Executive Insights: A Panel of Visionary CEOs
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More than 200 business leaders, entrepreneurs, educators, policymakers, and economic development professionals gathered Wednesday at West Chester University’s Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall for Executive Insights 2026: A Panel of Visionary CEOs, a dynamic and candid conversation featuring four of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s most influential business leaders.
Presented for the second consecutive year by the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry (CCCBI), Chester County Economic Development Council (CCEDC), Transportation Management Association of Chester County (TMACC), and West Chester University, the event built on the momentum of its highly successful inaugural 2025 program and once again delivered timely insights on the trends, opportunities, and challenges shaping the future of Southeastern Pennsylvania’s economy.
Moderated by 6ABC’s Tamala Edwards, the panel featured:
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Nick Bayer, Founder & CEO, Saxbys
Greg Deavens, Former CEO, Independence Blue Cross
Chris Franklin, Chairman & CEO, Essential Utilities
Dan Hilferty, Chairman & CEO, Comcast Spectacor and Governor of the Philadelphia Flyers
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The discussion explored critical topics including regional economic competitiveness, workforce development, experiential learning and higher education partnerships, leadership and culture, technological innovation, America 250, corporate civic engagement, and positioning Southeastern Pennsylvania for long-term success on the national stage.
“This event continues to demonstrate what is possible when Chester County’s leading institutions come together to create space for thoughtful, honest dialogue about the future of our region,” said Laura Manion, President and CEO of the Chester County Chamber of Business & Industry. “The willingness of these extraordinary leaders to share candid insights, lessons learned, and their vision for what lies ahead provided invaluable perspective for everyone in attendance.”
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“Our panelists were refreshingly candid and incredibly insightful. Their commitment to Greater Philadelphia, belief in collaboration, and enthusiasm for our future stood out to me. I left the auditorium feeling inspired and excited to build on the partnerships and collaboration that have been so key to our success over the years,” added Mike Grigalonis, President and COO of the Chester County Economic Development Council.
Dr. Laurie Bernotsky, President of West Chester University, added: “West Chester University is honored to have been asked for the second time to host an impactful event that draws so many of our region’s most influential leaders and thinkers.” The University is truly grateful for its longstanding partnerships with CCCBI, CCEDC and TMACC. Working together, experiential learning --- in all its forms, not just internships ---- becomes a reality for our students and allows them to be “career ready” in the workplace. Investments in people continue to make a lasting impact on our community and help the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania thrive.”
Throughout the discussion, panelists offered thoughtful perspectives on the evolving nature of leadership and the role business plays in driving community and economic transformation.
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"Today's conversation reinforced what I've always believed — that Southeastern Pennsylvania's has the visionary leadership, talent and grit necessary to drive sustainable economic mobility for generations to come. I'm grateful to CCCBI, CCEDC and West Chester University for creating a forum where bold ideas and leadership lessons can be shared to drive real economic progress for our region," said Greg Deavens.
Nick Bayer, “What we've learned over a decade of running the Experiential Learning Platform is that the skills that matter most — what we call power skills: critical thinking, emotional intelligence, resilience, the ability to lead people through uncertainty — aren't transferred through a lecture. They're developed through doing. Through managing a team of 30 people. Through owning a P&L. Through making real decisions with real consequences. The students coming out of the Saxbys cafe at West Chester University and across our system don't just have a line on their resume. They have tangible stories of leadership and decision-making that prove to future employers what they're capable of."
“Strong communities and economies depend on reliable infrastructure, forward-looking leadership and meaningful collaboration,” said Chris Franklin. “I’m honored to join this year’s Executive Insights panel at West Chester University to discuss how business and civic leaders can work together to strengthen Southeastern Pennsylvania’s competitiveness and create lasting opportunities across the region.”
“Our region is at a defining moment. With events like America 250 and the FIFA World Cup 2026 paired with unprecedented investment across Greater Philadelphia, we have a major opportunity to showcase our strengths to the world and create lasting momentum for the future,” said Dan Hilferty. “Business leaders have a responsibility not only to drive economic growth, but to work together to build vibrant communities, attract talent and innovation, and ensure this moment leaves a lasting legacy for our region.”
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Among the key themes discussed:
- The Philadelphia Region in 2026 — Identifying opportunities and challenges shaping economic competitiveness
- America 250 and Regional Opportunity — Leveraging a historic moment to elevate Southeastern Pennsylvania’s national profile
- Leadership and Culture — Building resilient, high-performing teams
- Technology and Innovation — Driving transformation across industries
- Corporate Civic Engagement — Expanding the role of business in strengthening communities
- The Workforce of the Future — Attracting, nurturing, and retaining top talent through education and experiential learning
- Regional Identity and Influence — Positioning Southeastern Pennsylvania as a premier center for innovation and opportunity
Returning as moderator following her standout leadership of the 2025 event, Tamala Edwards once again guided an engaging and authentic discussion that resonated deeply with attendees and sparked meaningful conversation across industries.
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Ribbon Cutting Ceremony with Montee Cycling
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Sunday was a beautiful day for a ribbon cutting ceremony!
CCCBI and Montee Cycling hosted a ribbon cutting on Sunday June 7th surrounded by the owner, Eric, his wife, parents, and a group of dedicated cyclists!
The day started with a group ride out of Chester Springs, through Phoenixville and back to Malvern through Valley Forge National Park- approximately a 50-mile ride.
This is a high – performance bike shop providing road and gravel bicycle sales and service to Philadelphia suburbs including King of Prussia, Malvern, Paoli, Phoenixville, Radnor, Bryn Mawr, Villanova and more. The ribbon cutting celebration included a raffle with some excellent items.
Our fellow members, Copper Pony and Cafe Gourmino were both offering some great drinks and food to all attendees.
Congratulations to Montee Cycling and welcome!
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Fast Connections: Cross Industry Speed Networking
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We had a blast making Fast Connections while speed networking with our partners at Innovative Technology Action Group (ITAG), Manufacturing Alliance of Chester & Delaware Counties, Women in Manufacturing and Women in Tech Leadership.
The deck at the Desmond Hotel was the perfect setting for 100+ women and industry leaders to connect and craft meaningful business relationships, all in under two hours.
The evening began with some open networking time with refreshments, before Women in Tech Leadership shared a brief guide to creating your elevator pitch. Next, the speed networking kicked-off!
Thank you to our partners and all of our attendees who joined us for an impactful evening!
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PA House Approves Digital Advertising Tax
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The Pennsylvania House approved legislation that would tax digital advertising in the Commonwealth. House Bill 1678, approved 139-63, would extend the existing 5% gross receipts tax to revenue from digital advertising platforms. Digital ads subject to the tax would include banners, search engine results, and full screen ads. Ads on broadcast and news media sites would be exempt.
Supporters of the bill argue that the bill will only impact large corporations and that a tax is fair for an industry projected to be worth $1 trillion dollars in 5 years. Rep. Elizabeth Fiedler (D-Philadelphia), the bill’s sponsor, said
“Working people are struggling under the weight of the rising cost of groceries, gas, and housing, but still manage to pay their taxes. This legislation calls on some of the biggest corporations in the world to pay their fair share. This legislation doesn’t cost people in Pennsylvania a penny. But with investment by these huge for-profit corporations, we can fund the infrastructure we all count on: roads, bridges, schools, and transit.”
Opponents, however, worry that the tax will simply be passed along by the large corporations. Rep. Leslie Rossi (R-Westmoreland) said
HB 1678 is aimed at large digital platforms, but small businesses may not be able to absorb these costs like a national competitor is able to do. In rural areas, such as my district, small businesses need to advertise to survive, and small business is the lifeblood of many of our communities. This added tax would certainly have an impact, resulting in lower profits for small businesses, and the consumer would end up paying higher prices.
The Pennsylvania Chamber of Commerce strongly opposed the bill, arguing that it would disproportionately impact small businesses and violates federal law under the Internet Tax Freedom Act.
Similar laws have already been passed in Maryland, Utah, and Washington. In Maryland, however, the law has been entangled in litigation and a federal judge struck down a clause that would have prohibited companies from alerting consumers to the tax. The law, projected to raise $250 million annually, has fallen short at $90 million per year.
The bill now moves to the Republican-controlled Senate where it’s companion bill, SB 1199, has bipartisan cosponsors.
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Dogtopia of Chester Springs
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Dogtopia of Chester Springs is more than a dog daycare—it's a place where dogs can be dogs while pet parents enjoy complete peace of mind. Conveniently located just off the Downingtown Turnpike exit, we are open 365 days a year from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., providing a safe, engaging, and fun environment for your four-legged family members.
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Our facility offers award-winning daycare, overnight boarding, spa services, and professional grooming, all designed with your dog's health, happiness, and well-being in mind. Dogs spend their days socializing, exercising, and building confidence in one of our three climate-controlled playrooms—Toybox, Romper, and Gym—carefully matched to their size, play style, and energy level. We also feature an outdoor play yard where pups can enjoy fresh air and sunshine.
At Dogtopia, every day is an adventure! Our monthly activity calendar is packed with exciting events, including themed photo days, tasty treats, wellness and enrichment activities, crafts, birthday celebrations, pool parties, holiday festivities, and plenty of surprises along the way. Whether your dog is a social butterfly, a tennis-ball enthusiast, or a professional nap-taker, there's always something to wag about.
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We know trusting someone with your dog is a big deal, which is why transparency is important to us. Pet parents can check in on their pups throughout the day through our live webcams, giving them a front-row seat to the fun, friendships, and tail wags happening in our playrooms.
What truly sets us apart is our commitment to creating a home-away-from-home experience. We don't just care for dogs—we build lasting relationships with both our pups and their pet parents. Many of our guests run through our doors each morning as if they're arriving at their favorite vacation destination, and honestly, we wouldn't have it any other way.
At Dogtopia of Chester Springs, tails wag, friendships flourish, and every dog is treated like family. 🐾
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We’d love to hear from and highlight your business! We are seeking member spotlight stories to include in our weekly newsletter!
Email your news to abby@chescochamber.org
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