At UNC, Lam not only coached All Americans and National Champions, but also developed young coaches, including some of the most prominent names in the college sport today.

Lam’s sphere of influence includes involvement with those coaches and their programs. As head coach for 30 years at the University of North Carolina, Coach Lam distinguished himself and the school.

Individually, he was recognized by the school, conference and national wresting organizations, including being named Man of the Year and Coach of the Year by his peers nationally.

Coach Lam has authored a chapter on CHOICES in Brian Tracy’s new book “Pushing to the Front”

Lam took over a program which went 2-11 the year before he became head coach and promptly guided UNC to a 11-2-1 season. At the time, the 11 wins were a school record. Subsequently, Lam’s team have broken the record for wins in a season five other times, including an all-time high of 18 wins in 1987 and 1989. In 1979, Lam led the Tar Heels to their first-ever national Top-20 finish as they placed 17th. After a 13th-place showing in 1981, Carolina soared to fifth in 1982. That is the highest an ACC team has ever finished at the national championships. UNC also was sixth at the NCAA meet in 1986 and 1994, seventh in 1987 and eighth in 1995.

Lam coached 37 All-Americas and earned ACC Coach of the Year honors 10 times. In 1982, he was honored as national coach of the year. In 1983, he was voted National Man of the Year.

Lam wrestled at the University of Oklahoma under legendary head coach Tommy Evans. Lam earned All-America honors at 157 lbs. in 1964 and 1965, finishing third and second in the country, respectively. As a senior in 1966, Lam was undefeated and ranked number one in the nation. However, he suffered broken ribs at the Big 8 Championship and was unable to compete at the NCAA Championship. He posted  the Sooners’ record for career victories.

A special education major, he received his bachelor’s degree from OU in 1966 and also earned his master’s degree at OU in counseling and guidance.

Ron Lewis is the founding pastor and overseer (affectionately called “Bishop”) of King’s Park International Church.

He has been in Christian ministry for 45 years, planting churches, pastoring and raising up a generation of young people to further God’s kingdom in the earth.
Upon graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Ron helped establish a campus ministry that eventually grew into King’s Park International Church, touching the universities and communities of Raleigh, Durham and Chapel Hill. In the years since, he has helped plant more than 100 churches in America and around the world, which in turn have established more than 200 churches in 20+ nations.

With the help of Every Nation Ministries, Ron co-founded a dynamic, growing church in New York City (Every Nation NYC) in response to the tragedy of 9/11. The church has been reaching the greater metropolitan area of New York City ever since, and Ron serves as senior minister there. Other ministries he founded include Jordan Lewis Missions, the award-winning Youth Life Foundation of the Triangle and Campus Harvest.

Ron received his theological training from Reformed Theological Seminary, has authored three books (Answering the Call, Standing on the Word and Miracles in Manhattan and wrote the final chapter on “reconciliation” for the late Bill Bright’s final book, Living The Second Mile Life.

Ron is married to speaker/author Lynette Lewis and has three sons, all happily married, and one son with Jesus in heaven. Jordan Lewis Missions was established in honor of his late son, Jordan, and has been very fruitful in helping Unreached People Groups (UPG’s) hear about the Lord Jesus. Ron and Lynette also have twin daughters and share their time between Raleigh/Durham, New York City and Brentwood, Tn.

Former CEO of TTI Milwaukee Tools and Former COO/President of Amazon.

Joseph Galli Jr. credits wrestling not only for preparing him for the rigors of an intense business career, but also for teaching him three key lessons that proved highly valuable: how to work hard, manage pressure and learn and bounce back from setbacks.

Growing up near Pittsburgh, Galli watched his father work six days a week building a successful scrap metal business in spite of attending school only through the eighth grade. The example of discipline, dedication and just plain hard work set the younger Galli up perfectly for the sport of wrestling where such characteristics were not just valued, but necessary for success.

He caught the eye of coaches at the University of North Carolina and wrestled there from 1976-80. Fiercely competitive, he was team captain as a senior, winning the Atlantic Coast Conference title at 142 pounds while helping the Tar Heels capture the team title.

After graduation, he took that competitive drive and willingness to outwork his opponents into the world of business. He began his career in 1980 at Black & Decker where he worked for over 19 years and held various high-level management positions, rising to the position of President of Worldwide Power Tools and Accessories. During his tenure at Black & Decker, he was responsible for the highly successful 1992 launch of the DeWalt® brand heavy duty power tools.

After leaving Black & Decker, Galli joined Amazon.com where he was President and Chief Operating Officer from 1999 to 2000, and was Director and Chief Executive Officer of Newell Rubbermaid Inc. from 2001 to 2005.

Galli joined Techtronic Industries Co. Ltd. in 2006 as the Chief Executive Officer of Techtronic Appliances and was appointed as Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director of TTI in 2008. He is responsible for integrating acquisitions in North America and Europe, and enhancing the global sales potential of the group’s strong brand portfolio. He is also responsible for leading the management team in the group’s daily operation.

Today, under his direction, TTI is a world-class leader in design, manufacturing and marketing of power tools, outdoor power equipment, and floor care and appliances with brand names like Milwaukee, Ryobi, Homelite, Hoover, Oreck and Dirt Devil. TTI has pioneered the expansion of cordless tool technology using lithium ion batteries.

Galli graduated from the University of North Carolina in 1980 with a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, and obtained an MBA from Loyola College in 1987. He grew up in New Kensington, Pennsylvania, and graduated from Valley High School in 1976.

VP of Sales of ImageQuix and former District Manager of PayChex.

Lam has served since July 2019 as Vice President of Sales in the United States and Canada for Raleigh-based ImageQuix, a provider of goods and services for the high-volume photography industry.

She has also served since July 2017 as regional sales director for Ascentis, a maker of human capital management software, and has more than 20 years of sales experience with other companies such as Paychex, primarily in human resources services.

As a passionate and dedicated leader! “The mark of a person is not found in the past, but how one overcomes adversity and builds the future. “John Maxwell Quoted ” Experience isn’t always the best teacher because you get the test first and the lesson later. That is, if you learn the lesson.

Driven, focused, and mission-oriented; Marilyn always does right by her company and respects leadership. The best sales professionals identify and see patterns ahead of time. Her past experiences, including working in both depressed economic climates and in growth environments, taught her a lot about how to adjust, adapt and select the best strategies for moving forward. Her core belief is a strong work ethic and that means doing your very best and going above and beyond.

She’s most proud of using the leadership techniques, emotional intelligence and passion to develop others. Fostering a trusting and thriving environment where everyone excels and dream big.

Lynette Lewis is an author, TEDx speaker and business leader, addressing audiences in the U.S. and abroad for more than 30 years.

Her tools and strategies for achieving personal and professional dreams, navigating tough people, and enduring seasons of waiting and pain, relate powerfully to audiences ranging from small intimate teams, to arenas of thousands.

Her eclectic career has taken her from PR and marketing at a major university, to the senior marketing leader for the National Women’s Initiative at Deloitte in New York City. She has served on many boards, and as an instructor for the George W. Bush Presidential Center.

Her professional insights and relatable style are woven in topics including, “The Power of Purpose,” “Building Your Personal Brand and Legacy,” and many more. Her best-selling book, Climbing the Ladder in Stilettos, has received recognition from The Wall Street Journal, The New York Post, and The Dallas Morning News.

She’s appeared on The Today Show and numerous media outlets, and co-hosts the “What Are You Thinking Podcast?,” video podcast which is seen by millions globally. A working mother of six with five grandchildren, she lives with her husband, Ron Lewis, and young twin daughters, in Raleigh NC.

Pastor James D. Lowe is the Senior Pastor of Bethel World Outreach Church in Brentwood, Tennessee, where he has faithfully served since joining the pastoral staff in 2007.

After serving as Senior Associate Pastor, he stepped into the role of Senior Pastor in 2012, continuing Bethel’s mission of “Reaching a City to Touch the World.” His leadership is marked by a deep commitment to discipleship, community transformation, and bringing people from every background into a life-changing relationship with Jesus Christ.

Before coming to Bethel, Pastor James began his ministry under the leadership of Pastor Marvin L. Winans in Detroit, Michigan. In 1997, he and his wife, Debbie Winans-Lowe, relocated to Nashville, where his passion for serving communities led him to the Martha O’Bryan Center in 2000. In 2003, he became the Director of the Youth Life Foundation of Tennessee, dedicating his work to mentoring and empowering the next generation.

Throughout his career, Pastor James has been recognized for his passion for people, especially at-risk youth. He pioneered gang intervention initiatives in both Detroit and Nashville, developing sustainable programs designed to break cycles of violence, delinquency, and hopelessness. He also partnered with organizations such as United Way of Greater Nashville and helped shape funding strategies through the Outcome-Based Investment Council to strengthen community impact.

His heart for outreach extends beyond the walls of the church. Pastor James is the visionary behind Unite Nashville, a citywide movement that brings churches, organizations, and communities together to serve neighborhoods, meet practical needs, and demonstrate the love of Christ through unity and action.

Pastor James earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from Eastern Michigan University. He and his wife, Debbie Winans-Lowe, have been married since 1995 and are the proud parents of three sons. Together, they continue to serve with a shared passion for seeing lives transformed by the Gospel.

Debbie Winans is a celebrated Christian artist known for her powerful voice, heartfelt ministry, and unwavering faith.

She rose to prominence as one half of the dynamic duo Angie & Debbie Winans, whose self-titled debut album earned them a coveted spot as the opening act on Whitney Houston’s Bodyguard Tour.

Her career in music began as a background vocalist for her siblings, BeBe & CeCe Winans, sharing stages with legends such as Whitney Houston.

As the tenth child of the legendary Winans family—often referred to as the First Family of Gospel—Debbie carries forward a rich legacy of faith and music. She currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee, with her husband of 30 years, Pastor James Lowe, Senior Pastor of Bethel World Outreach Church in Brentwood, TN. Together, they are raising three incredible sons while serving their community with passion and purpose.

Beyond the stage, Debbie’s heart beats for ministry. She is devoted to sharing the Good News of the Gospel and has a special passion for mentoring the next generation. Whether through music, speaking engagements, or community outreach, she is committed to being a vessel of God’s love and hope.

In her downtime, Debbie treasures time with her family. On Saturdays during the fall season, you’ll often find her cheering on the sidelines at her sons’ college football games or enjoying a cozy movie night with loved ones.

Debbie Winans lives with intention and authenticity—her life, music, and ministry are fueled by a deep love for God and people. Her mission is clear: to spread God’s love and light to a world in need.

Phil Ford is a legendary basketball point guard who won the 1978 National Player of the Year award at the University of North Carolina and the 1979 NBA Rookie of the Year award with the Kansas City Kings.

As a point guard, Ford earned first-team All-America honors three times and was the 1978 National Player of the Year. In his 11-year stint as a UNC assistant coach, Ford was a tireless instructor, motivator and recruiter. Ford has been a part of five Final Four appearances, five NCAA Regional titles and five ACC Tournament titles. He has coached 10 first-round draft picks, including 1998 National Player of the Year Antawn Jamison.

Ford, Jamison and Michael Jordan are the only Tar Heel players to win the John Wooden Award as the nation’s top player. Carolina is the only school to have three different payers win the Wooden Award.

Ford, a native of Rocky Mount, N.C., and a 1974 graduate of Rocky Mount High School, was a backcourt star on Carolina teams that won 99 of 124 games in his four years. As a senior, Ford won the coveted Wooden Award. He was also named the National Player of the Year in 1978 by the United States Basketball Writers Association, the National Association of Basketball Coaches and The Sporting News.

Ford is Carolina’s alltime leading scorer with 2,290 points. Ford earned first-team All-ACC accolades in 1976, 1977 and 1978. He also was named first-team All-ACC Tournament in 1975, 1976 and 1977 and second-team in 1978. He was listed on multiple All-America teams in earning first-team status in 1976, 1977 and 1978. He was also a first-team freshman All-America in 1975.

Ford was taken as the second player in the 1978 NBA draft by the Kansas City Kings and won the 1979 NBA Rookie of the Year award. He also was named to the NBA All-Rookie Team and to the All-NBA second team. Ford’s tenure with the Kings lasted four seasons, and he finished his NBA career by playing one year with the New Jersey Nets and the Milwaukee Bucks and two seasons with the Houston Rockets.

Ford was inducted into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in May 1991.

Former NBA World Champion Assistant Coach and UNC Assistant Basketball Coach.

Dave Hanners was an assistant basketball coach at UNC from 1989 to 2000. A native of Columbus, Ohio, Hanners graduated from Walnut Ridge High School, where he won a state championship while playing with Brad Hoffman and Ed Stahl, both of whom would eventually become Tar Heel teammates of Hanners.

A guard at Carolina in the mid-1970s, Hanners earned four letters and was a tri-captain of the 1976 team with Mitch Kupchak and Bill Chambers. As a senior, he helped lead the team to a 25-4 overall mark and a 13-1 record in the Atlantic Coast Conference.

In 1976, Hanners earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Education from Carolina. After graduating, he worked on the Tar Heel staff for two years as a graduate assistant coach, helping Eddie Fogler with the junior varsity program. Hanners earned his Master of Arts degree in English Education from UNC in 1978.

From 1978-80, Hanners worked as a high school head coach at the University School in Milwaukee, Wis., and in 1979-80 he coached at Westover High School in Fayetteville, N.C. After his high school coaching stint, Hanners entered the collegiate ranks, serving as an assistant coach at UNC Wilmington for three years, at Furman University for two years and at East Tennessee State University for four years.

Tim Johnson is the senior pastor of Orlando World Outreach Church, a multicultural, multigenerational congregation with a mission to reach the Orlando area for Christ and equip people to serve their community.

An ordained minister, he was inspired to launch the church while serving as senior pastor of Bethel World Outreach Church in Nashville, where he and the elders oversaw both the business and spiritual life of a large multi-congregational church. His ministry experience spans discipleship-based ministries and church planting, and in 2014 he was named national “Faith-Based Leader of the Year” by the John C. Maxwell Organization, selected from more than 2,500 nominees.

Johnson’s passion for community transformation began during his NFL career, when he co-sponsored football clinics in Washington, D.C. and his hometown of Sarasota, Florida, and co-founded the Good Samaritan Foundation in 1993 with Art Monk, Charles Mann, and Ernest Byner. He later served as President of the Youth Life Learning Center in Nashville and as chaplain for the New Orleans Saints. In 2016 he founded the Orlando Serve Foundation and launched He Got Up!, a citywide celebration and resource fair that connected more than 15,000 people across Orange, Seminole, and Osceola counties to essential services between 2016 and 2022. He also organized the “Walk of Mourning” following the death of George Floyd, bringing churches and civic leaders together for a day of prayer and hope for healing. His initiative Fatherless No More, a discipleship program at Rikers Island, became a documentary featured on ESPN, Good Morning America, and The 700 Club, and won the Best Documentary Audience Award at the Florida Film Festival.

Before ministry, Johnson was a standout athlete at Penn State, where he was a Walter Camp All-American and part of the undefeated 1986 National Championship team. Drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in 1987, he went on to play for the Washington Redskins from 1990 to 1995, earning Defensive Player of the Year honors in 1993 and winning Super Bowl XXVI. He finished his career with the Cincinnati Bengals and has since been inducted into the Sarasota High School Hall of Fame. Tim and his wife, Le’Chelle, live in Orlando and are the parents of four adult children.

COO Sundance Square Management, LLC and Former City Manager of Fort Worth, Texas

David Cooke became Fort Worth’s city manager on June 30, 2014. Cooke is responsible for implementing the Mayor and City Council’s policies and managing the $3.3 billion city government enterprise with 8,100 employees. While the City of Fort Worth’s population grows at approximately 20,000 new residents per year, Cooke’s focus is on:

• Exceptional customer service
• Maintaining a long-term perspective
• Stressing partnerships to provide services and solve complex public policy problems
• Planning and implementing the infrastructure needs of a growing city

His prior experience includes 13-1/2 years as County Manager and four years as Deputy County Manager in Wake County, North Carolina; and 12 years with the city of Charlotte, North Carolina. Cooke has also worked with a full-service engineering and consulting firm, has taught economics at a community college and was a presidential management intern with the Department of Defense. Cooke received his undergraduate degree and master’s degree in public administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

Founder & CEO, Mellōnaid

Mihali Stavlas is a nationally recognized marketing strategist and brand experience architect, and the founder of Mellōnaid, an analytical and creative agency based in Raleigh, North Carolina. For more than two decades, he has helped organizations clarify their story, align strategy with experience, and build brands that convert prospects into lifelong advocates. Under his leadership, Mellōnaid has partnered with organizations including the CIA, Cisco, Disney, GEICO, GSK, HP, IBM, John Deere, Lenovo, The White House, and Volvo.

A sought-after international speaker, Mihali presents on marketing, design, leadership, and brand strategy, challenging organizations to think beyond campaigns and build holistic brand experiences that drive measurable growth. He previously hosted the radio show This Week in Marketing, reaching millions of listeners worldwide. Mihali has held leadership roles, including national board positions with the American Marketing Association and American Institute for Graphic Artists.

When he’s not advising brands, Mihali can be found skydiving, flying a Boeing Stearman Model 75, or investing in community transformation through his nonprofit, EPIC at Work, which has helped train more than 1,700 entrepreneurs worldwide. He is married to his best friend, Laura, and they have two kids, Kaylee and Tyler.