2026 ACG NY Inclusion in the Middle Market Series - Winter Edition

Join us for an educational evening filled with insights and networking! NY Metro's top dealmakers and middle market professionals will gather together to explore: 'Beyond the Deal: The Strategic Importance of Building and Navigating Boards and Leadership Teams for Post-Acquisition Growth' with industry experts. 

The close of a deal is just the beginning of the post-acquisition value creation journey. In today’s competitive middle market, the composition of a newly acquired company’s board and senior leadership team is a critical driver of long-term success. Join us on January 27th at AllianceBernstein in Hudson Yards for an incisive panel discussion featuring industry-leading voices in the middle market. We will explore the 'how', 'why', and ROI of integrating female leadership and diverse perspectives into portfolio companies and how to leverage diversity as a strategic asset. Stick around after the panel for an hour of networking, cocktails, and hors d'oeuvres with fellow dealmakers and industry peers.

SPEAKERS

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SPEAKER Deborah Fell Managing Partner Chief Outsiders

Deborah Fell works with CEOs, principals, owners and franchisees in industries ranging from hospitality to healthcare to retail; develops growth strategy, positions brands, builds marketing capabilities to accelerate growth.

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HOST Christa Jaganath Audit Partner Crowe

With over 15 years of experience in public accounting, Christa Jaganath specializes in providing audit and attestation services to privately-held companies across the consumer markets, professional services, and manufacturing & distribution industries. Recognized for a commitment to excellence and a client-focused approach, Christa has built trusted relationships by delivering high-quality insights and solutions tailored to business needs. Beyond technical expertise, Christa is passionate about developing future leaders, with a strong focus on advancing women in leadership. Actively engaged in women’s initiatives and mentorship, Christa is dedicated to creating pathways for diverse talent to thrive within the profession. An advocate for community involvement, Christa serves on multiple Boards, contributing time and leadership to causes that drive meaningful impact. A seasoned public speaker, Christa frequently presents on technical accounting matters, as well as topics related to women’s leadership and diversity, inspiring audiences with both professional knowledge and personal commitment to positive change.

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SPEAKER Chelsea Celistan Principal, Deal Team - Head of Independent Sponsor & Company Direct Investment Strategy Avante Capital Partners

Chelsea Celistan is a Principal at Avante Capital Partners. Based in New York, Chelsea is responsible for identifying, underwriting, executing and managing investment opportunities. Chelsea joined Avante in 2024. Chelsea brings to Avante over a decade of middle-market investing experience. Prior to Avante, Chelsea worked as a Vice President at Providence Equity Partners, where she focused on technology, media, and telecom leveraged buyouts. Prior to Providence, she spent time in software and healthcare investing at Vista Equity Partners and The Vistria Group, respectively. Chelsea began her career at Citigroup. Chelsea graduated cum laude from Harvard College with a B.A. in Government, Secondary in Economics, and language citation in Spanish. Later, Chelsea earned an MBA at Harvard Business School. Chelsea lives in Manhattan and enjoys boutique workout classes, traveling, and the arts.

Additional Speakers to be Announced Soon!