Asma Hasan, President
MBA in Operations and Supply Chain Management
I initially became interested in Net Impact from an environmental and sustainability perspective. I previously worked in beverage production, where I got to see the huge amount of resources that go into products we consume every day. Finding ways to reduce energy and water use is not only environmentally friendly, but cost-effective for businesses too. Being a woman and minority in a male-dominated field, I also believe it's important to discuss issues like how to maintain a supportive and collaborative work environment, as well as recognizing and offering support for those in nontraditional occupations. It's a modern reality that individuals have to look at the impact we each have in our respective spheres, rather than relying on other organizations to tackle issues.
Transitioning from a Student Liasion to the President of Net Impact has been a tremendous learning experience. Seeing first-hand how to build interest in an organization, juggle scheduling, and search for funding has given me the confidence to know that I can lead any organization and will have a strong network of support to turn to in my professional career. This year, I'm looking forward to increasing our connection with professional chapters and local businesses, engaging students with real-world experience. An MBA is a very practical degree, and I would like Net Impact to be a reflection of that.
Abby Milly, Vice President
MPH/MBA
I am a born-and-raised Iowan and graduate of the University of Iowa. My work experience post undergrad has dabbled in a variety of social impact ventures and business roles: running a phase III clinical trial for diabetic patients in Mexico, organizing mobile health clinics for migrant farmworkers at a small Iowa nonprofit, providing cancer support services for 15,000+ patients and their families at the LIVESTRONG Foundation, managing social media strategy at a Chicago-based technology startup, and designing health insurance products at a Blues-affiliate in the Pacific Northwest. My work experience, coupled with my unwavering optimism about the potential of purpose-driven businesses to have a profound impact on their communities, led me to pursue a dual Master in Public Health and an MBA at UIC. I am thrilled to be a part of Net Impact and eager to help UIC students realize the social impact they aspire to make in the world.
Josh Bonifas, Treasurer
MBA in Finance
I was immediately drawn to Net Impact as it was promoting Social Entrepreneurs; those mavericks of the business world offering un-business like solutions. I was already comfortable with the idea: my brother started a social entrepreneurship housing refugees in Aurora Illinois, and my father teaches it at North Central College. Joining Net Impact seemed like a natural progression. The Net Impact leadership team—Asma Hasan and Abby Milloy—are not only smart businesswomen; they are passionate.
My background. I was mentoring a family of Somali refugees in Albany Park through World Relief Chicago who were living in an affordable home. This home allowed them quick access to: public transportation, school, jobs. My job during this time was processing delinquent 2nd mortgage claims during the housing bubble. I realized the Somali refugees were onto something living in an affordable unit. I went back to get my MBA in Finance in the pursuit of developing affordable housing. I believe Net Impact is the student organization most aligned with my business goals.