Executive Forum
This quarterly program facilitates an open dialogue between community leaders and those who make a difference in our state and region. Speakers come with expertise in a variety of areas including economic development, technology, business innovation, politics, and other areas of interest to the members. Each forum consists of a beer and wine networking reception, meal, and presentation, and the forums typically take place on Monday evenings.
2026 Speakers
March 23: where business meets innovation: entrepreneurship in middle georgia
We invite the campus and community to a special Executive Forum featuring Rob Betzel, entrepreneur and founding member of SparkMacon, Robert Grant, Executive Director of SparkMacon, and Kara Lassiter, President & CEO of Milledgeville-Baldwin Chamber. Space is limited. Registration includes networking reception, dinner and presentation.
Secure your tickets here, for Monday, March 23rd, 5:30 pm.
Previous Presentations:
"For the Love of Community: A Conversation on Economic Development"
Rebekah Snider, Visit Milledgeville; Trish Whitley, Visit Macon; Denise Brinson, City of Suwanee
This evening was filled with an inspiring conversation that focuses on how leaders drive growth by leaning into cultural pillars like art, music, and recreation. Read the full story on Front Page.
"Small Business Marketing Masterclass: Scalable Frameworks to Tailor to Your Business"
Lou Childs, Nick Goebel, and Lauren Goebel, Moderated by Dr. Mary Rickard
This fireside-style chat involved a conversation about how to level up your small business. Lou Childs is the co-founder of SlumberPod and brings more than 25 years of marketing, communications, and operations experience spanning financial services software firms and Fortune 500 companies and was featured on SharkTank. Nick Goebel is the Technical Director at Goebel Media. With over 20 years of experience, he brings deep expertise in digital marketing, web development, and leading complex technical projects. Lauren Goebel is the Creative Director at Goebel Media. With more than 20 years of experience in design, branding, and frontend applications, she blends strategic thinking with strong visual direction to lead creative projects that drive results. Dr. Mary Rickard is Associate Professor of Marketing with the J. Whitney Bunting College of Business & Technology. Dr. Rickard teaches Professional Selling, Sales Management, and Principles of Marketing.
"High-Trust, High-Impact Leadership: Strategies that Work Under Any Pressure"
Kristina Turner, Deputy State Auditor, Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts
Kristina Turner is the first woman to be appointed to the role of Deputy State Auditor in the State of Georgia, and was appointed in 2019. In this role, she initially managed the financial work performed by the Department at both the State and Local levels. In 2022, her focused changed to fostering a culture that values individuals, public service, and innovation at a department level. Over her 25 years at DOAA, Kristina has contributed to numerous areas of the department’s mission. Her work has included: technology integration into financial audits and leading data analysis efforts as well as spearheading development and research initiatives. Kristina is a GCSU Alumna, with her Bachelor's degree in Accounting, and Master's degree in Management Information Systems. She holds certifications as a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and a Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA).
"From Blight to Bright: A Blueprint for Community Rejuvenation in Central Georgia"
Mike Ciabattoni, Managing Partner, CW Holdings LLC
CW Development Holdings was co-founded by Mike Ciabattoni to pursue the acquisition & development of a 22.5-acre parcel in downtown Macon, Georgia. Mike moved to Macon as his wife was attending a medical residency program at Mercer University, and instantly saw the potential of a city that was experiencing a revival. Recognizing a need for wholesome family entertainment, the low-cost basis and upward trend of downtown provided the motivation to acquire the property and begin phase 1 of this project; The Yard. Mike has spent thirteen years as a commercial pilot, and four years as an investment advisor for a NY-based firm. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance from West Chester University.