of Directors for non-profit, Access Community Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution, as well as non-profit, StartUpNV, a Nevada-focused statewide business accelerator and incubator. She previously served as a legislatively appointed Commissioner and Chair of the Legislative Subcommittee within Nevada Department of Business & Industry’s Commission on Minority Affairs. Myisha earned her degree in Education at the University of California, San Diego. Her focus is building and enhancing strategic professional partnerships that jointly benefit business and community. Renze Consulting Matthew Renze Data Science Consultant, Author, Speaker Matthew Renze is a data science consultant, author, and public speaker. He is the founder of Renze Consulting, an AI consulting company that has trained over 400,000 software developers and IT professionals. His clients range from small tech start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. He is also the President of Serenze Global, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to technology education for underrepresented individuals by empowering the next generation of tech community leaders. Matthew is currently working on his Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a Data Science specialization at Johns Hopkins University. He currently has double degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy with a minor in Economics from Iowa State University. He is a Microsoft MVP in AI, an ASPInsider, the organizer of the Las Vegas AI Meetup, and an author for Pluralsight, Udemy, and Skillshare. His interests include AI, ML, data science, mindfulness, technology education, and tech community leadership. Topic: AI: The Future of Small Business ACCE$$ TO CAPITAL Brought to you by: Stretch your opportunities with the federal government; learn about crowdfunding and innovative solutions and resources to drive growth that enable small- to medium-sized businesses to thrive. Gabriela Wyett VP, Business Community Engagement Officer Through Gabriela’s parallel efforts at Lexicon Bank and the Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs, she continually advocates for local, women, and minority business owners by providing opportunities such as access to capital, banking solutions, technical assistance and above all stellar service. She provides a voice for women and minority entrepreneurs as she understands the complexities they may face in finance. As such, she is launching a vertical at Lexicon Bank for women and minority enterprises. By synchronizing efforts, she serves and works with a variety of community and state partners to provide knowledge and financial proficiency to the business community. Gabriela loves nothing more than to know she has been a part of a business’ journey and growth. Saul Ramos Nevada District Director Saul Ramos, Nevada SBA District Director, has held several leadership positions during his 20-year federal career and is a graduate of the President’s Management Council Program. He has represented SBA in various roles, including International Development Specialist, Senior Area Manager, and oversight of the Economic and Business Development team. Saul leads a passionate, talented and experienced Nevada SBA team focused on putting customers—the nation's small businesses—first. During the COVID19 pandemic, he worked closely with the Nevada District team and partners to provide capital and technical assistance programs to the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses. This was a monumental task that helped small businesses survive and preserved the jobs and livelihoods of millions in Nevada. Ruth E. Hedges CEO & "Queen of Crowdfunding" Forbes Ruth is recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on Equity Crowdfunding for pioneering the bill signed into the JOBS Act on April 5, 2012. Ruth was honored with an invitation to the White House for their "Crowdfunding Champions of Change" event. Her work has landed her in 69 publications, including seven times in Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and INC Magazine. In 2023 in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company, she launched the Rise Up Crowdfunding portal to help more Women, Black, Latin, LGBTQ, and all minority founders and startups raise $5 million in capital using Equity Crowdfunding. Ruth has consulted with government organizations, small business owners, startups, and Fortune 500 companies. Las Vegas Women In Technology recognized her as a ‘Crowdfunding Innovator’ and recipient of the “High Tech Woman Of The Year” for 2017. SBA’s participation or support is not an endorsement of any product, service, or entity. FIRESIDE CHAT “CULTIVATING “REAL”-ATIONSHIPS” Is your business stuck in the selling mode? It’s a fact—people do business with those whom they know and trust. Lean in as participants share the fundamentals to cultivating lasting REAL-ationships that will enable your business to grow and to thrive. Kenyatta Lewis Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement Kenyatta Lewis is the Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement at MGM Resorts International. From her start in procurement at New YorkNew York in 2000, Kenyatta designed, implemented, and expanded the company’s robust supplier diversity program. She is responsible for defining innovative strategies for supplier diversity and providing leadership direction to advance ESG priorities in the supply chain. She also oversees training and development programs for 80+ procurement professionals. Kenyatta was recently named a 2022 Women of Distinction in Hospitality, Retail & Conventions by NAWBO-Southern Nevada. She leads MGM Resorts’ executive Supplier Inclusion Task Force and is a member of the Institute for Supply Management’s Sustainability Committee; the Advertising, Entertainment Media & Sports Industry Group; and the Houston Minority Business Council’s Business Development Advisory Council. Kenyatta earned her degree in Business Management and served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves. D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Mario Stadtlander President Mario Stadtlander is the President of Eagle Promotions, a specialty branded products company. He was born and raised in Las Vegas and grew up working in the family motorcycle shop. The family had another business within the motorcycle shop, EP Performs. It was there that Mario got his start in the apparel and promotional products industry. In 2001, EP Performs merged with Eagle Promotions. At the start of Eagle Promotions, it was Sean Ono, currently CEO; Mario, and eight employees. Fast forward, Eagle Promotions is an award-winning top 40 promotional products distributor with opportunities to work with businesses such as: Disney, Coca-Cola, MLB, Hard Rock, and more. FISHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES Rhoda Hassad Supplier Diversity Manager Rhoda Hassad is the Supplier Diversity Manager for MGM Resorts International. In her role she is focused on building an inclusive environment to increase the participation of diverse suppliers in contracting & procurement and to develop a competitive supplier base that represents the communities served. Rhoda brings over 20 years of experience in Hospitality to her position. Most recently, she was a Hotel Operations Manager at New York-New York, an MGM Resorts property in Las Vegas. Her experience also includes various positions in Hotel Operations at Mandalay Bay and Delano Las Vegas, both MGM Resort International properties. Currently, Rhoda serves as Chair of the Professional Women’s Employee Network Group for MGM Resort’s International. She is a member of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association and the Women in Lodging in Nevada Association. Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. NEW PARTICIPANTS BEING ADDED! KEEP CHECKING BACK FOR UPDATES. 2:55PM TO 4:15PM Breakout Camps are designed to provide a casual setting for Corporate Members, Buyers, and Industry Leaders to speak directly with diverse suppliers about a range of topics. It will also equip diverse suppliers with tools and strategies to increase their business by hearing directly from potential and current clients. Topics Covered Industry Trends Rules of Engagement Sourcing & Contracts I Won/I Didn’t Win the Bid: Now What? Upcoming Opportunities Each Breakout Camp will have a Lead Moderator and Co-Moderator, certified MBEs who have been selected to direct activities and topics within their room. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions when the moderators open the floor for Q&As. Entertainment, Gaming, Sports, Hospitality & F&B Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Reggie Burton Founder/CEO MBE Moderator Shabana Siraj CEO & Founder Ryne Tokunaga Purchasing Buyer Ryne Tokunaga is a purchasing buyer at Sahara Las Vegas, a hotel and casino located on the Las Vegas Strip. He brings a diverse skill set to the organization,having dealt with multiple areas within hospitality procurement. Ryne currently oversees the day-to-day F&B procurement for Sahara Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort in the Meruelo Gaming portfolio. Previously, Ryne worked as a buyer for the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno with a dual degree in Finance and Economics. CERTIFIED MBE Alan Gartrell Vice President of Procurement Alan has over 20+ years of experience in Purchasing & Warehousing Management in the Entertainment & Hospitality Industry. Alan joined Caesars Entertainment in June 2011 and is currently the Vice President of Procurement responsible for overseeing Regional Procurement, Warehousing, Supplier Diversity and Sustainability for all Caesars’ properties. Prior to this role, Alan has held multiple Regional Director positions throughout the country most recently the Senior Director of the Western Region. Before coming to Caesars, Alan spent 4 years as the Purchasing Manager at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in Asheville, NC and 10 years as the Purchasing and Warehouse Manager at Six Flags America in Maryland. Alan went to Mars Hill College for a BA in Music Theory and Performance. Alan resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife, Bianca, and their son, Luca. Neumiia DuncanReed Vice President, Human Resources & Community Affairs Neumiia Duncan-Reed is the Vice President of Human Resources & Community Affairs for ASM Global which operates Allegiant Stadium. She brings years of experience developing and implementing business and HR strategies, programs and processes to drive business results through leadership and management. Neumiia holds a B.S. degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Amy Clark Senior Manager Amy Clark has over 20 years of experience in supply chain in the electric utility and gaming industries. After retiring from the Tennessee Valley Authority, Amy joined NV Energy as a supply chain and procurement manager. Amy is currently a senior manager at Aristocrat focused on supplier diversity, environmental social governance, and compliance. In addition to her supply chain experience, Amy was an adjunct professor at Georgia Northwestern Technical for five years. At GNTC, she taught business law, economics, HR management, leadership and management principles, labor relations, managerial accounting, and employment law. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration. She is a Certified Professional in Supply Management as designated by the Institute for Supply Management, Inc. Amy continues to further her education and will graduate this year with her Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Global Supply Chain Management. Samira SayeghRivera Director of Procurement Samira Sayegh-Rivera is the Director of Procurement at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Samira has been with San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in various roles for more than 25 years. Currently, she oversees the day-to-day procurement operations for all San Manuel entities – including the Palms, Yaamava, and all government operations. She is responsible for delivering excellent performance from the buying team and the hundreds of orders that are placed each day for everything from fire trucks, to audit services to tomatoes. Samira collaborates with San Manuels stakeholders – including operations, vendors, accounts payable and logistics to leverage procurement best practices and ensure effective P2P execution. She is also responsible for managing all policy, performance and reporting related to purchases, vendor management, system optimization and our expanding diversity program. Construction, Infrastructure & Utilities Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Rahul Kuruvilla CEO WRMSDC MBEIC Chair MBE Moderator Jammie Hsu Thompson Owner/Solutions Provider Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Austin Kight Strategic Brand Director Austin Kight joined Martin-Harris Construction in 2003 with a background in Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Administration. In her current role Strategic Brand Director at Martin-Harris, Austin ensures internal and external programs are in align with the company’s strategic goals and core values. Specific to procurement, she oversees the Subcontractor “Opportunity Program” and ensures company policies and procedures support the company’s commitment for awarding contracts and subcontracts to small, minority, women, veteran, and disadvantaged business concerns from all possible sources. The company’s approach to subcontractor and vendor inclusion is three-pronged incorporating Outreach Efforts, Educational Workshops, and Strategic Partnership Events. Founded in 1976, Martin-Harris Construction is currently ranked as the largest General Contractor in Las Vegas by VEGAS INC magazine. Martin-Harris Construction is a leader within the industry and the Southern Nevada community. John Tatum Regional Director of Procurement John Tatum has served 20+ years in the hospitality industry. He joined Caesars Entertainment in July of 2022 as Regional Director of Procurement where he oversees Las Vegas and Laughlin properties. Prior to joining Caesars, John worked in regional procurement management roles with Boyd Gaming, Penn Gaming, and MGM Resorts. He resides in Las Vegas with his wife and three children. Arsie Isip Associate Director, Supply Chain Management Arsie Isip is the Associate Director of Supply Chain Management for NV Energy, a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company. She has served as an operations, procurement, and supply chain professional for over 20 years among the industries of aerospace, aviation, electronics, gaming systems, and now energy solutions. At NV Energy, she strives to develop diverse coalitions with customers, suppliers, and the community to be the best energy company and strengthen sustainable energy solutions for Nevadans. Quentin O’Neal Supplier Diversity Manager Quentin O’Neal is the Supplier Diversity Manager for Layton Construction. Leading and overseeing their diverse business strategy for the Healthcare/Mission Critical Business units. Quentin is also responsible for community involvement and has been recognized internally and externally as a leader in the supplier diversity space as well as receiving accolades in the community. Quentin has over a decade of experience and has led strategic partnerships with minority and women-owned businesses and community organizations. Telma Lopez Manager of Diversity Programs Telma Lopez is the Manager of Diversity Programs for Southwest Gas Corporation. In her position, Telma is part of a team that oversees the company’s Diversity & Inclusion efforts and Supplier Diversity activities in Nevada, California, and Arizona. Telma joined Southwest in 1996 and has previously served in various positions within the organization, including in the Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs, and Public Affairs teams.In addition to her work at Southwest, Telma serves on the advisory board for CPLC Nevada and volunteers with local nonprofits in her community. Holden Hsiao Vice President Holden Hsiao is the Vice President of ShawLundquist Construction and manages its West Region. Shaw-Lundquist is one of the largest minority-owned business enterprises in the U.S. with a focus of building better lives through construction. Holden has held roles in Estimating, Building Information Modeling, as well as Information Technology, and has extensive experience with onsite projects. With contract licenses in Nevada, California, and Arizona, Holden is growing and expanding the business in the West Region. He is responsible for overseeing the project team and keeping construction activities moving forward to meet project milestones and exceed client expectations. CERTIFIED MBE Banking & Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services, Technology & Government Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Christine Maddela Managing Partner MBE Moderator Joylynn Ross Content Creator & Storytelling Expert Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Bruce Wilcox Vice President, Technology Bruce Wilcox orchestrates the method behind the infrastructure of the hardware and software madness that enables clients to conceive and communicate their products among each other and to the world. Before joining R&R Partners, Bruce led IT operations of several consumer brands, helping each to leverage the power of technology to better serve their customers and grow their businesses, including hip scooter manufacturer Razor and athletic footwear marketer L.A Gear. As director of IT & Distribution for Melbourne, Australiaheadquartered Globe International, he was responsible for operational management of all warehouse and IT activities for this designer and marketer of apparel, footwear and skateboard equipment for the action sports and street fashion markets. Bruce earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California. Victor Figueredo Coordinator IV Victor Figueredo is a Buyer IV in the Clark County School District (CCSD) Purchasing Department where he has worked for over a year. He oversees the acquisition of products, equipment, and services for the Transportation, Warehousing, Food Services, and general school transportation & auto shop. Prior to working at CCSD, Victor worked at NV Energy for over 26 years in Supply Chain Management, Transportation Services, and Operation Services. Victor grew up in the Las Vegas community and he received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He also received his MBA from the University of Detroit. His key skills include purchasing/contract management, fleet management, and warehousing/logistics operations. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. US BANK Richard Chacon Director Richard Chacon serves is a Director at US Bank. US Bancorp completed the acquisition of MUFG Union Bank in December 2022. Richard served as the Director of Supplier Diversity & Development for MUFG Union Bank, N.A. He joined Union Bank in 1998 and was the driving force behind an increase in DBE spend from $26MM in 1998 to $250MM in 2020. Richard served 10 years in the U.S. Army, and 13 years with Pacific Bell. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified.
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 34 BREAKOUT CAMPS WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Cecil Plummer, Host President & CEO Cecil Plummer is the president and a member of the Board of Directors for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. Plummer formerly worked with Robert Half for 17 years and left his most recent position as the Director of CSS Strategic Solutions to join the Council. Plummer has over 13 years of executive leadership experience and possesses a solid background in strategic sourcing, change management, performance and process improvement, Supplier Diversity, strategic planning, and risk management. Rose Davis, Co-Host Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) Rose Davis serves as Director of Corporate Services & MBE Development (Nevada) for the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council. She has dedicated more than two decades to passionately championing diverse businesses for inclusion within corporate America’s purchasing and supply chain strategies. Rose has over 25 years of experience in supplier diversity, business development, accounting, and finance. Her accomplishments include a 29 percent 5-year net growth in Nevada MBEs from 2017-2021. Recently, she was awarded the 2023 Entrepreneurial Spirit of the Year Award-Urban by the Nevada Small Business Administration. Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee Myisha Boyce Chief Community Engagement Officer Myisha Boyce is currently serving as Chief Community Engagement Officer with the Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee. Myisha is also the founding member and President of M.Y.S. Firm, a Nevada based women- and minority-owned professional services organization established in 2014. She has spent more than a decade directing highstakes programs and diverse teams across public and private industries. Myisha serves as Chair of Allegiant Stadium’s Community Advisory Board, is a Member on the Board of Directors for non-profit, Access Community Capital, a Community Development Financial Institution, as well as non-profit, StartUpNV, a Nevada-focused statewide business accelerator and incubator. She previously served as a legislatively appointed Commissioner and Chair of the Legislative Subcommittee within Nevada Department of Business & Industry’s Commission on Minority Affairs. Myisha earned her degree in Education at the University of California, San Diego. Her focus is building and enhancing strategic professional partnerships that jointly benefit business and community. Renze Consulting Matthew Renze Data Science Consultant, Author, Speaker Matthew Renze is a data science consultant, author, and public speaker. He is the founder of Renze Consulting, an AI consulting company that has trained over 400,000 software developers and IT professionals. His clients range from small tech start-ups to Fortune 500 companies. He is also the President of Serenze Global, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to improving access to technology education for underrepresented individuals by empowering the next generation of tech community leaders. Matthew is currently working on his Master’s degree in Artificial Intelligence with a Data Science specialization at Johns Hopkins University. He currently has double degrees in Computer Science and Philosophy with a minor in Economics from Iowa State University. He is a Microsoft MVP in AI, an ASPInsider, the organizer of the Las Vegas AI Meetup, and an author for Pluralsight, Udemy, and Skillshare. His interests include AI, ML, data science, mindfulness, technology education, and tech community leadership. Topic: AI: The Future of Small Business ACCE$$ TO CAPITAL Brought to you by: Stretch your opportunities with the federal government; learn about crowdfunding and innovative solutions and resources to drive growth that enable small- to medium-sized businesses to thrive. Gabriela Wyett VP, Business Community Engagement Officer Through Gabriela’s parallel efforts at Lexicon Bank and the Nevada Commission on Minority Affairs, she continually advocates for local, women, and minority business owners by providing opportunities such as access to capital, banking solutions, technical assistance and above all stellar service. She provides a voice for women and minority entrepreneurs as she understands the complexities they may face in finance. As such, she is launching a vertical at Lexicon Bank for women and minority enterprises. By synchronizing efforts, she serves and works with a variety of community and state partners to provide knowledge and financial proficiency to the business community. Gabriela loves nothing more than to know she has been a part of a business’ journey and growth. Saul Ramos Nevada District Director Saul Ramos, Nevada SBA District Director, has held several leadership positions during his 20-year federal career and is a graduate of the President’s Management Council Program. He has represented SBA in various roles, including International Development Specialist, Senior Area Manager, and oversight of the Economic and Business Development team. Saul leads a passionate, talented and experienced Nevada SBA team focused on putting customers—the nation's small businesses—first. During the COVID19 pandemic, he worked closely with the Nevada District team and partners to provide capital and technical assistance programs to the hardest-hit and underserved small businesses. This was a monumental task that helped small businesses survive and preserved the jobs and livelihoods of millions in Nevada. Ruth E. Hedges CEO & "Queen of Crowdfunding" Forbes Ruth is recognized as one of the world's foremost authorities on Equity Crowdfunding for pioneering the bill signed into the JOBS Act on April 5, 2012. Ruth was honored with an invitation to the White House for their "Crowdfunding Champions of Change" event. Her work has landed her in 69 publications, including seven times in Forbes, Entrepreneur Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and INC Magazine. In 2023 in collaboration with The Coca-Cola Company, she launched the Rise Up Crowdfunding portal to help more Women, Black, Latin, LGBTQ, and all minority founders and startups raise $5 million in capital using Equity Crowdfunding. Ruth has consulted with government organizations, small business owners, startups, and Fortune 500 companies. Las Vegas Women In Technology recognized her as a ‘Crowdfunding Innovator’ and recipient of the “High Tech Woman Of The Year” for 2017. SBA’s participation or support is not an endorsement of any product, service, or entity. FIRESIDE CHAT “CULTIVATING “REAL”-ATIONSHIPS” Is your business stuck in the selling mode? It’s a fact—people do business with those whom they know and trust. Lean in as participants share the fundamentals to cultivating lasting REAL-ationships that will enable your business to grow and to thrive. Kenyatta Lewis Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement Kenyatta Lewis is the Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement at MGM Resorts International. From her start in procurement at New YorkNew York in 2000, Kenyatta designed, implemented, and expanded the company’s robust supplier diversity program. She is responsible for defining innovative strategies for supplier diversity and providing leadership direction to advance ESG priorities in the supply chain. She also oversees training and development programs for 80+ procurement professionals. Kenyatta was recently named a 2022 Women of Distinction in Hospitality, Retail & Conventions by NAWBO-Southern Nevada. She leads MGM Resorts’ executive Supplier Inclusion Task Force and is a member of the Institute for Supply Management’s Sustainability Committee; the Advertising, Entertainment Media & Sports Industry Group; and the Houston Minority Business Council’s Business Development Advisory Council. Kenyatta earned her degree in Business Management and served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves. D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER Mario Stadtlander President Mario Stadtlander is the President of Eagle Promotions, a specialty branded products company. He was born and raised in Las Vegas and grew up working in the family motorcycle shop. The family had another business within the motorcycle shop, EP Performs. It was there that Mario got his start in the apparel and promotional products industry. In 2001, EP Performs merged with Eagle Promotions. At the start of Eagle Promotions, it was Sean Ono, currently CEO; Mario, and eight employees. Fast forward, Eagle Promotions is an award-winning top 40 promotional products distributor with opportunities to work with businesses such as: Disney, Coca-Cola, MLB, Hard Rock, and more. FISHING FOR OPPORTUNITIES Rhoda Hassad Supplier Diversity Manager Rhoda Hassad is the Supplier Diversity Manager for MGM Resorts International. In her role she is focused on building an inclusive environment to increase the participation of diverse suppliers in contracting & procurement and to develop a competitive supplier base that represents the communities served. Rhoda brings over 20 years of experience in Hospitality to her position. Most recently, she was a Hotel Operations Manager at New York-New York, an MGM Resorts property in Las Vegas. Her experience also includes various positions in Hotel Operations at Mandalay Bay and Delano Las Vegas, both MGM Resort International properties. Currently, Rhoda serves as Chair of the Professional Women’s Employee Network Group for MGM Resort’s International. She is a member of the Nevada Hotel & Lodging Association and the Women in Lodging in Nevada Association. Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. NEW PARTICIPANTS BEING ADDED! KEEP CHECKING BACK FOR UPDATES. 2:55PM TO 4:15PM Breakout Camps are designed to provide a casual setting for Corporate Members, Buyers, and Industry Leaders to speak directly with diverse suppliers about a range of topics. It will also equip diverse suppliers with tools and strategies to increase their business by hearing directly from potential and current clients. Topics Covered Industry Trends Rules of Engagement Sourcing & Contracts I Won/I Didn’t Win the Bid: Now What? Upcoming Opportunities Each Breakout Camp will have a Lead Moderator and Co-Moderator, certified MBEs who have been selected to direct activities and topics within their room. Attendees will have the opportunity to ask questions when the moderators open the floor for Q&As. Entertainment, Gaming, Sports, Hospitality & F&B Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Reggie Burton Founder/CEO MBE Moderator Shabana Siraj CEO & Founder Ryne Tokunaga Purchasing Buyer Ryne Tokunaga is a purchasing buyer at Sahara Las Vegas, a hotel and casino located on the Las Vegas Strip. He brings a diverse skill set to the organization,having dealt with multiple areas within hospitality procurement. Ryne currently oversees the day-to-day F&B procurement for Sahara Las Vegas and Grand Sierra Resort in the Meruelo Gaming portfolio. Previously, Ryne worked as a buyer for the Grand Sierra Resort in Reno, Nevada. He graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Nevada, Reno with a dual degree in Finance and Economics. CERTIFIED MBE Alan Gartrell Vice President of Procurement Alan has over 20+ years of experience in Purchasing & Warehousing Management in the Entertainment & Hospitality Industry. Alan joined Caesars Entertainment in June 2011 and is currently the Vice President of Procurement responsible for overseeing Regional Procurement, Warehousing, Supplier Diversity and Sustainability for all Caesars’ properties. Prior to this role, Alan has held multiple Regional Director positions throughout the country most recently the Senior Director of the Western Region. Before coming to Caesars, Alan spent 4 years as the Purchasing Manager at The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa in Asheville, NC and 10 years as the Purchasing and Warehouse Manager at Six Flags America in Maryland. Alan went to Mars Hill College for a BA in Music Theory and Performance. Alan resides in Las Vegas, NV with his wife, Bianca, and their son, Luca. Neumiia DuncanReed Vice President, Human Resources & Community Affairs Neumiia Duncan-Reed is the Vice President of Human Resources & Community Affairs for ASM Global which operates Allegiant Stadium. She brings years of experience developing and implementing business and HR strategies, programs and processes to drive business results through leadership and management. Neumiia holds a B.S. degree in Business Management from the University of Phoenix. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified. Amy Clark Senior Manager Amy Clark has over 20 years of experience in supply chain in the electric utility and gaming industries. After retiring from the Tennessee Valley Authority, Amy joined NV Energy as a supply chain and procurement manager. Amy is currently a senior manager at Aristocrat focused on supplier diversity, environmental social governance, and compliance. In addition to her supply chain experience, Amy was an adjunct professor at Georgia Northwestern Technical for five years. At GNTC, she taught business law, economics, HR management, leadership and management principles, labor relations, managerial accounting, and employment law. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Masters in Business Administration. She is a Certified Professional in Supply Management as designated by the Institute for Supply Management, Inc. Amy continues to further her education and will graduate this year with her Doctorate in Business Administration with a focus on Global Supply Chain Management. Samira SayeghRivera Director of Procurement Samira Sayegh-Rivera is the Director of Procurement at San Manuel Band of Mission Indians. Samira has been with San Manuel Band of Mission Indians in various roles for more than 25 years. Currently, she oversees the day-to-day procurement operations for all San Manuel entities – including the Palms, Yaamava, and all government operations. She is responsible for delivering excellent performance from the buying team and the hundreds of orders that are placed each day for everything from fire trucks, to audit services to tomatoes. Samira collaborates with San Manuels stakeholders – including operations, vendors, accounts payable and logistics to leverage procurement best practices and ensure effective P2P execution. She is also responsible for managing all policy, performance and reporting related to purchases, vendor management, system optimization and our expanding diversity program. Construction, Infrastructure & Utilities Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Rahul Kuruvilla CEO WRMSDC MBEIC Chair MBE Moderator Jammie Hsu Thompson Owner/Solutions Provider Jeff Rensmon Senior Preconstruction Director Jeff Rensmon is a senior preconstruction director for McCarthy Building Companies with more than four decades of experience in the construction industry. Throughout his career, Rensmon has led the preconstruction and bidding efforts on several notable and diverse projects including Hospitality Hall at UNLV, Topgolf, Palms Casino Resort Remodel, Virgin Hotels, and a wastewater effluent and treatment facility for the City of Winnemucca. A long-time Nevada resident, Rensmon earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Management ) from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and is actively involved in McCarthy’s Preconstruction Peer Group working with his team and others in an ongoing effort to improve preconstruction training in the industry. Austin Kight Strategic Brand Director Austin Kight joined Martin-Harris Construction in 2003 with a background in Corporate Communications, Marketing, and Administration. In her current role Strategic Brand Director at Martin-Harris, Austin ensures internal and external programs are in align with the company’s strategic goals and core values. Specific to procurement, she oversees the Subcontractor “Opportunity Program” and ensures company policies and procedures support the company’s commitment for awarding contracts and subcontracts to small, minority, women, veteran, and disadvantaged business concerns from all possible sources. The company’s approach to subcontractor and vendor inclusion is three-pronged incorporating Outreach Efforts, Educational Workshops, and Strategic Partnership Events. Founded in 1976, Martin-Harris Construction is currently ranked as the largest General Contractor in Las Vegas by VEGAS INC magazine. Martin-Harris Construction is a leader within the industry and the Southern Nevada community. John Tatum Regional Director of Procurement John Tatum has served 20+ years in the hospitality industry. He joined Caesars Entertainment in July of 2022 as Regional Director of Procurement where he oversees Las Vegas and Laughlin properties. Prior to joining Caesars, John worked in regional procurement management roles with Boyd Gaming, Penn Gaming, and MGM Resorts. He resides in Las Vegas with his wife and three children. Arsie Isip Associate Director, Supply Chain Management Arsie Isip is the Associate Director of Supply Chain Management for NV Energy, a Berkshire Hathaway Energy company. She has served as an operations, procurement, and supply chain professional for over 20 years among the industries of aerospace, aviation, electronics, gaming systems, and now energy solutions. At NV Energy, she strives to develop diverse coalitions with customers, suppliers, and the community to be the best energy company and strengthen sustainable energy solutions for Nevadans. Quentin O’Neal Supplier Diversity Manager Quentin O’Neal is the Supplier Diversity Manager for Layton Construction. Leading and overseeing their diverse business strategy for the Healthcare/Mission Critical Business units. Quentin is also responsible for community involvement and has been recognized internally and externally as a leader in the supplier diversity space as well as receiving accolades in the community. Quentin has over a decade of experience and has led strategic partnerships with minority and women-owned businesses and community organizations. Telma Lopez Manager of Diversity Programs Telma Lopez is the Manager of Diversity Programs for Southwest Gas Corporation. In her position, Telma is part of a team that oversees the company’s Diversity & Inclusion efforts and Supplier Diversity activities in Nevada, California, and Arizona. Telma joined Southwest in 1996 and has previously served in various positions within the organization, including in the Supply Chain, Regulatory Affairs, and Public Affairs teams.In addition to her work at Southwest, Telma serves on the advisory board for CPLC Nevada and volunteers with local nonprofits in her community. Holden Hsiao Vice President Holden Hsiao is the Vice President of ShawLundquist Construction and manages its West Region. Shaw-Lundquist is one of the largest minority-owned business enterprises in the U.S. with a focus of building better lives through construction. Holden has held roles in Estimating, Building Information Modeling, as well as Information Technology, and has extensive experience with onsite projects. With contract licenses in Nevada, California, and Arizona, Holden is growing and expanding the business in the West Region. He is responsible for overseeing the project team and keeping construction activities moving forward to meet project milestones and exceed client expectations. CERTIFIED MBE Banking & Finance, Healthcare, Professional Services, Technology & Government Brought to you by: MBE Moderator Christine Maddela Managing Partner MBE Moderator Joylynn Ross Content Creator & Storytelling Expert Tressa Fernandez Quality Assurance Administrator Finance – Purchasing & Contracts Tressa Fernandez has worked in Purchasing & Contracts with the City of Las Vegas for 14 years where she is an innovator and passionate supporter of supplier diversity. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and received a Diversity & Inclusion certification from Cornell University in 2021. Tressa works with an amazing group of people where they challenge the status quo to find innovative solutions to promote supplier diversity in support of the City’s goal to “build community to make life better.” Bruce Wilcox Vice President, Technology Bruce Wilcox orchestrates the method behind the infrastructure of the hardware and software madness that enables clients to conceive and communicate their products among each other and to the world. Before joining R&R Partners, Bruce led IT operations of several consumer brands, helping each to leverage the power of technology to better serve their customers and grow their businesses, including hip scooter manufacturer Razor and athletic footwear marketer L.A Gear. As director of IT & Distribution for Melbourne, Australiaheadquartered Globe International, he was responsible for operational management of all warehouse and IT activities for this designer and marketer of apparel, footwear and skateboard equipment for the action sports and street fashion markets. Bruce earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from the University of Southern California. Victor Figueredo Coordinator IV Victor Figueredo is a Buyer IV in the Clark County School District (CCSD) Purchasing Department where he has worked for over a year. He oversees the acquisition of products, equipment, and services for the Transportation, Warehousing, Food Services, and general school transportation & auto shop. Prior to working at CCSD, Victor worked at NV Energy for over 26 years in Supply Chain Management, Transportation Services, and Operation Services. Victor grew up in the Las Vegas community and he received his undergraduate degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He also received his MBA from the University of Detroit. His key skills include purchasing/contract management, fleet management, and warehousing/logistics operations. Justin Sueing Director of Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion Justin Sueing is the Director of DEI at HCA Healthcare. He was born and raised in Tennessee. He earned his B.Sc. in Information Systems with a concentration in Industry from Tennessee State University. His time in operations and process improvement allowed him to partner with clinicians, executives and service line leaders to implement projects, manage strategic growth and coordinate cross-functional communication to enhance team collaboration. Justin’s ability to build bridges and serve as a connector provided a transition into the realm of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. He works to eliminate health disparities across targeted patient populations, foster an inclusive clinical environment for patients and healthcare workers, reallocate financial resources into locally-based diverse vendors and contractors, and cultivate sustainable long term partnerships with community organizations and academic institutions. His experience in the healthcare sector has allowed Justin the opportunity to effectuate programmatic change that positively impacts the patients and communities he serves. WRMSDC MBE PLATINUM PARTNER D. Arnold Area Vice President, Business Development D is Area Vice President, Business Development for World Wide Technology, technology services provider with annual revenues exceeding $14B and one of the largest certified minority-owned corporations. D is responsible for building relationships with WWT’s customers, the NMSDC regional councils, and its global affiliates. D previously served on the WRMSDC Executive Advisory Committee, WRMSDC Board of Directors and the MBEIC. In the early 2000’s he started his own company. D has been married for 20 years and has a fifteen-year-old son. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Ole Miss. US BANK Richard Chacon Director Richard Chacon serves is a Director at US Bank. US Bancorp completed the acquisition of MUFG Union Bank in December 2022. Richard served as the Director of Supplier Diversity & Development for MUFG Union Bank, N.A. He joined Union Bank in 1998 and was the driving force behind an increase in DBE spend from $26MM in 1998 to $250MM in 2020. Richard served 10 years in the U.S. Army, and 13 years with Pacific Bell. Jana Rygiel VP of Strategic Sourcing, Global Procurement Jana Rygiel joined MGM Resorts in December 2021. She has a long career in Procurement transformation and Strategic Sourcing leadership working at Ford Motor Company, Caesars Entertainment, and running her own consulting company prior to joining MGM Resorts. Jana is passionate about the strategic sourcing craft and in driving significant results for the enterprise and shareholders. She holds a degree from Michigan State University and is also Six Sigma Green Belt certified.
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BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 36 PRIZE GIVEAWAYS During the Camp Reflections/Closing of today’s event, diverse suppliers will have a chance to win the following out of this world “Connection” & “REAL-ationship Building” Prizes: You must be present to win. Strategy Session with Alan Gartrell, Vice President of Procurement, at Caesars Entertainment Strategy Lunch with Kenyatta Lewis, Executive Director of Supplier Diversity & Sustainable Procurement, at MGM Resorts International Strategy Lunch and Tour of Palms Casino Resort with Samira Sayegh-Rivera, Procurement Director, and Shelle Heaton, Vice President of Procurement Services, for Palms Casino Resort
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FOR YOUR SUPPORT OF WRMSDC & COMMUNITIES OF COLOR THANK YOU CHUCKWAGON LUNCH SUPPORTER BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 38
BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY DAY 39 CHUCKWAGON LUNCH Menu · Hamburgers (Gluten Free) · All Beef Hot Dogs (Gluten Free) · Impossible Burgers (Vegan) · Baked Beans · Potato Salad (Vegetarian, Gluten Free) · Cole Slaw (Vegan, Gluten Free) · Caesar Salad, Vegan Caesar Dressing (with Grilled Chicken, Parmesan Cheese & Croutons on the side) · Seasonal Sliced Fruit (Vegetarian, Gluten Free) · Brookie · Potato Chips (Gluten Free) · Fresh-squeezed Lemonade · Assorted Soft Drinks · Iced Tea, Coffee & Water Afternoon Snacks · Nacho Boat (Tortilla Chip Boat and Nacho Cheese Cup, with Pico De Gallo and Pickled Jalapenos) · Crudité Cups (Seasonal Veggies & Ranch Dip) · Hummus Cups (Grilled Garlic Herb Pita & Roasted Garlic Hummus) · Potato Chips · Trail Mix · Assorted Cookies · Fudge Brownies (without Nuts) · Assorted Ice Cream Cups · Assorted Soft Drinks · Iced Tea, Coffee & Water
continue to next page> EXTERNAL ALLIANCES • National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) • National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) • National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) • Veterans in Business (VIB) Network • Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) • Disability:IN Supplier Inclusion: Thrive by Growing With Us BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH US Treating people equitably and embracing diversity in all areas of our business are longstanding pillars of Robert Half and Protiviti’s corporate culture. Supplier Inclusion at Robert Half and Protiviti is a corporatewide initiative designed to support the promotion, growth and development of small and/or diverse-, women-, LGBTQ+-, veteran- and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses, as well as business owners with apparent and non-apparent disabilities. OUR MISSION Our supplier inclusion targets assist in measuring our purchases from small and diverse businesses by securing the various products and services we need from respected suppliers at highly competitive prices. As a result, we provide small- and diverseowned businesses with equal footing to effectively work with us while growing their own business at the same time. Promote innovation of new products, services and solutions Nurture a culture of inclusion Get dedicated advocates to support your business needs Secure highly competitive pricing © 2022 Robert Half International Inc. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disability/Veterans. RH-0522 Protiviti is not licensed or registered as a public accounting !rm and does not issue opinions on !nancial statements or o"er attestation services. [email protected] roberthalf.com Register Today If your organization quali!es as a small or diverse business,* we encourage you to visit our Supplier Portal to register with us. We look forward to working with you! * A diverse business is defined as a U.S. privately held company that is at least 51% owned, managed, and operated by a minority, woman, veteran, service-disabled veteran, member of the LGBTQ+ community or an individual with apparent or non-apparent disabilities. ACCOLADES Women’s Business Enterprise National Council America’s Top Corporations for Women’s Business Enterprises (2016-2021) U.S. Veterans Magazine Best of the Best Top Supplier Diversity Programs (2014-2021) Hispanic Network Magazine Best of the Best Top Supplier Diversity Programs (2013-2021) Professional Woman’s Magazine Best of the Best Top Supplier Diversity Programs (2013-2020) Black EOE Journal Best of the Best Top Supplier Diversity Programs (2013-2021) Women’s Enterprise USA Magazine Best of the Decade in Supplier Diversity (2019-2020) Minority Business News USA All-Stars of Supplier Diversity (2019-2020)
continue to next page> EXTERNAL ALLIANCES • National LGBT Chamber of Commerce (NGLCC) • National Minority Supplier Development Council (NMSDC) • National Veteran Business Development Council (NVBDC) • Veterans in Business (VIB) Network • Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC) • Disability:IN Supplier Inclusion: Thrive by Growing With Us BENEFITS OF WORKING WITH US Treating people equitably and embracing diversity in all areas of our business are longstanding pillars of Robert Half and Protiviti’s corporate culture. Supplier Inclusion at Robert Half and Protiviti is a corporatewide initiative designed to support the promotion, growth and development of small and/or diverse-, women-, LGBTQ+-, veteran- and service-disabled veteran-owned businesses, as well as business owners with apparent and non-apparent disabilities. OUR MISSION Our supplier inclusion targets assist in measuring our purchases from small and diverse businesses by securing the various products and services we need from respected suppliers at highly competitive prices. As a result, we provide small- and diverseowned businesses with equal footing to effectively work with us while growing their own business at the same time. Promote innovation of new products, services and solutions Nurture a culture of inclusion Get dedicated advocates to support your business needs Secure highly competitive pricing © 2022 Robert Half International Inc. An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/Disability/Veterans. RH-0522 Protiviti is not licensed or registered as a public accounting !rm and does not issue opinions on !nancial statements or o"er attestation services. [email protected] roberthalf.com Register Today If your organization quali!es as a small or diverse business,* we encourage you to visit our Supplier Portal to register with us. We look forward to working with you! * A diverse business is defined as a U.S. privately held company that is at least 51% owned, managed, and operated by a minority, woman, veteran, service-disabled veteran, member of the LGBTQ+ community or an individual with apparent or non-apparent disabilities. ACCOLADES Women’s Business Enterprise National Council America’s Top Corporations for Women’s Business Enterprises (2016-2021) U.S. Veterans Magazine Best of the Best Top Supplier Diversity Programs (2014-2021) Hispanic Network Magazine Best of the Best Top Supplier Diversity Programs (2013-2021) Professional Woman’s Magazine Best of the Best Top Supplier Diversity Programs (2013-2020) Black EOE Journal Best of the Best Top Supplier Diversity Programs (2013-2021) Women’s Enterprise USA Magazine Best of the Decade in Supplier Diversity (2019-2020) Minority Business News USA All-Stars of Supplier Diversity (2019-2020)
DUE TO THE GENEROSITY OF OUR MAKE A DIFFERENCE SPONSORS, THIS EVENT IS FREE FOR MBES AND DIVERSE BUSINESSES. THANK YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE SUPPORTER ARE YOU WITH US? To learn how your company can become a T-Mobile Diverse and Small Supplier, visit: www.T-Mobile.com/SupplierDiversity T-Mobile is committed to growing a robust supply chain that reflects our diversity and values, strengthens our customer relationships, and economically develops the communities we serve. That’s why we are proud to be a Make a Difference Supporter of the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council’s Small & Minority Business Opportunity Day. Opening the door to opportunity. © 2022 T-Mobile USA, Inc.
ARE YOU WITH US? To learn how your company can become a T-Mobile Diverse and Small Supplier, visit: www.T-Mobile.com/SupplierDiversity T-Mobile is committed to growing a robust supply chain that reflects our diversity and values, strengthens our customer relationships, and economically develops the communities we serve. That’s why we are proud to be a Make a Difference Supporter of the Western Regional Minority Supplier Development Council’s Small & Minority Business Opportunity Day. Opening the door to opportunity. © 2022 T-Mobile USA, Inc.
DUE TO THE GENEROSITY OF OUR MAKE A DIFFERENCE SPONSORS, THIS EVENT IS FREE FOR MBES AND DIVERSE BUSINESSES. THANK YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE SUPPORTER sbmmanagement.com EMPOWERING A QUALIFIED DIVERSE SUPPLIER NETWORK As a certified MBE soft service facilities provider, diversity and inclusion are foundational elements at SBM. We’re proud of our history supporting our clients’ diversity initiatives, and we’re ready to pay it forward through our Diverse Supplier Program. We’re teaming up with local diverse vendors to offer new service opportunities with our clients while giving back to the communities we serve. Learn what SBM can do for you at: sbmmanagement.com/supplier-diversity
sbmmanagement.com EMPOWERING A QUALIFIED DIVERSE SUPPLIER NETWORK As a certified MBE soft service facilities provider, diversity and inclusion are foundational elements at SBM. We’re proud of our history supporting our clients’ diversity initiatives, and we’re ready to pay it forward through our Diverse Supplier Program. We’re teaming up with local diverse vendors to offer new service opportunities with our clients while giving back to the communities we serve. Learn what SBM can do for you at: sbmmanagement.com/supplier-diversity
DUE TO THE GENEROSITY OF OUR MAKE A DIFFERENCE SPONSORS, THIS EVENT IS FREE FOR MBES AND DIVERSE BUSINESSES. THANK YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE SUPPORTER CELEBRATING DIVERSITY IN A UNIVERSE 2021 HIGHLIGHTS $190M Diverse Supplier Spend $40M MBE Spend 100 MBE Certifications Commitment OF UNLIMITED POTENTIAL! Together, we can build a healthy, just, equitable, and sustainable world where all can thrive. Learn more at AMNHealthcare.com/Diversity-Equality-Inclusion At AMN Healthcare our Diversity, Equity, Equality, and Inclusion philosophy is grounded in the belief that we should respect all voices, seek diverse perspectives, and succeed when we act together as a positive force for all of humanity. Our partnerships with diverse suppliers strengthen our business, seed innovation, and build strong communities. We celebrate WRMSDC for 45 years of unwavering commitment to equalizing opportunity for minority businesses and diverse communities.
CELEBRATING DIVERSITY IN A UNIVERSE 2021 HIGHLIGHTS $190M Diverse Supplier Spend $40M MBE Spend 100 MBE Certifications Commitment OF UNLIMITED POTENTIAL! Together, we can build a healthy, just, equitable, and sustainable world where all can thrive. Learn more at AMNHealthcare.com/Diversity-Equality-Inclusion At AMN Healthcare our Diversity, Equity, Equality, and Inclusion philosophy is grounded in the belief that we should respect all voices, seek diverse perspectives, and succeed when we act together as a positive force for all of humanity. Our partnerships with diverse suppliers strengthen our business, seed innovation, and build strong communities. We celebrate WRMSDC for 45 years of unwavering commitment to equalizing opportunity for minority businesses and diverse communities.