Michael Giovanis is a polymath with proven success in both the business and nonprofit worlds. As the Founder and CEO of Availing Echoism, he helps organizations scale, optimize operations, and drive impact through financial strategy, policy innovation, and systems change.

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Michael has led multimillion-dollar fundraising efforts, implemented CRM solutions, and streamlined financial systems to support sustainable growth. He is a recognized leader in advocacy and governance, serving as the Founder and Board Chair of LEAN and Chairman of the Minneapolis Advisory Committee on Housing.

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Michael advises politicians, executives, and business owners on building inclusive, effective organizations. A sought-after speaker and strategist, he bridges business acumen with mission-driven impact, helping organizations grow, innovate, and lead.

Marc Propst is an operations, development, and fundraising expert with two master’s degrees—one in Nonprofit Leadership and another in Healthcare Administration. He specializes in streamlining workflows, optimizing organizational efficiency, and ensuring financial sustainability.

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As Director of Fundraising at Tubman, Marc has led fundraising strategy, grant writing, corporate sponsorships, and donor engagement,. His expertise in relationship management and financial strategy has helped organizations build long-term sustainability while advancing their mission.

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Marc is a strategic operations leader with a deep understanding of budgeting, risk management, compliance, and process improvement. He works closely with leadership teams to refine internal systems, enhance financial oversight, and create scalable growth strategies that drive both revenue and operational excellence.

Charlie Barba-Cook is a nationally respected expert in disability inclusion, intersectional equity, and organizational change. As Partner and Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer (CDEIO) at Availing Echoism, she brings unmatched expertise in building environments where all individuals can thrive.

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​Widely recognized for her work blending disability justice, racial equity, and LGBTQ+ advocacy, Charlie has advised nonprofits, corporations, and coalitions across the country. Her deep expertise — combined with her lived experience as a queer, disabled leader of color — positions her as one of the most compelling and respected voices in the field today.

At Availing Echoism, Charlie leads our DEI practice with a bold, systems-change approach, helping organizations move beyond performative commitments to drive sustainable, measurable progress.

Alex Guzina is a financial strategist who brings a wealth of financial expertise to our team. Holding a finance degree from Johns Hopkins University, he has built a reputation for precision, innovation, and problem-solving in complex financial landscapes. He has extensive experience in navigating gray areas and adapting to changes in the dynamic regulatory landscape. 

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Alex has spent seven years on the East Coast, working as a researcher and compensation consultant responsible for valuing and certifying over $800 million in equity awards. He also oversaw development of employee incentive plans for clients. His keen ability to identify growth opportunities, mitigate risk, and maximize financial efficiency helped transform businesses by aligning the goals of employees and managers with those of shareholders and executives. 

 

Now back in Minneapolis, Alex delivers Wall Street-level expertise with a Main Street approach. He’s passionate about using his skills to help organizations grow, scale, and succeed. 

Eli Khan is a digital architect and technology strategist with proven expertise in web development, IT infrastructure, and user experience design. With over 10 years of experience in the field, he has built and optimized digital platforms for leading tech firms, Fortune 500 companies, and high-growth startups.

 

With a a Master’s in Human-Computer Interaction, his ability to merge cutting-edge technology with intuitive design has made him a sought-after expert in the world of IT and web development.

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Eli has led website development, e-commerce optimization, and IT automation projects that help small businesses streamline operations and improve customer engagement. His expertise in cybersecurity, CRM integration, and intuitive UI design ensures businesses can scale efficiently without technical roadblocks.

Lissette Flores is a human resources leader with deep expertise in organizational development, talent strategy, and workplace culture. Holding a Master’s degree she specializes in building efficient, people-centered HR systems that help businesses and nonprofits attract, retain, and develop top talent.

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Lissette ensures that businesses build strong, people-first teams that drive success. Whether developing HR policies, optimizing performance review systems, or leading diversity and inclusion initiatives, she provides strategic, results-driven solutions that strengthen organizations from the inside out.

Larz Collinz is a visionary artist and graphic designer with a passion for creating bold, dynamic visuals that bring brands to life. With over a decade of experience in branding, digital illustration, and visual storytelling, she crafts memorable, high-impact designs that captivate audiences and elevate their presence.

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Larz’s background in fine arts, digital media, and brand strategy allows her to merge creativity with business-savvy design solutions. She has worked with businesses, startups, and nonprofits, developing everything from logos and brand identities to website graphics, marketing materials, and custom illustrations. 

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A specialist in branding psychology and visual communication, Larz ensures that every design reflects a business’s core identity while resonating with its audience. Whether crafting a sleek, modern brand aesthetic or an expressive, artistic campaign, dhe delivers custom designs that make businesses stand out.