Alumni Spotlight is pleased to announce The Top 100 Duke Alumni in Technology of 2021. Known for being one of the finest institutions in the South, this university has seen countless students pass through its doors and head off to greatness. Consistently excelling in athletics and academics, Duke students know the value of ‘Work hard, play hard.' Today’s awardees are dedicated to progress and change with technology at their focus. They exemplify the university’s mission “to advance the frontiers of knowledge and contribute boldly to the international community.” These accomplished individuals have been working diligently to create new technologies or further develop existing ones in turn paving the way for a brighter future.
Alumni like Luis von Ahn, the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of the language learning app Duolingo, are dedicating themselves to the betterment of society by bridging divides across the world. Others leading venture capital firms like Jeremy Levine of Bessemer or Ravi Gupta of Sequoia are investing in and guiding start up companies that will change the course of technology for years to come. Likely the most well known alumni featured today, Tim Cook of Apple, is continuously raising the bar using wisdom, strategy, courage and character, all attributes fostered and encouraged by Duke University. It is our distinct honor to be able to recognize such an accomplished group of industry leaders. Please join us in celebrating the achievements of the Top 100 Duke Alumni in Technology of 2021.
1. Tim Cook
Apple
Tim Cook is the Chief Executive Officer and Board Member of Apple. He first joined the company in 1998 as the Senior Vice President for Worldwide Operations. Since the start of his time as CEO of the multinational technology company, Cook has doubled the company’s revenue and profit as well as increased the company’s market value from billions to trillions.
Previously, Tim was a Vice President of Corporate Materials for Compaq and before that a Chief Operating Officer of the Reseller Division at Intelligent Electronics. Tim also spent 12 years with IBM, most recently as Director of North American Fulfillment. Tim earned an MBA from Duke University and an undergraduate degree in Industrial Engineering from Auburn University.
2. Fred Ehrsam
Paradigm
Fred Ehrsam is the Co-Founder of Paradigm. Paradigm automates bilateral price negotiation and settlement workflows for institutional digital asset traders. Ehrsam has 11 years in the venture capital and private equity industry. He began his career in 2010.
Before founding Paradigm, Ehrsam was a Co-Founder and President of Coinbase and before that a trader at Goldman Sachs. Eshram graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Computer Science and Economics.
3. Kal Vepuri
Hero Health
Kal Vepuri began his professional career 24 years years ago. Today, he is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Hero Health. Hero was founded to be the world's most people-focused healthcare company by creating frictionless solutions to the most challenging problems facing patients and caregivers.
Vepuri first got his start in 1997 as an Engineer and Founder at Games, Web & Email Hosting, Telecom. From there, he went on to Bain & Company, before eventually rising to Founder at Brainchild Holdings, his most recent position prior to founding Hero. Vepuri graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering, Computer Science, and Economics.
4. Jason Robins
DraftKings
Jason Robins is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of DraftKings. He founded the company in 2012. DraftKing is a digital sports entertainment and gaming company created to fuel the competitive spirits of sports fans with products that range across daily fantasy, regulated gaming, and digital media.
Previously, Robins worked in Marketing and Analytics at Vistaprint and before that in Marketing and Analysis at Capital One. Robins earned an undergraduate degree in Economics, Computer Science, Mathematics from Duke University.
5. Shaan Puri
Twitch
Shaan Puri is the Senior Director of Product, Mobile Gaming and Emerging Markets of Twitch. Twitch is a one-of-a-kind collision of subcultures, games, communities, and streamers co-creating content around everything they are into. Puri has 11 years in the internet industry. He began his career in 2010.
Before joining Twitch, Puri was a Chief Executive Officer at Bebo and before that a Chief Executive Officer at Blab and also Monkey Inferno. Earlier in his career, he founded Sabi Sushi, LLC. Puri graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Biology and Chemistry.
6. Russell Cook
FitOn
Russell Cook began his professional career 23 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder and President of FitOn. FitOn is the number one free fitness app with more than 6M+ members who have completed 500 million workout minutes on the platform.
Cook first got his start in 1998 as an Owner at Developers Network, Inc. From there, he went on to work for Microsoft Corporation as a Technical Product Manager, before eventually rising to Chief Technology Officer at BeRecruited. Cook was also the Founder of AllTrails where he held the role as President for several years. Cook graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.
7. Zachary Perret
Plaid
Zachary Perret is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Plaid. He first founded the company in 2012. Plaid is used by thousands of digital financial apps and services like Betterment, Expensify, Microsoft, and Venmo, and by many of the largest banks to make it easy for consumers to connect their financial accounts with the apps and services they want to use.
Perret earned an undergraduate degree in Physics, Chemistry, and Biology from Duke University.
8. John Burbank
Passport Capital
John Burbank is the Founder of Passport Capital. He founded the company in 2000. Passport Capital is a global thematic investment firm that anticipates macro trends from emerging marketing to emerging technology across a range of early stage strategies.
Burbank has over twenty years of experience in the global equity markets. Prior to founding Passport Capital, he was a consultant to JMG Triton Offshore and a Director of Research at ValueVest Management. John holds a BA degree from Duke University and earned an MBA from the Stanford Business School.
9. Eric Futoran
Embrace
Eric Futoran began his professional career 22 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Embrace. Embrace is the only observability and data platform built for mobile use. Companies, including Wish, Goat, Hilton, P&G, Owlet, and Home Depot, partner with Embrace to observe, proactively analyze, and access the unique datasets of phones, tablets, point-of-sale systems, IoT, cars, and other devices.
Futoran first got his start in 1999 in Technical Pre-Sales and Product Management at Trilogy Software. From there, he went on to Gunderson Dettmer, before eventually becoming a Co-Founder and Strategic Advisor at Scopely, his most recent position prior to founding Embrace. Futoran graduated from New York University with a JD in Corporate Law and an MBA in Finance, and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.
10. Howie Liu
Airtable
Howie Liu is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Airtable. He first founded the company in 2013. Airtable's mission is to democratize software creation. They believe that software stands to be the single most impactful way anyone can bring their ideas to life, yet that few people can actually access it as a creative medium. Airtable enables everyone to experience the power of creating, not just using software.
Previously, Liu worked with Salesforce and before that was a Co-Founder of Etacts. Liu earned an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering and Public Policy from Duke University.
11. Blake Byers
PACT Pharma
Blake Byers is the Founding President and Chairman of PACT Pharma. PACT Pharma is a well-funded biotechnology company. They are pioneering non-viral, precision-genome engineered, tumor-specific T-cell therapies for cancer patients, because they envision a world where everyone has access to personalized treatment regardless of who they are and where they come from. They are currently focused on treating solid tumors. Byers has 11 years in the pharmaceuticals industry. He began his career in 2010.
Before founding PACT Pharma, Byers was a General Partner at GV. Byers graduated from Stanford University with a Ph.D. and masters in Bioengineering and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering and Economics.
12. Luis von Ahn
Duolingo
Luis von Ahn began his professional career 14 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Duolingo. Duolingo is the world’s most popular way to learn a language. Their mission is to develop the best education in the world and make language learning universally available.
von Ahn first got his start in 2007 as a Founder and Chief Executive Officer at reCAPTCHA, before eventually rising to a professor at Carnegie Mellon University, his most recent position prior to founding Duolingo. von Ahn graduated from Carnegie Mellon University with a Ph.D. in Computer Science and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Mathematics.
13. Josh Felser
Freestyle Capital
Josh Felser is the Co-Founder of Freestyle Capital. He first founded the company in 2008. Freestyle is an early-stage venture capital firm with $385M AUM and investments in 130 technology companies including Airtable, Intercom, Patreon, and BetterUp.
Previously, Felser was a Co-Founder at ClimateX and before that a Executive Vice President at Sony Pictures Entertainment. Earlier in his career, he worked with Fox as a Manager in Business Development. Felser earned an MBA in Marketing from Fuqua School of Business and an undergraduate degree in Political Science from Duke University.
14. Mark Kraynak
Acrew Capital
Mark Kraynak is the Founding Partner of Acrew Capital. He first founded the firm in 2019. Acrew Capital is an early-stage venture capital firm with a focus in investing in cybersecurity, software infrastructure, financial technology, the future of work and enterprise software. Kraynak has over 20 years experience in the industry.
Before co-founding Acrew, Kraynak joined Aspect Ventures as Entrepreneur in Residence and converted to a full time investor at the end of 2017. Prior to joining Aspect, Kraynak spent nearly 13 years at Imperva. He is currently also an advisor to Exabeam, Indegy, Kloudless, Aqua Security and Trustar. Prior to Imperva, Kraynak led product marketing at Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. and worked in marketing at CacheFlow. Earlier in his career, he provided technology architecture consulting for Fortune 500 clients with Ernst & Young’s Center for Technology. Kraynak earned a bachelors in Electrical Engineering from Duke University and from American University with a masters in Fine Arts and Literature.
15. Jeremy Levine
Bessemer Venture Partners
Jeremy Levine began his professional career 26 years ago. Today, he is the Partner of Bessemer Venture Partners. Their partners help founders lay enduring foundations to create companies that matter, starting with seed and Series A investments. They stick with their companies at every stage of their growth. They have been part of over 120 IPOs in the last 50 years, including Shopify, Yelp, LinkedIn, Skype, LifeLock, Twilio, SendGrid, DocuSign, Wix, and MindBody.
Levine first got his start in 1995 as a Business Analyst at McKinsey & Company. From there, he went on to AEA Investors LP, before eventually rising to Vice President of Operations at Dash, his most recent position prior to joining Bessemer Venture Partners. Levine graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Computer Science and Economics.
16. Ravi Gupta
Sequoia Capital
Ravi Gupta is a Partner of Sequoia Capital. He first joined the company in 2019. Sequoia helps daring founders build legendary companies from idea to IPO and beyond. In partnering with Sequoia, companies benefit from 48 years of tribal knowledge from working with founders like Steve Jobs, Larry Ellison, Larry Page, Jan Koum, Brian Chesky, Drew Houston, Adi Tatarko, Julia Hartz and Jack Dorsey.
Previously, Gupta was a Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Instacart and before that a Director at KKR & Co. L.P. Earlier in his career, he worked with McKinsey & Company as a Business Analyst. Gupta earned an undergraduate degree in Economics from Duke University.
17. David Cummings
Atlanta Tech Village
David Cummings is the Founder of Atlanta Tech Village. Atlanta Tech Village is America's 4th largest tech hub. The Village hosts a thriving ecosystem of innovation, powered by a 103,000 square foot building. Cummings has 12 years in the commercial real estate industry. He began his career in 2009.
Before founding Atlanta Tech Village, Cummings was a Co-Founder at Terminus Software and before that a Co-Founder at Dragon Army. Earlier in his career, he worked with Shotput Ventures as a Managing Director. Cummings graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Economics.
18. W Bradford Stephens
Blockchain Capital
W Bradford Stephens began his professional career 23 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Blockchain Capital. Blockchain Capital is one of the oldest and most active venture investors in the blockchain industry and has financed 75+ companies and projects since its inception.
Stephens first got his start in 1998 as an Associate at Furman Selz. From there, he went on to Credit Suisse, before eventually rising to Managing Partner at Stephens Investment Management, his most recent position prior to founding Blockchain Capital. Stephens graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Economics and Religion.
19. Pamir Gelenbe
Hummingbird Ventures
Pamir is a Venture Partner at Hummingbird Ventures, a venture capital partner for extraordinary entrepreneurs building fast-growth tech companies. Hummingbird Ventures teamed up with transformative companies, including Deliveroo, Showpad, Kraken, Peak Games, Clear2pay, Amplidata, Gram Games, Shutl and many others.
Gelenbe previously founded CoinSummit, a series of events in the US and Europe focused on virtual currencies. He is a Managing Partner at Libertus Capital and previously worked at Morgan Stanley and D.E. Shaw. Gelenbe graduated from Duke University and Columbia University with a BSc. in Electrical Engineering and MSc. in Operations Research.
20. Kent Ho
S28 Capital
Kent Ho is the Founder and General Partner of S28 Capital. S28 Capital is an early-stage venture fund with $170M under management. They are a team of founders and early startup employees. The investing team helped build companies such as PagerDuty and Playdom and also invested in companies such as Zoom and Coupang. Ho has 18 years in the venture capital and private equity industry. He began his career in 2003.
Before founding S28 Capital, Ho was an Executive Director at Sing Tao News Corporation and before that a Managing Partner at Harbor Pacific Capital. Earlier in his career, he worked with Goldman Sachs as a Financial Analyst. Ho graduated from Stanford University Graduate School of Business with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Economics.
21. Thomas Lehrman
Teamworthy Ventures
Thomas Lehrman began his professional career 21 years ago. Today, he is the Managing Partner of Teamworthy Ventures. Teamworthy Ventures is a venture capital firm that invests in consumer and enterprise software and software-enabled services businesses.
Lehrman first got his start in 1995 as a Financial Analyst at Tiger Management Corporation. From there, he went on to the U.S. State Department before eventually co-founding Gerson Lehrman Group where he was also on the board of directors. Lehrman graduated from Yale Law School with a JD and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in History.
22. Jared Weinstein
Thrive Capital
Jared Weinstein is the General Partner of Thrive Capital. He first joined the company in 2011. Thrive Capital is a venture capital investment firm that focuses on building and investing in software and technology-enabled companies.
Prior to his role with Thrive Capital, Weinstein was a Special Assistant to the President of the United States for seven years. Weinstein earned an undergraduate degree in Public Policy from Duke University.
23. Scott Raney
Redpoint Ventures
Scott Raney is a Partner of Redpoint Ventures. Redpoint Ventures partners with visionary founders to create new markets or redefine existing ones at the seed, early, and growth stages. Redpoint has backed over 465 companies with 140 IPOs and M+As, including 2U, HomeAway, Heroku, Netflix, PureStorage, Twilio and Zendesk, and incubated market disruptors like Android. Raney has 28 years in the venture capital and private equity industry. He began his career in 1993.
Before joining Redpoint Ventures, Raney was a Senior Product Manager at NorthPoint Communications. Earlier in his career, he worked with VideoPort Technologies as a Director of Product Management. Raney graduated from Harvard Business School with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering.
24. George Church
Gen9
George Church began his professional career 37 years ago. Today, he is the Founder of Gen9. Gen9 provides gene synthesis technology that enables the high-throughput, automated production of DNA constructs.
Church first got his start in 1984 as a scientist at Biogen. From there, he went on to Oxford Nanopore Technologies, before eventually co-founding Warp Drive Bio, his most recent venture prior to founding Gen9. Church graduated from Harvard University with a Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Zoology and Chemistry.
25. David Beisel
NextView Ventures
David Beisel is a Co-Founder and Partner of NextView Ventures, first founding the company in 2010. NextView invests in technology-driven companies that are redesigning the everyday economy. They are high conviction, hands-on seed VCs with a thematic investing focus.
Previously, Beisel was a Founder and Organizer at Boston Innovators Group and before that a Vice President at Venrock. Earlier in his career, he worked with the Parthenon Group as an Associate. Beisel earned an MBA from Stanford University Graduate School of Business and an undergraduate degree in Economics from Duke University.
26. Ron Shah
Stripes
Ron Shah is a Partner of Stripes. Stripes is a growth equity firm that invests in software and consumer businesses. Shah has 16 years in the venture capital and private equity industry. He began his career in 2005.
Before joining Stripes, Shah was a Co-Founder and Managing Partner at Endgame Capital and before that an Investment Banking Analyst at Citigroup. Shah graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Philosophy
27. Andrew Brown
Check Technologies
Andrew Brown began his professional career 10 years ago. Today, he is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Check. Check is a payroll-as-a-service API that lets users embed payroll directly in their vertical SaaS, HR, or time-tracking platform.
Brown first got his start in 2011 as an Associate Product Manager at Google. From there, he went on to Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Oyster (acquired by Google), his most recent position prior to founding Check. Brown graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Computer Science and Economics.
28. Eric Stromberg
Bedrock Capital
Eric Stromberg is the Founder and Managing Partner of Bedrock, first founding the company in 2017. Bedrock Capital is a technology investment firm that supports and finances one-of-a-kind companies, currently managing approximately $1 billion.
Previously, Stromberg was a Product Manager at Google and before that a Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Oyster Inc. Earlier in his career, he worked with Hunch Inc. before it was acquired by Ebay. Stromberg earned an undergraduate degree in History from Duke University.
29. Yunha Kim
Simple Habit
Yunha Kim is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Simple Habit. Simple Habit’s mission is to empower people to live better, every day. Simple Habit is a content marketplace for mental wellness. Consumers use their mobile and web platform to discover 5-minute audio content that focus on specific situations and moods. Hundreds of mental wellness experts use their platform to distribute, monetize, and analyze content. Kim has 9 years in the health, wellness and fitness industry. She began her career in 2012.
Before founding Simple Habit, Kim was a Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Locket and before that an Investment Banking Analyst at Jefferies & Company. Kim graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree.
30. Soleio Cuervo
Combine
Soleio Cuervo began his professional career 16 years ago. Today, he is the Managing Partner of Combine. Combine is an early-stage venture firm and startup studio in San Francisco.
Cuervo first got his start in 2005 as a designer at Facebook. From there, he went on to design at Dropbox, his most recent position prior to joining Combine. Cuervo graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Music Composition.
31. Shravan Verma
Speedoc
Shravan Verma is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Speedoc. He first founded the company in 2017. Speedoc is a virtual clinic and healthcare solutions platform that allows users to seek medical care and services from home.
Previously, Verma was a medical doctor at MOH Holdings Pte Ltd (Singapore). Verma earned an MD from Duke University School of Medicine and an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering and Electrical Engineering from Duke University.
32. Andy Katz-Mayfield
Harry's
Andy Katz-Mayfield is the Founder of Harry's. Harry’s is a developer of an online platform used to sell shaving equipment and accessories for men. Katz-Mayfield has 15 years in the consumer goods industry. He began his career in 2006.
Before founding Harry's, Katz-Mayfield worked in Business Development and Strategy at Brighter.com and before that was an associate at Charlesbank Capital Partners. Earlier in his career, he worked with the National Basketball Association in Team Marketing and Business Operations. Katz-Mayfield graduated from Stanford University Graduate School of Business with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Public Policy.
33. Matthew Christensen
Rose Park Advisors
Matthew Christensen began his professional career 19 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder, Chief Executive Officer and Managing Partner of Rose Park Advisors. Rose Park Advisors is a specialized investment firm that applies the theories of disruptive innovation, developed by Co-Founder Clayton Christensen, to invest in companies whose business models are well-suited to take advantage of industry change.
Christensen first got his start in 2002 as an Associate at Boston Consulting Group, before eventually rising to Senior Associate at Innosight LLC, his most recent position prior to founding Rose Park Advisors. Christensen graduated from Harvard Business School with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Economics and Civil Engineering.
34. Moorman
Scaleworks
Lew Moorman is the General Partner and Co-Founder of Scaleworks. He first founded the company in 2020. Scaleworks is a B2B SaaS fund that operates under the venture equity model in which they take controlling stakes in companies and operate them for high–growth.
Previously, Moorman was a board member, President and Chief Strategy Officer at Rackspace Hosting and before that an Engagement Manager at McKinsey & Company. Moorman earned a JD in law from Stanford University and an undergraduate degree from Duke University.
35. Marcelo Camberos
BFA Industries
Marcelo Camberos is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of BFA Industries. BFA Industries inspires everyone to express themselves, making beauty accessible for all. Through product innovation, machine learning technology, and a community-first mindset, they democratize beauty by delivering not only personalized experiences, but a feeling of authentic self-expression. They are home to the largest beauty subscription brands in the world: IPSY and BoxyCharm. Camberos has 23 years in the internet industry. He began his career in 1998.
Before founding BFA Industries, Camberos was a Chief Executive Officer and Founder of ipsy, and before that a Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Real Influence. Earlier in his career, he worked with JPMorgan Partners as an Associate. Camberos graduated from Stanford University Graduate School of Business with an MBA in General Management and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Economics and French Literature.
36. Mark Peter Davis
Interplay Ventures
Mark Peter Davis began his professional career 19 years ago. Today, he is the Founder and Managing Partner of Interplay Ventures. Interplay Ventures incubates, partners, and invests in diverse businesses. The firm is sector, geo and stage agnostic focusing on disrupting industries through the use of technology and design. Interplay is located in New York City with offices across the US, the Philippines and South America.
Davis first got his start in 2002 as a Manager at KPMG: M&A Advisory. From there, he went on to Draper Fisher Jurvetson Gotham Ventures, before eventually rising to Venture Partner at Primary Ventures, his most recent position prior to founding Interplay Ventures. Davis graduated from Columbia University with an MBA in Venture Finance and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Economics and History.
37. Ethan Anderson
MyTime
Ethan Anderson is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of MyTime, first founding the company in 2011. MyTime is the leading cloud-based point of sale and appointment scheduling solution for franchises and enterprise organizations. It works to maximize revenue by reaching customers wherever they are at the moment they are ready to transact.
Previously, Anderson was a Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Redbeacon (acquired by Home Depot) and before that a Product Manager of Consumer Search at Google. Earlier in his career, he worked with McKinsey & Company as a Business Analyst. Anderson earned an MBA from Harvard Business School and an undergraduate degree in Economics and Public Policy Studies from Duke University.
38. Emmett Nicholas
Airtable
Emmett Nicholas is the Co-Founder of Airtable. Airtable's mission is to democratize software creation. Airtable's mission is to democratize software creation. They believe that software stands to be the single most impactful way anyone can bring their ideas to life, yet that few people can actually access it as a creative medium. Airtable enables everyone to experience the power of creating, not just using software. Nicholas has 13 years in the computer software industry. He began his career in 2008.
Before founding Airtable, Nicholas was a Software Engineer at Stack Overflow and before that a Software Engineer at Microsoft. Nicholas graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in CS & ECE.
39. Andrew Ofstad
Airtable
Andrew Ofstad began his professional career 15 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder of Airtable, a low-code platform for building collaborative apps. Airtable's mission is to democratize software creation. They believe that software stands to be the single most impactful way anyone can bring their ideas to life, yet that few people can actually access it as a creative medium.
Ofstad first got his start in 2008 in the Technology Labs Development Group at Accenture. before eventually rising to Product Manager at Google, his most recent position prior to founding Airtable. Ofstad graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering and Economics.
40. Matt Ivester
Facebook
Matt Ivester is the Group Project Manager for Creation Growth of Facebook. He first joined the company in 2017. Facebook’s mission is to give people the power to build community and bring the world closer together. Over 2 billion people use Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, or Messenger every month to stay connected with friends and family, to discover what’s going on in the world, and to share and express what matters to them.
Previously, Ivester was a Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Hotshot Labs and before that a Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Reveal Inc. Earlier in his career he worked with Marakon Associates as a Chief Executive Officer. Ivester earned an MBA in Entrepreneurship from Stanford University Graduate School of Business and an undergraduate degree in Economics and Computer Science from Duke University.
41. Dan Levitan
Maveron
Dan Levitan is a Co-Founder and Partner at Maveron. Maveron is a consumer-only venture capital firm funding the brand upstarts, the disruptors, the slayers of the consumer old guard. They are searching for the next big brands in social, fintech, healthtech, ecommerce, education, and beyond. They have had success with companies like Zulily, Allbirds, Trupanion, Everlane, General Assembly, eBay, August Home, Imperfect Produce, and many more. Levitan has 38 years in the venture capital and private equity industry. He began his career in 1983.
Before founding Maveron, Levitan was a Managing Director at Wertheim Schroder & Co. Levitan graduated from Harvard Business School with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree.
42. Rogelio Choy
Eaze
Rogelio Choy began his professional career 21 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Executive Officer of Eaze. Eaze is an online marketplace and technology platform that helps provide legal access to cannabis through safe and convenient delivery.
Choy first got his start in 2000 as a Vice President of Business Development at Mercantil.com. From there, he went on to Cima Systems, before eventually rising to Head of Storage Business Unit at TRON Foundation, his most recent position prior to joining Eaze. Choy graduated from Stanford University Graduate School of Business with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Economics.
43. Bhavin Parikh
Magoosh
Bhavin Parikh is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Magoosh, first founding the company in 2008. Magoosh provides online test prep that makes studying for standardized tests accessible, effective, and enjoyable for their users.
Prior to founding Magoosh, Parikh was a Senior Consultant with Deloitte Consulting. Parikh earned an MBA from the University of California and an undergraduate degree in Economics and Computer Science from Duke University.
44. Grant Allen
SE Ventures
Grant Allen is a General Partner of SE Ventures. SE Ventures is a venture capital fund created in partnership with Schneider Electric. SE Ventures provides capital to big ideas and bold entrepreneurs who can benefit from Schneider Electric's deep domain expertise, R&D assets, and global customer base.Their investment team is focused on building strong relationships with entrepreneurs to advise, invest, and act as strategic accelerants for high potential startups with a focus on energy management, electric mobility, cybersecurity, Al, and Industry 4.0. Allen has 19 years in the venture capital and private equity industry. He began his career in 2002.
Before joining SE Ventures, Allen was the Head of Ventures and Global Operating Unit CEO at ABB and before that a Vice President at Core Capital Partners. Earlier in his career, he worked with Bates White Economic Consulting as a consultant. Allen graduated from The Wharton School with an MBA in Venture Capital and Private Equity and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Civil and Environmental Engineering.
45. Jim Scheinman
Maven Ventures
Jim Scheinman began his professional career 26 years ago. Today, he is the Founding Managing Partner of Maven Ventures. Maven Ventures is the leading VC firm investing in seed-stage consumer software companies led by exceptional founders with a “vision worth fighting for” in billion-dollar markets.
Scheinman first got his start in 1995 as an Associate Attorney at DLA Piper Rudnick Gray Cary. From there, he went on to NBCi, before eventually rising to investor, advisor, and Chief Operating Officer at Tango, his most recent position prior to founding Maven Ventures. Scheinman graduated from UC Davis School of Law with a JD in Corporate Law and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Neuropsychobiology.
46. Kathryn Minshew
The Muse
Kathryn Minshew is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of The Muse. She founded the company in 2011. The Muse helps people navigate their entire career journey. They offer expert advice alongside a job search experience that’s engaging. Muse helps companies recruit top talent from a diverse pool of qualified candidates by showing their millions of readers what it’s like to work there before they even apply.
Previously, Minshew was on the global team for HPV vaccine introduction with Clinton Health Access Initiative, and before that a Business Analyst at McKinsey & Company. Earlier in her career, she worked with the U.S. Department of State as a Regional Security Officer at the US Embassy in Cyprus. Minshew earned an undergraduate degree in Political Science and French from Duke University.
47. Nicholas Chang
Pill Club
Nicholas Chang began his professional career 15 years ago. Today, he is the Executive Chairman and President of Pill Club. He first joined the company in 2014 as Chief Executive Officer. The Pill Club is making women’s healthcare more accessible and affordable by creating a simple, personal and convenient patient experience. They have built in-house medical and pharmacy capabilities all integrated with insurance, to create a superior customer experience.
Chang first got his start in 2006 as a Patient Care Associate at Leahi Hospital. Chang graduated from Stanford University with a JD and MS in Biological and Biomedical Sciences, from Duke University with an MD, and from Stanford University with an undergraduate degree in Biological Sciences.
48. Natalya Bailey
Accion Systems
Natalya Bailey is the Chief Technology Officer and Co-Founder of Accion Systems. Accion Systems provides in-space propulsion systems for satellites based on proprietary technology developed at MIT. Bailey has 12 years in the defense and space industry. She began her career in 2009.
Before founding Accion Systems, Bailey was a Software Developer at Hope Orthopedics of Oregon and before that a Co-Founder at Asteria Propulsion. Bailey graduated from Massachusetts Institute of Technology with a Ph.D. in Aeroastro, from Duke University with an MS in Mechanical Engineering, and from San Diego State University-California State University with an undergraduate degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical and Astronautical Engineering.
49. Karim Butt
GlossGenius
Karim Butt began his professional career 8 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer of GlossGenius. GlossGenius is one of the fastest growing solutions powering business owners across the US in the beauty and wellness space with elegant, vibrant, and intuitive software.
Butt first got his start in 2013 as a Portfolio Consultant at First Round Capital. From there, he went on to Accenture, before eventually rising to Head of Engineering at Caseflex, his most recent position prior to founding GlossGenius. Butt graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree.
50. Andy Coravos
HumanFirst
Andy Coravos is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of HumanFirst. She founded the company in 2017. HumanFirst enables safe, effective, and equitable healthcare operations at home. Previously known as Elektra Labs, HumanFirst serves leading organizations pioneering decentralized clinical trials and virtual care. Twenty-two of the 25 largest pharmaceutical companies in the world have used the HumanFirst platform to evaluate and enable the deployment of health technology products.
Previously, Coravos was an Entrepreneur in Residence at the FDA and before that a Co-Founder at Ummo. Earlier in her career, she worked with McKinsey & Company as a Business Analyst. Coravos earned an MBA from Harvard Business School and an undergraduate degree in Economics from Duke University.
51. Logan Allin
Fin Venture Capital
Logan Allin is the Managing General Partner and Founder of Fin Venture Capital. Fin Venture Capital is a venture capital firm investing in FinTech and adjacent verticals in principally B2B enterprise SaaS companies. Allin has 18 years in the venture capital and private equity industry. He began his career in 2003.
Before founding Fin Venture Capital, Allin was a Vice President of SoFi Ventures & Corporate Development and before that a Vice President of Business Development, Chief Financial Officer, and Chief Intelligence Officer at ONEHOPE Wine. Earlier in his career, he worked with Capgemini as a Manager. Allin graduated from Stanford University Graduate School of Business with a master of science in Management and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Public Policy and Political Science.
52. Mark Rampolla
Powerplant Ventures
Mark Rampolla began his professional career 21 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Powerplant Ventures. PowerPlant Partners is a growth equity firm investing in emerging consumer food, beverage, foodservice, food-tech, and personal wellness brands.
Rampolla first got his start in 2000 as a President at International Paper, before eventually rising to Founder and Chief Executive Officer at ZICO Beverages LLC, his most recent position prior to founding Powerplant Ventures. Rampolla graduated from Duke University - The Fuqua School of Business with an MBA, from Duke University with a MEM in Environmental Management, and from Marquette University with an undergraduate degree in Business.
53. Ted Wang
Cowboy Ventures
Ted Wang is a Partner at Cowboy Ventures. He first joined the company in 2017. Cowboy Ventures is a seed-stage focused fund investing in digital startups. They seek to back exceptional founders who are building products that re-imagine work and personal life in large and growing markets. They are based in Palo Alto, CA, and invest across the United States.
Previously, Wang was a Partner at Fenwick & West, and before that a Partner at White & Lee. Earlier in his career, he worked with Hon. Samuel Conti, U.S. District Court, Northern District, CA as a Law Clerk. Wang earned a JD from the University of Virginia and an undergraduate degree in History and Latin from Duke University.
54. David Rubenstein
Carlyle Group
David Rubenstein is the Co-Founder and Co-Chairman of The Carlyle Group. He first founded the company in 1987 and previously served as Co-CEO. The Carlyle Group is one of the world's largest and most successful private equity firms that caters to early and later stage companies. They currently have around $221 billion in assets under management.
Previously, Rubenstein practiced law at Shaw, Pittman, Potts & Trowbridge LLP and before that he was a Deputy Assistant to the President for Domestic Policy. Earlier in his career he worked with Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP as a lawyer. Rubenstein earned a graduate degree from University of Chicago Law School and an undergraduate degree from Duke University.
55. Ari Tolwin
NuMilk
Ari Tolwin is a Co-Founder of NuMilk. NuMilk provides non-dairy, fresh milled almond milk with the push of a button. Tolwin has 10 years in the food and beverages industry. He began his career in 2011.
Before founding NuMilk, Tolwin was a Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at happytree maple water and before that an Associate at McKinsey & Company. Tolwin graduated from Duke University with an MBA and from the University of Pennsylvania with an undergraduate degree in Political Science.
56. Yun Fu
Otter.ai
Yun Fu began his professional career 16 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder and Vice President of Engineering of Otter.ai. Otter.ai provides a collaborative note-taking app to improve business team productivity and student educational experience.
Fu first got his start in 2005 as a Principal Software Engineer at Yahoo. From there, he went on to Alohar Mobile, before eventually rising to Head of Infrastructure at Particle Media, his most recent position prior to founding Otter.ai. Fu graduated from Duke University with a Ph.D. in Computer Science and MS in Computer Science and from Nankai University with an undergraduate degree in Computer Science.
57. Dylan Smith
Box
Dylan Smith is the Co-Founder and Chief Financial Officer of Box. He first founded the company in 2005. Box is a cloud content management company that empowers enterprises to revolutionize how they work by securely connecting their people, information, and applications.
Smith earned an undergraduate degree in Economics from Duke University.
58. Jim Rose
CircleCI
Jim Rose is the CEO of CircleCI. CircleCI is the world’s largest shared continuous integration and continuous delivery platform, and the central hub where code moves from idea to delivery. Rose has 25 years in the computer software industry. He began his career in 1996.
Before joining CircleCI, Rose was a Co-Founder and CEO of Distiller and before that a Co-Founder and CEO at Copious. Earlier in his career he worked with MSI Consulting Group as a Consultant Manager. Rose graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree.
59. John Tough
Energize Ventures
John Tough is the Managing Partner of Energize Ventures. Energize Ventures is a venture fund investing in pre-growth stage technology companies that are changing the game in energy. Tough has 14 years in the venture capital and private equity industry. He began his career in 2007.
Before joining Energize Ventures, Tough was a Chief Revenue Officer at Choose Energy and before that an Associate at Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers. Earlier in his career, he worked with UBS Investment Bank as a Financial Analyst. Tough graduated from The University of Chicago - Booth School of Business with an MBA in Entrepreneurship, Finance, and Strategic Management and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Biology, Chemistry, Markets and Management.
60. Howard Lerman
Yext
Howard Lerman began his professional career 21 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Yext. Yext's mission is to transform the enterprise with AI search. Yext offers a modern, AI-powered answers platform that understands natural language so that when people ask questions about a business online they get direct answers, not links.
Lerman first got his start in 2000 as the Founder and President at Justatip.com. Lerman graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in History.
61. Brian Thompson
CRE Simple
Brian Thompson is a Co-Founder and CEO of CRE Simple. CRE Simple is a financial technology company that operates a purpose-built vertical SaaS platform for commercial real estate financing. Thompson has 25 years in the financial services industry. He began his career in 1997.
Before founding CRE Simple, Thompson was a Managing Partner at Thompson Partners, LLC and before that an Operating Advisor in residence at GE Ventures. Earlier in his career he worked with Fort Point Partners as a Senior Manager and Director for e-Commerce Practice. Thompson graduated from The Wharton School with a MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Public Policy.
62. Josh Guttman
Small Door
Josh Guttman is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Small Door Veterinary. He founded the company in 2018. Small Door Veterinary is membership-based veterinary care designed with human standards that are better for pets, pet parents, and veterinarians.
Previously, Guttman was a Partner at SoftBank Capital and before that a Senior Vice President in Platform Sales at Outbrain. Earlier in his career, he worked with Robertson Stephens & Co. as an Investment Banking Analyst. Guttman earned an MBA from Columbia University in the City of New York and an undergraduate degree from Duke University.
63. Alexander Kvamme
Pathlight
Alexander Kvamme is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Pathlight. Pathlight is empowering everyone to achieve their professional best with real-time performance management. By consolidating performance data, coaching, and communication in one place, the platform empowers data-driven management at every layer of the organizational chart. Kvamme has 11 years in the internet industry. He began his career in 2010.
Before founding Pathlight, Kvamme was a Chief Executive Officer of SeatMe at Yelp. Kvamme graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree.
64. Natalie Hwang
Apeira Capital
Natalie Hwang began her professional career 15 years ago. Today, she is the Founding Managing Partner of Apeira Capital. Apeira Capital is a creative investment and advisory firm focused on disruptive distribution technology.
Hwang first got her start in 2006 as an associate at Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP, before eventually rising to vice president at The Blackstone Group, her most recent position prior to founding Apeira Capital. Hwang graduated from the University of Virginia School of Law with a JD and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in public policy, economics, and philosophy.
65. Keith Hamlin
Third Prime
Keith Hamlin is a Managing Partner at Third Prime. He first joined the company in 2010. Third Prime is a venture capital firm investing in early-stage companies displaying an unwavering commitment to integrity and a determination to meet the needs of all stakeholders.
Previously, Hamlin was an Associate at Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom. Hamlin earned a JD from Harvard Law School and an undergraduate degree in Public Policy Studies and Genetics from Duke University.
66. Jake Flomenberg
Wing Venture Capital
Jake Flomenberg is the Partner of Wing Venture Capital. Wing Venture Capital is the best-of-breed venture capital firm devoted to early-stage, long-term company building in business technology. Flomenberg has 16 years in the venture capital and private equity industry. He began his career in 2006.
Before joining Wing Venture Capital, Flomenberg was a Partner at Accel Partners and before that a Director of Product Management at Splunk. Earlier in his career, he worked with Lockheed Martin as an Engineering Leadership Development Program. Flomenberg graduated from Harvard Business School with an MBA in Technology and Entrepreneurship, from the University of Pennsylvania with an MS in Systems Engineering, and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Electrical Computer Engineering, Computer Science, and Economics.
67. Michael Blend
System1
Michael Blend began his professional career 26 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of System1. System1 fuses technology and science to identify and unlock consumer intent. They are a privacy-first technology company that operates the most advanced responsive acquisition marketing platform.
Blend first got his start in 1995 as a Co-Founder at Darwin Keyboards. From there, he went on to Wedding Channel, before eventually rising to Director and Investor at Data Axle, his most recent position prior to founding System1. Blend graduated from the University of Chicago with a JD in law and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Mathematics and Philosophy.
68. Greg Badros
Prepared Mind Innovations
Greg Badros is the Founder of Prepared Mind Innovations. He first founded the company in 2020. Prepared Mind Innovations helps startups, early-stage, and growth companies with product, business strategy, technology, and engineering.
Previously, Badros was a Vice President of Engineering and Products at Facebook and before that a Senior Director of Engineering at Two Pore Guys. Earlier in his career he worked with Transworld Numerics as a Senior Research Scientist. Badros earned a Ph.D. in Computer Science and Engineering from the University of Washington, Seattle, and an undergraduate degree in Mathematics and Computer Science from Duke University.
69. Matt Miller
Embroker
Matt Miller is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Embroker, first founding the company in 2015. Embroker is the easiest way to intelligently ensure any business. By pairing technology and broker expertise, Embroker helps growing businesses save time and find the best value on the right coverage. Miller has 16 years in the insurance industry. He began his career in 2005.
Before founding Embroker, Miller was a Principal at Hellman & Friedman and before that a Vice President at Bain Capital. Miller graduated from Stanford University Graduate School of Business with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in English.
70. Russell Glass
Ginger
Russell Glass began his professional career 22 years ago. Today, he is the Chief Executive Officer of Ginger. Ginger is reinventing mental healthcare by coupling data science and virtual delivery to provide immediate, personal support for anyone.
Glass first got his start in 1999 as a Chief Executive Officer and Founder of AGEA Corporation. From there, he went on to Avalon Digital Marketing, before eventually rising to Vice President of Products at LinkedIn, his most recent position prior to joining Ginger. Glass graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering and Economics.
71. Joanna Rees
West
Joanna Rees is the Managing Partner of West. She first joined the company in 2016. West is a venture studio that specializes in the end-to-end process of designing, building, and launching purpose-driven brands.
Previously, Rees was a Senior Partner at The B Team and before that a Partner at Soda Rock Partners. Earlier in her career, she worked with VSP Capital as a Managing Partner. Rees earned an MBA in Finance from Columbia Business School and an undergraduate degree in Psychology from Duke University.
72. Fleda Hardymon
Bessemer Venture Partners
Felda Hardymon began his professional career 46 years ago. Today, he is a Partner of Bessemer Venture Partners. Bessemer Venture Partners is a venture capital firm that funds consumer, enterprise, and healthcare startups.
Hardymon first got his start in 1975 as a Professor of Management Practice at The London School of Economics. Hardymon graduated from Duke University with a PhD and from Rose Polytechnic with an undergraduate degree.
73. Sitar Teli
Connect Ventures
Sitar Teli is the Founder and Managing Partner of Connect Ventures. Connect Ventures is a thesis-lead, pan-European, seed stage venture capital firm that invests in opinionated products, crafted with love, and loved by many. Teli has 19 years in the venture capital and private equity industry. She began her career in 2002.
Before founding Connect Ventures, Teli was a Senior Associate at Doughty Hanson Technology Ventures and before that a Senior Analyst at Jefferies Broadview. Earlier in her career, she worked with Broadview as an Analyst. Teli graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Mechanical Engineering and Economics.
74. Doug Higgins
Sapphire Ventures
Doug Higgins began his professional career 26 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder and Managing Director of Sapphire Ventures. Sapphire Ventures is a leading venture capital firm that partners with visionary teams and venture funds to build companies of consequence.
Higgins first got his start in 1995 as an Investment Banking Analyst at Robertson Stephens. From there, he went on to Lucasfilm, before eventually rising to Head of Business Development and Strategic Partnerships at CollabNet, his most recent position prior to founding Sapphire Ventures. Higgins graduated from Northwestern University - Kellogg School of Management with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree.
75. Garheng Kong
HealthQuest Capital
Garheng Kong began his professional career 21 years ago. Today, he is the Founder and Managing Partner of HealthQuest Capital. HealthQuest Capital is a sector-specialist manager that provides growth capital to transformative companies that are optimizing value in healthcare, either by improving outcomes or improving efficiency and delivery and lowering cost.
Kong first got his start in 2000 as a General Partner at Intersouth Partners. From there, he went on to Sofinnova Ventures, his most recent position prior to founding HealthQuest Capital. Kong graduated from Duke University with an MD, PhD in Biomedical Engineering, an MBA and with bachelor's degrees in Chemical Engineering and Biological Sciences.
76. Arup Banerjee
Windfall
Arup Banerjee is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Windfall. He first founded the company in 2016. Windfall Data is on a mission to help organizations make better informed data-driven decisions. The company serves nonprofit and for-profit organizations by providing actionable consumer financial data. More than 500 organizations use Windfall Data to identify and engage their most promising constituents
Previously, Banerjee was a Senior Vice President of Product Management at Radius Intelligence and before that a Senior Product Manager at GoodData. Earlier in his career, he worked with Citi as an Investment Banking Financial Analyst. Banerjee earned an MBA from Haas School of Business, UC Berkeley, and an undergraduate degree in Economics and Computer Science from Duke University.
77. Andrew Kitchell
Lyric
Andrew Kitchell is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Lyric. Lyric is a tech and data-powered real estate and lifestyle hospitality company for the modern business traveler. They design space and technology which empower a more creative and connected world. He is also the founder of Wheelhouse, a software that helps users manage their short-term rentals as professionally and efficiently as a major hotel. Kitchell has 14 years in the hospitality industry. He began his career in 2007.
Before founding Lyric, Kitchell was the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Beyond Pricing and before that worked in Marketing and Business Development at Movity. Earlier in his career, he founded 30 Words and focused on Product Design. Kitchell graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree.
78. Jason Langheier
Foodsmart
Jason Langheier began his professional career 21 years ago. Today, he is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Foodsmart. Foodsmart, is the world's leading Foodcare provider, where they make food as medicine a reality. Their telenutrition program makes healthy eating personalized, convenient, and affordable. By removing these barriers they make it possible for people to change their eating behaviors, leading to long-term health outcomes.
Langheier first got his start in 2000 as an Analyst at Mercer Management Consulting. From there, he went on to Boston Medical Center & Nutrition and Fitness for Life, before eventually rising to Co-Founder and Chief Technology Officer at Proventys, his most recent position prior to founding Foodsmart. Langheier graduated from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health with an MPH in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Decision Sciences, from Duke University School of Medicine with an MD in Bioinformatics and Neurobiology, and from Williams College with an undergraduate degree in Biology and Neuroscience.
79. Sean Crafts
Mavenlink
Sean Crafts is the Founder and Chief Compliance Officer of Mavenlink, first founding the company in 2008. Mavenlink enables professional services organizations to optimize resources and elevate operational performance to build a thriving business. They enable resource managers to field the best team, every time and see up-to-the minute progress against timelines and budgets so projects run smoothly, predictably, and profitably.
Previously, Crafts was a Senior Director at InQuira. Crafts earned a JD in law from the University of California, Berkeley and an undergraduate degree in Environmental Studies and Philosophy from Duke University.
80. Justin Klein
Vensana Capital
Justin Klein is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Vensana Capital, first founding the company in 2018. Vensana Capital is a venture capital firm with a passion for medical technology innovation and entrepreneurship. Their investment professionals and advisors are singularly focused on the sector, and bring their experience, network and resources to bear at every stage of the company building process.
Previously, Klein was a Partner at New Enterprise Associates. Klein earned an MD from Duke University School of Medicine, a JD in law from Harvard Law School, and an undergraduate degree in Economics from Duke University.
81. Kunal Agarwal
Unravel Data
Kunal Agarwal is the Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder of Unravel Data. Unravel is radically simplifying the management of big data applications and systems. Unravel is built by data experts from the ground up to tackle unique challenges in modern data systems such as Spark, Kafka, Presto and more. The world's most innovative companies use Unravel to make data live up to its promise. Agarwal has 15 years in the computer software industry. He began his career in 2006.
Before founding Unravel Data, Agarwal was a Sales Director at eOne Infotech and before that a Business Intelligence Consultant at Express Scripts. Earlier in his career, he worked with Sun Microsystems as a Grid Computing Specialist. Agarwal graduated from Duke University with an MBA in Entrepreneurial Studies and from Valparaiso University with an undergraduate degree in Computer and Electrical Engineering.
82. Michael J. Fitzpatrick
Blast Motion, Inc.
Michael Fitzpatrick began his professional career 31 years ago. Today, he is a Co-Founder and CEO of Blast Motion. Blast Motion is a creator of bat sensor technologies for baseball.
Fitzpatrick first got his start in 1990 as a President and CEO at Network Systems Corporation. From there, he went on to Pacific Telesis Enterprises, before eventually rising to Chairman and CEO at E-TEK Dynamics, his most recent position prior to founding Blast Motion. Fitzpatrick graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree.
83. Karl Siebrecht
FLEXE
Karl Siebrecht began his professional career 25 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of FLEXE. Flexe solves the hardest omnichannel logistics problems for the world’s largest retailers and brands. Integrating technology, open logistics networks, and elastic economic models allows Flexe customers to move fast, at scale, and with precision. Flexe brings deep logistics expertise and enterprise-grade technology to deliver innovative eCommerce fulfillment, retail distribution, same-day delivery, and network capacity programs.
Siebrecht first got his start in 1996 as a Manager at Bain & Company. From there, he went on to aQuantive, before eventually rising to the chairman at EnergySavvy, his most recent position prior to founding FLEXE. Siebrecht graduated from Dartmouth College - The Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Economics.
84. Ali Behbahani
New Enterprise Associates
Ali Behbahani is a General Partner of New Enterprise Associates (NEA). He first joined the company in 2007. NEA partners with founders to turn big ideas and bold aspirations into the products, services, and solutions that shape the future.
Previously, Behbahani was a Venture Associate at Morgan Stanley Venture Partners and an Analyst at Lehman Brothers. Behbahani earned an MBA in Healthcare Management and Entrepreneurial Management from The Wharton School, an MD from the University of Pennsylvania, and an undergraduate degree in Biomedical and Electrical engineering, and Chemistry from Duke University.
85. Odysseas Papadimitriou
WalletHub
Odysseas Papadimitriou is the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of WalletHub. WalletHub is a leading personal finance website that helps consumers make smarter financial decisions. They offer free credit scores and reports, credit monitoring, reviews of financial products and companies, and extensive financial education. Papadimitriou has 21 years in the internet industry. He began his career in 2000.
Before founding WalletHub, Papadimitriou was a Chief Executive Officer and Founder of CardHub and before that a Senior Director in Marketing and Analysis at Capital One. Papadimitriou graduated from Duke University - The Fuqua School of Business with an MBA in Finance and from Brown University with an undergraduate degree in Civil Engineering and Economics.
86. Ignacio Leonhardt
Handy HQ
Ignacio Leonhardt is the Co-Founder of Handy HQ. He first founded the company in 2012. Handy is the leading platform for connecting individuals looking for household services with top-rated, pre-screened independent service professionals.
Previously, Leonhardt was an analyst at Goldman Sachs. Leonhardt earned an MSc from London School of Economics and Political Science and an undergraduate degree in Computer, Electrical Engineering, and Economics from Duke University.
87. Bill Brown
8 Rivers Capital
Bill Brown is the Co-Founder, Executive Chairperson and CTO of 8 Rivers Capital. 8 Rivers is developing the sustainable infrastructure of tomorrow by inventing and commercializing large-scale innovations in future-critical areas. Brown has 41 years in the venture capital and private equity industry. He began his career in 1980.
Before founding 8 Rivers Capital, Brown was a Managing Director at Morgan Stanley & Co. and a SVP at AIG. Earlier in his career he worked with Donovan Leisure Newton & Irvine as an Associate. Brown graduated from Duke University School of Law with a J.D. and from Massachusetts Institute of Technology with an undergraduate degree in Biology and Political Science.
88. Rob Go
NextView Ventures
Rob Go began his professional career 20 years ago. Today, he is the Co-Founder and Partner of NextView. NextView Ventures invests in companies that use technology to drive a brighter collective future.
Go first got his start in 2001 as a Senior Associate at The Parthenon Group. From there, he went on to Letslink, Inc., before eventually rising to Online Strategy at Fidelity Investments, his most recent position prior to founding NextView. Go graduated from Harvard Business School with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Economics.
89. Evan Beard
Standard Bots
Evan Beard is the Founder and CEO of Standard Bots. He first founded the company in 2017. Standard Bots is a robot that can perform many physical tasks with a positive ROI.
Previously, Beard co-founded A Plus and served as their CEO. Before that he co-founded two companies, Gridtech and Wilshire Shaw. Beard earned an undergraduate degree in Economics and Computer Science from Duke University.
90. Jason Freedman
Peak State Ventures
Jason Freedman is a Partner of Peak State Ventures. Peak State Ventures is partnering with visionary founders shaping the future of work. Freedman has 14 years in the venture capital and private equity. He began his career in 2007.
Before joining Peak State Ventures, Freedman was a CTO at Knotel and before that the Co-Founder and CEO of 42Floors. Earlier in his career he founded Openvote Inc. and served as the CEO. Freedman graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Public Policy and Economics.
91. Jonathan Seeber
Updata Partners
Jonathan Seeber began his professional career 24 years ago. Today, he is a General Partner of Updata Partners. Updata Partners provides growth capital to market leading software companies. Led by a team averaging more than 20 years of operating and investment experience in the software industry, they invest in high-growth businesses where the combination of their capital and growth expertise help accelerate success.
Seeber previously served in the Air Force as an Officer. From there, he went on to IBM working in Corporate Development, his most recent position prior to joining Updata Partners. Seeber graduated from Harvard Business School with an MBA and from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Computer Science and History.
92. Jan Bouten
Innova Memphis
Jan Bouten is a Partner of Innova Memphis. He first joined the company in 2009. Innova Memphis is a venture capital and private equity company based out of Memphis, Tennessee. Their mission is to enable and create high-growth companies and jobs in the healthcare, technology and AgTech fields by providing seed capital and experienced hands-on mentorship and leadership.
Previously, Bouten was an Executive Director of Tecworks at Memphis Bioworks Foundation and a Venture Partner at Aurora Funds. Earlier in his career he worked with Madge Networks as a Marketing Engineer. Bouten earned an MBA from Duke University - The Fuqua School of Business and an undergraduate degree in Computer Science from Fontys University of Applied Sciences.
93. Justin Wickett
Informed.IQ
Justin Wickett is the Founder and CEO of Informed.IQ, an AI startup serving the financial
services industry. Informed uses machine learning models to classify, analyze, and extract data
from documents used in consumer lending, mortgage, and bank account openings.
Prior to founding Informed.IQ, Wickett was Director of Product at Credit Karma, responsible for offerings to consumers in the auto loan refinancing and insurance categories. Earlier, Wickett worked at Lyft during its rapid growth phase, reporting to the CEO and overseeing all passenger growth initiatives. At Lyft, Wickett also helped restructure the product management and engineering groups to give product managers ownership over metric goals. Wickett started his career at Zynga Poker, a top 20 Grossing app across several platforms and Zynga’s evergreen product. He rose to Director of Product, hiring and leading a 12-person product team and overseeing revenues of $250M. For the last six years, Wickett has served as an Advisor to PicsArt, the world’s largest mobile photo editing app with over 150M Monthly Active Users. He advises PicsArt on social use cases, growth channel upside, new user experience, and international market expansion. Wickett has a bachelor’s in Computer Science from Duke University and holds several US patents.
94. Akshita Iyer
Ome
Akshita Iyer is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ome. Ome is reinventing how consumers cook at home. Ome will instantly turn a stove into a smart one with their easy-to-use smart knobs so users can focus less on cooking and more on living. Iyer has 2 years in the consumer electronics industry. She began her career in 2019.
In addition to her roles at Ome, Iyer is currently working with Techstars and BSH Home Appliances Group. Iyer graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Neuroscience and Consumer Behavior.
95. Russell Fadel
Augmentir
Russ Fadel is CEO and Co-Founder of Augmentir, the world’s only AI-powered Connected Worker platform. Connected Worker software is designed to close the rapidly expanding skills gap in the industrial frontline workforce. Augmentir uses Artificial Intelligence to provide personalized guidance and support to manufacturing and service workers to enable them to perform complex operational and maintenance tasks at their personal best.
Prior to founding Augmentir, Russ founded four other successful manufacturing software companies, the most recent include: ThingWorx (acquired by PTC) and Lighthammer (acquired by SAP). Russ graduated from Duke University with a BS in Mechanical Engineering.
96. Brian Model
Topmark Partners
Brian Model is the Managing Partner of Topmark Partners. At Topmark Partners they collaborate closely with management teams to build high growth technology-enabled businesses. The team at Topmark Partners has invested together for 20 years and has invested approximately $84 million in 48 growth stage companies.
Model currently serves on the board of directors of Clerio Vision, GTR, Ride Health, itopia, CoachCare, Lumetrics, and Critical Mention (observer). Model is active in the regional venture investing community, serving as executive committee member and past president of the Upstate Capital Association of New York and a member of the board of directors of the Florida Venture Forum. Model earned an undergraduate degree Economics from Duke University and an MBA, with honors, from Columbia Business School.
97. Bant Breen
Qnary
Bant Breen is the Founder, Chairman, and Chief Executive Officer of Qnary. He first founded the company in 2016. Qnary is an award-winning executive reputation management and talent branding solutions company. By leveraging executives’ social media presence, Qnary helps establish and elevate their thought leadership, ultimately positively impacting business growth, brand awareness, and talent acquisition/retention for their respective organizations.
Previously, Breen was a Chief Executive Officer and consultant at Harte Hanks and before that a worldwide Chief Executive Officer at Reprise Media (IPG). Earlier in his career, he worked with Leo Burnett as a Regional Digital and Integrated Communications Director. Breen earned a Ph.D. in Artificial Intelligence and Marketing from Blanquerna, an MA in History from the University of Cambridge, and an undergraduate degree in History and Art History from Duke University.
98. Meranee Phing Naaman
The Riverside Company
Meranee Phing Naaman is a Senior Partner at The Riverside Company, a global private equity firm, focused on the lower end of the middle market or companies with enterprise values under $450 million. She first joined the firm in 2005 and heads the firm’s consumer focused technology investments globally.
Prior to joining The Riverside Company, Naaman was a Private Equity Associate at DB Capital Partners, Deutsche Bank and before that an Investment Banking Analyst at The Robinson-Humphrey. Over the years Naaman has served as a Board Member for several organizations. Naaman has a bachelors in Biology, History and Chemistry from Duke University and an MBA in Finance, Management & Strategy and Marketing from Northwestern University.
99. Parker Treacy
Cobli
Parker Treacy is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Cobli. Cobli is developing next generation fleet management technologies focused on South America, seeking to bring fleet intelligence to add more efficiency for companies. The startup recently raised $35 million from SoftBank.
In addition to his roles with Colbi, Treacy is the Founder and Board Member of First Help Financial LLC and an Entrepreneur with Endeavor. He graduated from Duke University with an undergraduate degree in Economics and Mathematics and from Harvard Business School with an MBA.
100. Neil Sharma
SolarKal
Neil Sharma is a CoFounder and the Chief Operating Officer of SolarKal. SolarKal is the largest commercial solar energy marketplace in the U.S, connecting businesses to a network of solar providers to arrive at the customer's optimal outcome. Through a tech-driven proprietary bidding platform, real estate owners, non-profits, businesses and corporations can easily compare customized quotes from dozens of pre-vetted solar providers.
Sharma brings 25 years of experience spanning finance, venture capital, sales and marketing, technology product management, and national and international expansion. Prior to SolarKal, Sharma held senior management roles at two Series A stage startups, responsible for fundraising and growth strategy. Prior to this, Sharma worked for Viacom, launching new technologies in the media space, and in banking and VC at Bank of America and Spire Capital Partners. Sharma holds a Bachelor degree in Science from Duke University and an MBA from Columbia Business School.