Innovation
the introduction of something new; a new idea, method or device

The goal of the 2008 Manufacturing & Technology Roundtable (MTR) is to provide minority business owners the opportunity to garner knowledge and direction from the current results and trends of business innovation.

The 2008 MTR will provide a platform for some of the most pioneering business leaders in the United States to identify their company’s innovative methods and activities, and thus help members of the minority business community acquire vital information that will shape their plans for the future.

Additionally, the Central Illinois MTR will provide an exhibition opportunity to showcase a wide variety of products and services available from minority-owned businesses and highlight resources that are available to assist minority-owned businesses. Banks and financiers will be invited to participate in the exhibition, providing loan and investment information to minority entrepreneurs.

The MTR will also offer a unique opportunity to network with other minority business owners, buying decision makers, business resource organizations as well as countless other useful resources.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERS

Michael D’Ambrose, Senior Vice President Human Resources, ADM  
Michael D’Ambrose joined ADM in October of 2006. As the Senior Vice President of Human Resources, Mike also serves on ADM’s Strategic Planning Committee. Mike previously served as the Executive Vice President-Human Resources for First Data prior to joining ADM.  He has also held the top human resource role at Citibank, Citigroup and Toys 'R' Us Inc.

Kenneth Smithmier, President & CEO, Decatur Memorial Hospital
St. Louis native, undergraduate degree from St. Louis University, master’s degree in hospital administration from University of Minnesota.  Kenneth held a variety of positions in urban and rural hospitals in Nebraska, Iowa, and Missouri, including six years as Vice President at Barnes Hospital in St. Louis before coming to Decatur.  Smithmier has been with Decatur Memorial Hospital since Sept. 20, 1993, and President and CEO since Oct. 1, 1995.  He also served as Chairman of the Board of Directors for the Illinois Hospital Association in 2003; on the Board of Directors for the Hickory Point Bank & Trust (ADM Subsidiary); and is a national speaker on organizational culture and quality improvement.

Vaughn Studer, Senior Director of Development, Kansas State University College of Agriculture
Vaughn Studer has served as the Senior Director of Development for the College of Agriculture at Kansas State University since 2002.  In this role, Vaughn leads the effort to secure partnerships with companies and private individuals to further the organization’s mission of teaching, research and industry outreach.