Agenda
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DAY 1 – May 19, 2025 – ARM Institute |
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Time |
Location |
Session Name |
Description |
Speaker/Facilitator |
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8:00-8:15 AM |
Main Conference Room |
Welcome to the Future of Work Faculty Academy Spring Forum! |
Welcome to the Future of Work Faculty Academy Spring Forum—where innovation meets impact! Kick off the day with powerful keynotes from thought leaders re-imagining education, technology, and workforce transformation. Dive into dynamic breakout sessions, explore cutting-edge robotics and manufacturing labs, and spark ideas in interactive research collaboratives. Network with visionary faculty and forward-thinking business partners driving the future of work. Get ready to connect, create, and lead the change! |
Ginger Shaw Future of Work Faculty Academy Director Penn State University |
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8:15 – 9:00 AM |
Main Conference Room |
The State of Robotics Manufacturing in Southwestern Pennsylvania (SWPA) |
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Jay Douglass COO |
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9:00 – 9:15 AM |
BREAK |
Refreshments |
Beverages/Breakfast Snacks Meet your fellow participants |
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9:15 – 10:15 AM |
Main Conference Room |
Session 1: Research Collaborative* |
Join forces in this dynamic Research Collaborative Session where higher ed, K-12 educators, and industry leaders converge at the table! Engage in bold conversations around real-world workforce challenges and future-ready solutions in Southwestern PA. Share insights, align goals, and co-create strategies that bridge classrooms to careers. This is your chance to shape the talent pipeline through powerful, cross-sector collaboration. Let’s build the future—together! Business Conversation Table Partners Invited |
Dr. Urmi Ashar Assistant Professor Rangos School of Health Sciences, Health Administration and Public Health |
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10:15 – 10:30 AM |
Move to next sessions |
In transit to break-out rooms, tours, and demos |
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Ginger Shaw Beth Reiners |
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10:30 AM – 12:00 PM |
Classroom |
Digital Twin/Digital Thread of AR/VR Learning |
Discover the future of immersive learning in this 90-minute workshop exploring how Digital Twin and AR/VR technologies converge to transform education and training. Learn how the Digital Thread, fueled by real-time AI-driven data capture, enables responsive, personalized learning environments. Experience live demos, real-world applications, and hands-on activities to conceptualize your own interactive module. Understand how seamless data flow enhances simulation, assessment, and engagement. Ideal for educators, technologists, and innovation leaders shaping the next frontier of experiential learning. |
Karen Alexander Director, |
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10:30 AM – 12:00 PM |
Boardroom |
Critical Strengths of Leadership Part I |
Unlock the core strengths that define transformative leaders in this energizing, hands-on workshop. Explore the critical traits—resilience, empathy, vision, and adaptability—that fuel impact and innovation. Through interactive exercises and real-world scenarios, discover how to lead with authenticity and confidence. Build a personal roadmap to elevate your leadership influence today. Perfect for emerging and experienced leaders ready to level up.
If taken, the results from your Critical Strengths assessment will be provided during the workshop with opportunity to address your personal development outcomes.
Open to all Spring Forum Attendees |
Kathy Goller Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach |
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10:30 AM – 12:00 PM |
Main Conference Room |
The AI Algorithm Game – Win or Lose? |
Step into the world of artificial intelligence in this fast-paced, interactive workshop: The AI Algorithm Game – Win or Lose? Decode how algorithms shape decisions in everyday life and explore who wins, who loses, and why. Engage in live simulations that challenge your assumptions and reveal hidden biases in AI systems. Discover the human impact behind the code and what ethical AI really means. Get ready to play, question, and transform how you think about technology and power. |
Tiffany Petricini Associate Teaching Professor and Mike Zula Program & Community Management Specialist Board.Dev |
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10:30 AM – 12:00 PM |
ARM Robotics Manufacturing Hub |
Tour of Robotics demonstration lab |
Step inside the future of manufacturing with an immersive tour that reveals how industry leaders evaluate and elevate their operations. Discover how robotics are tested for impact—without upfront commitments—and what drives smart, high-ROI tech adoption. Learn how companies determine which solutions boost productivity and fill workforce gaps. Explore real-world examples of robotics enhancing, not replacing human potential. This behind-the-scenes experience will reshape how you think about innovation, investment, and the future of work! |
Christopher Adams Operations Manager |
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10:30 AM – 12:00 PM |
Level 1 ARM Institute |
YKK AP Technologies Lab Inc. Robot demonstrations |
Experience the thrill of smart tech in action with this high-energy demonstration of Go2, Bunker, and PiCar robots! Watch Go2 navigate and detect objects or people with precision in real-time exploration. See the rugged Bunker tackle terrain as it scans its environment for mission-critical insights. Get behind the wheel with PiCar, streaming live video as it maneuvers like a pro. Discover how these cutting-edge systems bring autonomy, vision, and mobility to life! |
Chris Suzuki Robotics Engineer and Ming He Associate Robotics Engineer and Katy Kolor Associate SW Engineer |
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12:00 – 1:00 PM |
LUNCH |
Conference Room Vicinity |
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1:00 – 1:10 PM |
Main Conference Room |
Introductions |
The Global Impact Forum, Pittsburgh PA Welcome Afternoon Speaker |
Justin Aglio |
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1:10 – 1:55 PM |
Main Conference Room |
Developing a Thriving Workforce in the Pittsburgh Area |
Hear how this workforce development organization connects funding, expertise, and opportunities to a thriving workforce in the Pittsburgh region. Explore opportunities for faculty, students, employers and employees. Be part of the amazing growth conversation for the Pittsburgh region!
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Edgar Largaespada Senior Director of Industry Strategy at Partner4Work Pittsburgh |
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1:55 – 2:00 PM |
BREAK |
Refreshments |
Beverages/Afternoon Snacks
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2:00 – 3:00 PM |
Main Conference Room |
Session 2: Research Collaborative Continues* |
Join forces in this dynamic Research Collaborative Session where higher ed, K-12 educators, and industry leaders converge at the table! Engage in bold conversations around real-world workforce challenges and future-ready solutions in Southwestern PA. Share insights, align goals, and co-create strategies that bridge classrooms to careers. This is your chance to shape the talent pipeline through powerful, cross-sector collaboration. Let’s build the future—together! Business Conversation Table Partners Invited |
Dr. Joie Marhefka Associate Teaching Professor Biomedical Engineering Technology |
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3:00 – 4:30 PM |
Main Conference Room |
The AI Algorithm Game – Win or Lose? |
Step into the world of artificial intelligence in this fast-paced, interactive workshop: The AI Algorithm Game – Win or Lose? Decode how algorithms shape decisions in everyday life—from hiring to healthcare—and explore who wins, who loses, and why. Engage in live simulations that challenge your assumptions and reveal hidden biases in AI systems. Discover the human impact behind the code and what ethical AI really means. Get ready to play, question, and transform how you think about technology and power. |
Tiffany Petricini Associate Teaching Professor and Mike Zula Program & Community Management Specialist |
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3:00 – 4:30 PM |
Classroom |
Digital Twin/Digital Thread of AR/VR Learning |
Discover the future of immersive learning in this 90-minute workshop exploring how Digital Twin and AR/VR technologies converge to transform education and training. Learn how the Digital Thread, fueled by real-time AI-driven data capture, enables responsive, personalized learning environments. Experience live demos, real-world applications, and hands-on activities to conceptualize your own interactive module. Understand how seamless data flow enhances simulation, assessment, and engagement. Ideal for educators, technologists, and innovation leaders shaping the next frontier of experiential learning. |
Karen Alexander Director |
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3:00 – 4:30 PM |
Boardroom |
Critical Strengths of Leadership Part II |
Unlock the core strengths that define transformative leaders in this energizing, hands-on workshop. Explore the critical traits—resilience, empathy, vision, and adaptability—that fuel impact and innovation. Through interactive exercises and real-world scenarios, discover how to lead with authenticity and confidence. Build a personal roadmap to elevate your leadership influence today. Perfect for emerging and experienced leaders ready to level up.
If taken, the results from your Critical Strengths assessment will be provided during the workshop with opportunity to address your personal development outcomes.
Open to all Spring Forum Attendees |
Kathy Goller Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach |
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4:30 PM |
Main Conference Room |
Wrap-Up |
News of today and tomorrow at the Spring Forum |
Ginger Shaw |
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6:30 PM |
Dinner |
Hofbräuhaus Pittsburgh |
Coordinated transportation. Dinner with facilitators/speakers and attendees. Open attendance. Pay-as-you-go. Reservation numbers required. |
Beth Reiners |
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DAY 2 – May 20, 2025 – ARM Institute |
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Time |
Location |
Session Name |
Description |
Speaker/Facilitator |
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8:00-8:15 AM |
Main Conference Room |
Introductions |
The Global Impact Forum, Pittsburgh PA Welcome Opening Speaker |
Justin Aglio |
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8:15 – 9:00 AM |
Main Conference Room |
Modernizing Manufacturing Through Connection to Communities |
Why is it important to connect communities to the manufacturing sector across the region? Join Catalyst Connection as they discuss and share their experiences in working with communities to foster opportunities for all members of the community to thrive and prosper. |
Petra Mitchell CEO and Matt Minner Managing Director Tech Services |
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9:00 – 9:15 AM |
BREAK |
Refreshments |
Beverages/Breakfast Snacks Meet your fellow participants |
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9:15 – 10:15 AM |
Main Conference Room |
Session 3: Research Collaborative Continues* |
Join forces in this dynamic Research Collaborative Session where higher ed, K-12 educators, and industry leaders converge at the table! Engage in bold conversations around real-world workforce challenges and future-ready solutions in Southwestern PA. Share insights, align goals, and co-create strategies that bridge classrooms to careers. This is your chance to shape the talent pipeline through powerful, cross-sector collaboration. Let’s build the future—together! Business Conversation Table Partners Invited |
Dr. Tim Schlak Associate Professor of Librarianship |
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10:15 – 10:30 AM |
Move to next sessions |
In transit to break-out rooms, tours, and demos |
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Ginger Shaw Beth Reiners |
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10:30 AM – 12:00 PM |
Classroom |
Creative AI – Moving the Needle |
Join Kyle for an exploration of creative AI opportunities in image generation, design assistance, content generation/management, music composition, and GPT utilization. In addition to providing increased productivity, learn how to use AI for exploration, innovation, and for creative accessibility. |
Kyle Chalupczynski Lecturer |
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10:30 AM – 12:00 PM |
Level 1 ARM Institute |
YKK AP Technologies Lab Inc. Robot demonstrations |
Experience the thrill of smart tech in action with this high-energy demonstration of Go2, Bunker, and PiCar robots! Watch Go2 navigate and detect objects or people with precision in real-time exploration. See the rugged Bunker tackle terrain as it scans its environment for mission-critical insights. Get behind the wheel with PiCar, streaming live video as it maneuvers like a pro. Discover how these cutting-edge systems bring autonomy, vision, and mobility to life! |
Chris Suzuki Robotics Engineer and Ming He Associate Robotics Engineer and Katy Kolor Associate SW Engineer |
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12:00 – 1:00 PM |
LUNCH |
Conference Room Vicinity |
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1:00 – 1:15 PM |
Main Conference Room |
Introductions |
The Global Impact Forum, Pittsburgh PA Welcome Afternoon Speaker |
Justin Aglio |
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1:15 – 2:00 PM |
Main Conference Room |
Pittsburgh Robotics and Technology in Action |
Explore the exciting developments across the region in robotics and technology from two experts who are at the forefront of driving and delivering on economic growth, workforce development and community engagement. Be part of the future – share time and conversation with these experts! |
Jenny Sharpe Director of Workforce Development and Marie Pelloni Sr. Director, Talent and Workforce Development Initiatives |
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2:00 – 2:05 PM |
BREAK |
Refreshments |
Beverages/Afternoon Snacks
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2:00 – 3:00 PM |
Main Conference Room |
Session 4: Research Collaborative Continues* |
Join forces in this dynamic Research Collaborative Session where higher ed, K-12 educators, and industry leaders converge at the table! Engage in bold conversations around real-world workforce challenges and future-ready solutions in Southwestern PA. Share insights, align goals, and co-create strategies that bridge classrooms to careers. This is your chance to shape the talent pipeline through powerful, cross-sector collaboration. Let’s build the future—together! Business Conversation Table Partners Invited |
Dr. Ann Jabro University Professor of Communication (Communication & Organizational Leadership)
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3:00 – 4:30 PM |
Classroom |
Creative AI – Moving the Needle |
Join Kyle for an exploration of creative AI opportunities in image generation, design assistance, content generation/management, music composition, and GPT utilization. In addition to providing increased productivity, learn how to use AI for exploration, innovation, and for creative accessibility.
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Kyle Chalupczynski Lecturer |
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3:00 – 4:30 PM |
Boardroom |
Developing a Leadership Growth Mindset |
Unlock your leadership potential in this high-impact, interactive workshop on developing a Leadership Growth Mindset! Explore the critical differences between growth and fixed mindsets in faculty and business settings—and why they matter. Learn proven strategies to shift your perspective, embrace challenges, and lead with adaptability. Engage in hands-on decision-making exercises designed to reinforce growth-focused thinking. Walk away with actionable tools to cultivate resilience, drive innovation, and inspire others through a mindset that grows with you!
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Lois Bradley President and Founder |
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3:00 – 4:30 PM |
Manufacturing Futures Institute (MFI) |
Tour of CMU MFI facility |
Explore and learn the mission of the MFI to inspire, engineer, and lead technological and workforce advances for agile, intelligent, efficient, resilient, and sustainable manufacturing.
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Sandra DeVincent Wolf Executive Director Manufacturing Futures Institute
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4:30 PM |
Main Conference Room |
Day 2 Wrap-Up |
News of today and tomorrow at the Spring Forum |
Ginger Shaw Justin Aglio |
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DAY 3 – May 21, 2025 – HOTEL INDIGO |
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HOTEL INDIGO - SCHEDULE COMING SOON! CHECK BACK FREQUENTLY. |
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8:00-8:15 AM |
Main Conference Room |
Introductions |
Welcome to the Final Research Preparation Workshop |
Ginger Shaw |
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8:15 – 9:45 AM |
Main Conference Room |
Research Business Storytelling |
Unleash the power of storytelling to transform your research into compelling business narratives in this hands-on workshop with Leadership Story Lab. Learn proven techniques to connect with audiences, drive impact, and make your data unforgettable. Turn insights into influence—where research meets resonance and strategy sparks storytelling! |
Esther Choy CEO and Chief Story Facilitator
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9:45 – 10:00 AM |
BREAK |
Refreshments |
Beverages/Breakfast Snacks
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10:00 – 12:25 PM |
Break Out Rooms |
Thought Leader Sessions |
Get ready for rapid-fire insights in this high-energy Speed Networking with Thought Leaders sessions! Connect face-to-face with top minds in business and workforce development for fast-paced, idea-rich conversations. Spark partnerships, gain fresh perspectives, and leave with powerful connections to shape the future of work! |
Business and Workforce Leaders |
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10:00 -10:25 AM |
Break Out Room #1 |
Thought Leader: Workforce |
Topic: All About The Workforce. Why retraining, hiring practices, and retaining skilled workers is important to employers in the region and what resources are in place to assist. |
Susie Puskar COO WIB |
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10:00 – 10:25 AM |
Break Out Room #2 |
Thought Leader: Business |
Topic: Growth Mindset for Leadership. A growth mindset in leadership is essential to foster resilience, continuous learning, adaptability, and innovation. |
Lois Bradley |
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10:30 – 10:55 AM |
Break Out Room #1 |
Thought Leader: Business |
Topic: Storytelling in Leadership, Research and Life. Explore the power of storytelling as a vital tool in leadership, research, and everyday life to inspire, connect, and drive meaningful change. |
Esther Choy CEO and Chief Story Facilitator
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10:30 – 10:55 AM |
Break Out Room #2 |
Thought Leader: Workforce |
Topic: Workforce Investment Boards (WIB). The role of workforce boards to increase employment, retention, earnings, and occupational skill attainment. |
Mayada Christiansen Sr. Managing Director, Programs WIB |
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11:00 – 11:25 AM |
Break Out Room #1 |
Thought Leader: Workforce |
Topic: Partnerships for the Future. The importance of partnerships that include employers, labor unions, job seekers, educators, agencies and policymakers to learn, collaborate, and strategize solutions for the local workforce |
Matthew Delp Asst. Superintendent of Secondary Education and HR |
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11:00 – 11:25 AM |
Break Out Room #2 |
Thought Leader: Business |
Topic: Education & Business. Educational workforce development is crucial for equipping individuals with the skills and knowledge needed to meet evolving industry demands and drive economic growth. |
Justin Aglio |
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11:30 – 11:55 AM |
Break Out Room #1 |
Thought Leader: Workforce |
Topic: Workforce Strategy. Engaging businesses and other entities to develop and deploy strategic solutions to solve common challenges in talent pipeline development, recruitment, and retention. |
Edgar Largaespada Senior Director of Industry Strategy at Partner4Work Pittsburgh |
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11:30 – 11:55 AM |
Break Out Room #2 |
Thought Leader: Business |
Topic: What Tech Next? Exploring emerging technologies across the region to identify innovation trends, growth opportunities, and their potential impact on local industries and communities.
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Jordan Mroziak AI Education Consultant |
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12:00 – 12:25 PM |
Break Out Room #1 |
Thought Leader: Workforce |
Topic: Workforce and Technology. How do advancing technologies in the region and the level of employee preparation and development (new or current) impact regional employers and business. |
Marie Pelloni Sr. Director, Talent and Workforce Development Initiatives |
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12:00 – 12:25 PM |
Break Out Room #2 |
Thought Leader: Workforce |
Topic: What About Robots in Pittsburgh? This conversation can explore the growing robotics industry in Pittsburgh and its implications for workforce development, focusing on the skills, training, and career pathways needed to prepare the region’s talent for the future of work. Humanoid robots, anyone? |
Jenny Sharpe Director of Workforce Development |
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12:00 – 12:25 PM |
Break Out Room #3 |
Thought Leader: Business |
Topic: AI and Medicine. AI is transforming medicine by enabling faster, more accurate diagnoses, personalized treatments, and improved patient outcomes through data-driven insights. |
Marie Abunto Executive Medical Director |
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12:30 – 1:15 PM |
Main Conference Room |
LUNCH |
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Beth Reiners |
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1:15 – 2:00 PM |
Main Conference Room |
Research Wrap-Up Closing |
Research teams identified. Team Leads identified. Pre-proposals submitted. |
Ginger Shaw Justin Aglio |
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THANK YOU FOR ATTENDING! |
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