June 11th 2:00 PM (EST)
Meet the Speakers
FIONA WRIGHT FORBES
Fiona Wright Forbes is a distinguished corporate strategist and workforce solutions expert with over two decades of experience driving organizational success and talent development initiatives. A Magna Cum Laude Bachelor’s graduate of Florida International University, MBA recipient, and Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society member, Fiona champions lifelong learning and advocates passionately for expanded access to higher education opportunities. Known for her compelling executive presence and results-oriented approach, Fiona excels in cultivating strategic partnerships, orchestrating high-performing cross-functional teams, and ensuring alignment between business objectives and workforce solutions. Her collaborative leadership style enables stakeholders to establish and achieve measurable goals that drive sustainable success.
In her current role as an Account Manager for the South East US states & the Caribbean at Walden University, part of COVISTA, Fiona catalyzes social transformation and professional advancement throughout the region. By leveraging Walden University’s established Caribbean presence, she accelerates educational initiatives and business growth, enhancing institutional outcomes through forward-thinking talent strategies.
DR. CHRISTOPHER PELS
Dr. Christopher Pels is a seasoned leader in human resources, organizational development, operations, and education, with a passion for leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance learning and productivity. As the Chief Operating Officer at Lovingly, LLC, he has spearheaded initiatives to integrate generative AI across the organization, with a focus on amplifying the marketing, sales, and customer success teams with AI and training team members to use AI as a thought partner in their roles.
With over 15 years of experience in multiple industries, Dr. Pels brings a wealth of knowledge in leadership development, strategic planning, and cross-functional team building. His expertise extends to the educational sector, where he currently serves as Adjunct Faculty in the Behavioral Health Leadership Program at Walden University. In this role, he innovatively applies generative AI as a strategic thinking partner to enhance his teaching methodologies.
Dr. Pels holds an Ed.D. in Executive Leadership from St. John Fisher University, complemented by degrees in Psychology and Sociology. His multifaceted background, combined with his forward-thinking approach to AI integration, positions him uniquely to guide energy industry professionals in harnessing the power of generative AI in their work
MR. ARMAND DRAKE
Mr. Armand Drake is a Partnership Consultant with Walden University.