South East Regional Board Members

Laura Frieden

Board member

Marketing and Communications Leader who builds memorable brands and delivers measurable results. Over 13 years of experience spanning startups, growth-stage companies, and public organizations, driving demand generation, stakeholder engagement, and exceptional client/user experiences.

High-energy, data-driven strategist recognized for developing Compass HRM, one of Inc. 5000’s fastest-growing companies, and founding Tampa’s first membership-based doggy daycare. Passionate about optimizing growth and achieving KPIs across diverse channels, with expertise in team leadership and innovative problem-solving.

Active board member of the American Dog Society, advancing education and well-being for dogs. Holds a BA in Broadcast Journalism and an MA in Strategic Communications from the University of South Florida.

Sarah Lewis

Board member

Educational Leader and Consultant specializing in organizational management and school culture development. Over 15 years of experience driving strategic growth, leadership excellence, and academic innovation in schools and educational organizations.

Executive Director of Achievement Prep since 2021, previously serving as Chief of Schools, with a proven track record of enhancing educational outcomes. Founder of The Excellence Network, LLC, delivering national consulting services in leadership development and school culture transformation. Former Principal and Academic Dean at Achievement First, with expertise in conflict resolution and innovative academic strategies.

Published author and respected consultant, dedicated to empowering educators and schools to achieve excellence. Holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Walden University, along with a Master’s in Education and a Bachelor’s in English and Elementary Education from Hampton University.

Craig Stronberg

Board member

Senior Director and Thought Leader specializing in macroeconomic and geopolitical analysis with over 30 years of experience helping stakeholders navigate global shifts with confidence.

Leads the Macro Intelligence capability at PwC Intelligence, overseeing a team of analysts delivering critical insights on economic and industry trends. Recognized by Fast Company in 2015 as one of the “100 Most Creative People in Business” for developing the innovative cybersecurity simulation, Game of Threats™️.

Former national security advisor with nearly two decades of service, earning multiple honors for contributions to government agencies. Dedicated educator, teaching critical thinking at American University and Florida International University. Holds a degree in History from American University and advocates for lifelong learning and engagement with fresh perspectives and ideas.

Courtney Garcia

Board member

Global Human Resources Leader with extensive experience in biotechnology, manufacturing, and medical device industries. Specializes in HR strategic planning, talent management, and leveraging analytics to drive organizational success.

Currently the Global HR Leader and Head of Talent at Genus PLC, a £350 million animal genetics company, leading a team of 15 across four regions and supporting 3,500 employees in 30+ countries. Former HR Director at PepsiCo, managing HR operations for over 2,000 employees, and HR Manager at Smith & Nephew Orthopaedics, partnering with senior leadership to drive employee engagement and relations.

Bilingual in English and Spanish, with a BA in Communications and Spanish from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. Experienced in aligning HR strategies with organizational goals to foster growth and innovation.