The Spark Business Institute’s Team of Experts
The Spark Business Institute brings together a dynamic team of small business experts, contributing to our article library, and engaging with our registered small business owners on their journey to success.

Patrick Lee
Throughout his career, Patrick Lee has sought out diverse experiences, gaining insight into business and the minds of business owners. A serial entrepreneur, Patrick understands the challenges leaders face as they try to maintain momentum. Through his work with the Spark…

Laura Richards
As an entrepreneur, multi-unit business operator, and career marketer, Laura is skilled in business development, account management, B2B marketing and operations. Laura is known for her capacity to negotiate win-win outcomes and build strategic partnerships. Laura’s creative approach to solving…

Stephen Etzine
Stephen Etzine is a Creative Strategist who excels at accurately interpreting marketing strategy with unorthodox creative solutions. He has over 33 years of deep experience building brands like Acura, Jack Daniel’s, US Airways, and Toyota. His multi-award winning campaigns have…

David Cyphers
David Cyphers is the founder and president of The Cyphers Agency, a full-service advertising agency. Over the last 25 years, Cyphers Agency has guided the marketing efforts of hundreds of local, regional and national clients across a wide range of…

Kathryn Collings Laing
During her twenty-year career, Kathryn Collings Laing has advised CEOs, entrepreneurs, business owners, professionals, and academics. Since 1997, she has been a principal with U.S. Boston Capital Corporation and President of Pear Tree Partners, LP. In 2012, SmartCEO magazine named…

Theresa Connelly
Theresa received her undergraduate degree in Management Studies from the University of Maryland, University College. She also earned an Associate of Arts Degree in Office Management from the Anne Arundel Community College. The first 15 years of Theresa’s business experience focused…