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Michael J. Heller is CEO of Cozen O’Connor. Michael joined Cozen O’Connor in 1994, having previously practiced at Wolf, Block, Schorr and Solis-Cohen. Michael’s practice is devoted to representing and counseling entrepreneurs and emerging growth companies in all industries from the formation and business planning stage to forming, structuring and negotiating joint ventures and strategic alliances, technology licensing, transfer and development, negotiating and structuring all types of angel, venture and other capital-raising transactions, mergers and acquisitions, initial public offerings and beyond. An important element of Michael’s practice is making the necessary introductions to assist his clients in raising capital and finding joint venture partners. Michael also focuses his practice on representing venture capital funds and angel investor groups in all forms of equity and debt capital-raising transactions. He was named a Pennsylvania “Super Lawyer” by Law & Politics. Michael is a frequent speaker on venture capital and entrepreneurism in the Mid-Atlantic Region and is frequently quoted in local, regional, and national publications on the subject. He is a member of the board of directors of the Greater Philadelphia Venture Group, Ben Franklin Technology Partners of Southeastern Pennsylvania and the Entrepreneur’s Forum of Philadelphia, Inc. He is also on the advisory committee for the University City Science Center’s Port of Technology. Michael received his undergraduate degree in 1986, summa cum laude, from The Pennsylvania State University, and his law degree in 1989, magna cum laude, from Villanova University, where he was a law review editor and a member of the Order of the Coif.

James Hovis Hodges (born November 19, 1956) is an American businessman, attorney, and politician who served as the 114th governor of South Carolina from 1999 to 2003. Since his victory in 1998, Hodges has remained the only Democrat elected to the South Carolina Governor's office since the 1982 election.

From the Boston office of Nixon Peabody, I lead 1,500 colleagues, including more than 650 attorneys who collaborate across practice areas in cities throughout the U.S. and with alliance firms around the world. I have a background in business, and I cultivate an entrepreneurial culture at our firm. I’ve been with Nixon Peabody since 1987 and before I took my current role of CEO and managing partner, I served as managing partner of the Boston office. Building and leading teams is my passion-both as an attorney representing clients in structuring successful and creative transactions and resolving business and real estate disputes and now in my role as leader of Nixon Peabody. And, over my career, I’ve served as a mentor and advisor to many, and take great pride in helping my colleagues succeed. While I’m in an industry that relies on precedent, I’m focused on building the law firm of the future and how we can channel collaboration and innovation to stay on top of industry trends and provide the insights and connections that help our clients succeed. I also strongly believe in giving back to the community where I work and live, and focus my efforts on youth and seniors. I’ve been a volunteer for more than three decades at Hebrew Senior Life, which provides medical and housing services for the elderly, serving in numerous roles including as chairman of the board. I also taught real estate finance for 23 years at Boston College.

Independent Grant Consultant with 20+ years of experience as a professional public school educator, board member of nonprofits and community organizations and, is a certified grant writer through Research Associates. She has reviewed and secured local and federal grants in the areas of education, transportation, environment, wellness and physical activity. Specialties: Technical writing, research, planning and organization of grants development, strategic planning and board development.