MoCannTrade Chairman of the Board 2021 - 2023

• Principal – DSL Consulting Group, specializing in Governmental / Community Relations 
• Co-Founder – Modern Health Alliance based in DC
• Partner – BLC, LLC; Investor in St Louis Cannabis Company 
• Founding Member - We Are JAINE, Missouri women’s cannabis group 
• Founder - Women in Science, Entrepreneurship & Research Initiative 
• MoCann Trade Association - Founding Board Member and Current Chairman of the Board
• Founding Member - D.C.-based Alliance for Regenerative Medicine; assisted in establishing the ARM PAC 
• Former Director - Republican Leadership Political Action Committee 
• B.A. Degree, Drury University 
• M.P.A. Degree, Southern Illinois University Edwardsville

With more than twenty years' of experience in public policy and community affairs, Dena Ladd has been involved in issues with both local and national impact. She has used her experience to advocate in Washington, D.C. and Missouri for medical research and health care including playing an instrumental role on the Stem Cell Research & Cures Initiative campaign.  Ladd sits on various research & health-related boards throughout the state of Missouri and has also served on numerous non-profit boards.  She has received two Gubernatorial appointments. 

• CEO-Managing Partner Nirvana Investments (2018-Current)  N'Bliss Cannabis Dispensary’s, 5150 N'Fusion, Bold Lane Logistics, Relax Brands.
• CEO-Managing Partner “Captain” HUB Inc. (2016-Current) Multi-State Wholesale and Distribution Companies
• Chief Marketing & Merchandising Officer (2009-2016) Leading companies Dirt Cheap, U-Gas, GiGi’s Café Express and HUB Inc.
• Miller/Coors Brewing Companies (1993-2009) Leadership Roles in Sales, Marketing and Operations for an (8) Eight State Region
• Board of Directors:  MoCannTrade, Missouri Petroleum & Convenience Store Association, Missouri Lottery, STL Sports Commission

Scope of Cannabis Business (2018-Current) Bradford has more than 25 years of senior-level business experience in a wide variety of vertically integrated Consumer Product Goods Industries.  He built his knowledge base and leadership skills in the areas of manufacturing, wholesale, retail, logistics, and consumer engagement.  Bradford’s passion and purpose is to build and lead teams; that do amazing things for their customers, themselves, and the communities they serve.  Nirvana Investments is comprised of multiple business units created to serve the needs of Missouri’s Cannabis Industry.  This includes N’Bliss Cannabis Dispensaries (4) Locations, 5150 N’Fusion MIP whose full suite of brands for wholesale distribution Bold Lane Logistics a certified transporter and product distributor for both B2B and Final Mile to consumer. 

Personal:  Most important to him is his family balance…. Bradford is married with (4) children and resides in the St. Louis Missouri Region.

Chief Science Officer– Mana Supply

Dr. Cernicek is a Ph.D. chemist dedicated to increasing the scientific community’s knowledge of cannabinoids and their many uses. She received her B.S. in Chemistry in 2011, a M.S. in Chemistry 2013, and a Ph.D. in Chemistry in 2017 from the University of Missouri- St. Louis. Currently, she serves as the Chief Science Officer for Mana Supply, a multi-state cannabis corporation. In her current role, Dr. Cernicek oversees Missouri operations for the company, manages the medical cannabis manufacturing facilities, and assists with all scientific aspects of the multi-state company’s medical cannabis licensed facilities. Prior to her time at Mana Supply, Dr. Cernicek served as Chief Science Officer for BeLeaf Medical LLC. Her scientific expertise was pivotal in Beleaf's application writing process in which the company was ultimately awarded 10 medical marijuana facility licenses. Dr. Cernicek was instrumental to the startup of the manufacturing facilities as well as the formulation of products and brand development.  Stephanie’s years of experience as a chemist make her an important member of the MoCannTrade team and an asset to those involved in the Missouri cannabis industry

Mitch Meyers

Partner - Beleaf Medical, Healthcare Committee GA Rep and MoCann Board of Director

Before retiring and taking on my role as mother of the year, I was the Co-Founder and President of an award-winning marketing and communications agency, which employed 350 people, with offices in 5 states, and revenue exceeding $42M annually.

AdWoman of the Year, CEO and Pilot of the famed Zipatoni, Brand Director and mother of Bud Light, my 25 years in the marketing and communications space was spent building, launching, and consulting for brands of major Fortune 100 companies, startup businesses, various advisory boards, and non-profit organizations.

After retiring for a short period of time to annoy my family, my recent business ventures include my role as Co-Owner and Partner at The BeLeaf Company in St. Louis Missour, Missouri's first licensed medical cannabis facility. We proudly produced high-quality CBD oils to treat epilepsy patients, as well as developed brands for the general consumer market.

As of 2020, I am a Partner in Beleaf Medical Company, which is an owner and vertical operator of 10 commercial cannabis facilities in Missouri including Sinse, Swade and Amend.  

So much for retirement!

Board-Certified Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Pain Management Specialist – HIPOR Health (Hurford Interventional Pain Orthopedics & Rehabilitation)

• B.S. Degrees in Chemistry, Biology and Political Science | UMKC
• M.D. Degree | University of Missouri School of Medicine, Kansas City
• M.S. Degree | Sports Medicine, Georgia State University, Atlanta, GA
• Residency  Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Emory University, Atlanta, GA
• Board Certified Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
• Subspecialties certification in Pain Management and Electrodiagnostic Medicine
• American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
• Society for Cannabis Clinicians
• Doctors for Cannabis Regulation
• American Society of Interventional Pain Physicians
• American Academy of Pain Medicine
• Missouri Society of Interventional Pain Physicians
• We are JAINE Board Member

“As a lifelong sports enthusiast suffering many of the aches and sprains that accompany competitive sports, I know stubborn pain impacts functionality, mobility and emotional outlook as well as the ability to deal with everyday environmental stress. Powerful opioid pain medications promise quick relief but often lead to abuse and serious life consequences. Taking the time to listen and thoroughly explain what viable treatment options exist, helps my patients to feel validated, understood and know that I can take care of them.”

MoCannTrade President | Executive Director

• VP and Executive Board Member | AAF-St. Louis Ad Club–2010 to 2017
• 20 years of agency and brand marketing experience working with RJ Reynolds, Anheuser-Busch, Coca-Cola, 5hr Energy, Elsevier, Blu e-cigarettes as well as other notable healthcare and consumer brands

After hearing Senator Eric Schmitt’s impassioned speech for medical marijuana legalization on the Missouri Capital floor, It has been Mr. Mullins’ passion to see medical cannabis become a reality in the state. As Executive Director, he prides himself on representing all association members and the Missouri industry evenly.  He is not an industry participant or part of any license applicant group.

“I recognize the rising tide of cannabis nationally and the positive impact it has on people’s health. I’m excited to be leading our association and look forward to working with the industry to implement a safe, responsible program that more than anything, helps people.”

Melissa is a lifelong Missouri resident and a veteran marketer in both tech and cannabis. Her approach to delivering positive results is based on meaningful relationships and truly learning about what is valuable to different people and groups.  Melissa’s passion for the cannabis industry is a welcome addition to Missouri’s industry when paired with her formal education which includes BSBA focused in International Business/Marketing and a Master of Business Administration - MBA focused in Marketing/Marketing Management from the University of Missouri-St Louis.

As Associate Director, Melissa's primary responsibilities are to ensure a positive member experience, engagement, advocacy and relations.

MoCannTrade Treasurer

With more than 15 years in the industry, Dave serves as President of SmithPatrick, CPA as well as Treasurer for both MoCannTrade and the MoCannTrade PAC.  Dave has spent a significant amount of time both personally and professional working to understand the rules, regulations and financial reporting guidelines for the cannabis industry including 280E.  Dave and SmithPatrick assists Businesses, Individuals, Non-Profits, and Government Agencies with their financial needs. Dave’s philosophy is to provide excellent personal service to the small-business client and financially active individual. He wants clients to feel comfortable picking up the phone whenever questions arrive.

Dave received his bachelor’s in engineering at Purdue University and his MBA in Finance from Indiana University.

CEO | Co-Founder CLOVR Cannabis

• President, Platinum B Services, 2003-2008
• CEO, e-Finance Support, 2008-2013
• CEO/Co-founder, Mitchem Companies 2003-Present
• CEO/Owner, MoGrow, LLC 2017- present
• Board member, Synergy Services

Josh has more than 20 years of senior-level national business experience in highly regulated and competitive industries along with 10 years of cannabis investment / ownership experience. His entrepreneurial expertise in creating and growing companies from the ground up combined with his policy regulation knowledge provides an asset to MoCannTrade’s Industry Compliance & Education committee and the future of Missouri Medical Cannabis.

Mark Hendren, a lawyer and an accountant, owned and operated new car dealerships in Southwest Missouri and Northwest Arkansas for 25 years. Mark leads a group of Missouri doctors, businessmen, and women with Flora Farms now operating three cultivation licenses in Humansville, six dispensaries (Humansville, Springfield, Ozark, Lee's Summit, State Line (Pineville), and soon Hollister.), and a MIP in Springfield. Mark and his wife, Jami, live in Joplin. They have six kids, two grandkids, and three dogs.

Partner – Armstrong Teasdale LLP
General Counsel – MoCannTrade

• Litigator and transactional attorney with over 20 years of experience representing a range of clients, from small start-up businesses to Fortune 500 companies
• Significant experience representing industry clients in connection with license applications, compliance issues, corporate structure, and equity positions
• Prior experience representing state licensing boards as a Missouri Assistant Attorney General
• Broad experience representing clients in complex litigation, including class actions, contract disputes, securities litigation, and federal preemption matters
• Bachelor’s and Juris Doctor degrees from the University of Missouri – Columbia

Mr. Walter has spent years studying the industry’s remarkable expansion through state legislation and ballot initiatives, notwithstanding cannabis’s Schedule 1 designation under federal law.  His vast industry knowledge, experience in state licensing, and representation of private sector clients have uniquely prepared him to support MoCannTrade’s mission of ensuring that Missouri’s medical marijuana industry is safe, compliant, fair, and effective for patients, license applicants, and businesses serving the industry.

Strategic Capitol Consulting | MoCannTrade Lobbyist

Mr. Tilley is a former Speaker of the Missouri House of Representatives. After being elected to the House in November 2004, he became the Majority leader in January 2007 and then was elected Speaker in November 2010. He was instrumental to the Republican pick up of 17 seats that year. In 2012, Mr. Tilley left office and founded Strategic Capitol Consulting (SCC) a government affairs and consulting business, which primarily handles state and some local government business. In just four years, SCC has grown from a one-man firm with a single blue-chip client to a four-person team with a roster of clients ranging from associations to large cap, technology and emerging market companies. SCC maintains offices in Jefferson City, Chesterfield and Perryville, Missouri.

Tightline Strategies | MoCannTrade Communications

Jack Cardetti has served for a decade as a spokesman and communications adviser for public officials and political campaigns. He has worked on some of the most successful campaigns in Missouri in recent years including the highly successful campaign for New Approach Missouri | Amendment 2 which had the highest vote tally of any item on the Nov 6th 2018 ballot. Jack was instrumental in getting the electorate to understand and support Amendment 2 and will continue to work with MoCannTrade, New Approach and Missouri stakeholders to ensure steady communications and updates related to the successful program implementation of medical cannabis in Missouri.

Daniel “Dan” Welsh Attorney | Hein Schneider & Bond P.C.

Dan is one of the pioneers of the Missouri MMJ program, and one of the first attorneys to launch a cannabis practice group in Missouri. He has decades of experience in representing business owners operating in regulated markets and in representing real estate developers in navigating state and local government. Through his law practice, Dan helps cannabis companies with all facets of their initiatives, including corporate formation, capitalization, joint ventures, mergers, acquisitions, pre-application work, location site control, zoning, license applications and regulatory compliance. Dan also assists experienced cannabis operators, local governments, lending institutions, vendors, investors, landlords and developers with their participation in Missouri’s newly created market. Dan is also a registered lobbyist, and government relations has been a large part of his practice for decades. He is also a board member of the MoCann Trade PAC and member of the National Cannabis Bar Association. Dan deals with DHSS officials at all levels on a near daily basis, and has actively participated in spotting issues, solving problems, and steering the industry since the inception of the program.

Michael L. Pearcy, Managing Partner at Heartland Labs.

Heartland is a family owned and operated manufacturing facility located in Buffalo, Mo. and is looking to expand into additional Cannabis Services.

Mike is a native Missourian, a Mizzou Graduate, a USAF and TNANG veteran. Mike is currently a small business owner and a Commercial Pilot with Fedex Express.

Since 1985 Mike has dealt with regulatory requirements in both the United States and foreign governments, dealing with country specific regulations ranging from general flight rules and restrictions to specific requirements dealing with international hazardous regulations to current pandemic parameters.

As the MMJ regulations adjust and adapt, it’s imperative that we maintain our focus on Patient and Veteran access to safe, consistent, and reliable care.

Sean Carriger | President - Agri-Genesis / Sunrise

Sean’s previous career was in Oil & Gas Exploration, where he managed drilling rig sites across the United States. Sean has been an investor, owner, and operator in the cannabis space since 2013. Operating licensed manufacturing, cultivation, and retail / distribution businesses in Colorado, Oregon, and Missouri, he understands the operational and safety challenges each business type faces. He also understands the potential knowledge gaps that exist with our regulators and less experienced operators, and is committed to ensuring best practices get communicated within the industry and DHSS. Sean will oversee Agri-Genesis' 3 Cultivations, 1 Manufacturing and 5 Sunrise Dispensary locations across Missouri.

Nick Rinella, is the current CEO of Hippos and formerly was the COO of Verdant Distribution, Southern California's first licensed cannabis distributor located in Los Angeles. He is an expert in both alcoholic beverage and cannabis product development, distribution and regulation. Rinella’s expertise stems being a 5th generation beverage distributor spending nearly a decade as the Vice President of Rinella Company, Inc, an independent beverage distributor with notable suppliers including Anheuser-Busch, Dr. Pepper Snapple Group, Nestle USA, Bronco Wine Company, Sazerac Company and continued to blossom during his time spent in the cannabis industry in California. 

Mr. Rinella actively serves on Missouri’s Amendment 2 Drafting Committee as well as the MoCannTrade Cultivation Subcommittee.

Mr. Rinella formerly sat on the board of, The Policy Committee for the California Distributors Association, Transitions of Western IL, The Associated Beer Distributors of IL and The Great River Economic Council. 

COO of Green Precision Analytics, Anthony David, a USMC veteran, has over 15 years of cannabis industry experience in multiple states and has developed extensive insight into cultivation, extraction, manufacturing, regulatory, testing and retail cannabis operations.

His experience can be invaluable in helping GPA customers and the MoCannTrade manufacturing/testing lab industry committee navigate the complexities of this evolving industry.

Natalie Brown, Director of Operations MoCann Testing | EKG Labs 

Ms. Brown began her career at EKG Labs, an analytical laboratory that supports medical device and pharmaceutical companies seeking to fast track their product development, upon graduating from Missouri Baptist University with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. She executed procedures according to cGXP regulations, worked with various DEA controlled substances, and maintained, operated, and qualified analytical instruments.

In 2019, Natalie proposed expanding into new areas, and she worked together with EKG’s founding members to add a medical marijuana division to company, Missouri Cannabis Testing. MoCann Testing’s mission is to help individuals across the state ensure they have access to safe medical marijuana through accurate sample testing and quality results. She has been actively involved in executing strategies as directed from the management team, developing and promoting company policies, planning and monitoring the day-to-day operations of the company while also serving as the primary liaison for the company.

Jennifer McGuire RN, COO, Co-Founder CAMP Cannabis.

Whether it be advocating for vulnerable populations including children and the elderly or patients on the floor and in the operating room, Jennifer’s focus has always been to help people and working to help improve their lives. Personal experiences motivated her to advocate for patient access to safe, effective alternative medicine. She parlayed her experience in politics and healthcare to start Certified Alternative Medicine Providers (CAMP) in 2018.

Throughout the process, Jennifer has utilized her voice as a registered nurse to advocate and educate for the utilization of medicinal cannabis as an alternative treatment for many health conditions. She is a member of the Cannabis Nurses Network and American Cannabis Nurses Association and understands the importance of clear, concise, and up to date information to be shared with healthcare providers and patients and is resolute in her mission of “patients first”.

BA - Political Science, Westminster College, Fulton, MO

ADN - Nursing, Columbia College

BSN - Nursing, Western Governors University

MSN - Nursing, Western Governors University

Joe Patterson, Founder and CEO Ceres Management Group 

In 2008,Patterson began a career as a Police Officer for the St.Louis County Police Department where he served in a myriad of positions including: Patrol Officer, Community Policing Officer and Intelligence Officer before becoming a Narcotics Detective in 2010. Upon appointment to Detective, Mr.Patterson was assigned to the St. Louis County Multi Jurisdictional Drug Task Force and later to the St.Louis Area FBI/DEA Violent Crime Task Force as a Special Federal Officer, Task Force Officer, and Special Deputy US Marshall.

In 2019, Mr.Patterson retired early from the St.Louis County Police Department to become Co Founder and CEO of Ceres Management Group LLC., a Missouri based consultancy and management firm that serves the Missouri Medical Marijuana Industry. In that capacity, Mr.Patterson led a team of professionals that performed competitive application writing and security program development and compliance management for the industry.

Tiffany Maggard, Vice President Heffernan Insurance 

Tifany joined Heffernan Insurance Brokers in 2008. She makes iit a priority to understand the operations of her clients and prospects in order to provide strategic solutions to protect their assets and organization without sacrificing service or integrity. Maggard is actively involved in several niche practices that include cannabis, caregivers and non-profits. Additionally, she works with strategic partners and team members to bring expertise and solutions to industry groups.

Prior to Heffernan, Maggard lead the St.Louis chapter of Business Clubs America, she worked closely with area business leaders to enhance their development activities and increase their market share. Before BCA, Maggard worked in sports marketing and with NBC during the 2004 Olympics. She began her career in sports sales with the St.Louis Blues and Chicago White Sox. She coordinated the 2003 MLB All-Star Game held at U.S.Cellular Field. Tiffany grew up in St.Louis and attended the University of Missouri–Columbia. 

Kevin E Riggs, President | CEO – Cole Engineering and Beleaf Medical 

Kevin is the President, Chief Executive Officer and Majority Shareholder of Cole. Kevin is responsible for the overall management, development, growth, and direction of the firm. He is actively involved in the planning and design phases of numerous projects, as well as client communications.

With 28 years of experience, Kevin is an industry leader. His firm has garnered three national awards and is consistently recognized by the St. Louis Business Journal. His personal achievements have been awarded by the design industry and his peers at the Missouri Society of Professional Engineers. He also devotes a great deal of time and resources to civic and charitable efforts. Kevin received a Bachelor of Science degree from University of Missouri-Rolla. He is a Professional Engineer, licensed in 40 states.

Strategist – Amendment 2 Consultants

John Payne served as the Campaign Manager for both the New Approach Missouri campaign to legalize medical marijuana in 2018 and the Legal Missouri 2022 campaign, which passed adult use legalization via Amendment 3 in 2022. After the 2018 campaign, John founded Amendment 2 Consultants, where he and his team helped their clients win nearly 20 medical marijuana licenses in Missouri's first round of marijuana business licenses. In addition to the campaign work, Amendment 2 Consultants provides compliance, marketing, and strategic consulting for numerous licensees in Missouri, and they have assisted in winning cannabis licenses outside Missouri in Connecticut and Ohio.

Managing Partner – Mid-America Capital, Inc | Co-Founder Greenlight Cannabis

• Managing Partner of Mid America Capital, Inc. – Based in Kansas City, a Midwest focused investment banking firm specializing in troubled asset turnaround, with a portfolio of companies in agriculture, technology and construction.
• Co-Founder of Greenlight, a Midwest focused multi-state cannabis entity.
• Founder and CEO of Acres Cannabis (2015-2020).  Nevada cannabis business with over 270,000 sft of cultivation, 2 manufacturing facilities and 2 dispensaries, including an award winning 19,000 sft destination dispensary in Las Vegas.  Sold to Curaleaf in 2020.
• Co-Founder of Eureka Cultivation. California Cannabis business with over 200,000 sft of cultivation and 3 dispensaries under development.  Sold to Curaleaf in 2019.
• CEO and Managing Partner of Resonant Machines.  Specialty International Road Construction business operating on 4 continents.
• Formerly Co-Founder of Magnum Companies, specialty construction companies, with emphasis on underground utilities.
• Formerly Founder of National Harvest, frozen food manufacturer with distribution through Wal-Mart, Costco and 1,500 grocery stores.
• Formerly Co-Founder of Great American Barbecue Company, a USDA food processor with 180 employees producing over 2 million pounds per month.

Mr. Mueller joined the MoCannTrade Board in February 2020, and hopes to bring insight and knowledge from 3 different complex regulated cannabis markets. A serial entrepreneur that graduated from Mizzou, his experience spans from USDA food processing to government contracting around the world, and hopes to add a varying perspective to a diverse Board.

CEO - Proper Cannabis 

John Pennington is the CEO and co-founder of Proper Brands, a fully vertical Missouri-based cannabis company. John oversees Proper’s strategy vision, culture, and M&A activity. Leading and inspiring the community through the power of cannabis, with quality brands, experiences, and service is paramount to Proper’s vision and in John’s personal life.

John has served on numerous civic and non-for-profit organizations and formed New Growth Charitable
Foundation, the philanthropy arm of Proper. He is a founding member of the Missouri Cannabis
Trade Association where he serves as an executive board member. John is also co-owner of
Savoy Properties, a commercial real estate development and investment company where he
worked since 2007 before founding Proper. John is married to his high school sweetheart, Genna, and has 4 kids, Franklin, Rose, Stella, and Rider. A fan of The Grateful Dead, competing in sports, outdoor activities, journeying to and from kid activities, and traveling when he can, is how John spends his free time. Hopeful to see cannabis reformed nationally, John is motivated to help those victimized and disenfranchised by the same business that he is now doing legally and is tied to the mission and commitment of Proper.

Chip Sheppard is chair of the Cannabis/Marijuana Law Group and a member of the Litigation/Dispute
Resolution and Transactional Practice Groups of Carnahan Evans PC. A substantial portion of Mr. Sheppard's practice, as Chair of the Cannabis Law Group, is focused on Missouri's newest industries: medical, adult-use, and micro-business marijuana: representing businesses around the United States navigating the newest Article to the Missouri Constitution and related regulations.

Mr. Sheppard was instrumental in the birth of the MOMMJ industry as one of the editors of
Constitutional Amendment 2 and 3 from 2015-2022, explaining its provisions to local groups and potential clients, and raising money for the 2016, 2018 & 2022 campaigns. He has been a business lawyer since 1983; is the Chair of his firm’s Marijuana and Hemp Law Group (7 of the 18 members of the firm); and was recently named Lawyer of the Year by Missouri Lawyers Weekly (2019), for his MMJ initiative work. His involvement in legal associations, community organizations, and cannabis industry groups provides insight, expertise, and leadership to both the MoCann Trade Board of Directors and its Government Affairs Committee. 

Practice Areas: Acquisitions, Arbitration, Business, Condemnation, Corporate and LLC Organization
and Maintenance, Construction, Government Relations, Intellectual Property, Investor Relations, Litigation, Lobbying, Mediation, Medical Marijuana & Hemp, Mergers, Municipal, Planning & Zoning, Regulatory Compliance, Political Consulting, Real Estate, Securities and Trust and Estate Litigation.

ACCOLADES
 2023 Missouri Lawyers Media POWER List Top 30 Missouri Merger & Acquisition Attorneys
 Since 2009: Named to the ‘Best Lawyers in America’ list by the publication of the same name.
 2021 and 2022: Voted the Best Cannabis Industry Law Firm statewide by the readers of Greenway
Magazine, the leading Missouri cannabis trade magazine for industry licensees and ancillary
businesses.
 2020: Named Best Cannabis Business Lawyer - Springfield/Southwest Missouri by Greenway
Magazine.
 2019: Missouri Lawyers Weekly Lawyer of the Year for a leadership role in amending the MO
Constitution to include Art. XIV – Medical Marijuana.
 2017-2010, 2006,2005: Selected to the “Missouri & Kansas - Super Lawyers" list by Law & Politics Magazine (top .5% according to peer review).
 2008: Received The Missouri Bar and Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association President's Awards in recognition of extraordinary service to those Associations and the legal profession for leading the expansion of the Missouri Court Plan.
 2008: Finalist for Missouri Lawyer of the Year.
 "AV" (highest rating) by Martindale Hubbell (peer review) since 2009.
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Mr. Sheppard is devoted to the profession through the following:
 Springfield Metropolitan Bar Association - Former Board Member and Former President
 Springfield Metropolitan Bar Foundation - Board Member
 International Cannabis Bar Association
 Missouri Cannabis Trade Association (MoCannTrade) - Board of Directors, Governmental Affairs and
Health Education and Training Committees

COMMUNITY AFFILIATIONS
 Ozarks Technical Community College Board of Trustees - Trustee and Chair (past)
 OTC Foundation Board of Directors (present)
 Hickory Hills Country Club (2003-2011) - Director (past)
 First and Calvary Presbyterian Church - Elder and Trustee (past)
 Leadership Springfield - Board of Directors (past)

EDUCATION
Southern Methodist University School of Law, J.D., 1983 (E. Eugene Mason Endowed Scholar)
Missouri State University, B.S., Accounting, with honors, 1980

Daniel Ambrosino is one of the founding members of V3 Holdings MO, LLC (“V3”). V3 was awarded five dispensary facilities and one manufacturing facility. They are opening these facilities under the name Terrabis. Dan holds a B.S. in Finance from Marquette University, began his career at the Chicago Board of Trade, and eventually became Chairman of the Corn Options. Prior to entering the medical cannabis industry, he acted as the Managing Partner of a commodity options brokerage business that spanned 25 years.

Having a career continually overseen by the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, the Commodities Futures Trading Commission, and the National Futures Association, Dan has grown comfortable operating in highly regulated industries. He understands the importance of compliant operations and will be a trusted member of the Dispensary Committee. He looks forward to contributing to the establishment of this new Missouri industry.
 

Leonard Volner,  President of North Dispensaries

North is a two-location dispensary chain with ambitions to grow its footprint. Leonard is also an alumnus of Missouri University of Science and Technology with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering. His early child hood was deeply impacted by the incarceration of a well-respected family member for non violent cannabis offenses. While attending college in Rolla, Missouri, he was actively engaged with the Show Me Cannabis Regulation campaign by collecting signatures and organizing events.

After graduation, he began his career as an engineer and gained experience on a wide variety of public and private projects. As soon as Leonard learned that medical marijuana legalization had qualified for a vote in Missouri, he began working to help license applicants in the state with facility zoning coordination, design, and construction. His hard work and networking has given him an opportunity to help form a highly qualified license-winning team.

Tom Bommarito, Focus Partners and Greenlight Dispensaries

Tom Bommarito has two years of legal cannabis experience developed while commuting between St. Louis, Missouri and Detroit, Michigan for T.D.H, Michigan’s premier fully licensed medical marijuana dispensary. Serving over 1,200 patients daily and generating monthly revenue in excess of $1,500,000. Tom’s responsibilities included assisting in patient care operations, working to streamline third-party testing requirements, overseeing and managing state compliance procedures, and integrating seed-to-sale tracking with internal ERP software systems. While working with T.D.H Dispensary, Tom became proficient in medical marijuana sales, cannabis-related research, and supply chain management.

Michael Birkel President, Birkel Electric Cultivation Solutions

Since 1992 Mike Birkel has propelled Birkel Electric to new ground by way of active learning, trade advancement and focus on innovation. His successful strategy has developed Birkel Electric into one of the Midwest’s largest independent electrical contractors and a leader in the region’s cannabis construction industry.

Building on over 50 years of electrical contracting and engineering excellence, Mike launched Birkel Electric Cultivation Solutions, offering technology-forward services and industry-first offerings to Missouri’s cannabis businesses. By combining extensive electrical systems knowledge with the intricacies of cannabis cultivation, he is able to help clients implement winning cultivation plans.Mike was born and raised in St. Louis and attended Chaminade Preparatory school before earning his degree in electrical engineering from The University of Missouri. He enjoys being involved with the Big Brothers Big Sisters Program, coaching local youth sports teams and lives locally with his wife and three children.

Susan Griffith, Vertical Cannabis

Ms. Griffith has been an advocate for Missouri’s cannabis industry since its inception and has been an active member of MoCannTrade since December 2018. Ms. Griffith has over 18 years of experience in Healthcare/Medical Sales Industry from Pharmaceutical Sales to Interventional Medical Device Sales to culminating in Capital Equipment and Healthcare IT. 

She has extensive experience in all Missouri based Health and Hospital systems, and has very tenured relationships with Practitioners, Caregivers, Administration, and C-Level executives throughout. Susan is a lifelong Missouri resident. She was born and raised in Jefferson City, Missouri, where she graduated Summa Cum Laude from Lincoln University with a dual major in Business Administration and Economics.She currently resides in St. Louis. Additionally, Ms. Griffith has spent many years doing business in the Veterans Hospitals throughout the State of Missouri, and passionately addresses the need for improved care and facilities’ conditions.

MoCannTrade - Board of Directors

MoCannTrade - PAC Committee, Cultivation Committee

WeAreJAINE - Board Member

Peter likes Family, Cannabis, Missouri, Skateboarding, Art, Fishing, Golf, Hunting, Plant Breeding, Sewing, Travel, Cars, Empathy, Double Decker Busses, Creative People, Co-memorative Spoon Collections, Visits to the Park, Hot Fried Chicken, Outer Space, Pride Parades, Dogs, The Arch, Old Cartoons, Happy Old People, Thunderstorms, Fancy Watches, Technology, Sneakers, Polka Dots, Fine Gothic Industrial, Rocks & Gems, Ambiguity, Glasses, Arguments, Perspicacity, Mushrooms, Fast Music, Rivers, Giraffes, Hash, Old Comupter Monitors, People Who Like Biscuits & Gravy, Japan, The Forest Service, Tee Shirts, Big Clouds, Eggs, Dawn Dish Soap, Rainbows, Bolts, and Specificity.

Matt Bayes, MD Founding Partner, Bluetail Medical Group       

Dr. Bayes is new to the cannabis industry, but has been involved in medical cannabis for several years as part of his patient care. Dr. Bayes realized early on that many Missouri physicians do not feel they have the necessary education with regard to medical cannabis. 

His collaborated with Trish Hurford, MD in organizing a ‘Medical Cannabis Summit’ which educated a large group of health care providers on all aspects of the cannabis industry. Dr. Bayes is a fellowship trained sports medicine physician, who attended medical school at Saint Louis University and residency at US Naval Hospital, San Diego. He has a diverse medical practice tailored to active individuals of all ages and experience levels, from youth sports to professional athletes, and weekend warriors to seniors with joint pain.

Boston Dickerson, CEO

Show-Me Organics, Vivid Cannabis, Blue Sage Cannabis Deli

Boston Dickerson joined the MoCannTrade Advisory Board in June 2022 as a member of the manufacturing and testing committee. A Missouri native, Boston has been involved with the cannabis industry in his home state since inception. Show-Me Organics opened two of the first 25 dispensaries and Vivid was one of the first brands on shelves in Missouri.

Prior to entering the cannabis industry, Boston worked with various startups in food & beverage, medical device and logistics industries. Boston holds an M.B.A. and a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry from the University of Missouri.

Jamila Owens-Todd, Naturopathic Doctor has dedicated her life to supporting those in their healing. Her career  started out as a Chemist, working in private industry; government and within the pharmaceutical industry, at a  top pharmaceutical company in the Research and Development Department. She then, graduated from the four year, Naturopathic Doctor degree program at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. A Naturopathic  Doctor is a teacher first, and Jamila has pledged to educate and provide insight in regaining your innate healing  power. Jamila has maintained a strong commitment to science in her practice, as well as to the greater  community.  

Jamila has blended her own herbal formulas for patients for over ten years and has formulated her very own  Hemp/CBD tinctures, using high-quality, Colorado-grown hemp. This led her to her last venture as the Research &  Development Manager with PHYTOS Cannabis, a subsidiary of BeLeaf Medical (a vertically integrated, Medical  Cannabis operation). In this position, she formulated medical cannabis medicines and performed quality analysis  of medical cannabis products. In addition to product formulations, Jamila provides high-quality practitioner and  patient education on cannabis safety, dosing and use and has recently joined St. Louis University’s Cannabis  Science and Operations Program in Cannabis Pharmacology, as an Adjunct Professor. She is also an Instructor  with the Harrington Institute, teaching Intro to Cannabis Extractions. Jamila has operated as General Manager for Luxury Leaf Medical Cannabis Dispensary, where she led the organization from a holistic, patient focus.  Currently, Jamila is serving as Chief Science Officer of MIDOSE, a Medical Cannabis brand that prides itself on  premium quality. In this role, she has combined her passion for plant medicine formulations, with cutting-edge  innovations in cannabis medications, so that consumers are provided with an exceptional experience. 

Jamila has presented on a global stage on topics such as Neuroplasticity and Neurological health, The  Endocannabinoid System and NeuroProtective Plants, The Treatment of Breast Cancer with Cannabis and overall  Medical Cannabis science. Jamila is committed to using science, in order to provide practical, reliable and  accessible therapies to patients. 

CEO – VIBE Cannabis

• Former Vice President Finance – Equifax

• Former Director of M&A – Equifax

• Former Public Auditor – Deloitte

• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) 2014 – present

• Certified Public Accountant (CPA) 2009 – present

• Masters of Accountancy (MAcc) - Wisconsin

Jonathan Milo joined the MoCannTrade Advisory Board and the Cultivation Committee in June 2022, bringing 14 years’ experience in finance, accounting, M&A, data & analytics, strategy, operations, and marketing from both public corporations and small startup companies.  Jonathan is currently the CEO of VIBE Cannabis, where he led the financing, construction, and operational commencement of a 100,000 SF indoor cultivation and manufacturing facility located in downtown St. Louis, MO, bringing jobs and opportunities to the heart of an economically disadvantaged zone.  Believing in the medical benefits of cannabis, Jonathan entered the cannabis industry in 2019 after joining Greene Fox, which he was a key leader in managing cannabis operations in multiple states.  Jonathan has a bachelor’s and master’s degree in accounting from the University of Wisconsin.  He is a Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) and a Certified Public Accountant (CPA).

My name is Johnathan Harper, and I am one of the managing partners for Stairway Cannabis. I oversee the day-to-day operations of our two locations. Our two stores are in Blue Springs and Branson Missouri. My professional background is in retail as well as entertainment marketing and public relations. I toured with many entertainers as well as marketed their music to radio stations, booking agents, and festivals. My journey through retail has been a very cool one. I worked at almost every retail store known to man,  haha. I have gotten to meet some amazing people and have multiple store locations. I started at Greenlight in Harrisonville as their store manager working with the Muellers which I must say was a great experience. It taught me a lot. All of that has led me here at Stairway. My team and I were able to get Stairway voted the best dispensary by the Kansas City Star and its readers for 2022. A lot has gone into building Stairway into a premier brand in the state. I couldn’t do it without the great owners and staff that I have. I hope to continue to grow and help as many people as I can along my journey in the cannabis industry. P.S.I’m just trying to not suck at life.

Adolphus A. Busch V earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration degree with
concentrations in Corporate Finance and Investment Analysis from Colorado State University
(CSU). After graduating in 2013, he immediately entered the legal cannabis space in Colorado.
Adolphus worked in several facets of the cannabis industry, including a Seed-to-Sale software
company and a dispensary chain, before settling down with the cannabis-infused beverage
company, Keef Cola (now Keef Brands). He spent several years working for Keef Cola as a
Sales Representative and eventually worked his way up to a Sales Manager position where he
managed a small sales team in charge of the Colorado medical and recreational cannabis
markets.

In November 2017, Adolphus was offered a position at Pure Greens in Salida, Colorado as
Director of Brand and Product Development. At Pure Greens, he and one other individual
managed the sales for the company and worked to develop new and exciting brands and
products. In August 2018, Adolphus launched his Colorado brand, ABV Cannabis Company,
through a licensing deal with Pure Greens. ABV Cannabis Company focuses on pre-rolled joint
packs and vape products while taking an environmentally friendly approach through packaging,
operations, and initiatives.

At the end of 2018, Adolphus began putting together a team in his home state of Missouri to
apply for medical cannabis licenses. In January 2020, Adolphus and his team were awarded
three Infused Product Manufacturing (IPM) licenses under the dba Teal Labs (TEAL). Adolphus
and his team began developing brands and products for the Missouri market in early 2020 and
have now launched three successful manufactured brands into the Missouri Medical and
Recreational cannabis markets: Teal Cannabis, High Five Cannabis, and ABV Cannabis.

Currently, Adolphus is the CEO and Chairman of Teal Industries, LLC which owns and operates
two licensed cannabis manufacturing facilities in Missouri: Teal Labs LLC (St. Peters) and Teal
Labs II, LLC (St. Louis). Adolphus and his team have plans to continue to expand their cannabis operations in Missouri over the next few years.

An Ohio native, Diana relocated to Missouri in 2008 to attend graduate school at the University of Missouri.  She received her BS degree in Environmental and Plant Biology from Ohio University and a Ph.D. in Biological Sciences from the University of Missouri.  She had been working in plant biology research since 2004 and had 15 years of teaching, training, and research experience prior to joining the cannabis industry in 2017. When it came time to take the next career step, she discovered the booming cannabis industry had opportunities that would allow her to apply her passion for agriculture to benefit the greater good by providing clean, high-quality medicine to patients in need.

As a scientist by trade, Diana brings a breadth of experience to evaluate initiatives, anticipate potential issues, and develop strategic plans to exceed company goals. As a leader and mentor, she values the unique strengths that come from working with a diverse group of people and enjoys building teams from the ground up.  Within the cannabis industry, Diana has found a competitive edge in using data to continuously evaluate operations. Since joining the industry, she has spearheaded over 8 new state business applications and launched 5 cannabis cultivations and 3 cannabis extraction and manufacturing facilities. This includes facility design, build out, commissioning all the way through team development, and evaluation of operational efficiencies and initiatives for improvement. These endeavors have given her the opportunity to utilize her scientific and business expertise in a challenging and rewarding role in the startup, operation, and leadership of cannabis facilities.

Chris Issinghoff serves as the Director of Quality Assurance for Elevate Cannabis, designing the compliance systems for cultivation, manufacturing, and retail cannabis sales. Over the course of his 14 years of experience in the cannabis industry, Chris has developed a strong acumen for calculated, calm, stable, and supportive leadership. Starting as a retail budtender, Chris grew his oversight from a single retail store to a suite of 11 licenses, ensuring efficient communication and supply to the associated dispensaries.

In Chris's tenure with Elevate Cannabis, he oversees compliance for a portfolio of nineteen licenses across two states. His analytical skills and strategic mindset have been pivotal in implementing strategies that not only maintain compliance but also drive operational efficiency. As Chris continues to lead, grow, and execute, his vision is clear: to elevate the industry's standards in compliance and quality assurance. His goal is to transform his company, Elevate Cannabis, into an industry leader, setting new benchmarks and shaping the future of cannabis compliance. In a constantly evolving landscape of cannabis regulations, Chris remains a steadfast pillar of knowledge and expertise.

Scott Wooton is the Founder and Managing Partner of W2 Industries, and possesses extensive and multifaceted background in engineering, entrepreneurship, and business management positions. With W2 Industries, Scott has spearheaded innovative projects in cannabis production, leveraging his expertise to develop specialized equipment and processes tailored for medical products. His leadership has been instrumental in overseeing the design, construction, and operation of controlled facilities optimized for cultivating cannabis and pioneering advanced extraction methods. Scott's commitment to excellence is further evidenced by his dedication to regulatory compliance, ensuring that all operations meet the highest industry standards.

In addition to his endeavors in the cannabis industry, Scott has made significant contributions across various sectors, demonstrating his versatility and entrepreneurial acumen. His experience in navigating complex regulatory landscapes and implementing robust compliance measures underscores his ability to excel in highly regulated environments, such as the cannabis industry. Scott's entrepreneurial spirit and expertise in business process reengineering make him uniquely qualified to contribute to the MoCann Cultivation Committee.

Katie is co-founder and co-owner of 3140 Industries, a Wholesale Microbusiness licensee in Missouri congressional district 3. Katie is a current adjunct professor at SLU in their Cannabis and Science Operations Program where she has been educating students for 3 years. Katie has 5 years experience owning and operating brick and mortar retail stores contributing to the health and wellness of her customers. Katie co-founded Blue Key CBD in 2017 where she developed and manufactured products such as tinctures, lotions, fruit chews and a variety of other products. Katie sells CBD products online, through brick & mortar and through local dispensaries. Katie has 10 years cannabis cultivation experience, is a certified forager of the Ozark region and an avid plant science enthusiast. Katie has 10 years of medical experience in the health care industry through patient care and sales. In 2019, Katie co-founded We Are JAINE, a non-profit organization promoting women in the cannabis industry, and currently serves as its Vice President.

Christy Essex is the CEO of Se7en Staffing, a cannabis staffing and employment solutions company.  Christy has been an integral part of workforce solutions in MO since 2014. As a business owner/operator since 2002, Christy's interests and initiatives in the cannabis market began in 2013 initially with watching and studying the legislative reforms, signature collecting, to self-education in the cannabis space. Christy then combined her cannabis knowledge with her workforce solutions skill set to help serve Missouri's cannabis market with Se7en Staffing.

Se7en has since evolved to serve cannabis companies and candidates nationally. With a background in HR, sales, operational leadership, project management, manufacturing, and workforce development, her experience and drive have led her to serve on committees and boards that seek to resolve workforce issues and enhance training initiatives. She is an activist for women, minorities, and veterans desiring to work in the cannabis sector. She is a member of We Are Jaine (empowering women in cannabis), and MoCann Trade. She was nominated for Women and Executive of the year by Greenway Magazine and featured in COMO Magazine Women to Watch 2020 edition. She has assisted with the startup of 2 workforce sustainability projects (both recognized by the State of Mo) and partners or collaborates with various cannabis programs. Christy is a firm believer in "Cannabis is medicine"

Jason Crady is the Co-Owner & Co-Operator of Missouri Wild Alchemy Dispensary in O’Fallon, Missouri. As a licensee that has been involved in the Missouri cannabis industry since its inception, Jason has navigated Missouri Wild Alchemy from being the first medical marijuana dispensary in O’Fallon through the transition to adult-use legalization.

Jason also currently serves as Battalion Chief for the St. Louis County Fire Department, holding several rescue discipline certifications including swift water rescue technician and vehicle rescue technician as well as certified in the state of Missouri as a fire service instructor level 1.

Missouri Wild Alchemy is a tight-knit, family-run operation with Crady and his wife handling HR for the dispensary, writing SOPs, hiring, training, and onboarding new hires. Jason is actively engaged in the day-to-day operations of his dispensary and is adept at building relationships with other licensees and facility agents. A MoCann member since the earliest days of the Missouri Cannabis Industry, Jason has been active in interfacing with state regulators and navigating policy issues. Jason will brings his extensive experience and enthusiasm to his work on MoCannTrade’s Healthcare Education & Training Committee.

Kendra Conti is the Co-Founder and President of ContiCorps Labs, a licensed cannabis testing lab in Galena. Kendra excels at strategic thinking and consummate professionalism. From her early passion for hard sciences in a family of biologists-in-trade culminating in her double major in chemistry and biology from the University of Kansas, she endeavors to add the rigor to scientific exploration. In her “short” five years as Director of Global Sales in the medical device testing industry, she sought to push existing knowledge bases to uncover the potential in the new and novel.

As an analyst at heart, her approach of “evaluate all scenarios” makes the decision to transition industries a no-brainer. As evidenced by her footprint in the partnership to gain ISO/IEC 17025:2017 certification for the medical testing lab, she has an eye for Quality Assurance and a penchant for documentation. In her thoughts, there is no better merger of biology and chemistry than in medical marijuana, and she looks forward to focusing her laser-like attention to MoCann’s Manufacturing & Testing Committee.

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With over 15 years of experience in regulatory compliance, quality assurance and control, chemicals management, and logistics, Micah Heppermann is an expert when it comes to process and systems management in heavily regulated industries. His extensive knowledge of regulatory and certification requirements including OSHA, FIFRA, RCRA, CAA, CWA, ISO, and Kosher makes him a central source for any enterprise seeking to compete and survive in industries with strict regulatory requirements.

Previously, Micah worked for the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) in their Division of Cannabis Regulation as a Compliance Officer. He was responsible for issuing medical marijuana facility licenses and certifications, seed-to-sale tracking audit and training, education, inspections, regulatory compliance monitoring, investigations, and violation issuance and resolution. He was designated as DHSS’ subject matter expert on the state seed-to-sale inventory tracking system (METRC) and in coordinating with other state agencies on health and safety concerns within the industry. Micah has dedicated his career to constantly training for and becoming an expert in all forms of emerging quality assurance/environmental science certifications and related training.

Brad Gregory is a dedicated entrepreneur with a passion for the cannabis industry and community. Brad has been a part of Missouri’s cannabis industry since its inception. His ventures are family centric and partnerships with friends, emphasizing authenticity and genuine connections. A cannabis enthusiast and home grower, Brad loves building things and bringing people together. He believes in the power of collaboration to drive innovation and success in the cannabis industry. With experience working with multiple groups in the industry, Brad’s strengths include license compliance, cannabis extraction/processing, and cultivation, and never giving up. He has played a significant role in helping various organizations navigate the complexities of the cannabis market. His goal is to be a trusted link between the micro and comprehensive markets, empowering micro license holders before commencement and beyond. Brad is committed to fostering growth and opportunities for small businesses within the cannabis sector. Brad is a St. Louis native and a proud father of a 4-year-old daughter and 2-year-old twin boys. His family is his inspiration and motivation in all his endeavors.

Christopher McHugh - President & CEO, Vertical Cannabis
After nearly two decades as both a criminal defense lawyer and civil litigation attorney, Chris now spends much of his time representing, consulting with, and advising entities and individuals on marijuana or hemp projects. This approach to practicing law combined with his array of legal experience gives Chris’ clients an advantage in this relatively new and ever-changing legal landscape. Chris took this interest and co-founded the firm’s Cannabis Law practice, of which he also serves as chair.

Chris’ experience spans a wide range of litigation including representing small, midsized, and large companies in Kansas and Missouri state and federal courts, including the Eighth and Tenth Circuit Courts of Appeals. In particular, he has a strong focus in the construction and transportation industries. His experience includes federal and state regulatory, trial, and appellate cases, with particular experience in criminal defense, transportation, class-action, intellectual property, construction, and commercial litigation cases. He has also defended multimillion dollar class actions.

A part of the Missouri Cannabis Industry since its inception, Chris also serves the President and CEO of Vertical Cannabis, a state licensed craft marijuana cultivation, hash rosin lab and dispensary in St. Joseph, Missouri. Located in a 60k sq. ft. state-of-the-art indoor facility in a brand new business park, Vertical’s focus is growing small batch cannabis with authentic genetics sourced from the very best breeders and Vertical’s own breeding program.

Wendy Bronfein - Co-Founder, Chief Brand Officer and Director of Public Policy, Curio Wellness

Wendy Bronfein is Co-Founder, Chief Brand Officer and Director of Public Policy at Curio Wellness. As a member of the executive leadership team, Wendy drives the company’s legislative agenda across multiple states, oversees the Curio brand, and all corporate communications. Leveraging her considerable career in media communications and entertainment, Wendy launched Curio in 2017, building it into one of the most trusted brands in cannabis.

Wendy has been instrumental as a policy lead in the advancement of cannabis policy, responsible for instrumental multi-state industry legislation, and helping to create and establish what are now industry standards for dosage and marketing in the cannabis industry. With the introduction of Curio into the Missouri market, Wendy now brings her considerable policy experience and tireless drive for the betterment of the cannabis industry as a Government Affairs Advisor for MoCannTrade.

Alex Gray - Chief Strategy Officer, Good Day Farm

Alex Gray is Chief Strategy Officer of Good Day Farm, leading the strategy and expansion of its brand portfolio. He is a seasoned attorney with a focus on highly regulated industries including cannabis, administrative law and gaming. Prior to Good Day Farm, Alex co-founded Steel Wright Gray, PLLC, a commercial litigation, government relations, and administrative law firm located in Little Rock Arkansas. Alex has represented over a dozen dispensaries and cultivation facilities in complying with state cannabis rules and regulations and has been successful in obtaining several applications for medical marijuana dispensary licenses for his Arkansas clients. A Tennessee native, Alex is a graduate of the University of Tennessee and the University of Arkansas at Little Rock — William H. Bowen School of Law, where he was managing editor of the Law Review. Alex brings his many years of experience in cannabis and policy work to serve as a Government Affairs Advisor for MoCannTrade.

David Brodsky, Founding Partner, West Egg Cannabis Partners

David Brodsky is the Founding Partner of West Egg Cannabis Partners, serving the Missouri cannabis microbusiness community and managing the operations for several microbusiness dispensaries. With over a decade of experience in the cannabis industry, David has cultivated a wealth of expertise in directing overall business operations, driving growth initiatives, and ensuring regulatory compliance within the cannabis industry.

During his time with The Farmer’s Wife Dispensaries, David's strategic oversight led to significant achievements in market share and operational excellence across multiple dispensary locations. His ability to navigate complex regulatory environments, combined with a thorough appreciation for consumer demands, has been pivotal in establishing a successful operational model that includes a variety of product categories, catering to both budget-conscious and premium consumers.

David has been instrumental in developing the Missouri microbusiness community, dedicating substantial time to mentoring new microbusiness dispensary and wholesale operators, providing them with a clear understanding of industry standards and realistic expectations. His pragmatic approach and deep industry insight have guided many through the complexities of establishing successful operations. David’s proven track record of success, coupled with his dedication to operational excellence and customer satisfaction, positions him to be an essential member of MoCannTrade’s Dispensary Committee.

Dan Nelson is the CEO and Co-founder of Kansas City Cannabis Company(KCC). Throughout his tenure with KCC, Dan has proved himself a natural leader whose ability to inspire and motivate his team has been evident in the successful and cohesive workforce he has built. His knack for fostering strong, respectful relationships with partners and vendors has been pivotal in the establishment and growth of the business.

Leveraging his background in construction and business. Dan leans heavily into customer experience, employee culture, community engagement and within and outside the Missouri Cannabis Industry. Dan, a Kansas City native of 43 years, was instrumental during the application process, networking, raising capital, designing and physically building out each of KCC's five locations. His perspective as the CEO of a cannabis business by way of "school of hard knocks" being on the ground level of the developing Missouri medical market uniquely positions Dan to understand and manage the complexities of the cannabis industry. Dan’s valuable insights and a forward-thinking perspective will be a benefit as an Advisory Board Member to MoCann’s Dispensary Committee.

Family, friends, food, fishing and travel.

"Barbecue may not be the road to world peace, but it's a start." Anthony Bourdain 

Suzanne Morrison - 

Suzanne began her leadership career 20 years ago in the hospitality industry. There she created Leadership Development programs, shoulder-to-shoulder training, LSM training, food safety audits and so much more.

Joining the Missouri Cannabis Industry in 2020, Suzanne was actively involved in local community engagement, marketing, operations, training and education, and compliance & sales. Suzanne’s passion and commitment to educate on Cannabis as medicine is unwavering. She has presented for local police departments, developed patient education sessions, and created a top-of-the-line dispensary training program.

In 2022, Suzanne began her own consulting firm specializing in cannabis compliance. From facility audits to QMS buildout, Suzanne’s experience in cannabis compliance runs the gamut. In the years since, Suzanne’s firm now offers a wide array of additional services, including Human Resources/Training, Retail Compliance, Operational consulting and Sales & Purchasing. Suzanne’s experience of operational compliance makes her a natural fit for MoCann’s Dispensary Committee. 

Craid Ward - Co-Founder, Chief Financial Officer, Carroll County Cannabis Company (C4 Pharms)

Craig Ward is the co-founder and Chief Financial Officer of C4 Pharms located in  Carrollton, among the first operational cultivators in Missouri. Craig is an experienced executive and CPA serving various industries from public accounting, recycling and

cannabis over his 15-year career. Craig has cultivated a varied skillset running the gamut from finance and accounting to legal and compliance.

Present in the #MOMJ Industry since Day 1, Craig helped launch C4 Pharms, overseeing financial and operational management of C4’s cultivation and manufacturing facility. Being one of the first cultivators to market in Missouri, Craig has firsthand experience of the challenges and opportunities present in the #MOMJ industry

Zane Newsome - Director of Operations, Elevate Missouri

Zane Newsom is the Director of Operations for Elevate Missouri. A seasoned professional with a wealth of experience in the cannabis industry, Zane has spent 9 years honing his expertise, working in cultivation before pivoting to retail operations.

As Retail Director, he was responsible for hiring and training retail staff to open and compliantly operate three dispensaries in Kansas City. Zane’s achievements in 2023 include transitioning 3 Kansas City dispensaries into the adult-use recreational market, acquiring and transitioning 7 new dispensaries in Missouri, and opening Elevate’s first dispensary in Arizona. Zane’s success paired with his knowledge and experience in seed to sale processes led to his promotion to Director of Operations.

Before embarking on his cannabis career, Zane served in the US Navy, earning the distinction of Sailor of the Quarter twice and achieving early promotions. This military background instilled in him valuable leadership and discipline, skills that continue to shape his professional journey.

Zane takes pride in his leadership, integrity, and work ethic; he hopes to inspire those around him. Zane remains focused on growing Elevate and helping shape the future of the cannabis industry through his work as an Advisory Board Member to MoCannTrade’s Dispensary Committee.