Tracy Kirchman
Advisor
As the Academy Glass Faculty at Punahou School, Kirchmans’ role encompasses more than just imparting knowledge; it’s about shaping the creative and cognitive abilities of our students through project-based learning. With over three years in this position, Kirchmans’ methodology hinges on integrating arts into the rigorous academic curriculum, fostering a holistic educational environment.
Kirchmans’ work at Cedar Sunrise School as the founder and lead teacher revealed the transformative power of education during challenging times. Tasked with the unique opportunity to create a nurturing learning space amidst a global crisis, our team’s commitment to arts integration and secondary education has cultivated resilience and innovation in both the staff and students.
Mason Awtry
Advisor
Innovative entrepreneur and chief executive having founded, owned, and led over 16 successful companies, employing over 2,000 individuals, and contributing over $1 billion to the U.S. economy since starting first business at the age of 12. Throughout Awtrys’ career, his business ventures have maintained a focus on corporate social responsibility to the community and industry. Awtrys’ companies have a proven track record of environmental responsibility and sustainability.
Today, he serves as the CEO of Wurkwel Ventures, a holding company of portfolio businesses that are dedicated to improving the modern office experience while expanding, relocating, or downsizing their space. Chief among his priorities are consistency, reliability, and quality service. Wurkwel Ventures is made up of Rightsize Facility, Office Furniture Center, MAC relocations, Chicago Film Furnishings, Chicago Commercial Storage and FurnitureFinders.com
Juan Saldana
Advisor
Juan Saldana is an accomplished entrepreneur and innovator with a passion for real estate and entrepreneurship. Currently, he serves as the Founder and Managing Principal of P3 Markets, LLC, a position he’s held since February 2018. At P3 he co-developed a 100MM mixed-use/mixed-income commercial/retail property that includes 50% affordable housing, and leads efforts with TIF, acquisition, project investment, community equity RDA, WBE/MBE procurement opportunities, local ownership/leasing, and project management.
Juan is also the developer of Xquina Cafe, an impact investment in real estate with the Foundation of Little Village responsible for delivering 11K of commercial retail, office, and shared office space with 5MM budget. He is also the Technical Assistance provider to the City of Chicago Neighborhood Opportunity Fund and provides owner-representative services to 15 companies that represent 12MM of local investment