BioCT

3-Part Webinar Series: 20+ Tariff Reduction Strategies - Hosted by CLA
2025-04-30 10:00 - 11:00 (America/New_York) | VIRTUAL
Are you ready to navigate the complexities of tariffs and build a roadmap for future success? Join us for an insightful complimentary three-part webinar series where we’ll explore more than twenty tariff reduction strategies.
Learn how to evaluate your current state and implement effective strategies to mitigate the impact of tariffs on your business.
Sessions

Session 1 — April 30: Tariff Mitigation Strategies: Controlling What You Can Control
Session 2 — May 7: Transfer Pricing, Logistics, and Reshoring
Session 3 — May 14: Advanced Tariff Strategies

See the event page for more details on each session.

Retain and grow: How upskilling builds loyalty and strengthens leadership - Hosted by Insperity
2025-04-30 11:00 - 12:00 | VIRTUAL
A lack of growth opportunities can send your best employees searching for greener pastures. Upskilling programs are a great way to mitigate this risk. Not only do they help your workforce grow, they strengthen loyalty, reduce turnover, and build a robust leadership pipeline!
Join Insperity for the third in our webinar series, Attract, Retain, and Grow – Optimizing Your People Strategy. We’ll take a deep dive into designing upskilling initiatives that promote long-term employee commitment and align with your organizational goals.
In this session, you’ll learn:

Steps to build impactful upskilling programs focused on in-demand skills like AI and leadership.
How to combine skill development with meaningful incentives for career growth.
Ways to foster loyalty and trust through a culture of continuous learning.

Start building the workforce of tomorrow, today.

ICFs - UK and US Clinical Considerations - Hosted by Faber
2025-04-30 11:00 - 12:00 | VIRTUAL
Comparative Perspectives, Best Practices, and Risks Associated with Drafting and Deploying ICFs

Speakers

Jodi Stanfield, Principal·Faber Daeufer & Itrato

Jodi is the leader of Faber’s clinical development practice group. In addition to her client work, she provides training and oversight for attorneys’ and contract specialists’ handling of contract matters within the clinical development group.

Gina Wu, Senior Counsel·Faber Daeufer & Itrato

Gina is a skilled transactional lawyer who counsels life sciences clients in structuring, drafting, and negotiating domestic and cross-border transactions for the research and development of drug, medical device, gene therapy, cell therapy, and diagnostic products.

Marc Dautlich, Partner·Bristows

Marc helps clients to evaluate and manage data protection and cyber risk in cross-border compliance programs, in technology projects involving the development of machine learning/artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, cloud applications, in life sciences and medical device projects covering healthcare apps, remote diagnostics, clinical trials and investigations and genomic research, and in the financial services sector across the lifecycle of product development and FinTech applications.

Alex Denoon, Partner·Bristows

Alex is passionate about the life sciences sector and advises about regulatory issues all day every day. Alex’s advice is informed by a BSc in Human Genetics and in-house experience, including as GC of a biopharmaceutical company, and brings 25 years’ experience advising clients in the sector. Alex advises clients in relation to challenging issues including genomics, cell and gene therapies, 3D printing, healthcare Apps, companion diagnostics, borderline products and combination products.

Business Strategies: Building a Strong Foundation Amid Uncertainty - Hosted by CohnReznick
2025-04-30 14:00 - 15:00 | VIRTUAL
Join industry and service leaders across CohnReznick, as well as panelists from leading banking institutions and law firms, as we take a deeper dive into maintaining liquidity, cost-cutting measures and potential growth opportunities, debt restructuring, banking relationships, and more.

Topics for our panelists may evolve over time, but will include:

Strategies for businesses to adapt and thrive in this evolving landscape.
Practical insights and actionable steps to manage uncertainty and mitigate risk.
Best practices to mitigate the impact of a potential recession.
Trends in the lending and capital markets.
Evolving legal and regulatory concerns.

Speakers:

Cindy McLoughlin (Moderator) Managing Partner – Consumer, Hospitality, and Manufacturing Industries, CohnReznick
Yvette Connor (Panelist) Partner, Practice Leader Risk Advisory, CohnReznick
Roger Matthews (Panelist) Vice Chairman, Global Consumer & Retail Investment Banking, Bank of America Securities
Kelli Santia (Panelist) Director, Strategic Risk Management, General Motors
Phillip Taub (Panelist) Partner, Head of Private Equity, Nixon PeabodyAmit Wadhwani (Panelist) Senior Director, Third Party Global Operations, TransUnion

We encourage you to ask questions in the registration form to make the most of this opportunity to prepare your business for the future.

MAPS-Connecticut Event Peer Coaching Workshop: Aligning Work and Life Core Values
2025-05-01 18:00 - 20:30 | Connecticut Innovations, 470 James Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, United States
Discover a transformative opportunity to align your personal and professional values at this active workshop led by Dr. Treble-Barna. Begin the journey with a warm and welcoming session to foster psychological safety and authentic connections. Through guided reflection and discussion, you’ll explore how your core values can better integrate with your professional life, helping you unlock greater fulfillment and balance. Learn to partner with peers to gain clarity on your goals, challenge limiting beliefs, strategize solutions, and uncover fresh possibilities in a supportive environment.
Program:
6:00 p.m. – 6:15 p.m. Check-in and light refreshments
6:15 p.m. – 8:15 p.m. Peer-coaching workshop
8:15 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. Wrap-up
Speaker Bio:
Amery Treble-Barna, PhD, PC, Founder of MasterMind Executive Leadership
Dr. Treble-Barna is a professional executive coach, NIH-funded Principal Investigator at the University of Pittsburgh, and mother of two young daughters. She combines her sophisticated understanding of neuroscience, learning, and human behavior as a neuropsychologist and neuroscientist with practical experiences as a leader, scientist mother, and professional coach. She balances evidence-based strategies with genuine warmth and authenticity to provide coaching and professional development programming that is insight-oriented and results-driven.

Alzheimer's Association 12th Annual Celebrating Hope Gala
2025-05-02 18:30 - 23:00 | Delmar Greenwich Harbor, 500 Steamboat Road, Greenwich, CT, 06830
Please join the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter for an evening of auctions, dinner and inspiring moments as we highlight our community impact, celebrate a new era of treatment, and honor the strength of those impacted by the disease.
Together, let’s join the momentum toward a brighter future!

Scientifically Speaking: Explore the Science of Mending Hearts - Hosted by The Jackson Laboratory
2025-05-06 14:00 - 15:00 | VIRTUAL
Our next installment of Scientifically Speaking will feature two talented postdoctoral associates who are exploring innovative approaches to heart disease research. Join us to learn about the latest genetic discoveries and have a chance to ask questions during an interactive Q&A with our scientists:

Lisa Wren, Ph.D., will present her promising new therapeutic interventions targeting the genetic mechanisms of heart failure.
John Bachman, Ph.D., will showcase his collaborative research project on the hazards of certain cancer treatments for heart disease.

The content is intended to be accessible and engaging for all audiences. Register today!

Nucleate New Haven - Demo Day 2025
2025-05-07 13:00 - 17:30 | 101 College St, 101 College St, New Haven, CT, 06510
​Nucleate is a student-led nonprofit organization focused on helping academic trainees become founders and translate world-class research into impactful life science ventures. By pairing innovators with resources, mentorship, and a global network, Nucleate aims to break down barriers to company formation and create a new wave of biotech innovation.
​Demo Day marks the culmination of our flagship Activator program—featuring ventures led by academic trainees from across Connecticut. Over the course of the program, teams refine their ventures and hone their pitches in preparation for this final showcase. These emerging biotech founders will present their solutions, demonstrating how collaboration, mentorship, and innovation can drive the future of life sciences.

2025 WCBA & ABCT Pitch Day
2025-05-07 13:00 - 18:00 | West End Labs, 125 W End Ave, New York, NY, 10023
Join us for the 14th Annual FirstXFounder Pitch Day!
​12 WCBA 2025 ventures
​7 ABCT 2025 ventures
​Meet next generation biosciences leaders as they introduce their breakthroughs in therapeutics, diagnostics, medical devices, and digital health.
​Featuring AI/ML, precision medicine, novel materials, gene therapy, small molecule technologies.
​Targeting women’s health and well-being, rare disease, cancer, pain measurement and pain management, birth control, clinician support, patient care, research support.
​Join us to meet the next generation of biosciences leaders in Metro New York and Connecticut!

CLA Outlook: Elevating Your Talent and Tech Strategies
2025-05-08 12:00 - 12:30 | VIRTUAL
Join us for our next CLA Outlook session as we go live on LinkedIn to delve into two key topics: technology and talent. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights and have your questions answered in real time.
We’ll cover:
• Leveraging technology to drive innovation
• Strategies for developing and elevating your team’s talent
• CLA’s outlook on what to expect in the coming days and weeks

Connecticut Innovations' Spring Networking Event
2025-05-08 17:00 - 19:00 | Nomade, 150 Main Street, Westport, CT, 06880
In addition to thoughtful conversation, delicious bites and great company, our incredible photographer Mimi Zhou will be offering free professional headshots.
If you plan to take one, we recommend sticking to neutral, solid colors, and avoiding distracting patterns or big pieces of jewelry.

Connecticut's Office of Innovation Presents: Innovation Spotlight
2025-05-08 17:00 - 20:00 | space67 studios, 67 Wall Street, Norwalk, CT, 06850
Innovation Spotlight provides startups and early-stage businesses an opportunity to network with key resources in Connecticut, present their business to a room of potential investors and growth partners, and receive grant funding for innovation-driven projects.
This in-person event is the culmination of rounds of review and planning.
Meet the Spotlight Presenters:
Cahoot,
Nivalon Medical,
Particle-N,
Search/ABLE,
TBP Diagnostics,
TM Nutrition,
Zemi Labs

CohnReznick's Annual New Markets Tax Credit Summit
2025-05-12 - 2025-05-14 | Loews Miami Beach Hotel, 1601 Collin Avenue, Miami Beach, Florida
Now in its 24th year, the Summit has become a not-to-be-missed event for anyone involved with the NMTC Program and the communities it serves. Connect with fellow NMTC industry participants and advocates, as well as members of CohnReznick‘s New Markets Tax Credits Practice, for this industry-leading educational and networking event.

Connecticut Health Council's Annual Healthcare Summit-Strategic Collaborations for Transformative Healthcare
2025-05-15 08:00 - 11:30 | Univeristy of Saint Joseph, West Hartford, CT, 06117
This year’s summit is tailored for healthcare executives, policymakers, health insurance leaders, and stakeholders seeking to deepen their knowledge of value-based care and explore how strategic collaboration can drive improved health outcomes and greater equity across the healthcare ecosystem. The event will explore the state’s initiatives, challenges, and collaborative opportunities to address health disparities. As providers and insurance companies focus more on overall patient well-being—beyond just treating symptoms—value-based care models are driving new approaches to improving patient outcomes. Health systems are investing in research to enhance healthcare delivery, while also finding innovative ways to support patients with housing, food, and transportation to prevent larger health issues down the line. This summit will provide a platform for leaders to discuss these evolving strategies and how to work together to create a more equitable healthcare ecosystem in Connecticut.
Keynote Address: The Intersection of Value-Based Care & Health Equity
The shift toward value-based payment models presents an opportunity to embed health equity into sustainable healthcare transformation. Vanessa Guzman will discuss strategies for aligning equity goals with business objectives, integrating data-driven approaches, and fostering cross-sector partnerships to advance care access, quality, and affordability.
Panel 1: Strengthening Health Equity Through Policy & Systemic Change
Session Overview:
As Connecticut prepares to implement value-based care models, state-level policies must be leveraged to ensure equitable healthcare access. This discussion will explore policy-driven approaches to reducing disparities, expanding Medicaid’s role in health equity, and fostering payer-provider community collaboration within Connecticut’s regulatory framework.
Panel 2: Transforming Healthcare: A Payer’s Guide to Addressing Health Inequities
Session Overview:
Aligning incentives between payers and providers under value-based care is key to improving healthcare access, affordability, and quality. This panel will explore how health plans are leveraging data-driven strategies, provider partnerships, and public health frameworks to close equity gaps and drive clinical transformation.

Collaborative CT
2025-05-15 16:30 - 18:30 | Hotel Marcel, 500 Sargent Drive, New Haven, Connecticut, 06511
Join us for Collaborative CT, the casual networking event bringing together our diverse innovation community.
Cash bar and appetizers, courtesy of the Greater New Haven Chamber of Commerce, and we look forward to bringing awareness to local non-profit, New Haven Reads.

2025 Science of Stability Conference - Co-Sponsored by FreeThink Technologies
2025-05-19 - 2025-05-21 | Science History Institute, 315 Chestnut Street, 19106
The Science of Stability (SOS) Conference exposes attendees to the latest discoveries and innovations in the science of stability across different industries that include pharmaceuticals, generics, nutraceuticals, Over-the-Counter (OTC), and consumer products. It is a must-attend program for anyone interested in accelerated aging, degradation chemistry, and stability.
For details on the agenda, speakers and travel, please click here.

The Impact of the IRA on Patient Access and Affordability - Hosted by Pioneer Institute
2025-05-20 12:00 - 13:00 | VIRTUAL
Join Pioneer Life Science Initiative fellows Dr. Robert Popovian and Dr. William Smith for a presentation of Pioneer’s new IRA Webtool at the Institute’s Washington D.C. office. Attendees will get a firsthand view of this newly developed tool designed to measure the Inflation Reduction Act’s impact on access to Medicare Part D drugs. Popovian and Smith will demonstrate how this analytical tool enables policymakers, stakeholders, and citizens to examine the data and address the fundamental question: is the IRA working and has it made it easier for seniors to access their drugs?
Both in-person and online registration are available; don’t miss your chance to see firsthand how this exciting and insightful tool works.
Available via Zoom or In Person.

Biotech Leadership & Risk: Navigating Capital, Clinical Trials, and Market Dynamics - Hosted by Aon
2025-05-20 16:00 - 19:00 | Aon NYC Office, 165 Broadway, New York, NY, 10006
Join us at Aon’s NYC office for an exclusive Life Science Industry Event, bringing together key leaders across the sector for an insightful panel discussion and networking happy hour.

Our panel of industry experts will explore the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the life sciences landscapes, including:

Clinical Trials
Investment Strategies
Risk Management
The complexities of navigating IPOs

Speakers:
Sam Van | SRO Partners
Managing Partner
Amy Nguyen | CTI Clinical Trial and Consulting Services
VP of Business Development and Strategic Relationships
Roland Skenderi | Aon
Senior Vice President, Clinical Trial Liability Group Leader
Jeffrey Kraws | Crystal Research Associates
Co-Founder and CEO
Moderator:
Alexander Minier | Aon
SVP, Financial Services Group

Building a people-centered brand: Attracting talent through care and culture - Hosted by Insperity
2025-05-21 11:00 - 12:30 | VIRTUAL
In a job market dominated by well-known brands, how can your organization stand out?
By emphasizing care, culture, and flexibility, you can create a people-centered employer brand that attracts top talent and inspires employee loyalty.
Join us for this dynamic webinar, the final installment in our series Attract, Retain, and Grow – Optimizing Your People Strategy, where we’ll uncover strategies to craft a brand story that resonates with candidates from recruitment to onboarding and beyond.
Here’s what you’ll take away:

How to position your employer brand as a key differentiator.
Tips for aligning your message with what today’s workforce values most – growth, well-being, and purpose.
Actionable ways to highlight your organization’s strengths throughout the candidate journey.

Take the first step toward becoming an employer of choice.

Unlocking Tax Credits and Incentives for Business Growth - Hosted by CLA
2025-05-21 12:00 - 13:00 | VIRTUAL
Join us for an exciting complimentary webinar to explore how organizations across all industries can leverage tax credits and incentives to manage cash flow and drive growth.
Our high-level overview of available credits and incentives can help you take advantage of potentially valuable benefits for your business.
Topics covered:

R&D credits
Energy credits
Work Opportunity Tax Credit
State credits/incentives

Speakers:

Jennifer Rohen, Principal
Ginny Veit, Principal
Brandon Hill, Principal

Alzheimer's Association CT Chapter's Annual Research Reception
2025-05-21 17:30 - 20:00 | Sacred Heart University, 3135 Easton Tpke, Fairfield, CT, 06825
You and a guest are formally invited to the Alzheimer’s Association Connecticut Chapter’s ANNUAL RESEARCH RECEPTION. Join us to learn how your support drives Alzheimer’s and dementia research, and discover how today’s locally funded science is shaping tomorrow’s breakthroughs.
This year’s event will feature poster presentations and an informative talk with Chris Weber, PhD, Senior Director of Global Science Initiatives at the Alzheimer’s Association as he shares the latest in Alzheimer’s
and dementia research, followed by a panel discussion including:
• A researcher targeting Tau tangles, a hallmark of Alzheimer’s
• A member of the US POINTER lifestyle study team
• A local woman participating in an Alzheimer’s prevention trial
Registration Required

CLA Outlook: Everything You Wanted to Know About Tariffs (But Were Afraid to Ask)
2025-05-22 10:00 - 10:30 | VIRTUAL
Join us for our next CLA Outlook session as we go live on LinkedIn to delve into the complexity of tariffs and provide valuable insights for reducing their impact on your business. We’ll also address the most pressing questions from our recent three-part tariff mitigation webinar.
We’ll cover:

Stories straight from organizations with direct experience implementing tariff mitigation strategies
Real-word examples of tariff engineering, use of FTZs, and more
CLA’s outlook on what to expect in global trade dynamics and trends in tariff policies
Practical steps to prepare for and adapt to the unpredictable nature of tariff policies

Speakers:

Leslie Boyd, Managing Principal of Industry, Manufacturing, CLA
Jennifer Clement, Client Relationship Leader, CLA
Kyle Fedorcha, Chief Operating Officer, Iwis
Mary Buchzieger, Chief Executive Officer, Lucerne International

Connecticut's Office of Innovation National Science Foundation Workshop
2025-05-23 08:30 - 15:00 | DECD, 450 Columbus Boulevard, Hartford, CT, 06103
The National Science Foundation (NSF) invests more than $200 million annually in their SBIR/STTR Program to promote the progress of science; to advance the national health, prosperity, and welfare; and to secure the national defense.
NSF-funded research has led to breakthroughs and new discoveries that help people live longer, healthier and more productive lives, and builds a research foundation that drives further discovery.
Join this live SBIR workshop for an overview of the NSF SBIR/STTR programs and proposal requirements. In addition to up-to-date information on the SBIR/STTR programs, our expert will review how to get your NSF proposal started and review tips for success so that you’re equipped to submit a competitive proposal.

You’ll learn:

The NSF SBIR/STTR Program’s goals and eligibility requirements
Tips for planning the project
The importance of Program Directors at NSF
Application components and proposal scoring
How to avoid common pitfalls and more!

Yale Innovation Summit
2025-05-28 - 2025-05-29 | CT
The Northeast’s premier gathering for innovation, bringing together visionaries, investors, founders, and industry leaders for two days of discovery, connection, and opportunity.
Over two action-packed days, the Summit features 40+ inspiring panels and keynotes with speakers from across the globe, highlighting the breadth and depth of innovation shaping our future. Spanning six dynamic tracks—arts, biotech, civic, climate, health, and technology—the event showcases thought-provoking discussions, engaging sessions, and pitch competitions where founders share bold ideas and compete for funding and recognition. For qualified investors, the exclusive Investor Assembly offers access to investors and high-impact networking designed to spark new partnerships and fuel transformative innovation.
Schedule
Plan Your Visit

Innovation MADE
2025-05-28 09:30 - 10:30 | Yale School of Management, 165 Whitney Avenue, New Haven, CT, 06511
Opportunity Now: How Quantum and AI Are Shaping Innovation in CT
Join us at the epicenter of ideas and impact—where opportunity is MADE. Stay ahead of the curve.
Learn from top minds. Build game-changing connections.
Connecticut is leading in biotech, life sciences, and quantum—and this panel is where bold questions meet real-world answers. From startups to global players, if you want to learn how to turn innovation into impact, this is the room you need to be in.
Panelists:

Dan O’ Keefe, Chief Innovation Officer & DECD Commissioner
Jodie Gillion, President & CEO, BioCT
Vlad Coric, MD, CEO, Biohaven
Albert Green, PhD, CEO, QuantumCT

BONUS: Your Inhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/albert-m-green/novation MADE ticket also grants you full-day access to the entire Yale Innovation Summit — New England’s premier gathering of entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders — featuring:
40+ keynotes and panels
150+ innovations across biotech, tech, health, arts, civic, and climate
$350K+ in awards
High-impact networking and investor access
Learn more about the Yale Innovation Summit here.

WIB: Harnessing Data Analytics to Drive Breakthroughs in Life Sciences
2025-05-28 13:00 - 14:00 | VIRTUAL
The life sciences industry is evolving at record speed, and data analytics is a major driver behind that shift. Research is moving faster, clinical trials are more efficient, and smarter decisions are being made every day.
In this webinar, we’ll explore how advanced analytics tools and techniques are transforming the way life sciences organizations work—from drug discovery and development to regulatory compliance and patient outcomes. Industry experts will share real-world examples, practical insights, and strategies to help you unlock the full potential of your data and stay ahead in a competitive landscape.
We’ll look at:

where analytics is having the biggest impact,
how machine learning, predictive modeling, and AI are driving smarter decision-making, and
what it takes to successfully scale analytics initiatives across teams and technologies.

If you’re ready to accelerate research, optimize operations, and improve outcomes, this session will show you how data analytics can take your work to the next level.

Speaker Bio
Sophia Ononye, PhD, MPH, MBA, Founder and CEO of The Sophia Consulting Firm
Dr. Sophia Ononye is the Founder and CEO of The Sophia Consulting Firm, a global scientific storytelling consultancy that she founded in New York and re-established in California with the mission of amplifying scientific innovation through human intelligence and AI. Her expertise lies in connecting the dots between scientific research and its impact on humanity through expert interviews, scientific writing, and thought leadership.
She is also the Creator and Host of the Amplifying Scientific Innovation® Video Podcast on YouTube, launched during COVID-19 to elevate the significance of science advocacy, health equity, and influential leadership in sustaining innovation worldwide. She is also a Board Advisor for Daré Bioscience and Biosortia Microbiomics, and was a former President of the Healthcare Businesswomen’s Association (HBA) New York Chapter. Dr. Ononye is also an Adjunct Professor at Concordia University Irvine, an Entrepreneur in Residence (EIR) for Yale Ventures, a Principal Advisor for the Larta Institute, and most recently, a member of RedBoxMe in Collaboration with Cartier.
Dr. Ononye obtained her honors bachelor’s degree from Bowling Green State University, her MPH from the University of Toledo, and her PhD and MBA from the University of Connecticut, from which she received a Tradition of Excellence award. She completed her postdoctoral training in medical oncology research, where she explored metabolic enzymes as potential targets for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) therapy at the Yale School of Medicine. A recent California transplant, she lives with her family in Irvine. Her favorite pastimes include ’90s music, cooking, compelling television shows, and quality time.

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.

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.

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.

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
