GEW: Impactful Innovations & Entrepreneurship in Health & Human Services

As we celebrate Global Entrepreneurship Week-Sacramento, powered by Western Health Advantage, join us for an enlightening panel discussion featuring distinguished professionals who have successfully transformed their expertise in healthcare and hospitality into entrepreneurial ventures. In partnership with the College of Health & Human Services at Sacramento State, this event showcases how service-focused leaders are revolutionizing their respective industries through entrepreneurial innovation.

Event Overview

At its core, entrepreneurship is about solving problems and creating value for others. Our distinguished panel exemplifies this principle, featuring leaders who have built innovative businesses and organizations that enhance the human experience – from healthcare delivery to hospitality services. These accomplished founders will share their unique journeys from industry practitioners to successful business owners, offering valuable insights into service-centered entrepreneurship.

Featured Panelists

Healthcare Innovators:

Dr. Deborah Ross-Swain, Ed.D., CCC-SLP

Clinical Director and CEO, The Swain Center for Listening, Communicating and Learning

A distinguished leader in speech-language pathology, Dr. Swain combines clinical excellence with entrepreneurial vision. Former Chief of Speech-Language Pathology at UC Davis Medical Center, she has authored over 20 books and is recognized internationally for her contributions to the field. Her leadership roles in ASHA and CSHA demonstrate her commitment to advancing healthcare practice and policy.

Chris Meyer

Healthcare Tech Entrepreneur and Attorney

A multifaceted entrepreneur combining legal expertise with healthcare innovation, Chris has developed groundbreaking platforms including FunAndMoving.com, which democratizes access to healthcare through technology. His work focuses on breaking down barriers to healthcare access across racial, economic, and geographic lines.

Dr. Marlene M. von Friederichs-Fitzwater, Ph.D., MPH

Founder and Executive Director, Health Communication Research Institute

With an impressive academic career spanning both Sacramento State and UC Davis School of Medicine, Dr. von Friederichs-Fitzwater is now pioneering compassionate care through Joshua’s House Hospice, the West Coast’s first hospice facility dedicated to serving homeless individuals facing terminal illness.

Hospitality Leadership:

Brian Proctor

Founder, Leeds Hospitality Group

Drawing from 40 years of expertise with prestigious organizations like Starwood Hotels & Resorts and Four Seasons, Brian has transformed his industry knowledge into a successful consulting practice. He also hosts “Tuesday’s Thanks,” a podcast celebrating leadership and gratitude in the hospitality sector.

If you are interested in learning about additional events, workshops, and panel discussions check the full list of activities HERE.

If any special accommodations are needed please let us know at least two weeks in advance to secure the needed accommodations.

Our Sponsors: