BioCT

Perfect Your Business Pitch: Communicate with Confidence in a New Culture
2025-07-24 12:00 - 13:30 (America/New_York) | VIRTUAL
At the Connecticut Small Business Development Center (CTSBDC), we believe all newcomers to Connecticut with a business idea should be able to deliver a strong, confident pitch. Whether you’re speaking to clients, partners, or investors, don’t let speaking in a second language hold you back. Join our guest speaker, Michelle A. Nicholas, Founder & CEO at THE NICO CONSULTING to learn:

How to craft a clear & compelling elevator pitch
Key American business communication styles
Tips to speak with confidence, even in a second language
Bonus: Use AI tools to refine your message

It’s an interactive session, so bring your questions!

Understanding Your Benefit Plans' Cybersecurity Requirements and Options - Hosted by CLA
2025-07-22 10:00 - 11:00 | VIRTUAL
Protecting an employee’s retirement plan assets from potential security threats and attacks is critical. Leaders must understand where their organization stands in terms of protection, potential vulnerabilities, and how to respond to an incident in the event of an attack.
This complimentary session discusses the types of threats facing today’s employee benefit plans, methods of protection from cyberattacks, and the ERISA Advisory Council’s Report on Cybersecurity Issues in Benefit Plans.
At the end of this session, you’ll be able to:

Recognize the latest developments in cybersecurity
Identify where to focus valuable risk mitigation resources
Recall how to develop and refine a framework of knowledge to plan ongoing security efforts and response strategies

Speakers

Doug Bertossi, Managing Principal of Assurance
Randy Romes, Principal

Collaborative CT
2025-07-17 16:30 - 18:30 | BioLabs, 101 College St, New Haven, CT, 06511
​Join us for Collaborative CT, the casual networking event bringing together our diverse innovation community—from students to seasoned CEOs.
​Bar and appetizers courtesy of this month’s sponsor, BioLabs.
​This month’s nonprofit spotlight is Soderstrom Scholars Fund (SSF).

CohnReznick Presents: Understanding the One Big Beautiful Bill - What you need to know, now
2025-07-17 14:00 - 14:30 | VIRTUAL
With the wide-reaching legislative package commonly referred to as the One, Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA HR1) now enacted, many are asking: What’s included, and how will it impact me? Whether you’re tracking regulatory shifts or just want clarity on what’s ahead, our team has been monitoring the situation to help you stay informed and prepared.
Join members from CohnReznick’s National Tax practice and MG Housing Strategies as we walk through the main components of the bill, anticipated timelines for implementation, and areas that may see the most immediate impact.

Key topics:

Washington watch: A legislative update from the Hill.
Federal tax landscape: A breakdown of key updates including bonus depreciation, Section 163(j), Section 179, R&D (Section 174), PTET, and more.
International tax focus: Coverage of the (now-renamed) GILTI and FDII, BEAT, the remittance tax, and enforcement trends in foreign tax policy, and proposed Section 899.
Energy sector spotlight: Developments impacting energy-related tax strategies
Individual tax proposals: From SALT deduction changes to Section 199A and QSBS expansion—what’s on the table for individuals?
Emerging incentives: Explore Opportunity Zones and LIHTC.

Major Impact of Changes to Research & Development Tax Law - Presented by FML CPAs
2025-07-16 13:00 - 14:00 | VIRTUAL
Join FML CPAs and BioCT as we cover the essential aspects of monumental changes to Research & Development Tax Laws both within Connecticut and at the Federal level. Discover how to maximize your R&D credits in state, and how the “Big Beautiful Bill” has changed the game.
Presented by Partners Frank Milone & Bill Claffey, this webinar will cover key legislative changes to Connecticut’s Research and Development Tax Credit laws impacting biotech companies and how the “One Big Beautiful Bill” has changed the treatment of research and development expenses across all sectors, both at the national level and the trickle-down impact to the State of Connecticut (i.e. the 174 impact).
Speakers:
Frank Milone, Partner, Assurance & Advisory Services, Fiondella, Milone & LaSaracina LLP
One of FML’s Founding Partners, Frank Milone has over thirty years of experience providing audit and advisory services to a broad range of clients within the Northeast marketplace. Frank spent a decade at a national accounting firm prior to co-founding FML in 2002. Frank leads FML’s Emerging Companies and Venture Capital practice and has significant experience working in a variety of industries, including software, software-as-a-service, medical device, life sciences, digital health, financial technology, clean technology, and consumer products. Frank and the FML team regularly advise emerging growth company clients in a broad range of matters, from entity formation to tax structure, debt and equity financings, mergers and acquisitions, strategic collaborations, tax credit and incentives, revenue recognition, stock compensation, and exit planning. Frank’s specialties also include managing the Firm’s Internal Control practice, which includes Sarbanes-Oxley services, SOC 1 and SOC 2 audits, cybersecurity audits and internal audit support services. Additionally, he heads the Firm’s Benefit Plan audit practice and has significant experience auditing both public (11-K) and private defined contribution plans, defined benefit plans and health and welfare plans. Frank earned his B.S. in Accounting from the University of Connecticut and is a Certified Public Accountant. Frank has served on several boards, including as Past President of the Board of Directors of the UConn Alumni Association and Crossroads Venture Group.
Bill Claffey, Partner, Tax & Advisory Services, Fiondella, Milone & LaSaracina LLP

Bill heads the firm’s State and Local Tax Practice with a primary focus on income tax, sales tax, and federal and state credits and incentives. Bill’s experience includes analyzing state tax issues related to business reorganizations, reviewing state tax filings for refunds and favorable filing positions, performing Nexus evaluations, preparing provision and FIN-48 work papers and supporting memorandums, identifying credit and incentive opportunities, and representing clients in state income tax controversy matters. Bill also provides extensive sales and use tax consulting services which include analyzing the taxability of specific buy or sell side transactions, compliance assistance, reverse sales and use tax audits, and representing clients in sales tax controversy matters. Prior to joining FML, Bill had over nine years of experience in the Stamford and Hartford offices of Ernst & Young. Bill earned his JD from Quinnipiac University School of Law and is a member of the Connecticut Bar Association.

Chris Smith, Managing Partner, Rome Smith Kowalski
Chris re-joined Smith Kowalski after serving five years in the administration of Governor Dannel P. Malloy, most recently as Director of Policy and Government Affairs; the Governor’s chief lobbyist. In his position within the administration, Chris oversaw all policy development and implementation of executive branch policies and legislative priorities. In both of his roles previously with the firm and with the Governor’s Office, Chris has developed strong relationships with legislators and staff on both sides of the aisle, with state agency commissioners & staff, and municipal officials in his 20 years working in different capacities at the State Capitol.
John Harkins, Rome Smith Kowalski
John is a former state representative having served 13 years from Stratford’s 120th district. Past leadership appointments include Deputy Minority Leader at large, Caucus Chairman, Assistant Minority Leader, and Ranking Member for the Transportation Committee, Select Committee on Aging, and Veterans Affairs Committee. John also served as the mayor of Stratford for two consecutive four-year terms since 2009. Mayor Harkins led Stratford with a steady hand. By focusing on economic development, the town has grown significantly. With over 23 years of elected service and over 30 years as a small business owner John has been a strong advocate for his constituents. As a lobbyist, he is now focused on client advocacy and business development on both the state and local levels.

CLA Outlook: Planning Opportunities With the New Tax Law
2025-07-16 00:00 - 13:00 | VIRTUAL
Join CLA to get the insights you need to navigate the new tax landscape. Understanding the implications of the new law is critical to making informed decisions.
Join our complimentary one-hour webinar where we’ll share tax planning strategies and financial opportunities for you and your business.
At the end of this session, you’ll be able to:

Individual and Business Tax Provisions: Identify which Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) items were extended or enhanced and how that could impact your tax planning
SALT Cap Changes: Review the changes to the state and local tax (SALT) deduction cap and the implications for taxpayers
Choice of Entity Considerations: Discuss the considerations for choosing the right entity structure, analyzing Sections 1202, 199A, and the 21% corporate tax rate
2025 Estimates and Accounting Methods/Elections: Recall key accounting methods and elections that may shape your financial strategies
Cost Segregation and Bonus Depreciation: Identify cost segregation opportunities, including bonus depreciation and Qualified Property Provisions (QPP)
Energy Credits: Recognize the law’s changes to energy credits enacted under the Inflation Reduction Act
Employer Reporting Responsibilities for Overtime/Tip Provisions: Identify employer reporting responsibilities related to overtime and tip provisions

AIF Member Meeting
2025-07-15 10:00 - 14:30 | Fairfield University, 1073 North Benson Road, Fairfield, CT, 06824
We’re excited to announce that our next member meeting will take place on Tuesday, July 15th, in a live, hybrid format at Fairfield University’s Barone Campus Center; Dogwood Room. A preliminary agenda is attached; will finalize the content for the education block a little later this week.
Please confirm your attendance by clicking the attend AIF button to register for the meeting (if you plan to only attend virtually, please make a note of that in the invitation).

CLA Outlook: Tax Bill Breakdown
2025-07-10 12:00 - 12:30 | VIRTUAL
Now that the tax bill has passed, what can you do to plan ahead?
Join our complimentary livestream on LinkedIn to learn which tax benefits will be extended, which are going away, and what new provisions are in the mix.
What would you like to know?
Bring your questions to the livestream and we’ll share our insights on topics such as:

Individual and business tax updates
SALT cap workarounds
Bonus depreciation
Business interest expense
Research and development expensing

GNHCC Presents: 23rd Annual Health Care & Life Sciences Awards
2025-07-09 15:00 - 18:00 | Canal Dock, 475 Long Wharf Drive, New Haven, CT, 06511, United States
This regional event attracts over 250 attendees who will hear informative presentations about the industry’s latest innovations and updates from members of the health care and life sciences community in Greater New Haven. The awards program will feature presentations to individuals and organizations making strides to advance health care and life sciences in the regional business community.
Our 2025 Honorees:

Bioscience Company – EvolveImmune
Bioscience Innovator Company – XingImaging, LLC
Bioscience Innovator Individual – Christiana Iwuagwu, Medicinal Chemist, ViiV Healthcare
Clinical Program – Yale New Haven Children’s Hospital’s Fetal Care Center
Well-Being / Wellness Program – University of New Haven: WeEmbody Lab
Industry Visionary – Dr. Michael Couturie, Chief Medical Officer of Medical and Dental Services, Cornell Scott-Hill Health Center
Industry Superstar – Dr. Sandra Bulmer, Interim President, Southern Connecticut State University

The Jackson Laboratory Presents: 2025 Annual Forum for Discovery
2025-07-09 13:30 - 16:00 | CT
Step into the future of science at JAX’s annual Forum for Discovery, where we showcase our groundbreaking research and bold ideas to tackle today’s biggest health challenges and shape a healthier tomorrow. Join us in person or virtually. Highlights include:
A State of the Laboratory update from Lon Cardon, Ph.D., FMedSci, president and CEO as he shares how JAX is adapting, innovating and advancing its mission in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Can aging stem cells predict cancer? Hear from Jennifer Trowbridge, Ph.D., professor and Dattels Family Chair as she reveals how mutated blood stem cells drive disease and how new therapies could change the game.
Discover how genetics shape the aging eye and what it reveals about brain health. Professor and Diana Davis Spencer Foundation Chair for Glaucoma Research Gareth Howell, Ph.D., will explore breakthroughs that link vision, disease and the future of early detection.
Participate in person at The Jackson Laboratory, 600 Main Street, Bar Harbor, ME
Virtual audience via Zoom

WIB-Connecticut: Women in Life Sciences Golf Clinic (Rescheduled)
2025-07-07 08:00 - 17:00 | New Haven Country Club, 160 Hartford Turnpike, Hamden, CT, 06517
Due to bad weather on our original date, we’ve rescheduled our event and are opening it back up for registrations.
Our ladies’ golf clinic at the New Haven Country Club provides an opportunity to not only network with other women who work in life sciences but also to learn and hone your golf skills from professionals. New Haven Country Club’s Head Golf Professional, William Wallis, and LPGA’s 2021 National Teacher of the Year, Marissa Kulig Crow, will share tips for beginners and experienced golfers.
The clinic will be followed by lunch and networking on the patio.
Program
10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Registration, Light Breakfast, & Networking
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Golf Clinic (3 Groups: Driving Range, Putting, & Chipping)
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lunch and Open Networking on the Patio

Catalyzing Innovation in Connecticut: Top Visionaries Discuss Innovation Opportunities in the State - Hosted by CI & BioCT
2025-06-26 17:00 - 19:00 | The Village, 4 Star Point, Stamford, CT, 06902
Please note: Registration is full. If you would like to be placed on a waitlist, please email Kelley Gipson at kgipson@bioct.org with your name, email, company and title. You will be notified if space becomes available. Thank you!

Join Connecticut Innovations (CI) and BioCT for a networking event to bring together some of the state’s top visionaries to discuss innovation opportunities in Connecticut.
​Agenda
​Welcome: Jodie Gillon, President & CEO, BioCT
Opening Remarks: Dan O’Keefe, Commissioner of Economic Development & Chief Innovation Officer
Panel Discussion: Catalyzing Innovation in Connecticut

Carine Boustany, SVP, US Research Site Head & Global Head of Immunology & Respiratory Diseases, Boehringer Ingelheim
Angela Hwang, Former: Chief Commercial Officer & President Global Biopharmaceuticals Business, Pfizer | Current: CEO, Metaphore Biotechnologies & CEO/Partner, Flagship Pioneering
Annie Lamont, Co-Founder & Managing Partner, Oak HC/FT
Moderator: Kit Thorpe, Office Managing Partner, Stamford CFGI

​Networking

A variety of Sponsorships are available for this event. Please visit our Sponsorships page or contact Jodie Gillon for more information.
Thank you to our generous sponsors:

Presenting Sponsor:

Gold Sponsor:

Bronze Sponsors:

Collaborative CT
2025-06-26 16:30 - 18:30 | 101 College St, 101 College St, New Haven, CT, 06510
​Join us for Collaborative CT, the casual networking event bringing together our diverse innovation community—from students to seasoned CEOs.
​Bar and appetizers courtesy of the FML.

​Mindvyne presents: Data & Drinks – Eliminating Data Silos in Biotech
2025-06-25 16:30 - 19:30 | BioLabs, 101 College St, New Haven, CT, 06511
​Biotech startups generate an overwhelming amount of data—but how do you ensure that data is actually useful? Data integration is a major hurdle in biotech, affecting everything from research collaboration to regulatory compliance to AI-driven insights.
This evening event is tailored for startup decision-makers: founders, data leaders, and scientists working in drug discovery, diagnostics, and beyond. Expect an informal yet insightful conversation, followed by quality networking over drinks.
Please note: Buzzed for Biotech is now Mindvyne.

SAPA-CT 2025 Inaugural AI Symposium in Biomedicine: Big Data for Societal Big Health - the AI Transformation
2025-06-20 10:30 - 17:00 | Yale West Campus, 800 West Campus Drive, West Haven, CT, 06516
For details and speaker line-up, please click here.

Microsoft Fabric: Unifying Analytics, AI, and Governance for Decision Makers - Hosted by CLA
2025-06-18 10:00 - 11:00 | VIRTUAL
Join our complimentary webinar as we introduce the foundational elements of Microsoft Fabric, including OneLake, Copilot-driven capabilities, and governance tools, emphasizing how these features improve efficiency, decision-making, and compliance.
Learn how you can save up to 40% on data preparation time through unified workflows and Copilot automation.
Key highlights

Unified data platform designed for cost reduction, collaboration, and operational efficiency
OneLake: A scalable data lakehouse enabling centralized and accessible data management
Microsoft Copilot for faster, smarter decisions with automated recommendations and insights
Microsoft Purview governance integration, enabling secure, compliant, and trustworthy data practices

Speaker

Gregory Chambers, Data Analyst Manager

From Baltic Innovation to Boston Breakthroughs: Uniting BioTech Innovators
2025-06-18 07:00 - 09:00 | Hyatt Place Boston Seaport, Boston, MA, 02210
Join us for an exclusive networking side event during the upcoming Bio International Convention 2025, aiming at connecting Lithuania’s and USA’s biotech leaders. This event is designed not only to foster international collaboration, exchange innovative ideas but also to build lasting partnerships between two transatlantic Biotech communities.
BIO International Convention is the largest and most comprehensive event for biotechnology, representing the full ecosystem of biotech with over 20,000 industry leaders from across the globe. Innovative programming around the current and future state of biotech.
Event Highlights:
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in insightful discussions, explore cutting-edge research, and form strategic partnerships that can propel the biotech industry forward.

Keynote Presentations: Engage in thought-provoking discussions and interactive sessions with industry experts featuring the latest insights from leading Biotech Innovators

Panel Discussion & Collaborative Projects: Participate in insightful panel discussion on the latest advancements and collaborative projects between LT and USA in biotechnology field.

Networking: Connect with key stakeholders, researchers, and entrepreneurs from both Lithuania & USA and explore potential collaborative initiatives that can drive innovation and growth in the biotech sector.

Don’t miss this unique opportunity to expand your network, share knowledge, and create meaningful connections that can shape the future of biotechnology. Let’s unlock innovative spirit and collaborative potential between two BioTech regions!

Bioconnect Bash - Venue Update!
2025-06-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Third Place by Half Full Brewery, 575 Pacific Street, Stamford, 06902
Join us for another evening of casual conversation, great company, and new connections at BioConnect Bash, a networking event for professionals in the life sciences industry that live/work close to Fairfield County.
Whether you’re in biotech, pharma, medical devices, healthcare innovation, or healthtech this is the perfect opportunity to meet fellow scientists, researchers, entrepreneurs, and industry experts in a relaxed atmosphere.
Come enjoy drinks, share ideas, and expand your professional circle. Whether you’re looking to discuss the latest breakthroughs, find collaborators, or simply unwind with like-minded individuals.

BIO International Convention
2025-06-16 - 2025-06-19 | Boston Convention Center, 415 Summer Street, Boston, MA, 02210
The BIO International Convention is the largest and most comprehensive event for biotechnology, representing the full ecosystem of biotech with 20,000 industry leaders from across the globe. Whether you work at a public pharmaceutical company, biotech startup, academia, non-profit organization, or government agency; or you work as a researcher, business development professional or investor, BIO is where you’ll make valuable connections and build relationships.
Once again, Connecticut will exhibit with a delegation of partners, showcasing our growing life sciences industry to a global audience. Plan to visit the Connecticut Pavilion at booth #635 to network with colleagues to show your support for Connecticut.
Schedule of Events:
Tuesday, June 17th
~Breakfast Reception Hosted by Wiggin and Dana • Time: 9AM
~Panel Discussion – Quantum Applications in Drug Discovery & Development • Time: 2:30PM – 3:30PM
Speakers: Dr. Victor Batista, Yale University & Dr. Bodhi Chaudhuri, University of Connecticut • Moderator: Dr. Albert Green, QuantumCT
~Yale Club of Boston’s Life Sciences Happy Hour • Location: Harpoon Brewery • Time: 6:30PM
Registration Fees: $15 for Yale Club Members, $25 for non-members
Wednesday, June 18th
~Special Appearance by Yale’s Handsome Dan • Time: 10AM – 3PM
~Evening Reception Hosted by Wiggin and Dana • Location: Foster’s Pavilion, Boston Harbor Hotel • Time: 5PM
This is an invitation-only event. Please rsvp to Jennifer Hill at jhill@wiggin.com.

Representatives from BioCT and AdvanceCT will be in attendance. Please reach out if you would like to schedule a meeting.

Jodie Gillon – President & CEO, BioCT
Kelley Gipson – COO, BioCT
Kim Kelly – Vice President, BioCT Incubators
Cathy Scangarella – EVP, Business Development, AdvanceCT
Tim Miller – VP, Business Development, AdvanceCT

The Pavilion is being supported by the Connecticut Department of Economic and Community Development, Connecticut Innovations, BioCT, AdvanceCT, and many other state partners.

8th Annual Heathcare Investment Forum & Roadshow - Presented by SAPA
2025-06-13 12:30 - 17:30 | PWC New York Office, 300 Madison Avenue, NY, NY
In a year marked by transformation and uncertainty, the Sino-American Pharmaceutical Professionals Association (SAPA) proudly presents the 8th Annual Healthcare Investment Forum & Roadshow — a premier platform for biotech entrepreneurs, executives, dealmakers, business developers, and investors to strategize, connect, and drive growth.
This year’s forum features distinguished leaders from The New York Stock Exchange, Merck, Oppenheimer, Baker McKenzie, Guggenheim Partners, MSQ Ventures and more. The keynote speech and two strategic outlooks will share insights on biotech entrepreneurship, investment trends, and IPO strategies. Two expert panels will explore capital raising and strategic deal making amid market volatility, offering actionable insights for navigating today’s global biotech landscape.
In 2025, the global economic landscape remains volatile, especially in the biopharmaceutical sector where the capital winter continues. With ongoing market fluctuations, evolving policy landscapes, and cross-border activity accelerating, this forum offers timely insights, access to capital, and strategic partnership opportunities. We warmly encourage early registration to secure your spot and capitalize on this unique opportunity for collaboration and growth.

BVS Biotech Community Innovation Night
2025-06-12 16:00 - 19:00 | 115 Munson St. New Haven, CT 06511, 115 Munson St., New Haven, CT, 06511
Mark your calendars for a great opportunity to connect with industry leaders, explore innovative products, and mingle with fellow professionals in the biotech community.
We are inviting all research scientists from the institutes, biotech and other companies in New Haven and surrounding areas to attend this event.

Vendor Exhibits: Discover a diverse range of exhibitors showcasing cutting-edge technology and services in the biotech space.
Networking Opportunities: Engage with fellow industry experts, forge new connections, and exchange ideas that could shape the future of biotech.
Lab Tours: Take a tour of the lab space available at 115 Munson
Delicious Food & Drinks: Enjoy delicious refreshments as you network and explore the vendor exhibits.

Statewide Job Fair - Hosted by CT Dept of Labor
2025-06-12 10:30 - 13:00 | Central Connecticut State University, 150 Ella Graso Blvd, Nw Britain, CT, 06050
The CT Dept of Labor is hosting a large job fair at Central Connecticut State University Alumni Hall. Seventy Connecticut employers will be recruiting for jobs at all career levels across a variety of industry sectors. Mid-and high-level professionals, including former federal workers, are encouraged to attend. No registration is necessary, just bring copies of your resume and be ready to speak directly to potential employers.

Assessing Your Cybersecurity Risk, the Financial Impact, and Where to Start - Hosted by CohnReznick
2025-06-11 14:00 - 15:00 | VIRTUAL
With cybersecurity attacks always on the rise, businesses need to stay updated on both external threats and internal vulnerabilities. Our webinar addresses these challenges by providing strategic insights and recommendation for keeping your organization safe. Join members CohnReznick’s Cybersecurity, Technology Risk and Privacy Team along with members of Mastercard’s Cyber Quant Resource Team as we discuss:

The dynamics of conducting risk assessments and their significance
CohnReznick’s approach to cybersecurity risk assessment
Insights from CohnReznick’s assessment practice leader
Perspectives from a technology expert for Mastercard Cyber Quant

CLA Outlook: Markets — June 2025
2025-06-11 13:00 - 14:00 | VIRTUAL
The CLA 2025 Outlook series dives into the most pressing subjects and trends shaping our world. We invite you to tune in to our third-quarter market update for an insightful discussion around policy, the economy, and financial markets.
Topics:

Policy — How the latest legislative tax policy discussions could impact your
financial plan
Economy — How tariffs, inflation, and interest rates can affect GDP and portfolios
Markets — Outlook for equities, fixed income, and alternatives

CLA Outlook: Microsoft Fabric — Unifying Analytics, AI, and Governance for Decision Makers
2025-06-11 10:00 - 11:00 | VIRTUAL
Join our complimentary webinar as we introduce the foundational elements of Microsoft Fabric, including OneLake, Copilot-driven capabilities, and governance tools, emphasizing how these features improve efficiency, decision-making, and compliance.
Learn how you can save up to 40% on data preparation time through unified workflows and Copilot automation.
Key highlights:

Unified data platform designed for cost reduction, collaboration, and operational efficiency
OneLake: A scalable data lakehouse enabling centralized and accessible data management
Microsoft Copilot for faster, smarter decisions with automated recommendations and insights
Microsoft Purview governance integration, enabling secure, compliant, and trustworthy data practices

Speaker:

Gregory Chambers, Data Analyst Manager

RIMS Presents: Fiduciary Liability Across Business & People Risk
2025-06-10 17:00 - 18:00 | Louis Dreyfus Company, 40 Danbury Road, Wilton, CT, 06897
Join the Fairfield/Westchester County RIMS Chapter for a Fiduciary Liability Across Business & People Risk panel discussion hosted by Aon during the RIMS Fairfield-Westchester Chapter Annual Meeting. Our industry experts will dive into what drives fiduciary liability, key risks and excess fee litigation, how to reduce these risks, and much more.
The Aon hosted panelists include:

Matt Maloney (Moderator) – Aon, Greater New York Wealth Leader
Jay Desjardins – Aon, National Practice Leader Fiduciary Risk
JD Piro – Aon, National Practice Leader Health Solutions Legal Consulting Group
George Xenakis – Aon, Connecticut Wealth Practice Leader

After our session is over, dinner will be served and guests will have the opportunity to network and meet the panelists.

WIB-CT: Women in Life Sciences Golf Clinic
2025-06-10 10:00 - 13:30 | New Haven Country Club, 160 Hartford Turnpike, Hamden, CT, 06517
Our ladies’ golf clinic at the New Haven Country Club provides an opportunity to not only network with other women who work in life sciences but also to learn and hone your golf skills from professionals. New Haven Country Club’s Head Golf Professional, William Wallis, and LPGA’s 2021 National Teacher of the Year, Marissa Kulig Crow, will share tips for beginners and experienced golfers.
Program
10:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. Registration, Light Breakfast, & Networking
10:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Golf Clinic (3 Groups: Driving Range, Putting, & Chipping)
12:00 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. Lunch and Open Networking on the Patio

EWIB-Connecticut: Elevating and Navigating Your Career in Biotech
2025-06-03 17:00 - 19:00 | Elm City Social, 266 College Street, New Haven, CT, 06510
Join Executive Women In Bio Connecticut for an evening of connection and insight with local executive women in life sciences. We’ll explore important career transition strategies and best practices for navigating and elevating careers during times of uncertainty. Light appetizers and a cash bar will be available.
Program
5:00 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. Check-in and Networking
5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. Fireside Chat and Q&A
6:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Networking
Speakers
Laura Ekas, Head of Corporate Strategy and New Product Planning at Rallybio
Laura has more than 14 years of experience in the biotech industry. Her broad background includes experience in global pricing and reimbursement, corporate operations, and investor relations at Alexion Pharmaceuticals. Prior to Alexion, Laura was a Consultant at Insight Strategy Advisors, a healthcare strategy consulting firm, where she focused on patient access, pricing, and supply chain strategies. Before this, she held positions of increasing responsibility at Canaccord Genuity Group, including Vice President of Biotech Equity Research. She earned a BA in behavioral biology from Johns Hopkins University and a PhD in pharmacology and signal transduction from the New York University School of Medicine.
Kevin Palisi, Managing Director at Ancora Search
Kevin Palisi is Founder and Managing Director of Ancora Search, a retained executive search firm focused on the recruitment of senior executives and physician leaders in life sciences, healthcare services, and related industries. Before Ancora, Mr. Palisi served as a Principal in Korn Ferry’s Stamford office and was a Global Healthcare Services Practice member. Previously, he served as Director of Talent Acquisition for Magellan Health, a national specialty health services company with businesses in Behavioral Health Management, Pharmacy Benefit Management, Radiology Benefit Management, and integrated Health Insurance Plans. Mr. Palisi led physician and clinical leadership recruitment across all divisions and oversaw key executive searches.

Aon University | Health Benefits Sequence Educational Series: Demystifying Health Plan Funding
2025-06-03 12:30 - 13:30 | Aon Norwalk, 800 Connecticut Avenue, Suite 3E01, Norwalk, CT, 06854
Join Aon’s underwriting experts for an in-depth educational session designed to help Rising HR Leaders gain a clearer understanding of the financial mechanics behind self-funded and fully insured medical plans. In today’s evolving benefits landscape, choosing the right funding strategy is critical to balancing cost control, risk management and employee needs. This session will break down the core differences between funding models, provide tools for evaluating plan performance and offer insight into what questions to ask during renewals or when considering a funding change.
Key topics include:
• Core differences between self-funded and fully insured medical plans
• How underwriting works in each model
• Key metrics to monitor for plan performance and renewal preparation
• Risk assessment: stop-loss, pooling charges, margin considerations
• How to interpret financial reports and underwriting deliverables
• When and how to consider switching funding models
Whether you’re new to benefits funding or looking to deepen your expertise, this session will equip you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and engage more effectively with internal stakeholders and insurance partners.
Seating is limited. RSVP directly to your Aon Contact or Cathy Vellutino, catherine.vellutino@aon.com.

Aon University | Commercial Risk Sequence Educational Series: Management Liability
2025-06-03 10:00 - 11:00 | Aon Norwalk, 800 Connecticut Avenue, Suite 3E01, Norwalk, CT, 06854
Management Liability w/ Aon CEO for FSG, Tim Fletcher
As risk and finance leaders step into more strategic roles, understanding the complexities of management liability insurance is critical. Join Aon’s Tim Fletcher, CEO Aon Financial Services Group, for an educational session designed to empower emerging leaders with the knowledge and tools needed to confidently evaluate and manage these essential coverages. This interactive session will demystify the components of management liability insurance packages and explore how these policies work together to protect the organization and its leadership.
Attendees Will Learn:
• The structure and purpose of management liability insurance programs
• Key differences between core policies and how they respond to claims
• What underwriters look for – and how your organization’s profile impacts pricing and coverage
• How to read and compare policy language, limits and exclusions
• Common coverage gaps and how to avoid them
• Trends shaping the management liability market, including litigation drivers and regulatory pressure
Who Should Attend?
Ideal for rising professionals in risk management and finance roles, this session will provide foundational knowledge and practical insights to support stronger collaboration with brokers, underwriters and executive leadership.
Seating is limited. RSVP directly to your Aon Contact or Cathy Vellutino, catherine.vellutino@aon.com.
