They’re some of the top executives in their fields and living proof that you don’t have to be over 40 to be an innovator and leader in your industry.
Our 40 Under 40 honors celebrate business leaders younger than 40 who have made significant contributions to their companies, industries and communities.
These are the men and women who run some of the region’s most prominent businesses, oversee millions of dollars in assets, broker some of the biggest financial deals and who help keep South Florida’s bustling economic engine running. Many of them have achieved more in their short lives than many people significantly older could hope to accomplish.
And they achieved this while also investing countless hours raising awareness and funding for the charities they care about, including the American Cancer Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters, Greater Miami Jewish Federation and United Way – organizations that help make South Florida’s communities better.
This year, we received more than 1,600 40 Under 40 nominations, which clearly highlighted nominees’ career accomplishments and service beyond the workplace. But, as in past years, we also wanted to provide more than just a list of our honorees’ professional accomplishments. So we asked them to fill out a questionnaire to provide insights into their personal lives.
We also requested that they bring props to their photo shoots to help shed light on their personalities, hobbies and passions. Shot over several months, the photo sessions are among the more fun affairs to hit our newsroom, as honorees bring in everything from sentimental keepsakes to their favorite sporting gear, and cherished photographs to beloved memorabilia.
The photo sessions illustrated what we already know: that you can be a top-notch leader driven to succeed in business while also being a fun individual who’s passionate about life.
We feted our 40 Under 40 Class of 2016 at an Aug. 5 luncheon celebration at Jungle Island in Miami. Our thanks to Florida International University’s College of Business for sponsoring the event.
Congratulations to all of the honorees!
Luciana Carvalho
Senior VP, Blanca Commercial Real Estate
Age: 39
Facebook username: luciana.lucy.carvalho
Education: Master of Corporate Real Estate designation, CoreNet Global, 2013; B.A. in marketing, Florida International University, 2003; B.S. in economics, University of Vila Velha Brazil, 1998
Birthplace: Brazil
Residence: Miami
First job: My own boutique in Brazil
Ultimate career goal: To continue to help clients and companies establishing a footprint in South Florida
Hot topic in my field: Companies are actively re-evaluating their workspace to foster collaboration and mitigate the financial risks of increasing market rates
Greatest business achievement: Helping clients navigate through tough times during the Great Recession
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, PACE Miami, CoreNet Global South Florida Chapter, Brazilian-American Chamber of Commerce of Florida, Switchboard of Miami, Beacon Council
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My mom, who taught me that everything in life has to have balance
Fantasy job: TV host
Best stress reliever: Spending time with my family laughing with my baby Louis
Favorite book:“Awaken the Giant Within” by Tony Robbins
Favorite website: Wikipedia
Favorite vacation spot: Capri, Italy
In a movie, I’d be played by: Reese Witherspoon
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Sheryl Sandberg
My six-word memoir: Challenges in life shape outstanding individuals
Gian Carlo Alonso
President and CEO, AmeriKooler
Age: 35
Twitter handle/Facebook username: G Carlo Alonso
Education: B.A. finance, Florida International University, 2010; OPM, Harvard Business School, 2017
Birthplace: Miami
Residence: Miami
First job: Sealing envelopes
Ultimate career goal: President of the United States
Hot topic in my field: Fast-casual restaurants
Greatest business achievement: Doubling the business in three years
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Big Brothers Big Sisters, Young Associates of Coral Gables Museum, Friends of St. Jude, Young Presidents Organization
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My father. He always told me to “never lose my focus. Take care of the goose that lays the golden egg.”
Fantasy job: Photographer
Guilty pleasure: Ice cream
Best stress reliever: Lifting weights/exercise
Favorite book: Scaling up
Favorite website: Drudge Report
Favorite local spot: Zuma
Favorite vacation spot: New York City
In a movie, I’d be played by: Bradley Cooper
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Jeff Bezos
My six-word memoir: Push it to the limit, son
David Black
Partner, Berger Singerman LLP
Age: 35
Education: B.A. in economics and psychology, summa cum laude, Rutgers University, 2003; J.D., magna cum laude, Boston University School of Law, 2007
Birthplace: New Jersey
Residence: Fort Lauderdale
First job: Convenience store stock boy
Ultimate career goal: Continue being a trusted advisor and outside general counsel for clients
Hot topic in my field: Legal Issues for medical marijuana businesses
Greatest business achievement: Becoming a partner at Berger Singerman and being a trusted advisor to clients
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Advisory board, Posse Miami; board, Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce; board/past president, The Underwater Bar Association; curriculum chair, Leadership Fort Lauderdale Class XXII; board, Hope House
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: Scoutmaster; work hard and never wait until the last minute to do things.
Fantasy job: Own a scuba shop in Grand Cayman
Guilty pleasure: Chocolate
Best stress reliever: Exercise
Favorite book:“That Used to Be Us,” by Thomas L. Friedman and Michael Mandelbaum
Favorite website: BBC World
Favorite local spot: Sandbar
Favorite vacation spot: Live-aboard scuba boats in the South Pacific
In a movie, I’d be played by: Ty Burrell
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: KC Sentz, co-owner of Funky Buddha Brewery
My six-word memoir: Do good, and you’ll do well
Nelmarie Bowe
Project manager, Skanska USA Building
Age: 34
Twitter handle/Facebook username: nel.bowe
Education: B.S. in industrial engineering, University of Florida, 2006
B irthplace: Ponce, Puerto Rico
Residence: Boynton Beach
First job: Cashier at Levi’s
Ultimate career goal: Retirement and starting a nonprofit organization
Hot topic in my field: Lean design and construction
Greatest business achievement: Working with cohesive teams to build complex projects such as multi-phased health care projects, airport expansions and educational facilities to make our communities better
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Broward Health Foundation Young President’s Council, Rebuilding Together Broward, Harvest Drive, Habitat for Humanity, Make-A-Wish Foundation, Keep American Beautiful
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My mother; You can achieve anything you set your mind to.
Fantasy job: Creating a nonprofit organization or selling crafts on Etsy
Guilty pleasure: Shopping
Best stress reliever: Netflix after the kids are asleep
Favorite book:“The Notebook” by Nicholas Sparks
Favorite website: Pinterest
Favorite local spot: Sailfish Marina
Favorite vacation spot: Puerto Rico
In a movie, I’d be played by: Jennifer Lopez
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Bill Gates
My six-word memoir: Build successful teams by empowering others
Jeffrey Brandt
Senior VP, commercial banking market manager, HSBC Bank USA, N.A.
Age: 35
Education: B.A. in English and communication, SUNY at Buffalo, 2001; M.A. in informatics, SUNY at Buffalo, 2002
Birthplace: New York City
Residence: Cooper City
First jobs: Bus boy, pizza chef, bank teller
Ultimate career goal: To lead a winning team that collectively develops, grows and prospers, all while enjoying our personal and professional lives with the proper balance
Hot topic in my field: global economies/international trade finance
Greatest business achievement: Earning the respect and friendships of my colleagues while building a top-performing team
Civic/charitable organization involvement: FICPA sponsor, youth sports coach
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My father; “Take pride in your work. Do a job right (to the best of your ability) the first time, or do not do it at all.”
Fantasy job: Feature writer for Rolling Stone magazine
Guilty pleasures: Video games and Guinness draught
Best stress reliever: Time with my wife
Favorite book:“The Catcher in the Rye” by J.D. Salinger
Favorite website: Amazon.com
Favorite local spot: My house
Favorite vacation spot: Any cuise
In a movie, I’d be played by: Paul Rudd
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Michael Jordan
My six-word memoir: Family, friends, career – in that order
George M. Cabrera
President and CEO, ASPIRA of Florida
Age: 39
Facebook username: George M. Cabrera
Education: M.I.B.A., Nova Southeastern University
Birthplace: Passaic, New Jersey
Residence: Miami
First job: Dairy Queen
Ultimate career goal: Developer
Hot topic in my field: Effective spending in education
Greatest business achievement: Being the first organization to obtain the new market tax credit and see it to fruition for a charter school.
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: Grandfather; “Stay true to yourself.”
Fantasy job: Cuban salsa club owner in a free Havana.
Guilty pleasure: Eating Doritos while watching “American Idol”
Best stress reliever: Dancing salsa
Favorite book:“The Tipping Point” by Malcolm Gladwell
Favorite website: Various real estate websites
Favorite local spot: Larios
Favorite vacation spot: Santorini, Greece
In a movie, I’d be played by: Andy Garcia
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Warren Buffett
My six-word memoir: Going through life honoring family heritage
Matthew Caldwell
President and CEO, Florida Panthers
Age: 36
Education: B.S., West Point; J.D., Northwestern University Pritzker School of Law; M.B.A., Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Birthplace: New York
Residence: Miami
First job: Military officer
Ultimate career goal: Start my own business
Hot topic in my field: Analytics
Greatest business achievement: Becoming president and CEO of the Florida Panthers
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Veteran initiatives, Team Red White and Blue
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: Vinnie Viola; “You must understand the numbers of any business to make it successful.”
Fantasy job: Sports team owner
Guilty pleasure: Sweets
Best stress reliever: CrossFit
Favorite book:“Start-up Nation” by Dan Senor and Saul Singer
Favorite website: WSJ.com
Favorite local spot: Sugarcane Raw Bar Grill, Miami
Favorite vacation spot: Italy
In a movie, I’d be played by: Ed Burns
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Warren Buffet
My six-word memoir: Mission first. Family always. Fun all-around.
Joseph “Joe” Chase
Shareholder, Gunster
Age: 36
Twitter handle:@josephpchase
Education: A.B. in government, cum laude, Harvard University, 2002; J.D., Vanderbilt University, 2007
Birthplace: Fort Lauderdale
Residence: West Palm Beach
First job: Pharmacy assistant at an Eckerd drug store in Deerfield Beach
Hot topic in my field: Leveraging technology to provide bespoke legal services more efficiently without sacrificing client service and top-quality work product
Greatest business achievement: Making shareholder at Gunster
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Chamber of Commerce of the Palm Beaches, Historical Society of Palm Beach County, YMCA of the Palm Beaches, Leadership Palm Beach County, Economic Forum of Palm Beach County
Biggest mentor: Michael Mitrione, a senior shareholder at Gunster
Guilty pleasure: Spending a Saturday sitting in my chair, drinking pamplemousse LaCroix and reading
Best stress reliever: A long, slow bike ride with good friends. Tri-Rail is a great range extender!
Favorite book:“The Years of Lyndon Johnson” by Robert Caro. (I can’t wait for Vol. 5!)
Favorite website: NYTimes.com
Favorite local spot: Maison Carlos, a French and Italian restaurant on South Dixie Highway in West Palm Beach
Favorite vacation spot: Apalachicola, where my wife, Alex, and I were married0
In a movie, I’d be played by: Matt Damon
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Henry Flagler
My six-word memoir: What could be better than brevity
William A. Clarkson
Manager of special servicing, Torchlight Investors
Age: 34
Education: B.B.A. in finance, Roanoke College, 2004; M.B.A., University of Florida, 2013
Birthplace: Baltimore
Residence: Fort Lauderdale
First job: Gubernatorial campaign aide
Ultimate career goal: Principal, CEO and CIO of a global real estate finance firm
Hot topic in my field: Regulation in banking and finance (Reg. AB II; Dodd-Frank Risk Retention Requirements, etc.)
Greatest business achievement: Established the Miami office, recruited and hired 13 professionals, and took over management of a $2.1 billion loan portfolio
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Urban Land Institute Young Leaders Group, Commercial Real Estate Finance Council, International Council of Shopping Centers, Victoria Park Civic Association, Broward Center for the Performing Arts Ghost Light Society
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My brother, Randy Johnson; “Always remember: If it were easy, everyone would be doing it.”
Fantasy job:“Saturday Night Live” producer
Guilty pleasure: Coconut Cream Pie
Best stress reliever: Going to the beach with my wife, Mariely, and our dog, Murphy
Favorite book:“Unbroken” by Laura Hillenbrand
Favorite website: WSJ.com
Favorite local spot: The Standard
Favorite vacation spot: Vail, Colorado
In a movie, I’d be played by: A young Pierce Brosnan
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Stephen Schwarzman
My six-word memoir: Dig deep. Attitude and determination prevail.
John Dunlap
President and CEO, Iconic Attractions Group/ President, Jungle Island
Age: 39
Twitter handle:@JungleIsland
Education: B.A. in Latin American studies, University of Virginia,1999; M.B.A., Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management, 2009; post-graduate certificates in executive leadership, financial management and food service management, Cornell University
Birthplace: Annapolis, Maryland
Residence: Miami
First job: Selling bushels of Maryland blue crabs that we caught off a community fishing pier every summer
Ultimate career goal: To build a strong and socially conscious business, managing and developing iconic destinations, with a company culture that is fun
Hot topic in my field: The future of zoos and animal-based attractions
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Jungle Island hosts over 70,000 South Florida students annually for field trips, as well as nonprofit organizations such as Wounded Warriors, Big Brothers Big Sisters and 5000 Role Models.
Best business advice received:“Under promise and over deliver.” You get only one opportunity to frame expectations.
Fantasy job: To own a bar or a surf shop on a beach in the Caribbean
Guilty pleasure: Sneaking out of the office early on a Friday to play golf
Best stress reliever: A long bike ride at Shark Valley in Everglades National Park.
Favorite book:“Winning” by Jack Welch
Favorite website: www.selvatica.com.mx
Favorite local spot: Miami Yacht Club
Favorite vacation spot: Fairmont Mayakoba in Mexico’s Maya Riviera
In a movie, I’d be played by: Russell Crowe
My six-word memoir: He lived, loved, left a legacy
Brian Eaton
VP of operations, Suffolk Construction
Age: 39
Education: B.S. in Construction Management, Central Connecticut University, 2000
Birthplace: Manchester, Connecticut
Residence: Boca Raton
First job: AutoCAD draftsman
Ultimate career goal: Comprehensive growth and development of others
Hot topic in my field: Innovation
Greatest business achievement: Opening and successfully creating a sustainable regional office in a new market
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Board of directors of Horizons Inc., a nonprofit organization that creates and sustains person-centered opportunities for people with special needs where they live, learn, work and play
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My father; stay focused, stay humble and always hustle
Fantasy job: Ferrying airplanes across the country for private owners
Guilty pleasure: Alcohol
Best stress reliever: Feet in the sand with a drink in my hand
Favorite book:“Bootstrap Leadership” by Steve Arneson
Favorite website: eBay Motors
Favorite local spot: Shooters
Favorite vacation spot: Bar Harbor, Maine
In a movie, I’d be played by: Tom Cruise
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Elon Musk
My six-word memoir: Relentlessly endeavoring for the future me
Jason Emmett
President, Duffy’s Sports Grill
Age: 36
Education: B.A. in business management, Clark University, 2002
Birthplace: New York City
Residence: Palm Beach Gardens
First job: Maintenance department, Dumont Plaza, Manhattan East Suite Hotels
Ultimate career goal: To continue to improve upon the Duffy’s brand, and always strive to be the best restaurant concept in the country
Hot topic in my field: Technology, and how to best implement the newest technological improvements to enhance the dining experience
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Duffy’s Foundation
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My dad was my mentor all of my life. He gave me advice about everything, which I rely on to this day. To pick just one would be an injustice.
Fantasy job: This one. A fallback would be either movie or baseball executive.
Guilty pleasure: Chocolate, I guess – although I’m never that guilty about having some.
Best stress reliever: Running
Favorite book:“Outliers” by Malcom Gladwell
Favorite website: www.duffysmvp.com
Favorite local spot: Duffy’s (obviously)
Favorite vacation spot: St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
In a movie, I’d be played by: In college, when the show “Friends” was at its peak of popularity, people used to say I looked like Matthew Perry. I don’t hear that much anymore.
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Steve Jobs
My six-word memoir: Miles to go before I sleep
Daniel Alexander Espino
Partner, Weiss Serota Helfman Cole & Bierman, PL
Age: 33
Twitter handle:@DanEspino
Facebook username: Dan Espino
Education: B.A. in political science and religious studies, University of Miami, 2004; J.D., Nova Southeastern University College of Law, 2008
Birthplace: South Miami
Residence: Miami Springs
First job: Sales associate, The Sports Authority
Ultimate career goal: Principal of a land development company and other business ventures
Hot topic in my field: Affordability of housing
Greatest business achievement: Became the Doral city attorney at age 31
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Miami Dade League of Cities, Miami Foundation
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My mom. Education is the greatest power you will ever know; use it and you can accomplish anything.
Fantasy job: CEO of a large brewery
Guilty pleasure: Chocolate chip cookies/rye old fashioneds
Best stress reliever: Boating in the Florida Keys
Favorite book:“The Animated Man” by Michael Barrier
Favorite website: RealClearPolitics
Favorite local spot: Dragonfly in Doral
Favorite vacation spot: Costa Rica
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Facundo Bacardi
My six-word memoir: Plan for tomorrow; live for today
Sandra Fine
Senior VP and director of results measurement, RBB Communications
Age: 36
Twitter handle:@sandramfine
Education: B.S. in public relations, University of Florida, 2002
Birthplace: Miami
Residence: Miami Beach
First job: Assistant account executive for a PR agency
Ultimate career goal: PR agency owner
Hot topic in my field: Measurement/ROI
Greatest business achievement: Winning national awards for my campaigns and raising $500,000 for Komen for the Cure
Civic/charitable organization involvement: United Way Young Leaders, Public Relations Society of America Board of Directors
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My CEO Christine Barney, “strive for excellence, not always perfection”
Fantasy job: Food critic
Guilty pleasure: Top 40 music
Best stress reliever: Relaxing in a hot bath
Favorite book:“A Prayer for Owen Meany” by John Irving
Favorite website: Yelp
Favorite local spot: Pubbelly Sushi
Favorite vacation spot: Secrets Maroma Beach in Riviera Maya, Mexico
In a movie, I’d be played by: Christina Ricci
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Elon Musk
My six-word memoir: Life is short, laugh a lot
Oleg Firer
CEO, Net Element
Age: 38
Twitter handle:@ofirer
Facebook: Facebook.com/ofirer
Education: Attended New York City Technical College, 1993-1995; University of Phoenix, 2000-2001
Birthplace: Soviet Union
Residence: North Miami Beach
First job: Squeegee kid
Ultimate career goal: To build a multibillion-dollar enterprise
Hot topic in my field: Use of big data
Greatest business achievement: made it to No. 1 on the Inc. 500 as the fastest-growing private company in 2012
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Firer Family Charitable Foundation, Chabad Russian Center of South Florida
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My mother is why I am who I am today. She encouraged me to be the best at what I do and not to give up.
Fantasy job: Politician
Guilty pleasure: Enjoying a cigar in good company
Best stress reliever: Spinning class at the gym and shooting
Favorite book:“The Art of War” by Sun Tzu
Favorite website: WSJ.com
Favorite local spot: Zuma
Favorite vacation spot: South of France
In a movie, I’d be played by: Liev Schreiber
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Warren Buffett
My six-word memoir: You fail when you stop trying
Keith “Fletch” Fletcher
Executive director and VP, City Year Miami
Founder and co-managing partner, Lead & Spark LLC
Age: 38
Twitter handle:@fletchzilla
Education: B.A. in speech communications, James Madison University, 2000; M.Ed. in higher education leadership and administration, University of Georgia, 2002
Birthplace: Mechanicsville, Virginia
Residence: Miami
First job: Residence coordinator at the University of Miami
Ultimate career goal: Happiness
Hot topic in my field: Educational equality for low-income families, digital convergence
Greatest business achievement: Within City Year, helping an ever-growing number of young people define and recognize their unique potential and making them into individual game-changers
Civic/charitable organization involvement: City Year Miami, Take Stock in Children, Big Brothers Big Sisters
Best advice received: If you tell the truth all the time, you never have to remember what you say.
Fantasy job: World-reknowned stand-up comic and impressionist
Guilty pleasure: Chicken wings by the pound
Best stress reliever: Being on the water; family time
F avorite book:“The Four Agreements” by Don Miguel Ruiz
Favorite local spot: Wagon’s West, The Big Cheese, Hole in the Wall
Favorite vacation spot: It doesn’t matter if you are with the right people
In a movie, I’d be played by: Chris Farley (would have, anyway); a voiceover
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Myself 10 years from now
My six-word memoir: Wake up! Create a great day!
Joseph R. Gallaher
Senior associate, NAI Miami
Facebook: Facebook.com/jrgallaher
Age: 38
Education: B.S. in marketing, University of Florida 2001
Birthplace: Miami
Residence: Miami
First job: Retail manager, Champs Sports
Ultimate career goal: To make partner at NAI Miami and expand the Larkin/Gallaher team
Hot topic in my field: The Miami Central and Miami Dream retail projects, the viability of Wynwood given the pricing and long-term health of the Miami Design District
Greatest business achievement: Survival of the 2011 downturn
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Chamber South
Biggest mentor: My dad, who taught me about equanimity
Fantasy job: Owner/head brewmaster of Lazy Eye Brewing
Guilty pleasure: Ordering a giant pizza and watching “The Biggest Loser”
Best stress reliever: Watching my kids play
Favorite book:“Musashi” by Eiji Yoshikawa
Favorite website: NorthernBrewer.com
Favorite local spot: Lincoln’s Beard Brewing Co.
Favorite vacation spot: Wherever cell reception is nonexistent
In a movie, I’d be played by: Morgan Freeman
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: My business partner, Jeremy Larkin (because we never have time)
My six-word memoir: The next beer is even better
Michael D. Gold
Managing director/senior VP of investments, Bermont Advisory Group of Raymond James
Age: 35
Twitter handle:@michaeldgold1
Education: B.S.B.A. in economics, University of Florida, 2003; M.A. in international business, University of Florida, 2004
Birthplace: Coral Springs
Residence: Coral Gables
First job: Cleaning the streets of my neighborhood at age 12
Ultimate career goal:$2 billion in assets under management
Hot topic in my field: The Fed/central banks
Greatest business achievement: Doing business with people I like and respect
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Trustee of History Miami Museum; United Way Young Leader Executive Council; Coral Gables Pension Advisory Board; Legal Services of Greater Miami Investment Committee
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: Peter L. Bermont, my business partner. “Learn to paddle your own canoe.”
Fantasy job: I’m doing it. Seriously, I love this.
Guilty pleasure: Mint chocolate chip ice cream
Best stress reliever: Golf
Favorite book:“Benjamin Franklin: An American Life” by Walter Isaacson
Favorite website: ValueWalk.com or NoWayGirl
Favorite local spot: Chocolate Fashion
Favorite vacation spot: New York City
In a movie, I’d be played by: Maggie Smith
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Byron Trott
My six-word memoir: Set goals. Achieve. Set more goals.
Maggie Gunther
Director of communications and programs, Greater Fort Lauderdale Alliance
Age: 35
Twitter handle:@MaggieGunther
Facebook username: MaggieGunther
Education: B.A. in journalism, University of Central Florida, 2003; M.B.A., Florida Atlantic University, 2012
Birthplace: Freehold, New Jersey
Residence: Fort Lauderdale
First job: Gourmet coffee barista at the Crystal River Mall
Ultimate career goal: President or head of communications and marketing for an organization that makes a positive impact on the community
Hot topic in my field: Constantly staying on top of ways to effectively use new media in communications and marketing
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Broward Center for the Performing Arts’ Ghost Light Society, Stranahan House, The Village Square, Connect Florida Class VI, Emerge Broward, Kiwanis Club of Fort Lauderdale
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: Biggest mentors were my parents and best advice borrowed from Hunter S. Thompson: “Anything worth doing is worth doing right.”
Fantasy job: Nomadic travel and entertainment writer
Best stress reliever: Singing and/or playing piano
Favorite book:“The Greatest Generation” by Tom Brokaw
Favorite website: Pinterest
Favorite local spot: Sozo Sushi Bar in Wilton Manors
In a movie, I’d be played by: Amy Adams or Jennifer Garner
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Conan O’Brien
My six-word memoir: Life is a magical mystery tour
Brandon L. Hensler
Executive director of public relations and marketing communications, Nova Southeastern University
Age: 38
Twitter handle:@bhensler
Facebook username: bhensler
Education: B.A. in international studies and Latin American studies, Miami University, 2000; M.S. in conflict analysis and resolution, Nova Southeastern University, 2013
Birthplace: Hollywood
Residence: Fort Lauderdale
First job: Professional: assistant editor, PR Newswire; middle school: paper boy
Ultimate career goal: University president
Hot topic in my field: Mobile and social engagement to drive consideration and enrollment
Greatest business achievement: Led a team to research, develop and implement an organizationwide brand strategy
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Junior Achievement of South Florida, Leadership Broward
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My father: save now for retirement
Fantasy job: Travel author
Guilty pleasure: Listening to music and playing pool on a rainy day
Best stress reliever: Cooking dinner with good music and wine
Favorite book:“The Poisonwood Bible” by Barbara Kingsolver
Favorite website: Economist.com
Favorite local spot: Rendezvous (by boat)
Favorite vacation spot: Vieques Island, Puerto Rico
In a movie, I’d be played by: Nick Lachey (so people tell me)
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Herb Kelleher
My six-word memoir: Always achieving, loving, focused on future
Justin Irizarry
Co-founder and CFO, OrthoNOW LLC
Age: 35
Facebook: Facebook.com/justin.irizarry
Education: B.A. in economics, Cornell University, 2002; Chartered Financial Analyst designation, CFA Institute, 2006; M.B.A. in management and finance, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, 2009
Birthplace: Miami
Residence: Palmetto Bay
First job: Investment banker at Scott-Macon Ltd.
Ultimate career goal: To be thought of as someone who had the vision to disrupt an industry and the courage to do so
Hot topic in my field: Delivering expert and affordable care to patients
Greatest business achievement: Having achieved success across a variety of industries
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Volunteer at Temple Israel
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My parents. Two pieces of advice they gave me: “Do what you love and you’ll never work a day in your life” and “Success doesn’t matter if you’re not a good person.”
Fantasy job: Being a top music producer at the Motown, Stax or Atlantic record labels at the height of their success.
Guilty pleasure: Playing Rock Band really loud and eating Reese’s peanut butter cups
Best stress reliever: Getting lost in my music library
Favorite book:“The Great Gatsby” by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Favorite website: FiveThirtyEight.com
Favorite local spot: S&S Diner
Favorite vacation spot: Paris
In a movie, I’d be played by: Justin Long
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Pat Riley
My six-word memoir: Always make time to be curious
Joshua Jordan
Senior VP/personal and business banking director, City National Bank
Age: 36
Education B.S. in finance, Florida Atlantic University, 2001
Birthplace: Hartford, Connecticut
Residence: Boca Raton
First job: Server at Friendly’s restaurant
Ultimate career goal: CEO of a successful banking institution
Hot topic in my field: Interest rates: When will they start to increase?
Greatest business achievement: Less than two years into my banking career, I was promoted to a regional sales leader, responsible for 10 financial centers with over $1 billion in deposits. I was tasked with turning around a severely underperforming region and quickly coached my cluster from worst to first inside of six months.
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Deliver the Dream board member; United Way Campaign Champion at City National Bank; Habitat for Humanity
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: City National Bank Executive VPMara Suarez; A great manager leads by example.
Fantasy job: Head coach of the University of Connecticut basketball team
Guilty pleasure: French fries
Best stress reliever: Outdoor cycling
Favorite book:“Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don’t” by Simon Sinek
Favorite website: Google
Favorite local spot: Brickyard in Boca Raton
Favorite vacation spot: Aruba
In a movie, I’d be played by: Jason Statham
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Warren Buffett
My six-word memoir: Hard work over talent any day
Andres Korda
Founder, Avanti Way Realty
Age: 36
Education: B.S.B.A., Georgetown University, 2001; M.B.A., Babson College, 2006
Birthplace: Caracas, Venezuela
Residence: Miami
First job: Acquisitions director, Venevision International Films, Cisneros Group of Companies
Ultimate career goal: To disrupt the real estate industry
Hot topic in my field: The new condominium landscape
Greatest business achievement: Seventhth-fastest growing company in 2015, according to the Business Journal
Civic/charitable organization involvement: TECHO
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My dad, Peter Korda; Patience, discipline and perseverance in whatever you do.
Fantasy job: Snowboarding instructor
Guilty pleasure: Peking duck
Best stress reliever: Running first thing in the morning listening to an audiobook
Favorite book:“The Tipping Point” by Malcolm Gladwell
Favorite website: TED.com
Favorite local spot: The Standard Hotel, Miami Beach
Favorite vacation spot: Vail, Colorado
In a movie, I’d be played by: Damian Lewis
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Peter Diamandis
My six-word memoir: Live while alive, sleep when dead
Gavin McKenzie
Owner and CEO, McKenzie Construction Co.
Age: 36
Twitter handle:@buildmckenzie
Education: B.A. in business and political science, University of Florida, 2003
Birthplace: Miami’s Coconut Grove
Residence: Biscayne Park
First job: Lennar Homes
Ultimate career goal: Building net zero buidlings.
Hot topic in my field: Sustainable construction
Greatest business achievement: Building a team of incredible people.
Fantasy job: Fishing captain
Guilty pleasure: Cookies
Best stress reliever: Yoga
Favorite book:“A River Runs Through It” by Norman Maclean
Favorite website: Architizer.com
Favorite local spot: The Corner Bar in Miami
Favorite vacation spot: Tulum, Mexico
In a movie, I’d be played by: Jake Gyllenhaal (so says my wife)
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinnard
My six-word memoir: Best to not take myself seriously
Ryan D. Nee
VP/regional manager, Marcus & Millichap
Age: 33
Twitter handle/Facebook username: I am old school, text me
Education: B.A. in finance. University of Florida, 2005
Birthplace: Conroe, Texas
Residence: Fort Lauderdale
First job: Footaction
Ultimate career goal: Commercial real estate owner
Hot topic in my field: Interest rates
Greatest business achievement: Promotion to VP of Marcus & Millichap
Civic/charitable organization involvement: NAIOP
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My mother, “No matter where you go, there you are.”
Fantasy job: Owner of the Miami Heat
Guilty pleasure: Mint chocolate chip ice cream
Best stress reliever: Play Station 4
Favorite book: Whatever I am reading with my son
Favorite website: DraftKings.com
Favorite local spot: iPic
Favorite vacation spot: Las Vegas
In a movie, I’d be played by: Actors Ryan Gosling, Ryan Reynolds, Brad Pitt and Leonardo DiCaprio would compete to play me.
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Sam Zell
My six-word memoir: Provide for others, provide for yourself
Stephen Nesi
Audit partner, PwC
Age: 38
Education: B.S. in accounting/finance, Florida State University, 1999; M.Acc. in corporate accounting, 2000, Florida State University
Birthplace: Philadelphia
Residence: Cooper City
First job: Chuck E. Cheese’s
Ultimate career goal: Early retirement
Hot topic in my field: Revenue recognition
Greatest business achievement: Admission to partner
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My dad: “If you can’t be on time, be early.”
Fantasy job: Sports broadcaster
Guilty pleasure: Going out with buddies
Best stress reliever: Playing with my family/daughter
Favorite book:“Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows” by J.K. Rowling
Favorite website: ESPN.com
Favorite local spot: Marola’s Trattoria in Cooper City
Favorite vacation spot: South Africa
In a movie, I’d be played by: Alfonso Ribeiro
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Warren Buffett
My six-word memoir: Nice guys can finish first, too!
Greg Netro
Division president, Toll Brothers
Facebook username: Greg Netro
Age: 38
Education: B.A. in finance, James Madison University, 2000
Birthplace: Maryland
Residence: I split my time between Jacksonville and Boca Raton
First job: Tree farmer
Ultimate career goal: Early retirement
Hot topic in my field: How long will the current up cycle in real estate last?
Greatest business achievement: Excelling through the last real estate recession
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Founder of Tiny Hope Children’s Home
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: College minister; Treat others how you would like to be treated
Fantasy job: Philanthropist
Guilty pleasure: Dairy Queen
Best stress reliever: Nature
Favorite book: The Bible
Favorite website: ESPN.com
Favorite local spot: Underwater diving
Favorite vacation spot: Switzerland
In a movie, I’d be played by: Matt Damon
I ’d most like to have a business lunch with: My grandfather
My six-word: Faith, hope, love. Greatest is love.
Patrick C. Painter
General counsel, Hedrick Brothers Construction
Age: 32
Twitter handle:@pcpainter3
Education: Bachelor of Landscape Architecture, University of Florida, 2008; J.D., University of Florida Levin College of Law, 2011
Birthplace: West Palm Beach
Residence: West Palm Beach
First job: Busboy at Cobblestones Restaurant
Ultimate career goal: Own a company or be president/CEO of a company
Hot topic in my field: Utilizing virtual design & construction technology to avoid legal claims and construction pitfalls
Greatest business achievement: Hasn’t happened yet, but will soon enough!
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Board of directors, YMCA of the Palm Beaches; founder and co-chairman, Young Friends of the YMCA; Leadership West Palm Beach (Class of 2015); Young Friends of the Historical Society of Palm Beach County
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My dad; “Dream big, dare to fail”
Fantasy job: Owner/operator of an eco-surf and diving resort
Guilty pleasure: Park Avenue BBQ
Best stress reliever: Surfing
Favorite book:“A Land Remembered” by Patrick D. Smith
Favorite website: StumbleUpon
Favorite local spot: Hullabaloo Gastropub in downtown West Palm Beach
Favorite vacation spot: Nosara, Costa Rica or Hope Town, Bahamas (via boat)
In a movie, I’d be played by: Chris Pratt
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Sir Richard Branson
My six-word memoir: Planning your vacation is way overrated
Lahteefah Parramore
Senior director of global consolidation and general accounting, Brighstar Corp.
Age: 39
Education: B.S. in accounting, University of South Florida
Birthplace: Newark, New Jersey
Residence: Miami
First job: Executive assistant internshi
Ultimate career goal: To lead in an environment that fosters innovation through creatively, collaboration, excitement and wealth
Hot topic in my field: Revenue recognition and financial data governance
Greatest business achievement: Owning/operating/growing an independent music recording label and strategically selling the business to a major label
Civic/charitable organization involvement: I’m involved in several charitable organizations, dearest to my heart is the organization I co-founded as a board member: Artz4Life Academy, serving communities for over 25 years, led by founder and Executive Director Jai Hinson.
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: Jai Hinson (“Always be rich in love, rich in compassion, rich in giving and rich in forgiveness.”) and Ernst & Young partner Cecil Sterrod (“Safeguard your reputation. Ensure that when it proceeds you, you are the recipient of opportunities and not opposition.”)
Fantasy job: Global philanthropist
Guilty pleasure: Shopping for shoes
Best stress reliever: Meditation and yoga
Favorite book:“The Book of Secrets” by Deepak Chopra
Favorite website: Coursera
Favorite local spot: Relaxing at home
Favorite vacation spot: Any island
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Warren Buffett
My six-word memoir: Artistically random. Life indulgent. Cool mom.
Kelly Phillips
Partner, Grant Thornton LLP
Age: 39
Education: B.S. in accounting, University of Texas Arlington, 1998
Birthplace: Houston
Residence: Davie
First job: Auto Trader magazine
Ultimate career goal: Continue to better myself in my current role
Hot topic in my field: Public Company Accounting Oversight Board
Greatest business achievement: Becoming a partner at a growing, diverse firm that provides challenging opportunities
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Deliver the Dream board member
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: Dad; never burn a bridge, as you never know when you might need something from that person one day.
Fantasy job: To teach children how to ride horses
Guilty pleasure: Reading gossip magazines
Best stress reliever: Wine
Favorite book: After 400 emails a day, I am good with reading
Favorite website: Amazon.com – I buy everything from there
Favorite local spot: Beverly Hills Café for a salad
Favorite vacation spot: Any Caribbean island
In a movie, I’d be played by: Julia Roberts
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Mark Zuckerberg
My six-word memoir: Some things are better left unsaid
Seth Rand
Founder and CEO, Rand Internet Marketing
Age: 34
Twitter handle:@SethRand
Education: Studied business management and marketing at Florida Atlantic University
Birthplace: Brooklyn, New York
Residence: Parkland
First job: Selling men’s formalwear in Manhattan
Hot topic in my field: Mobile
Greatest business achievement: After being a Google Partner for eight years, Rand Marketing was named a Google Partner AllStar in 2015.
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Rand Marketing partners with nonprofit organizations including Abi’s Place, the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Autism Speaks and the Aleph Institute.
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My parents and grandparents showed me the value of hard work and how to build a profitable business. In 2005, I was mentored by Jim Shriner, who taught me to crawl before I walk, and walk before I run.
Fantasy job: Miami Heat head coach
Guilty pleasure: Chocolate, great seats to sporting events and fast cars
Best stress reliever: Cuddling on the couch with my kids
Favorite book:“Shoeless Joe” by W. P. Kinsella, and the Harry Potter series.
Favorite website: RealGM.com
Favorite local spot: Big Bear Brewing Co. and Dave & Buster’s
Favorite vacation spot: Las Vegas
In a movie, I’d be played by: Seth Rogen or Zach Galifianakis
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Larry Page and Sergey Brin, Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Elon Musk or Pat Riley
My six-word memoir: Proactive vs. reactive: former breeds success
Oz Rashid
Managing partner, MSH Group
Age: 34
Education: B.A., University of Arizona, 2004
Birthplace: Los Angeles
Residence: Parkland
First job: YMCA basketball referee for 10-11 year olds
Ultimate career goal: Own an NFL franchise (Miami Dolphins?)
Hot topic in my field: Talent being dramatically important to the bottom line
Greatest business achievement: Founding MSH with partners Juan Gaitan and Sam Jaddi
Civic/charitable organization involvement: American Cancer Society and Children’s Home Society
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: Elon Musk: “Starting a company is like eating glass and staring into the abyss. If you feel like you are up for that, then start a company.”
Fantasy job: I already have it
Guilty pleasure: Mexican food
Best stress reliever: My wife
Favorite book:“Zero to One” by Peter Thiel and “The Talent Code” by Daniel Coyle
Favorite website: Grantland.com
Favorite local spot: YOLO for lunch and Chima for dinner
Favorite vacation spot: Hawaii and Spain
In a movie, I’d be played by: Depending on the phase of life, Andy Garcia or Al Pacino
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Mark Cuban
My six-word memoir: Hard work beats talent, passion key
Lisa Roney
Audit partner, Crowe Horwath LLP
Age: 37
Education: B.S.B.A. in Accounting, Indiana University, 2001
Birthplace: Orleans, Indiana
Residence: Boca Raton
First job: Making snow cones/shaved ice at TropicalSno
Ultimate career goal: I hope to be as influential to others as my mentors have been to me. I’d also like to leave Crowe in a better position than when I arrived.
Hot topic in my field: CECL – FASB Accounting Standards Update (ASU) No. 2016-13, Financial Instruments – Credit Losses (Topic 326): Measurement of Credit Losses on Financial Instruments.
Greatest business achievement: Being elected into the partnership at Crowe on April 1, 2015.
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Board member of Junior Achievement of South Florida
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: I have had many influential mentors, starting with my family. There has been one question that has always resonated with me: Why not you?
Guilty pleasure: I have been known to get lost in a good book for an entire day.
Best stress reliever: Exercise
Favorite book: I am currently reading “Integrity: The Courage to Face the Demands of Reality” by Henry Cloud. I am finding it to be influential and it is already having an impact.
Favorite website: Amazon.com
Favorite local spot: My husband and I are the proud parents of a 2-year-old daughter. As a result, we frequent South County Regional Park in Boca Raton, Lion Country Safari, Zoo Miami and similar kid-friendly spots.
Favorite vacation spot: White-water rafting in Costa Rica
My six-word memoir: Always remember to clear the mechanism
Bradley Saft
Founder and CEO, EverBright Media
Age: 37
Twitter handle:@bradsaft
Education: A.B. in history, Princeton University, 2000; M.B.A. Harvard Business School, 2004
Birthplace: New York City
Residence: Palm Beach Gardens
First job: Coat checker
Ultimate career goal: To create multiple businesses that can each make a positive impact on society
Hot topic in my field: The rapidly changing world of social media marketing
Greatest business achievement: EverBright Media being named America’s fastest-growing education company
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Founding board member, AJC-ACCESS; board member, Palm Beach Chapter of YPO, regional co-chair, Princeton University Alumni Schools Committee; helping my wife, Allison, with her new charity, Kids Need Our Love
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My mother and father gave me tremendous wisdom, including the importance of listening more than speaking, the value of hard work, the irreplaceability of your reputation and the impact of giving others credit for success and taking the responsibility of failure on yourself.
Fantasy job: Travel writer
Guilty pleasure: Daydreaming
Best stress reliever: Playing with my daughters, Avery and Skylar
Favorite book: The Weaver
Favorite website: DrudgeReport.com
Favorite local spot: The Cooper
Favorite vacation spot: New Zealand
In a movie, I’d be played by: Paul Rudd
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Elon Musk
My six-word memoir: Savor life. Be grateful. Give back.
Ileana M. Salort-Horta
COO, MBAF – Morrison, Brown, Argiz & Farra
Age: 39
Twitter handle:@ISalortHorta
Education: B.Acc., Florida Internatioal University, 1996; M.S. in taxation, Florida International University, 1997
Birthplace: Miami
Residence: Miami
First job: Advisor at FIU’s School of Accounting
Ultimate career goal: The sky’s the limit!
Hot topic in my field: How to deal with millenials
Greatest business achievement: Creating a culture of change
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Women of MBAF
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: Antonio Argiz; “Go get them and kick ass!”
Fantasy job: CEO of the Miami Dolphins
Guilty pleasure: Chocolate
Best stress reliever: Working out
Favorite book: Don’t have one
Favorite website: ESPN.com
Favorite local spot: Hillstone
Favorite vacation spot: Anywhere near the ocean
In a movie, I’d be played by: Sandra Bullock
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Micky Arison
My six-word memoir: Set goals so you can achieve
Daryl Shevin
CFO/principal, 13th Floor Investments
Age: 39
Twitter handle:@dasgators
Education: B.A. in management, University of Florida, 1999. CFA charterholder, 2006
Birthplace: Miami
Residence: Miami
Ultimate career goal: To replace Pat Riley
Hot topic in my field: Assessing which way the market is heading
Greatest business achievement: Being named CFO of the Year by the Business Journal in 2012
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Alzheimer’s Association, Miami Children’s Hospital, Susan G. Komen, CFA Society’s Miami chapter
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: On a personal level, my grandfather, Ed Leven, set my moral compass. Professionally, my mentors are Keith Sharkey and Jorge DeCardenas of Kaufman Rossin. The best advice I received is to be kind to everyone, regardless of where they are in the food chain.
Fantasy job: To replace Pat Riley
Guilty pleasure: Anything with peanut butter in it
Best stress reliever: My kids’ laughs and watching sports
Favorite website: ESPN.com
Favorite local spot: Billy’s Point (the sandbar at Elliott Key)
Favorite vacation spot: Keystone, Colorado or South Africa
In a movie, I’d be played by: Jason Biggs
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Mike Nunziata
My six-word memoir: I can’t believe I’m turning 40
Tracy Slavens
Partner, Holland & Knight LLP
Age: 38
Education: B.S.B.A. in finance, University of Florida, 2000; J.D., Emory University, 2003
Birthplace: Toronto
Residence: Miami Beach
First job: Babysitter
Ultimate career goal: Success
Hot topic in my field: Sustainable development
Greatest business achievement: Making partner at Holland & Knight LLP
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Board of trustees at Chapman Partnership, pro bono counsel for the Bass Museum
Best advice received: Do what makes you happy.
Fantasy job: Travel writer
Guilty pleasure: Shake Shack
Best stress reliever: Yoga
Favorite book:“The Goldfinch” by Donna Tartt
Favorite website: Google
Favorite local spot: The beach
Favorite vacation spot: A tropical island
In a movie, I’d be played by: Sandra Bullock
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Madame Clicquot
Daniel Toledano
Managing director, IBT Group
Age: 32
Twitter handle:@DToleQ
Facebook username: Daniel Toledano Querub
Education: B.S.B.A. in economics. Suffolk University Sawyer Business School, 2007
Birthplace: Madrid
Residence: Miami
First job: Trainee at Price Waterhouse Coopers
Ultimate career goal: To bring social progress through infrastructure development
Hot topic in my field: Public/private partnerships
Greatest business achievement: Starting the concession business division of IBT Group
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Greater Miami Jewish Federation, AIPAC, American Jewish Committee, American Enterprise Institute, Concordia
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My grandfather, who always showed me the importance of information technology, learning languages and working for your community
Fantasy job: Tech gadget reviewer
Guilty pleasure: Chocolate
Best stress reliever: Sleep
Favorite book:“Start-up Nation” by Dan Senor and Saul Singer
Favorite website: Google
Favorite local spot: Juvia
Favorite vacation spot: The beach
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Bill Gates
My six-word memoir: Apologize instead of asking for permission
David L. Tuyo II
Senior executive VP/chief financial and operations officer, Power Financial Credit Union
Age: 37
Twitter handle:@2yo
Education: B.S in finance with honors, University of Mobile, 2000; M.B.A. with honors, Mississippi State University, 2011, D.B.A. with honors, California Southern University, 2015
Birthplace: Flint, Michigan
Residence: Coral Springs
First job: Caddie at Warwick Hills Country Club at 12 years old
Ultimate career goal: To leave the world better than I found it
Hot topic in my field: FinTech disruption
Civic/charitable organization involvement: California Southern University Business School Advisory Board, Greater Miami Chamber of Commerce, LifeNet 4 Families, Calvary Christian Academy
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: My parents; “focus on growing grass, rather than killing weeds”
Fantasy job: College professor and collegiate golf coach
Guilty pleasure: Anything that involves learning, especially when the topic is wine
Best stress reliever: Running, cycling or any exercise that gets the heart rate up
Favorite book:“Competing Values Leadership: Creating Value in Organizations” by Kim S. Cameron, Jeff DeGraff, Robert E. Quinn and Anjan V. Thakor
Favorite website: Google
Favorite local spot: Any lush green pasture with 18 holes in it
Favorite vacation spot: A sailboat along the Florida Keys
In a movie, I’d be played by: Matt Damon or George Clooney
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Jack Nicklaus
My six-word memoir: Inspire, be inspired, live life enthusiastically!
Dr. Alexander van der Ven
Orthopaedic surgeon/associate medical director for joint reconstruction, Baptist Health Medical Group
Assistant clinical professor, Florida International University Herbert Wertheim School of Medicine
Age: 39
Facebook username: alex.vanderven.75
Education: B.A. in economics, Arts & Sciences, Boston College, 1999; M.D., MBA., Tufts University School of Medicine, 2005
Birthplace: London
Residence: Miami’s Coconut Grove
First job: Bagging groceries
Hot topic in my field: Outpatient joint replacement surgery
Greatest business achievement: Same-day discharge home after performing a total hip replacement
Civic/charitable organization involvement: Young Philanthropists of Baptist Health
Biggest mentor and the best advice received: Hari Parvateneni, M.D.: “Hold yourself to the highest level of integrity;” Geoff van Flandern, M.D.: “Create an efficient work/family balance;” and Jack Cooper, M.D.: “Strength and sincerity are not mutually exclusive.”
Fantasy job: Professional chef
Guilty pleasure: Cheez-Its
Favorite book:“The Orphan Master’s Son” by Adam Johnson
Favorite website: The Onion
Favorite local spot: Bombay Darbar
Favorite vacation spot: Snowmass, Colorado
In a movie, I’d be played by: John C. Reilly
I’d most like to have a business lunch with: Elon Musk
My six-word memoir: She was intrigued by the shorts
