2025 Speakers & Special Guests

Keynote

Ada Lopez

As the Sr. Manager for Lenovo’s Inclusive Product Design Office, Ada focuses on the operations of the Diversity by Design process, product accessibility, education, and awareness across the company to implement inclusive and accessible design practices. Ada’s career highlights include roles at Cisco and SAS Institute, where she co-authored Reach for the Stars, an award-winning accessible eTextbook on the lifecycle of stars, a collaboration with NASA and National Braille Press. A former science teacher, she continues to be inspired by her family, students, and the educators who shaped her journey.

Outside of the office, Ada enjoys volunteering at local public schools and community events. She serves in several Boards dedicated to the empowerment of vulnerable populations. When she is not raising awareness for important causes, she loves spending time with her husband, son, daughter, and miniature schnauzers. She enjoys visiting museums, zoos, aquariums, and national parks, as well as hiking, riding bike, and cooking.

Keynote

Machelle Sanders

Machelle Baker Sanders brings a distinguished track record of leadership across the biopharmaceutical industry and state government, marked by strategic acumen and transformative impact. She has deep expertise in Quality, Compliance, Operations, and organizational transformation. She serves as a board member of BioCryst Pharmaceuticals and Fortrea, Inc., and was formerly a board member of Radius Health Inc. and Novan Inc. Her board involvement includes committees such as the Science Committee, Compensation Committee, and Nominating & Governance Committee showcasing her expertise in governance, fiduciary oversight, and organizational success Machelle is the President and Founder of Aspire Leadership & Consulting, LLC (ALC), a f irm dedicated to transformative speaking engagements, professional coaching, and strategic workforce development. Driven by a commitment to empowering and elevating female leadership, Aspire’s mission is to expand influence, foster growth, and create lasting impact across organizations and industries. Cabinet Secretary, North Carolina Department of Commerce January 2021 – January 2025 Machelle’s tenure as Cabinet Secretary has been characterized by a robust, inclusive leadership style that propelled North Carolina to the forefront of economic development in the United States. Under her guidance, the state secured consecutive titles of ‘Best Business Climate’ by Business Facilities magazine and was recognized as CNBC’s top place to do business, generating over 70,000 jobs and attracting $45 billion in capital investment. Her strategic initiatives, including the “First in Talent Plan,” catalyzed growth and recovery post-pandemic, establishing a national benchmark in workforce development and economic resilience. Machelle has represented NC on a global stage through advocacy, policy, and partnership on emerging economic trends and collaborations that have shaped North Carolina’s economy. Cabinet Secretary, North Carolina Department of Administration January 2017 – January 2021 In this role, Machelle managed state government operations, including facilities, property, construction, and procurement. As Chair of the Andrea Harris Taskforce, she advocated for digital equity, supported growth for small, women, and minority-owned businesses, and developed telemedicine proposals for rural communities. Her leadership streamlined processes, eliminated waste, and enhanced efficiency in state operations. Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Experience Over her 32-year tenure in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sectors, Machelle held increasing levels of responsibility. At Biogen, she served as Vice President of Multiple Sclerosis Franchise Product Operations and Vice President of Manufacturing and General Manager of the RTP facility. As Vice President of Multiple Sclerosis Franchise Product Operations, she provided strategic oversight and led the successful commercialization of MS treatments, including Pelegridy and Tecfidera, significantly improving patient outcomes and franchise revenue. Her expertise in product lifecycle management and regulatory compliance enabled the launch of multiple therapies, and her ability to foster cross functional collaboration expanded the product portfolio and achieved regulatory milestones. In her role as Vice President of Manufacturing & General Manager, Machelle oversaw 1,200 employees and directed biologic and small molecule manufacturing operations. She spearheaded the development of a new disposable manufacturing suite and office building, supporting the launch of five new commercial products while diversifying production capabilities. She also facilitated global regulatory approvals for concurrent manufacturing, enhancing the site’s flexibility and capacity across Biogen’s operations. Education and Philanthropy Machelle earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from North Carolina State University and a Master of Health Administration from Pfeiffer University. She has pursued continued executive development through Stanford University’s Directors’ Consortium. In addition to her professional endeavors, Machelle contributes to philanthropy through the Machelle Sanders Science Endowment at NCSU and serves on the boards of MyFuture NC and the UNC-Chapel Hill Health Foundation. She is passionate about STEM education for youth, especially inspiring young girls and minorities to enter the STEM space. Machelle’s career exemplifies her capability to navigate and lead complex organizations through significant challenges and opportunities, making substantial contributions in both the private and public sectors. She has a proven record of creating high-performing teams and delivering exceptional results. A strong advocate for underserved communities, she champions diversity, equity, inclusion, and innovation, leaving a profound impact across various spheres of influence. Machelle brings unique perspective with business acumen and experience in public and private sectors.

Comedian

Janeen Slaughter

Comedian for Wednesday Night’s Comedy Kickoff

Originally from Detroit, MI, Janeen Slaughter, got her comedy start in 2018 at Goodnights Comedy Club in Raleigh NC. Her relatable material, dynamic stage presence and natural charm have made her a hit with audiences of all ages & one of NC’s top up and coming comedians. 

Janeen has shared the stage with national touring comedians like Michael Colyar, Orlando Jones, Chad Daniels, Cocoa Brown, Gina Brillon, Mark Curry & George Wilborn.

She is also the owner of Our Moms Cookies & co-hosts a local Raleigh radio show called, Brown Sugar Radio, and was named The Music Love Awards 2023 Radio Host of the Year! 

Janeen is extremely passionate about women’s empowerment and believes having the last name Slaughter or laughter with an “s” is her sign that comedy is truly her calling.