Profound Candidate Voting Form
Please cast your votes by selecting 9 candidates from the list below.
Ensure that you fill in your email address accurately, as each member is allowed only one submission.
Your participation is crucial in helping us choose the best candidates for the future of Profound.
Thank you for your involvement and continued support!
More About Andy:
As a lifelong resident of Central New York, I bring a deep connection to our community and a commitment to its success. My wife Stacey and I have been married for 18 years, and we are proud parents to our 10-year-old son, Caleb. Throughout my career, I have garnered extensive experience in the manufacturing industry, contributing to well-regarded companies such as Carrier, Felix Schoeller, and now Midstate Spring, which is proudly owned by a former Profound member. In addition to my professional endeavors, I am an active board member for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation of Central New York, where I dedicate my efforts to making a positive impact on our community. With a proven track record of leadership and a passion for service, I am eager to bring my skills and dedication to the board.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
As an OG member, I have witnessed firsthand the immense value that Profound brings to its members. I have personally benefited from the networking opportunities, social interactions, and the wealth of knowledge shared within the group. Now, I am eager to give back to this incredible community. I believe that my unique perspective as a non-business owner can bring a fresh and diverse viewpoint to the board. My decision-making process is thoughtful and balanced, and my calming demeanor can help to facilitate effective discussions and foster a collaborative environment. I am confident that my contributions will enhance the group's dynamic and support our shared goals.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
My vision for Profound is to enhance our commitment to giving back to the community, foster the professional growth of our members, and strengthen the family-like bonds that connect us. We will give back through events that support those in need, ensuring our community feels the positive impact of our efforts. Professional growth will be achieved through masterminding and scaled-back events that feature top educators and presenters sharing their knowledge. Our bonds will be strengthened through member-driven events where we share meals or drinks, fostering deeper connections.
With the new lower monthly fee, I believe we can continue to offer valuable events. We will strategically grow our membership over time to ensure quality without over-saturating the group. By continuing these efforts, we can ensure that Profound remains a supportive and thriving organization that benefits all its members and the broader community.
More About BIll:
Engineer by training, 38 years in business in various industries including: manufacturing, electrical distribution, consulting engineering, publishing, and the outdoor industry.. During these experiences, I had the opportunity to start or turn around 14 different business units. I love to mentor entrepreneurs.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
I hope to help create an environment where people can be comfortable sharing experiences and learning from other like-minded folks about principles of success, and how to share in abundance.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
Same as the current vision with additional emphasis on sharing ideas and experiences.
More About David:
I am the founder and managing partner of Impellent Ventures, a preseed/ seed stage venture capital firm HQ'd in Rochester that invests in leading tech companies both in our area and throughout the country. I have worked closely with hundreds of startups and have been a board member for nearly 30 tech and nonprofit companies over the past decade, including currently being the Chair of the upstate's private equity community.
In addition to being an investor and operator, I have extensive experience in nonprofit leadership + eventing (I was the Executive Director for a Boston based events focused nonprofit / venture philanthropy firm that held events for 15k people per year and invested in emerging nonprofit organizations) and community development (VP of Innovation for The Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce).
Full LI is here: https://linkedin.com/in/davidtbrown
I am also the proud father of two boys (Robbie 10, Theo 8) and an avid golfer and skier.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
First, I joined Profound to build stronger bridges across upstate and central NY and know from my past roles that creating repeat collisions across our community is our best tool to create real long-term economic development in CNY/ UNY. I want our region to work together stronger and see that supporting organizations that bring together and empower our doers can create more value than just about anything else. Profound can be a major tool in this growth and I really want to drive this.
Second, I believe that I can support this restructuring stage of the board well. I have strong governance experience, a wide range of ideas on how to continue to evolve how we get together and learn, and a deep bench of relationships from outside the area I can bring to the table to expand our reach. Years of working on boards focused both on entrepreneurs and community give me a unique perspective that I believe can help us not only structure correctly but run effectively from day one.
Lastly, I am a big fan of the family we have built in Profound and want to optimize the chances this group continues to succeed and grow effectively. I was losing my faith on parts of the direction of the org and believe this change provides a massive chance to revamp the energy and opportunity many of us see.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
(1) expansion of intimate events for members to connect across geos
(2) more focus of "how I built this" dialogues with world-class entrepreneurs both locally and globally (including member spotlights) that dive into real failures and vulnerabilities versus prepared presentations
(3) continued focus on quality versus quantity of members in the group (+ diversity in member business types)
(4) more drill-down sessions focused on doing more with members to support each others' businesses (including reviving subgroups e.g. investment club)
(5) selected sponsors to help enable quality events without increasing member costs
More About Derek:
First and foremost, I'm a father of two girls, Kyra and Kaelyn, who are 17 and 14 respectively. I am a lifelong learner, a person who loves to solve complex problems, and the heart of what I do professionally is to help organizations from startups through the Fortune-50 take and experience and human-centered design approach to accelerating revenues.
I'm a CNY transplant, after living in NYC, southern CT, Denver, AZ, Baltimore, and DC, with many other short stints for extended consulting engagements. I've been in technology leadership and management, business, and strategy consulting for over 25 years, and 12 years ago started SparkOrange, a Salesforce Strategic Implementation consultancy as a way to contribute to great tech jobs in the Syracuse area and play a part in growing a new and exciting local economy. After 3 straight years on the Inc.5000, SparkOrange was acquired by Crowe, a top-10 accounting/technology consultancy, and I joined the firm as a partner-principal. In the 2.5 years since, I've grown our practice by 440%, with a goal of hitting 9 figures in revenue within the next 5 years.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
Profound has truly provided the mechanism for positive change in my life. It is a wonderful community of like-minded individuals, a safe space, and an opportunity to help others in many ways. While It is a group for founders, owners, leaders and dreamers, it is first a place where people take precedence over business, and this is something that I love and would want to continue to contribute to, to help shape, and to help grow.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
Overall I see this as a critical turning point for Profound, which includes both opportunities as well as significant challenges. I think Jeff, Arel, Adam, Joel & team have created an amazing thing, and truly caught "lightning in a bottle!" That said, we enter a time when many original members have been considering their continued involvement, and at the end of the day, it's the membership that will drive this forward.
I'd love to see Profound provide next-level experiences, focused and powerful learning opportunities, more flexible connection events, an innovative business network for connecting member businesses (can we use AI for this?) (extended perhaps a relationship with Centerstate CEO and/or other local networks/orgs, a structured mentorship program, member access to a "board in a box" for those who need a BoD but haven't established one, and a mature fundraising mechanism to help both fund charity and member/mission events. As always, I think everything should be experience-driven, and quality over quantity.
More About Gail:
I am an owner of Cowley Associates, Inc., an Advertising/Marketing Firm and we have been in business for 48 years. My primary role is having oversight of the Agency and its direction and also day-to-day operations. Making sure our clients have a great experience with us is as important to me as getting a great product or service. Our Agency primarily concentrates on Positioning a client their marketplace, Branding strategy, logo’s and implementation, Marketing Strategy and execution and Website Design/Development.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
I’ve been a member of Profound since its inception and am considered an OG!
I’d like to join the board because I think this is a pivotal point in the transition of the leadership of this organization and would like to influence the strategic direction and major decisions shaping its future.
Because I have been on many boards in the region over the years, I feel that I have the leadership abilities to inspire and guide, the strategic thinking to shape a solid future for Profound, financial and governance knowledge, communications/public relations skills, and interpersonal skills to be able to collaborate and work effectively with other board members to achieve a vision. I feel I have the ability to consider different perspectives and make solid decisions.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
The mission for Profound is solid. “To create an intimate, collaborative mastermind group where Upstate New York’s most ambitious humans can build connections, learn and share invaluable skills, and grow together professionally and personally. And as a result, help realize our community’s tremendous untapped potential”
From the beginning, this is what I signed up for…all of us did. My initial vision to move forward is to preserve what we have, retain the members who have chosen to be part of this new organization, develop clear criteria and processes to recruit new members who can contribute to this mission, and develop a solid calendar of events throughout the year that will provide professional and personal impact and value.
More About Hasan:
I am the Founder and CEO of the Good Life Youth Foundation, a 501C3 that services and mentors at-risk youth in Onondaga County. I have experienced the inception of a non-profit organization and led the organization to a $5 Million dollar budget with national recognition. I also have experience as a serial entrepreneur and am now the owner of HippoH Nation Apparel, a boutique streetwear brand (hippohculture.com). I am a father of 4 and a husband of 1 (I tried for 2, but she wasn't going for it. Lol)
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
Profound has fulfilled me in so many ways. The void of having someone at your level who understands some of the pain points that you might be experiencing in life is invaluable. I have made lasting friendships here. I am vested in both the sustainability of Profound, and also ensuring that the essence of it remains intact. It is important that we preserve what makes this so special.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
The org should be the collective of exceptional talent, experience, and humans in the regional area. What makes Profound special are its people. I envision an accessible org with life and career learning and growth opportunities, healthy exchange between members, and a focus on lifting one another up. I envision a place where members can socially and emotionally find connections and answers, while also gaining insight on business, wealth, and investments.
More About Herb:
I have successfully led a fast-growing Dale Carnegie Franchise, driving substantial revenue growth through a combination of organic initiatives and strategic acquisitions, resulting in a 300% increase in revenues. My career began in business development, where I honed my skills before advancing into management. I have been instrumental in developing leadership pipelines for prominent companies such as Wegmans and Pike Construction, among others, enabling them to scale their growth effectively.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
I am passionate about joining your board to help our region reach its full potential. I believe that by enhancing our leaders, fostering collaboration, and building strong relationships, we can propel our region to new heights. My experience and dedication to leadership development make me a strong asset for this mission.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
My vision for joining this board is to champion a future where our region thrives through the empowerment of exceptional leadership, collaborative innovation, and robust community relationships. By leveraging my experience in driving substantial growth and developing leadership pipelines, I aim to foster an environment where businesses and leaders can excel and adapt to ever-changing challenges.
Together, we can build a region that is not only economically prosperous but also rich in opportunity, inclusivity, and sustainability. My commitment is to bring strategic insights, a collaborative spirit, and a passion for leadership development to the board, ensuring we collectively unlock the full potential of our community.
More About Jacob:
I am a seasoned and dynamic entrepreneur, CEO, investor, and board member. I have built a strong reputation of being people first, developing and fostering a high-performance culture and being a thought leader. Given this is for consideration for a board of directors opportunity I will focus my experience around that specifically. I have served on the NYSCA board of directors since 2014 and have been the only board member to have been voted into executive office to serve as its President for two consecutive terms. I also serve on the board of directors for ACA International, where I am wrapping up my first 3-year term on that board. This board has gone through a lot of transition and is very active we have created new committees, revamped its governance and removed committees that were no longer useful to our membership, and have paired down the board of directors from 15 members down to 9 members to become more effective. I have served on or have been the board liaison to almost all of our committees but some of the ones that stand out most to me in terms of applicability are the following: budget and audit committee, program and meeting committee
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
I believe that my board experience especially in relation to my time on the ACA board has provided me with a lot of experience as it relates to board operations, committees, and governance that I believe would provide helpful insights as we transition to our new structure. In addition to that, I love what the Profound community has created and it has been amazing to have been apart of it since the beginning. I want to ensure its continued success and find ways to continue elevate the experience for our members in addition to the impact on our communities.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
My vision for Profound is to stay true to our roots and continuing to embrace our mission and manifesto. Below are my thoughts on what I believe is most important from a vision pillar standpoint:
1. Authentic Community:
We unite the brightest and boldest “doers” of Upstate New York, creating a space for genuine and profound connections. Our members find support, inspiration, and camaraderie, empowering them to face challenges and achieve greatness.
2. Engaging Experiences:
We provide access to transformational events that reshape our understanding of the world, our potential, and who we can become. These experiences are designed to be unique, thought-provoking, and life-changing, helping our members continuously level up.
3. Expertise:
Our members benefit from access to experts and titans of success who are dedicated to helping others find their own excellence. Through workshops, mentorship, and collaborative sessions, we cultivate a culture of continuous improvement and high achievement.
4. Personal Branding and Impact:
We assist our members in cultivating their personal brands, ensuring the world knows who they are, what they stand for, and why they are here. By harmoniously increasing our status, we serve the greater good and build something greater than ourselves.
5. Thought-Provoking Content:
We provide content that is not only informative but transformative. Our resources challenge conventional thinking, inspire innovation, and offer practical tools for personal and professional development.
Together, we can transform lives, uplift our region, and build a future filled with limitless potential.
More About James:
I am a lifelong central New Yorker, Syracuse University alum, Ph.D. scientist, and entrepreneur with a range of passions in fields of science & engineering, art, design, and business development. I have built a seven-figure e-commerce brand (East of Nowhere) and am working on several other upcoming projects. I value the collaboration, masterminding, and knowledge-sharing enabled by Profound and I want to help influence the next iteration of the organization.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
Since joining Profound, I've been amazed at how much value I've gained in such a short time. Now, I want to give back by contributing my time and energy to help the organization grow. I believe in the mission, and even though there are big changes ahead, I know that with the right leadership, we can achieve even greater things together.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
I believe that central New York is a truly unique region with immense potential and a wealth of talent that has yet to be realized. Profound exemplifies this spirit and has the duty to become a leading organization in the area for professional development and growth. My vision for Profound is a continued path toward greater awareness and influence in the central New York region and beyond. Profound should be a beacon for fostering growth mindset, inspiring continuous learning, adaptability, and resilience in individuals and organizations who call CNY home.
More About Jasmine:
I am Jasmine Coan, also known as DJ Bella J, a dedicated DJ and early-stage entrepreneur. I founded "On The One," Central New York’s first DJ Center, where I provide DJ lessons, mentorship, resources, and bookings for DJs, music recording and production, and youth programs. My efforts have been recognized with awards from the Syracuse Police Athletic League, Image Initiative, and with prizes from the KeyBank Pitch Your Pivot WISE Women’s Retail competitions. I host annual DJ festivals at the Great New York State Fair and proudly serve on the PGR Foundation board, focusing on empowering young girls and women through DJing.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
I would love to see Profound establish a multidimensional board. Not just in race and gender, but in professional diversity as well. The board should be reflective of its members' entrepreneurial growth and maturity to balance strategic decision-making.
My background in the arts and being a startup entrepreneur has required me to develop resilient qualities and to be adaptive and forward-thinking. I believe this is essential for a creative approach to an effective board.
During my time with Profound, I've been able to talk with members about the obstacles I'm faced with as an early-stage entrepreneur in a unique business and received the help I needed. I’m so grateful. My membership experience is why I want to be a part of the board. I want to advocate for future members from my side of the spectrum.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
I believe Profound has made the right steps for the future. Changing the structure to a non-profit and having the members involvement is great. I would love to be involved and ensure the mission stays in focus!
More About Jeffrey:
I am an entrepreneurial attorney. I have been practicing law for over twenty years at this point, and have the battle scars to prove it. During that time, I have learned the hard way that the traditional law business model is broken. It is not well suited to a balanced and fulfilling life for attorneys, nor economical resolution of legal issues for the clients. However, since joining Profound, and recently reading David Meltzer's book after the Tailwater event, I have doubled down on creating a truly scalable hybrid estate planning and financial advisory service model that will allow me to help many more people than I previously envisioned, have more fun while I do it, and make a ton of money to boot. Perhaps most importantly, I have discovered the importance of developing alignment in all three of those aspects of my life to manifest my dreams. I continue to work on removing deeply instilled blocks from that alignment to accelerate the rate and accuracy of that manifestation, and I have seen dramatic increases in both since joining Profound. The pieces have started to fall into place with an ease that defies description, and I have made more progress in the last quarter than I have over the last four years combined. Once a skeptic, I am now a Kool-Aid-drinking true believer in the power of this group. Thus, it is enormously important to me that the indescribable value of this group continues to grow, not only for the good of Upstate New York but for all the humans our members may someday impact in a positive way.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
Given the vision Jeff laid out in NYC, it seems that there are a number of ways that the Board could lead the newly structured organization. It stands to reason that some of those directions would stimulate and facilitate further growth, and reach, in respect of Profound's mission. Conversely, it stands to reason that some would have the opposite impact. I expect that I speak for the entirety of the membership when I say that I hope for the former. To that point, I want to put skin in the game and make my legal expertise available to the extent it can add value (frankly this holds true whether I am on the board or not) to help extend the organization's reach without reducing the number or diluting the quality of the people that make Profound so amazing.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
In my view, the most crucial aspect of Profound's evolution is to ensure that it remains a highly selective group of the region's "boldest and brightest "doers", and that those people have continued access to the experts and titans of success that have become mainstays of the Profound experience thus far. In order to do that, we need to ensure that those titans and experts derive adequate value from their experiences with Profound to incentivize them to maintain active participation in or with the group. In short, the bullet points of "How We Build Together" as stated in the Profound Manifesto MUST endure. Without those, the organization will shrivel over time because the interaction of the brains of the doers, the titans, and the experts in an uninhibited and otherwise unattainable way is the essence of Profound's uniqueness, and ultimately the crux of its value proposition.
Now, that said, the conversion of Profound to a not-for-profit structure will open avenues that would remain closed off to those same said Titans, were Profound to remain a for-profit enterprise. Among other things, it will allow for charitable deductions by manner of donations beyond membership dues, which donations could drastically expand the ability to add scholarships as part of the organization's charitable purpose and create avenues for us to reach directly into under-served communities and offer the brightest minds a hand up and a pathway not only to prosperity but to potentially global impact. What's more, we can do that while continuing to provide standard-level members with access to the outstanding experiences, events, and results they have come to expect as Profounders (while acknowledging that certain events and experiences may involve a bit more out-of-pocket expense for them) and expose all involved to an exponentially greater impact of the mastermind concept when deployed at a 50% larger scale. Through this new structure, this organization WILL change the region, it WILL change the State, it may well change the Nation, and God willing, it will change the world. Whether I am selected to be on the Board or not, I am excited about what's to come, and I am honored to be a part of it!
More About Jessica:
I am Jessica Falcone, the proud owner of Jessica Elizabeth Skincare and the visionary behind the JES line and JES Clarity Clear Skin Supplements. My journey has been a testament to following my true passion for skincare and skin health, a path that led me away from nursing to pursue a career as a skincare specialist. With 7 years of experience in the industry, I took the leap to open my own office 3 years ago, where I have been dedicated to helping individuals struggling with their skin health.
Driven by a desire to support and empower others, I channeled my expertise into creating my own skincare line and recently introduced my innovative skincare supplements. My approach is rooted in a deep commitment to providing effective solutions and promoting skin wellness. Leveraging my strong marketing background and a solid foundation in science, I have successfully built a brand that resonates with individuals seeking quality skincare products and supplements.
Beyond my professional endeavors, I actively engage in giving back to the community by serving on the planning committees for St. Jude and McMahon Ryan's Children's Advocacy. My experience is a fusion of passion, expertise, and a relentless dedication to helping others look and feel their best.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
The reason for wanting to join the board is because I am deeply inspired by the vision and impact of what Jeff, Arel, and Adam envisioned and created. Their commitment to creating a supportive community where individuals can thrive and succeed resonates with me on a “profound” level. I believe in the power of collaboration and collective growth, and I am passionate about continuing the legacy they have built.
Having personally experienced the positive influence of Profound in my own journey, I am driven to pay it forward and ensure that others have the opportunity to benefit from this invaluable resource. I want to share the impact it has had on me and empower others to realize that they are not alone in their entrepreneurial pursuits.
I firmly believe that success is or can be achieved through the strength of a supportive community. By joining the profound board, I aim to contribute my unique talents and strengths to the collective pool of expertise, fostering a culture of collaboration and mutual support. Together, we can leverage our diverse skills and experiences to help each other achieve our goals and aspirations, creating a thriving community where everyone has the opportunity to flourish and succeed.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
My vision for Profound is to keep the vibrant and dynamic community that we have always been. Where every member's talents and businesses shine brightly. Our goal is to elevate the visibility and capabilities of each individual within our network, showcasing their unique skills and offerings to create a platform for mutual support and collaboration.
That way we can recognize that within our diverse community, there is a wealth of untapped resources waiting to be explored. Whether you need a marketing expert, a lawyer, an accountant, or any other professional service, ProFound aims to connect you with the right people right at your fingertips. By amplifying the voices and businesses of our members, we aim to ensure that everyone is seen and heard, fostering a culture of mutual understanding and empowerment.
In addition to showcasing our members, also being committed to providing valuable educational opportunities tailored to the specific needs of our businesses. We will host targeted meetings and workshops focusing on key business challenges such as employee retention, understanding human behavior, effective people management, business growth strategies, and scaling up ventures. Aiming to equip our members with the knowledge and tools they need to overcome obstacles, expand their businesses, and achieve sustainable success.
My vision is to position Profound so that each individual has the opportunity to thrive and reach their full potential. Together, we will build a strong, interconnected community dedicated to mutual success.
More About Jim:
With a background in multiple professions, I have developed a strong foundation in honesty, integrity, and doing what's right. I am a father and a husband, committed to my family's growth and well-being. Although I have not previously served as a board member, I see this as a great opportunity to contribute to the organization's goals, think strategically, and make a meaningful impact. I am passionate about building connections, learning, and fostering both personal and professional growth. These values align perfectly with the mission of our mastermind group.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
My motivation for joining the board stems from a genuine desire to contribute to an amazing group of people. I believe that my mindset and experiences align well with the mission of the group, and I am eager to apply them in a board member role. Additionally, I see this as a valuable learning opportunity that will allow me to grow both personally and professionally. I am committed to bringing fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a collaborative spirit to the board. I am also excited about the chance to work with a diverse group of individuals who share a common goal of making a positive impact.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
My vision for the group moving forward is to continue the great work we are currently doing while maybe incorporating more family activities into our events. I believe that engaging our families will strengthen our connections and support network, creating a more inclusive and holistic community. By fostering an environment where both professional and personal relationships can thrive, we can enhance the value and impact of our mastermind group. I am excited about the potential to expand our reach, enrich our programs, and help realize our region’s tremendous untapped potential through these efforts.
More About Judy:
The Junior League of Syracuse trains women to be community volunteers and to serve on boards. I have been a member since 1992, A few of the many positions that I held include membership Recruitment - largest # of new members, Community VP - served with United Way in selecting which agencies got the $ , Communications VP - worked with SU to do an assessment of what we needed to do to improve our image, and President during our 85th Anniversary year! Started a new fundraiser for League - Holiday Shoppes, was on steering committee that first year, and have volunteered every year for 25 years. Have supported non-profits and have done fundraising for different entities.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
Have board experience to bring to the table. Would be interested in helping recruit members to make a diverse board. Help bring people back who were part of the organization. The board needs all personality types to move the mission forward.
Would consider being an advisor to the board.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
To be a successful not-for-profit that is inclusive and provides additional opportunities for our members to be in leadership positions on a rotating basis supporting each other.
More About Kate:
I have lived in CNY my whole life working in the non-profit sector, first at the MDA and now as the Director of David's Refuge. I have vast experience with a start-up and working board as well as the transition from a Founder to Executive Director. My favorite part of working in this field is my connection to the community and the leaders who show up to make a difference. There's nothing better.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
I only want to join if I can add value and be of assistance through this transition. I believe in the power of Profound and believe we can make a solid impact on this community. I also believe that leaders need support from other leaders. This group is the only place I have truly found that connection. I want to ensure it continues.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
To remain solid and cohesive in our bonds to each other and through these trusting relationships have a greater ability to impact our businesses and create lasting and meaningful change in our community.
More About Lauren:
I am first and foremost a mother and wife - two things I wouldn’t trade for the world. My career has revolved around Corporate Supply Chain Leadership, both in the United States and the Middle East. Most of my time has been spent in Aerospace, however in 2020 - I looked at my future and realized I didn’t want to keep going down the stressful path of Corporate Leadership til the age of 65. We started purchasing rental properties, joining Masterminds, and haven’t looked back. Now, I will be exiting my W2 in August and focusing full-time on the business we have been building for several years.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
I may be newer in the entrepreneurial world, but this fresh perspective allows me to be a strong advocate for members who are eager to grow their ventures with the support of our collective whole and the minds of the rockstars that have come before us. My ability to see the big picture and my genuine desire to see everyone succeed—regardless of where they are in their journey—align perfectly with the collaborative spirit of Profound. I am committed to fostering an inclusive environment where innovative ideas flourish, partnerships are created, and everyone prospers together. Dad jokes mandatory.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
My vision for Profound is to be known as an inclusive, collaborative, support system for Upstate NY’s best and brightest entrepreneurs and leaders. A group that continuously shows up for each other whether it’s to hear an idea, a challenge, or to celebrate each other. Where there are shoulders, growth, and lots of laughs. Whatever your goals or definitions of success are, members of Profound can leverage the unique and vast experiences of others to help solve problems and grow. At the end of the day, it’s a group of really cool people doing really cool things and adding value to each other. Let's blend our diverse experiences, have a lot of fun, and drive forward with a shared vision of success.
More About Lekia:
I am a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience spanning corporate America, civic and political engagement, and social justice advocacy. Known for her dynamic leadership and unwavering commitment to community empowerment, Lekia has a proven track record of driving meaningful change through her extensive work in various sectors.
Board Experience:
Have a robust background in board leadership, having served on multiple boards over the past seven years. Her current and past board memberships include:
Believe in Syracuse: Served for 2 years, contributing to the organization’s mission of promoting the positive aspects of Syracuse and fostering community engagement.
ACR Health: Serving for the past 4 years, Lekia has played a crucial role in supporting the organization’s efforts to provide comprehensive care and support to individuals affected by chronic diseases.
YWCA of Syracuse and Onondaga County: Currently in her third year, Lekia serves as the Board Chair, leading initiatives to eliminate racism and empower women through various community programs.
As an Original Member (OG) of Profound Mastermind for the past three years, I have been an integral part of the community, contributing her insights and expertise to foster growth and innovation within the group. My extensive experience in board leadership and community activism, combined with my strategic vision and commitment to equity, makes me an ideal candidate for the Board of Directors at Profound Mastermind.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
I am deeply passionate about Profound Mastermind and believe I can add significant value to building out the 2.0 mission. Since the group's inception, I have aligned with its vision and mission, sharing similar passions and a history of building networks and business communities. This opportunity would allow me to contribute on a deeper level and share my ideas.
I care about this group and its vision and I want it to work. As one of the most engaged and connected members, I have made it a priority to connect with the majority of our members over the years, using our cards to facilitate these interactions. People in our group feel comfortable sharing with me, and I have built strong relationships within our community. Given the recent announcement of the model change, I am excited about the prospect of being part of this next level.
My career and entrepreneurial trajectory provide me with a unique perspective and proposition. I am an excellent facilitator who thrives both independently and in a team environment. While I have not yet reached the financial success needed to remain a part of the group, joining the board would allow me to continue contributing to Profound Mastermind and stay involved in this community that I hold in such high regard.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
My vision for Profound moving forward is twofold. Firstly, I aim to preserve the core elements that our senior members have found valuable, while simultaneously making the network more accessible to others like myself, Kate, Hasan, and Jessica from the business and professional community. I envision developing a tiered membership system based on the results of a survey sent to past and present members. This approach will help us curate the 2.0 model, potentially bringing back valuable members who needed the environment but couldn’t afford the fee.
The new model would include two major events per year instead of four, member-led intensives (such as those led by Dakota), committees formed based on survey results, exclusive and inclusive meet-ups, a tracking system, volunteerism, and micro-investment opportunities. Additionally, it would maintain ongoing investment opportunities, support, and engagement from key figures like Jeff, Adam, and Arel, which is crucial for preserving the value of the network. These are just a few of my ideas.
Ultimately, I envision an inclusive environment that meets members where they are in their personal and professional lives, ensuring that Profound continues to be a valuable and supportive community for all.
More About Lisa:
Lisa Belodoff is founder and CEO of Bell Collaborative, a business intelligence and marketing consultancy with expertise in deep tech and optics, photonics, imaging, laser (OPIL). She has more than 25 years of optics and photonics experience and is valued globally for her strategic consulting, marketing knowledge, and business development insight and connections.
Belodoff has an innate ability to identify strategic alliances in specialized areas of optics, life sciences, technology, and scientific engineering. She has spent her career building extensive relationships in precision optics, fiber optics/IT infrastructure, medical device, life science, AR/VR, LiDAR, DoD, night vision systems, IR/Thermal, space and other consumer technology and scientific applications.
Working across generations in business and academia is a passion for Belodoff. She was an adjunct professor with Syracuse University’s Whitman School of Management and has served as a mentor to many, as well as committed to providing internships and career development.
For several years Belodoff has led the marketing efforts for New York Photonics and serves on the board of directors of the Optical Society of Southern California. In 2024 she founded the non-profit organization Optics for a Greater Good, which aligns philanthropy with OPIL education and workforce development.
Belodoff earned an MBA from Syracuse University and a bachelor’s degree in communications from SUNY Geneseo. In May 2024 the Rochester Business Journal named Belodoff a Woman of Excellence, for her business accomplishments and charity work, which spans many causes, including the American Cancer Association and American Society of Suicide Prevention.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
I have a strong interest in joining the board of Profound to help advance the mission of this important organization — to support fellow Profound members in experiencing all I have gained from my membership, as well as encourage new members through outreach and example.
The benefits of Profound that have affected me personally, which I hope to foster and further for the group, include making meaningful business and personal connections; accessing energized ideas that I am able to readily put into motion into my business and daily life; and having a front-row seat to education and insight from experts, which only Profound can provide to us here in upstate New York.
Another specialty area of mine is non-profit, member-based organizations. Past service on boards on which I’ve served that align with Profound’s community partners of today and tomorrow include Syracuse Red Cross, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention of WNY, and the Optical Society of Southern California, in addition to other volunteer efforts.
I would bring my first-hand knowledge and partnerships to the Profound board and its pursuit of 501(c)(3) status. This includes Luminate, the world’s largest optics accelerator, which has chosen Bell Collaborative as its partner for sponsorship development and execution. NextCorps Luminate, which is a 501(c)(3), helps technology-based startups “bridge the chasm” with my wealth of resources, speakers, insight, and value to business owners and entrepreneurs.
I have experience creating and maintaining a plan for organizations to be self-sustaining. I believe in Profound’s ability to move beyond the founders’ initial mission and take it to the next level. I have the bandwidth and the passion to take on this role on the Profound board and would be honored to have a hand in shaping our new member-based, community-focused mastermind group.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
Profound has already glowingly surpassed what its founders set out to accomplish. I would be honored, as a board member, to help raise that bar even higher, supporting business leaders and changemakers in upstate New York as we embrace our region’s new position as a national tech hub.
With growth in deep tech skyrocketing locally, Profound is in the ideal position to provide the networking and mentorship needed for entrepreneurs and executives, as their roles and job demands are elevated and new business leaders relocate to our region. As our region’s focus on optics and photonics dramatically increases, I will be ready and willing to assist and drive this internal and external outreach on behalf of Profound, as I am well positioned to do so since my company, Bell Collaborative, is the only business consultancy truly serving this niche market.
Profound will ultimately rise as a coveted and highly respected organization as our region’s tech hub expands — with Profound the inspiring beacon along the “semiconductor superhighway.”
More About Matthew:
As many of you know I'm a tech guy. I've got a wide-ranging skill set that I've developed over three decades in the business technology industry.
A few things you may not know...
I'm a serial entrepreneur and I've been involved in a wide range of ventures.
I'm an experienced content creator and I've been featured on CNN and other outlets.
I've been on a board in a couple of professional organizations in my career.
Most recently I was President of the Tip Club of Syracuse, the area's oldest business professional group.
Some years ago I was a board member of 2 different young professional organizations in North Carolina where I lived at the time.
My wife and I have lived in Camillus for a little over a decade. I have four not-so-little ones, a son who's 22 and three daughters ages 7, 10, and 21.
For fun, I like long walks on the beach and hanging out with people from Profound.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
In the short time that I've been in the group, it's brought me tremendous value both personally and professionally. I would like to serve on the board to give back to the organization that's been so good to me but more importantly, I want to make sure that others have the same experience I have had for a long time to come.
I'm someone who will bring some good ideas to the table while also being completely open to the input and ideas of others.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
My priorities are
1) Maintaining the best high-quality membership possible with a specific focus on serving and retaining current members
2) Providing quality events with high-value content
3) Finding more ways to help each other's business grow
4) Maintaining and growing the organization's brand as a premier, elite professional organization
I believe we can do these things and so many more by coming together on them.
Every one of us has something that we could share with the group that would provide as much value as Jonathan Sprinkles.
I believe we can build events around each other and get just as much value from it as we would when we spend big on a big-name speaker.
That's not to say we shouldn't have a big-name speaker when we can swing it.
I believe overnight trips are key and I'd like to explore cutting the costs but not the frequency and possibly look at one that's a little bit longer than we've done before.
Ultimately it's about us coming together to escape the regular world while also being there to help each other through the challenges and to celebrate each other's wins.
I believe there is literally nothing this group can't do if we're united and I'm so excited about what we're going to be able to do now!
More About Melissa:
Someone once told me I was dynamic, and I think that's the perfect word for someone who is passionate and always evolving. I don't believe in keeping things "the way they were," if it can be done better. I give everyone the benefit of the doubt until they show me otherwise. I am very proud of knowing when to move on, start over, or fight harder. I do what I say I'm going to do, and love inspiring others along the way!
I am the sole owner and CEO of Aging Advocates, an aging life care management practice that guides families through the challenges of aging well. After years of working in senior housing and meeting with families in crisis, I knew there had to be a better way. I quit my job and started my company at the height of Covid in July 2020, and haven’t looked back.
I am also the co-founder and vice president of a non-profit, "Living with Dementia," providing resources, support, and education to those affected by dementia personally or professionally. I am passionate about what I do all day, every day. I hold a B.A. in Communications, and a graduate certificate in Gerontology, and also a certified dementia practitioner, certified care manager, and advanced professional member of the Aging Life Care Association. Aging Advocates won best senior care organization in CNY (voted by our peers in the Community Living Advocates) and I won favorite professional networker for 2022.
I live in Pompey NY with my electrician husband and 3 children, where we are renovating an 1840s farmhouse.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
When Jeff made the announcement, like many others, I needed to pause and process. I've been the Profound cheerleader since I joined, and the thought of this amazing group changing made me uneasy at first. I trust Jeff's decision and know that I want to be a part of the evolution of Profound. I want to contribute to ensuring Profound doesn't lose the magic and what makes it special. I also know my "dynamic" character will allow for new ideas and change to occur.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
MY vision is less important now than OUR vision... however, I have some ideas of what might allow for more greatness and impact, without losing the sparkle. I see more structured masterminding, more member-led pop-up events, and more member panels. Personally, I think everyone in this group has so much to offer. I also love the "big-name speakers" and their stories of loss and success. "Exposure expands expectations" and when you expose people like US to more, we DO more. Perhaps 1-2 optional travel events per year with content and amazing experiences could allow for that to continue. I also think it's important to keep the integrity of the member exclusivity to ensure we are continuing to be a group of kind and compassionate leaders as well as from diverse cultures and experiences. I'd like to see more of a variety of career representation from government, healthcare, and education as well. This group has given so much to me and I want to ensure we can keep that moving forward for others.
More About Samantha:
My name is Samantha, and I'm a new(er) member who joined in November of 2023. I live in Rochester, but commute to Syracuse frequently for work and for Profound events, of course!
I've worked as a Financial Advisor for Institutional clients including several non-profit organizations for 10+ years. I'm very familiar with the cadence of meetings and how to efficiently discuss topics and reach decisions. I think I will be able to bring an element of formality and structure to this new entity, as well as understand the need to balance dual financial goals of spending to support initiatives and growing the fund corpus to sustain future membership.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
As a new(ish) member, I have a balanced perspective of both the original organization’s process and events, while remaining open to a new way of doing things. I have several ideas for a variety of content and ways to highlight existing members. I would love to expand the Rochester membership pool and promote connectivity between Syracuse/Rochester.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
I would like to see Profound remain a purposeful group focused on growing members' individual businesses and elevating the Central/Upstate regional. I would like to expand membership diversity and size, while retaining a disciplined selection process to preserve the value of membership and quality of connections and content. I would advocate for more targeted content based on commonalities, expressed interests, or business needs. I would expand professional growth/development to include content focused on the 'whole self' and general self-improvement. I would seek to implement a way of tracking member's business needs and content requests, and connecting them with resources within the group to make connections more meaningful and productive. Finally, I would propose making each member's biography more dynamic and digital, in order to facilitate deeper initial conversations, and accelerate a new member's entry into the group.
More About Sarah:
Entrepreneur - Currently the owner of 3 businesses; Real Estate Broker, Real Estate Developer, Restaurant/Hospitality Company
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
I have been with Profound since its inception and have served on more than 16 Boards over the past two decades. I see this current transition as a crucial pivot from the past to the future. My commitment stems from a sincere desire to ensure Profound continues its mission of empowering professionals across Central New York to surpass their goals.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
My vision for Profound as a non-profit organization moving forward is to strengthen its impact on professionals in Central New York by fostering a supportive community that empowers continuous growth and excellence. I aim to enhance our programs and resources to ensure they are accessible and tailored to the evolving needs of our members. Additionally, I envision expanding our outreach initiatives to further engage with underserved communities, promoting inclusivity and diversity within our organization. Ultimately, I strive for Profound to be a beacon of inspiration and a catalyst for professional development across the region.
More About Sean:
Growing up in foster care and losing my birth parent early on, I quickly learned to turn life’s curveballs into home runs. My philosophy? When life gives you lemons, you should make lemonade and maybe even open a lemonade stand! My experiences have shaped me into a passionate advocate for transforming negatives into positives. I strive to inspire others to do the same. By working hard and infusing everything I do with enthusiasm, I aim to make a lasting impact not just on my own life, but on the lives of family, friends, coworkers, customers, vendors, and even competitors. After all, life's too short not to sprinkle a little humor and kindness along the way!
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
Profound has significantly impacted my life, providing me with confidence and a sense of belonging. It has allowed me to be vulnerable with my struggles and realize I am not alone. Through this experience, I have built meaningful business relationships and friendships with incredible beautiful people. My primary reason for joining the board is to ensure that what we have built continues to grow and thrive.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
My short-term vision for Profound is to ensure our organization’s continued existence over the next 12 months during this critical period of transition. However, this vision extends far beyond me. It’s about honoring and advancing the legacy and vision that Jeff and Arel created, pushing it to the next level. It's crucial to establish a board that, while not always in agreement, remains united on our foundational principles. This board should make decisions based on what is best for our members—balancing fun and seriousness without being ego-driven. Profound is never about me; it's about our collective vision. In my ideal state, Profound creates an environment where members form lifelong, meaningful connections. We aim to be a safe haven for business owners and executives, providing support whenever they face challenges. For instance, if a member encounters a marketing issue, they can consult with Profound’s marketing team. If they need financial guidance, our financial advisors are ready to assist. This support extends to all aspects of their business—operations, HR, and beyond—ensuring every member can elevate their business through their membership with Profound. Once we master this support for our members, we could expand our impact by assisting other non-profits or for-profit businesses, allowing us to make meaningful contributions to the community. While I acknowledge that lavish trips can help some people decompress and connect, I believe our community can thrive without them. Instead, we could propose initiatives like Profound Week, where members gather at locations such as Sagamore. These events would focus on both vertical and horizontal development, featuring insightful speakers and providing a space for genuine connection and growth. Ultimately, I envision Profound as a pivotal platform in our members' careers. We want them to look back and say, "The turning point in my career was when I joined Profound."
More About Shawni:
I am CEO of Luminary Electrical Contractor. I have been an electrician for over 15 years. I am a Master Electrician. I have been CEO of the company I built for 3 years. We have a great reputation in the local community and within the construction industry. I have a current staff of 14 that keeps me busy.
When I am not in the office running my business, I take time to volunteer to speak with school-age kids about the benefits of joining the skilled trades as a career. I've done so much of that in my spare time, I've been named Ambassador for the IBEW.
I also serve on a few other Board of Directors locally. I am a board member of the MOST, (year 1), Finger Lakes Chapter NECA (year 2), and I sit on the advisory board for CNY Community Foundation's Black Equity and Excellence fund (year 2).
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
Simply put, I Love Profound. Profound was there when I needed to be surrounded by individuals who shared common interests and struggles. I needed a tribe to help me navigate this new venture that continuously felt like uncharted territory.
While I understand that change is inevitable, I want to help facilitate that change while keeping the essence and spirit of Profound as it currently exists. I'm sure I am not the only person that feels protective of this thing that we've grown together.
I also feel like I could be a voice of influence in bringing more diversity to the group. There are more of me in our surrounding area that may not have the ability to get the platform that I was able to obtain, but they are quietly killing the game, and they just need a tribe to make them feel like they're not alone.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
I envision Profound continuing to be "a community of radical change-makers, vulnerable heroes and life-long self-educators who believe that there is no greater purpose than to build something PROFOUND with this One beautiful life we have been given."
"...not a Mastermind Group for the selfish, for the self-obsessed, and the self-destructive. we make the most out of the moment, we make the most out of ourselves, and we show others how to do the same. We believe one should do well in this world while doing good in it."
"We are.....PROFOUND" Not everything has to change.
I would have typed the entire manifesto out, but I figured you would get the gist. (:
More About Stephanie:
My name is Stephanie Vavonese and I have been a member of Profound since its inception. After working in the recruiting industry for over 10 years, I launched SMV Recruiting over seven years ago, and love the life that being my own boss has provided me. I am an avid sailor, skier, and traveler (I have been to 54 countries), and love to volunteer. Since I was in high school, I have volunteered for the Arise and Ski program and joined their board in 2017. I love helping people, having a good time, and making sure those around me do too.
What are your reasons for wanting to join the board?
Since joining Profound, I have always had a passion for its mission, its members, and its future. I truly value how much Profound and its members have impacted and inspired me both professionally and personally to push myself, grow, and dream bigger - literally on a daily basis. And, I want to make sure that continues, not just for me, but for all current and future members. From day 1, I have strived to make this group its best, by bringing folks together both at events and outside of events. I have come up with innovative ideas, events, and suggestions, and always try to make people feel welcome and to get the most out of each event. In return, I have gained the trust and respect of most members, and as such members have always seemed comfortable sharing their thoughts, concerns, and ideas with me directly. I care deeply for every member of this group, you have truly become family, and I know together we all have an immense power to move each one of us forward and we cannot let that falter. I believe I have a lot to bring to the table to continue to make Profound stronger and better and I would be honored to do so would commit to giving you my best day in and day out.
What is your vision for Profound moving forward?
My vision for Profound moving forward is that we continue to be a highly regarded group of leaders, business owners, and entrepreneurs in Upstate NY. We have learned that exposure increases expectations, and we must continue doing so. I want to see us continue to feel as close nit as we do today and as if we didn't know how we did it before "Profound." I believe that we need to remain highly selective and hold events that are meaningful, impactful, and relevant. They must be inspiring and memorable.
In addition, on a more granular level, I think members should have a platform to share their expertise, so we can learn from each other and thus continue to build deeper connections, partnerships, and friendships. I want to have improved communication, I want members' suggestions and feedback for events, I think a calendar of all events a year in advance is essential, and I think we must continue hosting members-only two-day events quarterly, but spread out evenly throughout the year. In addition, we can host smaller events throughout the year to keep engagement strong and include opportunities for significant others and families to participate. I think keeping the price lower is reasonable, as long as we do not compromise our selection process, quality, or membership value. I also think we cannot grow too big; I feel 125 people is a strong number and we must remain steadfast to our original mission.
I want Profound to grow to be bigger than us, to be a force that inspires us, our leaders, in our community to be their best, and to support, lift and inspire those around us. I want Profound to be a coveted mastermind group that people strive to be a member of and that continues to build organic and genuine friendships first, null of popularity contests, clicks, and being seen as a “tip” group or self-promoting...