CBIZ Taste of Providence: Food & Beverage Industry Event

Mary is a Managing Director in the Tax Group and a Co-Leader of the Private Equity Co-Sourcing Practice. She has more than 13 years of experience providing tax services to a variety of industries, including private equity, venture capital, asset management, and private companies.

Michael Tikoian is an Advisory director and is office managing director of the Company’s office in Providence, Rhode Island. Michael is responsible for a variety of audit and tax clients concentrating in closely held businesses, real estate entities and their unique reporting and tax problems.

Jennifer is the dean of the College of Hospitality Management and serves as the Associate Provost of Academic Affairs at Johnson & Wales University. She began her career as a faculty member in the College of Hospitality Management from 1993 to 2013. As Associate Provost, Dr. Galipeau oversees academic assessment, accreditation, and curriculum review, and has led major institutional initiatives.

Lisa Raiola is the founder and president of Hope & Main, Rhode Island’s first—and nationally recognized—food business incubator. Since 2014, she’s helped over 500 entrepreneurs launch ventures that drive inclusive economic growth. Her career spans 30+ years in public health, higher education, and nonprofit strategy, including senior roles at Harvard Pilgrim Health Care , Brown University and Roger Williams University. A 2025 USA Today Woman of the Year, Lisa’s work centers on equity, civic infrastructure, and systems-level change.

Perry began his career harvesting shellfish as a youth and later earned bachelor’s and master’s degrees in aquaculture and fisheries technology from URI. Since establishing his farm in 2002, Raso has gained national recognition for his sustainable “pond to plate” approach, supplying fresh oysters and organic produce directly to his award-winning restaurant and markets. He is also deeply involved in community initiatives, mentoring, and environmental stewardship.

Chris is an accomplished Executive Vice President of Finance with over 20 years of experience in alternative investments, asset management, and capital markets, including senior roles at Bozzutos and Lazard Alternative Investments. He holds an MBA in Accounting and Finance from the University of Connecticut and is recognized for his expertise in portfolio management, equity research, and financial modeling.

Heather brings over 25 years of leadership in the hospitality industry, including her previous role as chief operating officer of RIHA and RIHEF. She is recognized for her work in education, training, and policy development, and currently has serveds on several state and national commissions and various industry boards. Singleton holds an MBA from Johnson & Wales University, has taught at the college level, and has been honored for her significant contributions to Rhode Island’s hospitality sector.