Join us for an evening of real talk and insights from Asian American Cornell alumni at different stages of their entrepreneurial journeys—from first spark to successful exit. This diverse panel features founders of a beauty product startup, a digital services agency, a productivity app, and one of the longest-running coworking spaces in the country. You’ll hear about the real challenges and breakthroughs behind building product-based, service-driven, and tech-enabled businesses. Our panelists will share hard-earned lessons, pivotal moments, and what they wish they knew earlier. Whether you're just starting out or already mid-flight, this conversation will give you honest perspective, practical advice, and inspiration to take your next step. Soft drinks and light snacks will be served.
Parking is on site and free.
Bios:
Moderator: Jerome Chang
Jerome founded the first coworking space in SoCal in 2008, BLANKSPACES, years before WeWork. It is now the oldest continually operating coworking space in the U.S. He remains a licensed architect and designs spaces for BLANKSPACES and many other. He obtained an M.Arch from Harvard, M.Eng and BS in structural engineering from Cornell.
Panelists:
Karthy Chandra: Karthy is an entrepreneur and product leader with over a decade of experience building early-stage tech products. While studying engineering and business at Cornell, she saw firsthand how high-achieving students struggled to balance productivity with well-being—a pattern she later saw repeated in the workplace. This inspired her to create Goalden Hour, a platform that helps people stay intentional, break down goals, and build sustainable habits through reflection and planning. She also built Goal Post, a tool that empowers coaches and team leaders to set clear goals, track progress, and foster accountability and well-being across their groups. Karthy is passionate about redefining productivity to support not just what people do—but who they become in the process.
Gloria Lu: Gloria studied Chemical Engineering in Cornell University, which she put to good use in L'Oréal for several years. She started Chemist Confessions in 2018 to create skin care products that either have marked improvement from the rest and/or solve a need gap. She and her partner Victoria Fu created a suite of skincare solutions that can be mixed and match to tailor to any routine and any skin type.
David Lai: David is a Cornell alum and the founder and former CEO/Creative Director of Hello Design, an award-winning digital agency known for its work with brands like Nike, Meta, Google, Netflix, and Herman Miller. After 24 years, Hello was acquired by Instrument, helping build a combined agency of over 400 people. For his next chapter, David founded Supersonic Go, a travel startup inspired by his love of travel and the challenge of finding great places through people he trusts. His work has been recognized by Cannes, Clio, One Show, and the Webbys, and featured in Fast Company, TIME, and The New York Times. A passionate cyclist and lover of thoughtful design, he’s always chasing new roads—and his next favorite city to explore.
Space is limited, so sign up soon!
Cost:
$20 per person for CCLA Members
$30 per person for non-members
Want Member pricing? Click here for more information and to sign up!