For Students
Speaking from Experience
Featuring
8
9
speakers since 2023
A weekly speaker event with networking
John Mordaci, vice president for partnerships, breaks down the Speaking from Experience program and explains what makes it such a unique offering for Golisano Institute’s students and business partners.
Speaking from Experience Highlights
Anthony Scaramucci
Bitcoin for Investors
Anthony Scaramucci is on a mission to mainstream Bitcoin on Wall Street. The founder and co-managing partner of SkyBridge Capital explained why he thinks “crypto” is the future of money.
Sports Symposium
The Business of Sports
Sports is serious business.
Kevin Surace
The AI Future
Kevin Surace, the father of the virtual assistant and self-described futurist, challenged students on all things AI: how they think about it, how they use it, and what they can do with it as entrepreneurs.
Upcoming Speakers
Agathi Georgiou Graham
November 5, 2025Founder & CEO
Arbor Ventures
November 5, 2025
Erica Rogers
December 3, 2025Board Director, Former CEO, & Serial Entrepreneur
December 3, 2025
Nathaniel Harrington
December 17, 2025Founder & Owner
Nat’s Nuts
December 17, 2025
Beau Gringer
January 7, 2026Owner & President
Diamond Shield
January 7, 2026
Cyndi Weis
January 21, 2026Founder & Owner
Breathe Yoga & Juice Bar
January 21, 2026
Evon Jones
February 11, 2026CIO Technology Strategy and Management
Elloyd Group
February 11, 2026The robust curriculum laid a solid foundation, but it’s the hands-on experiences, like networking during Speaking from Experience and my internship, that have truly been transformative.
Ben, class of 2025
Some of Our Past Speakers
Tim Tebow
Founder, Tim Tebow Foundation; College Football Analyst, ESPN and SEC Network; Former NFL Quarterback
June 18, 2025
Erin Tolefree
President & CEO
Baldwin Richardson Foods
February 8, 2025
Anthony Scaramucci
Founder & Managing Partner, Founder & Chairman
Skybridge Capital, SALT
July 2, 2025
Tim Shriver
Chairman
Special Olympics
June 5, 2024
Colleen Matteson
President
Bank of America
November 29, 2023
Tom Monaghan
Founder
Domino’s Pizza
October 4, 2023
Nate Gibbons
Founder & CEO
QuickFi
April 9, 2025
Caroline Yap
Former Managing Director for Global AI Business
Lindy Ruff
Head Coach
Buffalo Sabres
June 18, 2025
Kevin Surace
Futurist, Keynote Speaker, Inventor, TED Speaker, “Father” of the AI Virtual Assistant
June 25, 2025
Networking
Much more than a talk
Each Speaking from Experience offers students an opportunity to engage firsthand with pre-eminent business leaders, venture capitalists, innovators, and beyond. Guest speakers dedicate time after their talks to meeting with students or taking part in focused workshops or discussions. The events are also ideal for businesses and nonprofits to reconnect with colleagues and make new connections across our region.
The Forum
An incredible experience
Our state-of-the-art forum is designed for Speaking from Experience. It features the latest audiovisual technology, including high-definition projection, crystal-clear sound, and seamless connectivity for capturing flawless video. With seating for up to 300 guests, the space ensures clear sightlines and an engaging experience for every participant. Modern design, flexible staging, and advanced lighting make it an ideal venue for impactful business gatherings.
Apply Now.
Enrollment for Spring 2026 at Golisano Institute is now open for those ready to take the next step.
Get startedConnect with admissions.
Interested in learning more but have questions? Get in touch with our admissions team—they’re happy to help.
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