Elevating Leadership Through Human Connection: Strategic Decision-Making in the Kitchen

Elevating Leadership Through Human Connection: Strategic Decision-Making in the Kitchen

As today’s leaders navigate increasingly complex environments, the 2025 TD Bank Morning Star Speaker Series offers a refreshing reminder: some of the most powerful leadership lessons happen not in the boardroom, but in dynamic, human-centered experiences.

On June 26, the Board of Trade, in partnership with TD Bank and MGM National Harbor, hosted the second installment of this year’s Morning Star Speaker Series—Strategic Leadership Through Culinary Teamwork. Set in the warm, vibrant space of Osteria Costa, the event brought together senior executives and rising leaders for an interactive experience centered on collaboration, trust, and shared ownership.

From the Kitchen to the Leadership Table

The session featured MGM Executive Chef Anthony Cieplinski, who guided attendees through a hands-on culinary challenge—crafting custom pizzas in pairs—while delivering thoughtful insights on leadership dynamics. As teams worked side-by-side, they reflected on the parallels between kitchen collaboration and business decision-making: adapting in real time, listening actively, and trusting others to lead.

Key Takeaways on Collaborative Leadership

Throughout the session, themes of trust-building, flexibility, and mentorship came to life in unexpectedly resonant ways:

  • Strategic Communication – Whether deciding on toppings or navigating high-stakes meetings, clear communication and active listening are essential.
  • Adaptability Under Pressure – As in any kitchen, unexpected changes require composure and creativity—skills equally vital in today’s fast-paced business world.
  • Shared Ownership – From crust to concept, attendees were reminded that strong teams thrive when responsibility and recognition are shared.

Following the culinary session, attendees enjoyed a seated lunch featuring their handmade pizzas. Table discussions encouraged reflection on leadership styles, mentorship, and how trust and adaptability are cultivated within teams.

The format fostered thoughtful dialogue and meaningful peer exchange, creating a warm, relaxed environment where laughter, storytelling, and real connection took center stage. With just about 30 participants, the setting allowed for deep conversations and strong takeaways that will stay with attendees long after the final slice was served.

Looking Ahead

This was the second session in the 2025 Morning Star Speaker Series. The final session, NextGen Leadership Storytelling, will take place in the fall and focus on helping executives communicate with authenticity, confidence, and clarity.

Special Thanks

The Greater Washington Board of Trade extends its deep appreciation to TD Bank for 18 years of partnership and continued investment in human-centered leadership development, and to MGM National Harbor for their generous hospitality and commitment to cultivating inclusive, people-first experiences.

What We’re Learning from Regional Leaders About the Path Forward | Executive Lunch Series Insights

In a time of rapid transformation, the Greater Washington Board of Trade has continued to bring together executive leaders across sectors to explore what it will take to shape a more resilient, competitive, and connected regional economy. 

Through a series of executive lunches this spring, we’ve heard directly from those leading the charge—on the ground, in the boardroom, and across our communities. From energy and transportation infrastructure to education, capital access, and wellness, the discussions have revealed a shared urgency and a growing consensus: Greater Washington is at a defining moment, and the path forward depends on bold collaboration across business, academia, and government. 

A Region Ready for Reinvention 

Whether we’re talking about reshaping our education system or rethinking how we power the future, the message from leaders has been consistent: incremental change is no longer enough. 

Anne Khademian, Executive Director of the Universities at Shady Grove, highlighted how public trust in higher education has declined even as workforce expectations have risen. She emphasized the need for new models that align institutional goals with learner outcomes and employer needs that bring business, government, and academia together around a shared vision for talent development. 

That same spirit of shared responsibility came through in our workforce-focused conversation with Selvon Waldron, Executive Director of Genesys Works. He underscored the importance of early exposure to opportunity and the role that employers can play in building more inclusive pipelines for the next generation of talent. 

Creating the Conditions for Inclusive Growth 

As we navigate rising costs, new technologies, and evolving labor dynamics, the conditions that support business success are shifting. 

At our session focused on capital access, we heard from market presidents of banks across the region who stressed the importance of flexible financing tools, local partnerships, and intentional strategies to direct capital where it can make the biggest impact, especially in underserved communities. 

And in our lunch exploring health and wellness as a strategic business asset, Shannan Herbert, CEO of WACIF, made a powerful case for viewing wellness as a long-term investment. Not just in productivity, but in culture, retention, and community well-being. 

Catalyzing Regional Momentum 

Across these conversations, the role of infrastructure—physical and institutional—has been front and center. At our session on the economic impact of sports, JJ Rivers of Gensler shared how thoughtful sports development projects can revitalize neighborhoods, generate new business activity, and help rebrand DC as a premier destination for both fans and investors. Projects like the Capital One Arena redevelopment are not just entertainment upgrades—they are economic engines. 

And in our session on regional mobility, hosted in partnership with United Airlines, we explored how connectivity—from airports to data systems—drives business growth, talent movement, and broader economic sustainability. 

Leading Through Change 

We’ve also heard directly from executives navigating change in real time. Conversations on leadership, innovation, and economic resilience made clear that today’s environment demands more than strategic planning, which calls for adaptability, transparency, and the ability to unify teams and stakeholders around a shared purpose. 

What’s Next 

Greater Washington has the talent, institutions, and access to lead on the national and global stage but doing so will require us to align more deeply, act more boldly, and collaborate more consistently. These executive lunches aren’t just about sharing insights; they’re about catalyzing action. 

We’ll continue bringing leaders together to shape what’s next for our region, our economy, and our shared future. 

Thank you to Genesys Works and United Airlines for sponsoring lunches that highlight these important discussions and help to shape the dialogue. 

GWBOT June 2025 Newsletter

The Board of Trade remains focused on advancing the priorities that matter most to Greater Washington. This June newsletter shows a variety of engagements we have had across Greater Washington with members and public officials, while also showcasing meaningful updates on priorities we are following in the region. We also have a variety of member news updates that showcase regional collaboration!

Read our June 2025 Newsletter here

Courageous Leadership: Navigating Uncertainty & Taking Bold Action with Dr. Margie Warrell

Leadership, at its core, isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about having the courage to act, even in the face of uncertainty. That message resonated deeply during a recent professional networking event hosted by the Board of Trade and Ridgewells Catering, where local executives and rising professionals gathered for a powerful roundtable discussion led by Dr. Margie Warrell, bestselling author of The Courage Gap, and Susan Lacz, CEO and Hospitality Maven of Ridgewells.

Held at Ridgewells’ renovated Bethesda headquarters, the event featured an engaging and candid conversation on the role of fear, resilience, and decision-making in leadership. Dr. Warrell and Lacz shared personal stories and actionable strategies for navigating challenges and stepping outside your comfort zone, with insights especially relevant in today’s fast-changing business climate.

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This discussion emphasized that real leadership is fueled by clarity, not certainty. Whether you’re making high-stakes decisions or managing day-to-day operations, the ability to act decisively while embracing discomfort can set great leaders apart. Attendees left with fresh perspectives on how to turn hesitation into opportunity and how to lead with greater impact at every level.

Guests also enjoyed a warm atmosphere of networking and connection over beautifully crafted hors d’oeuvres and drinks, provided by Ridgewells’ talented culinary team. More than just an evening of inspiration, the event underscored the value of community and the importance of creating space for open, honest conversations around leadership.

The night served as a bold reminder: courage isn’t the absence of fear; it’s the decision to move forward in spite of it.

Thank you to our member, Ridgewells Catering, for partnering with the Board of Trade for this event.

Watch the full discussion between Susan Lacz and Dr. Margie Warrell below:

A Tradition of Impact: Reflecting on the 105th Mid-Winter Dinner

More than 700 members, public officials, and regional leaders joined the Greater Washington Board of Trade on March 26 for the 105th Mid-Winter Dinner — an evening grounded in connection and momentum. 

Set within the breathtaking Washington National Cathedral, this year’s event blended elegance, tradition, and a shared commitment to the region’s future. Guests were treated to a moving performance by the National Philharmonic, a gourmet dining experience from Ridgewells Catering, and an atmosphere designed to inspire thoughtful conversation and lasting relationships. 

The Mid-Winter Dinner is more than a celebration; it’s a cornerstone of regional leadership. For over a century, this signature event has brought together changemakers to reflect, refocus, and recommit to advancing the Greater Washington region. In a time when unity and collaboration are more important than ever, the evening served as a reminder of what’s possible when we come together with clarity, purpose, and shared resolve. 

Let’s carry the spirit of Mid-Winter forward to strengthen connections, shape policy, and build a stronger, more resilient region for all. 

View photos from the 105th Mid-Winter Dinner here

We extend our sincere gratitude to all our sponsors for helping make this signature event truly unforgettable. 

Navigating airline travel programs for DC area business travelers

This is a partnership article between United Airlines and the Greater Washington Board of Trade to further efficient transportation and air travel in our region. 

For D.C. area business travelers, United can help you save money and earn rewards

United is proud to call Washington Dulles International one of our seven U.S. hubs. From Dulles alone, we offer daily service to around 60 destinations in the U.S. and Canada and daily or weekly service to 40 international destinations. For business travelers in the Washington, D.C., area, we provide convenient access to major cities in the U.S. and beyond with daily nonstop flights from all three D.C. area airports.

United for Business connects business travelers to their next destination through United’s expansive route network, providing exclusive discounts and amenities. No matter the size of your organization, our program can make your business travel more affordable and enjoyable.

Travel options for businesses of all sizes

Working with airlines for business travel can help you maximize your travel budget. If you work for a large employer, your company may already have a travel program with an airline.

If you work for a small to midsize company, or if you own your own business, you might think you’re too small to partner with an airline – but that’s not the case. Companies that travel for business can benefit even more from airline travel programs by getting access to exclusive discounts and perks that make business trips better.

Business travelers in the D.C. area are invited to learn more about the travel programs available through United for Business. To start exploring with no obligation, just enter your work email.

Savings

Discounts are one of the main benefits of business travel programs and are usually based on travel volume as well as the airline’s route structures. If you have a travel program in place, you’ll get better rates that are negotiated based on the volume of travel.

Discounts can range between 3 and 5 percent, but larger discounts may be available on higher-class tickets or when the airline wants to build volume on routes. With United for Business, discounts are offered to you up front, no matter your spend with the airline.

If your business is smaller or midsized, you could try an “off-the-shelf” travel plan from United for Business. Those are based on specific travel needs, and are helpful if you’re looking to save money, provide your travelers with amenities, or a combination of both.

If you manage travel for your small to midsize business, the United for Business travel management portal is a convenient one-stop shop for booking team travel, setting policies like the maximum budget for a trip, managing forms of payment, tracking travel spend and more. With a holistic snapshot of how your organization spends on travel, saving becomes easier.

Rewards

Partnering with an airline can also get your team rewards to enhance your travel experience – and not just for C-suite employees. Through travel programs, business travelers have more opportunities to earn discounts on perks like access to airport clubs and lounges.

Loyalty program benefits, like those available through United MileagePlus, are one of the most common ways to earn rewards. It’s free for travelers to join MileagePlus® and earn miles to redeem on flights with United and our airline partners. Travelers can use miles for benefits like flight upgrades, lounge access, priority seating and preferred seating.

From D.C. to almost anywhere

As the airline with the most routes out of IAD, we can get you to the biggest business markets in the country with frequent daily service to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver, New York and London. We also serve travelers from all three D.C. area airports – Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall (BWI), Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) and Washington Dulles (IAD).

The largest airline network

United now has the largest and most diversified international route network among U.S. airlines. We offer service to more destinations across the Atlantic and Pacific than all U.S. carriers combined.

Our network reaches further through our alliances and strategic agreements with many of the world’s leading global airlines. We’re a founding member of Star Alliance, the world’s largest airline alliance with destinations in nearly 200 countries, which gives your travelers access to routes across the world.

You can usually book flights with Star Alliance airlines on united.com or the United app, if the flight is part of your United itinerary. Plus, you’ll still earn miles and status when you fly with most of our airline partners, just like you would when you fly United.

Learn More: Business travelers in the D.C. area are invited to learn more about the travel programs available through United for Business. To start exploring with no obligation, just enter your work email.

Letter to Congress: Addressing Concerns with House Concurrent Resolution 14

About this Letter: Jack McDougle, President & CEO of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, has sent a letter to Senator John Thune and Speaker Mike Johnson expressing deep concerns over House Concurrent Resolution 14 (H.Con.Res.14) and its potentially devastating impact on the region’s economy and budget funding for Washignton, D.C. This letter was also sent to additional congressional leaders in the House and Senate who represent our region. A similar piece of legislation was also submitted to the U.S. Senate. 

Dear Senator John Thune and Speaker Mike Johnson, 

I’m writing on behalf of the Greater Washington Board of Trade, which has represented the business community of the Washington metropolitan region since 1889, to express our deep concern about the harmful impacts of House Concurrent Resolution 14 (H.Con.Res.14). This bill would inflict serious economic harm not only on government workers and contractors but on the broader business community, working families, and the overall economic stability of our region. We urge you to work toward a more balanced and sustainable solution. 

The consequences of this bill would extend well beyond the public sector, creating a ripple effect throughout the broader economy. Abrupt federal spending cuts at this scale would weaken consumer demand, lower business revenues, and drive-up unemployment. Businesses large and small—especially those in retail, hospitality, real estate, and professional services—would face declining sales and rising costs as reduced spending and economic uncertainty take hold.  

Infrastructure and public services, including transportation, public safety, healthcare, and education, would also suffer, further straining business operations and reducing overall economic productivity. The combined effect of declining business confidence, lower investment, and financial strain would threaten long-term growth and regional competitiveness well beyond any short-term economic downturn. 

While we recognize and support the importance of fiscal responsibility, especially bringing down the national debt and lowering debt service payments, the scale and speed of the proposed cuts would cause more harm than good. Deficit reduction cannot come at the expense of jobs, economic stability, and essential services. A destabilized economy in the capital region would have far-reaching national and global consequences. 

Instead of indiscriminate, across-the-board cuts that threaten economic stability, we urge you to consider more targeted and thoughtful strategies to reduce costs. A few examples: 

  • Modernizing government operations through increased automation and streamlined processes to reduce costs while improving efficiency. Creating better experiences for the American people. 
  • Reducing waste and inefficiency in federal contracting by improving oversight, implementing targeted cuts, and eliminating redundant programs would result in significant savings without undermining economic growth or essential services. 
  • Reforming healthcare spending by focusing on preventive care and reducing administrative overhead would generate long-term savings without compromising coverage or quality of care. 
  • Closing tax loopholes and improving enforcement to ensure fair tax compliance would raise revenue, create a level playing field, and reduce the deficit without undercutting business growth or middle-class stability. 

The proposed budget cuts, on the other hand, would have specific and measurable negative effects, including: 

  1. Increased Risk of a Long-Term Recession Across Our Region – The Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of the District of Columbia has issued a revised economic forecast showing a reduction in local revenues of more than $1 billion over the financial plan period, with an average annual decrease of approximately $342.1 million from FY 2026 through FY 2028. 
  2. Widespread Private Sector Job Losses and Economic Instability – The House budget bill could result in the loss of 50,000 to 75,000 private-sector, non-government contractor jobs in the Greater Washington region over the next two years. The hardest-hit sectors would likely include retail, hospitality, real estate, professional services, and healthcare due to lower spending and overall economic activity. 
  3. Strain on Small Businesses and Reduced Investment – Small and mid-sized businesses in the Greater Washington area generate over $120 billion in annual economic activity. The House bill would weaken business revenues and limit access to capital, leading to business closures and reduced investment in growth. 
  4. Education Crisis and Lower Student Outcomes – The proposed budget requires the House Education and Workforce Committee to identify $330 billion in spending reductions over ten years, which could impact federal education programs. While the resolution does not explicitly mandate cuts to Title I grants, the scale of reductions raises concerns about funding for teachers, instructional materials, and support services. These cuts could lead to larger class sizes, reduced access to special education and mental health resources, and fewer after-school programs. Research shows that such conditions contribute to higher dropout rates, lower academic performance, and diminished workforce readiness, ultimately limiting future economic mobility.
  5. Increased Crime and Public Safety Challenges – Cuts to federal funding would undermine public safety efforts. Reduced support for mental health services, substance abuse programs, and job training initiatives would remove critical resources that help prevent crime and reduce recidivism. A weakened local law enforcement infrastructure would diminish the ability to respond to public safety threats and maintain order. 
  6. Strains on Public Infrastructure and Services – Substantial cuts to federal funding for transportation and healthcare would have immediate consequences for the region’s quality of life. The Washington Metro system, which serves more than 800,000 riders daily, would face service disruptions, increased fares, and reduced reliability—deterring both workers and businesses from staying in the region. Healthcare access, particularly for underserved communities, would also suffer as federal support for Medicaid and local health programs is scaled back, which would affect all patients. 
  7. Housing Market and Financial Instability – A rise in unemployment and reduced confidence would hit the housing market hard. Home prices in the region, which have risen steadily over the past decade, would decline by 5% to 8% within the next year as demand weakens. Increased foreclosures and higher rental costs would add to financial strains for working families and undermine regional bank stability. 
  8. Growing Federal Deficits Despite Cuts – Ironically, the proposed cuts are unlikely to meaningfully reduce the deficit. The CBO has projected that reduced economic activity resulting from these cuts could lower tax revenues by $150 billion over the next decade, undermining deficit reduction efforts. Increased demand for unemployment assistance and other social programs would likely offset much of the intended savings. 
  9. Loss of Global Competitiveness – The Greater Washington region is a critical economic engine for the nation. Disruption here would have a detrimental effect on global confidence in the U.S. economy. Reduced business confidence and weakened infrastructure would make it harder to attract and retain talent, driving business activity to competitor markets abroad. 

The economic strength of the Greater Washington region is not just a local concern—it’s a matter of national importance. The businesses, workers, and families that power this region’s economy need thoughtful and balanced solutions, not short-sighted austerity. We strongly urge you to work toward a bipartisan solution that preserves economic stability, protects jobs, and supports businesses of all sizes. The Greater Washington Board of Trade stands ready to work with you and your colleagues to craft a more responsible and sustainable path forward. 

We cannot cut our way to prosperity. We must manage our resources responsibly and make smart investments in our shared future. Thank you for your attention to this critical issue. 

Sincerely, 

Jack McDougle 

President and CEO

Greater Washington Board of Trade 

 

See Additional Testimonies and Letters of Support we have submitted recently:

Testimony to DC Council: Workforce Strategies Must Support Economic Growth and Resilience

Letter of Support: ‘Local Funds Act of 2025’ Protects DC’s Authority to Spend Locally Raised Revenue

Testimony: Submitted to DC Council, Committee on Business & Economic Development

Congress Should Preserve DC’s Home Rule and Withdraw the Bowser Act | WBJ Viewpoint

GWBOT March 2025 Newsletter

The Board of Trade remains focused on advancing the priorities that matter most to Greater Washington. This March newsletter shows a variety of engagements we have had across the region with members and public officials while also showcasing meaningful updates on priorities we are following in the region. We also have a variety of member news updates that showcase regional collaboration!

Read our March 2025 Newsletter here

DC Water CEO David Gadis Highlights Urgent Infrastructure Needs and Future Solutions

The Board of Trade hosted DC Water CEO and General Manager David L. Gadis on Feb. 26 for an insightful discussion with regional industry leaders. The conversation provided a comprehensive look at the challenges and opportunities facing the District’s water system.

With 80% of the infrastructure exceeding its expected lifespan, including pipes dating back to the Civil War, Gadis emphasized the urgent need to address system vulnerabilities. He warned that a major system failure could cost the region up to $150 million per day in losses, a number that would continue to grow with each additional day of service disruption. Additionally, he highlighted the District’s reliance on a single water source, making it the only major U.S. city without a secondary supply.

The discussion also explored the need for federal approvals and investments to secure additional water sources and storage facilities, such as the Travilah quarry. Securing these alternatives is essential to strengthening the region’s long-term water resilience, and DC Water is continuing to monitor any potential financial cutbacks at the federal level that could impact funding for its projects.

Gadis addressed questions about DC Water’s strategy for maintaining a sustainable and reliable water supply. He stressed the importance of public-private partnerships in advancing key initiatives while ensuring water affordability. He also highlighted ongoing projects like the Lead Free DC Initiative -to replace lead service lines- and the Clean Rivers Project – a large-scale tunnel project designed to reduce pollution and enhance the system’s resilience.

CHECK OUT MORE EVENT PHOTOS HERE

With global challenges like sea-level rise and aging infrastructure, Gadis underscored the need for proactive measures and sustainable practices. Through continued collaboration, innovation, and forward-thinking initiatives, DC Water remains committed to delivering high-quality, sustainable water service to the D.C. community for generations to come.

Gadis also spoke extensively about the importance of D.C.’s Anacostia and Potomac rivers and the ongoing need for effective monitoring systems. He emphasized collaboration with the Army Corps of Engineers and localities in Virginia and Maryland to ensure continued improvements in water quality.

He highlighted the critical role of partnerships in maintaining the health of these waterways, particularly after storms, which require coordinated cleanup efforts along the Anacostia River. He also noted the need for ongoing monitoring of the Potomac River to detect and address potential threats, such as droughts or algae blooms, that could impact water filtration and supply.

In closing, Gadis spoke about his journey to becoming the head of DC Water as a third-generation water utility professional, including his previous stint as the President and CEO of the Indianapolis Water Company. It was an inspiring moment when he shared how his career path has allowed him to help people and serve communities, including helping provide water to more than 700,000 District residents and 25 million annual visitors as the leader of DC Water.

Thank you to DC Water and David L. Gadis for engaging our membership about water resiliency and the need to look at the region’s water systems as a vital economic source that must be invested in and maintained for the future of our communities.

LEARN MORE ABOUT REGIONAL WATER SUSTAINABILITY EFFORTS 

Report: Alarming Economic Impacts on DC Region if Faced with Water Supply Disruption

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