Britt Schroeter: Franchise Consultant – Keynote Speaker
 As an Independent Consultant with FranChoice, Britt offers her extensive knowledge in franchising to ensure that this key decision is based upon knowledge and trust.
Ms. Schroeter can help you figure out how to do what many people only dream about. "Taking control of your career and of your life is not selfish, it's necessary.... While you cannot discount luck, most people living the American Dream have made their own breaks. They do their homework, they take risks, they seize opportunities and they always keep their eye on the goal," shares Ms. Schroeter. To help you clarify and define your goals, "we focus on monetary goals and on lifestyle goals. Asking 'why should I pursue my dreams?' leads to self-doubt and questioning of your abilities. Instead, ask 'why not?' Only then can we begin to identify real obstacles and plan strategies around them," states Ms. Schroeter.
She also knows the value of a franchise first-hand, as she and her husband are franchisees for a premier service franchise.
Britt began her franchising career with Kiddie Academy Child Care Learning Centers, moving from Franchise Specialist to Executive Vice President during her tenure. Ms. Schroeter broadened her exposure and expertise in franchising working for Decorating Den, Molly Maid, Mr. HandyMan and 1-800-DryClean. From there, she became the Director of Franchise Development for Sylvan Learning Systems, Inc., propelling the system to the largest growth experienced in their twenty-plus year history.
Britt promotes entrepreneurship for the International Franchise Association, has been interviewed by the Wall Street Journal and been a guest speaker on television, radio and other public speaking venues.
Ms. Schroeter holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Maryland and a Masters in Business Management from The Johns Hopkins University.
Pravina Raghavan: District Director, Small Business Administration - Luncheon Speaker
 Pravina has over 15 years of experience in providing advisory services to businesses in the start-up, growth, expansion and maturity phases of development. In that time, she completed over 100 Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) transactions and has advised companies on strategy, marketing, sales development, capital raising, mergers and acquisitions, divestures, outsourcing, joint ventures and partnerships, and international development. Pravina is the District Director for the Small Business Administration (SBA), New York District Office.
Prior to joining the SBA, Pravina was a Vice President with MTV and BET Networks in Content Distribution and Marketing where she was responsible for contract negotations and marketing for 23 channels. Previously, she was a small business owner of a strategic advisory firm that assisted companies in their quest for growth.
Prior to owning her own business, Pravina was the Business Development Director for Misys PLC, one of the largest banking software companies in the world. She was also an associate at an investment bank, Broadview International, in London. Prior to Broadview, Pravina worked for seven years at AT&T in several finance and management roles, including her last five years as M&A Director for Europe.
Pravina has an MBA in Finance from Seton Hall University and a BS in Finance from The Pennsylvania State University. She has worked in over 15 countries around the world and is familiar with five languages.
Pravina is also a board member of the International Executive Resource Group (IERG) and a member of the Women’s Bond Club of New York (WBC), The Penn State Alumni Association, Venture Association of New Jersey (VANJ), Women in Telecommunications and Cable (WICT), and National Association of Minorities in Communications (NAMIC).
Frank Dunne: Principal, Strategic Franchise Advisor with FranNet LLC
A Strategic Franchise Advisor with Frannet in New York's Hudson Valley, New Jersey, and Western MA, Frank Dunne is a seasoned business professional who consults with individuals interested in exploring franchise opportunities. Entrepreneurs, those in career transitions, and investors benefit from his 25 years' insight and experience gained from the services sector in professional services, new media, marketing, and advertising. In addition to free, one-on-one client consultations, Frank regularly conducts franchising workshops and seminars – partnering with outplacement agencies, the Small Business Administration, Small Business Development Centers, SCORE, and local libraries.
Tony D’Aquanni: Money Mailer of Dutchess County
Tony D’Aquanni, has owned and operated Money Mailer of Dutchess County for 16 years. He is a member of the Greater Southern Dutchess Chamber of Commerce, and serves on their Board of Directors, as well as a member of The Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce. He has been recognized by Money Mailer on the national level and earned many coveted awards. He is well respected by his peers and leadership within the Money Mailer organization. He has won three prestigious awards from the Greater Southern Dutchess Chamber of Commerce's Small Business Council for, his commitment to the community, sustained growth of business, and entrepreneurship. What is most important to Tony is the success of his clients. "Getting and Keeping More Customers" is more than a slogan for Tony, it is a commitment. His clients see him as almost a silent partner as he guides, plans, and follows through with each client.
Stephen E. Diamond
Stephen E. Diamond is a partner in the law firm of Vergilis, Stenger, Roberts, Davis & Diamond, LLP. He received his Juris Doctorate from Pepperdine University and a Master of Laws in Taxation from the University of Florida. He is admitted to practice in New York, Florida and Massachusetts. He practices primarily in the areas of Business Formation and Transactions, Estate Planning and Administration, Real Estate and Elder Law issues. He is a charter member and past President of the Hudson Valley Financial Professionals, Inc., Past Chairman of the Dutchess County Regional Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Board of Directors of The Community Foundation of Dutchess County, Chairperson of the Dutchess County Bar Association Trusts and Estates Section.
Barry Kleiman: Business Ownership Coach and Independent Franchise Owner of The Entrepreneur's Source in Bedford, NY.
The ESource is North America's leading business and franchise coaching organization. We've helped tens of thousands of people achieve their dream of business ownership and then coached them to maximize their profitability. Our unique discovery and education process empowers clients to explore alternative career options outside the traditional job market in franchising and business ownership. We also coach small businesses employing affordable Rapid Impact Strategies to maximize the value of their business. Prior to joining The Entrepreneur's Source, Barry spent 25+ years in the Financial Services Industry (Equity Trading) with successes at several global banking platforms including Credit Suisse, Lehman Brothers and Bear Stearns. Barry holds an MBA in Finance & Investments from the Zicklin School of Business at Baruch College.
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