Ignite & Inspire Speaker Series
The Ignite & Inspire Speaker Series at the Lucas College and Graduate School of Business is a recurring event, held in partnership with the student organization LILAC (LCoB Interorganizational Leadership Advancement Committee).
This series aims to:
- Bring in experienced professionals and leaders from Silicon Valley and beyond to share their insights and knowledge with students and faculty.
- Address relevant topics related to business, leadership, career development, and navigating the professional world.
- Inspire and motivate students by providing them with practical advice and real-world perspectives.
- Offer opportunities for networking between students, professionals, and faculty.
February 19: "Finding Your North Star"
When times are hard, what motivates you? How do you stay grounded in your purpose? This event is all about identifying your “North Star” and learning how to let it guide your college journey and future career path.
Speakers:
Kanika Radhakrishnan is a Harvard-trained US Patent Attorney and founder of a cross-border IP boutique
by the name of Evergreen Valley Law group with offices in the United States and India.
She advises technology leaders, venture investors, and high-growth startups on building
robust IP frameworks across Silicon Valley, India’s innovation ecosystem, and emerging
markets.
Katrina Stevens is President and CEO of The Tech Interactive, where she leads national and global
efforts to advance AI literacy and to showcase emerging technologies that serve the
public good. A former classroom teacher, Katrina has spent her career translating
innovation into trusted, practical solutions that expand opportunity for learners
and communities.
Moderator:
Rangapriya (Priya) Kannan is the dean of the Lucas College and Graduate School of Business and a professor
in the School of Global Innovation & Leadership. Her research primarily focuses on
how individuals achieve innovation within limited resources using creative resourcing
and reframing. Kannan’s background includes expertise in leadership to affect strategic
change, designing interdisciplinary programs, employee development, alumni and community
outreach, and creating inclusive work environments. Her educational background includes
a PhD from UCLA Anderson School of Management and degrees from SJSU, Tata Institute
of Social Sciences, and the University of Bombay.
