GRCC's Emerging Professionals Council presents...
Adulting & The "F" Word: Educational Series Panel Discussion
Let's talk about that scary word.... FINANCE — without the confusing jargon or judgement.
Join our Emerging Professionals Council on Thursday, August 20, 2026 for the continuation of our popular Adulting & The "F" Word series. Whether you are beginning your career, managing competing financial priorities, preparing for a major life milestone, or simply trying to make more confident decisions with your money, this engaging panel discussion will help you strengthen your financial foundation.
Our panel of local financial and banking professionals will break down essential financial literacy, financial-planning concepts, and share practical guidance you can immediately apply to your own life.
Adulting & The "F" Word: Educational Series Panel Discussion
Let's talk about that scary word.... FINANCE — without the confusing jargon or judgement.
Join our Emerging Professionals Council on Thursday, August 20, 2026 for the continuation of our popular Adulting & The "F" Word series. Whether you are beginning your career, managing competing financial priorities, preparing for a major life milestone, or simply trying to make more confident decisions with your money, this engaging panel discussion will help you strengthen your financial foundation.
Our panel of local financial and banking professionals will break down essential financial literacy, financial-planning concepts, and share practical guidance you can immediately apply to your own life.
Strengthen Your Financial Foundation
Attendees will gain valuable insights into...
- Creating a realistic financial plan based on your current income, responsibilities & goals
- Building an emergency fund while balancing everyday expenses in current economy
- Understanding difference between saving, investing, and retirement planning
- Managing debt and determining which financial priority to address first
- Preparing financially for major milestones; including purchasing a home, changing careers, starting a family, or launching a business
- Using banking and financial resources more effectively
You don't need to have everything figured out — you just a place to start.
Meet Our Incredible Speakers:
Phil Cribbin has worked as a senior leader in both the Rail Transportation & Aerospace Corporate Sectors. He moved from Europe in 2006 living in DC and Virginia, managing large projects $500m+. He has a passion for lifelong learning and personal growth, recently starting his own practice of Leadership Coaching - with "the nervous system in mind" - in order to guide people to a place of inner stillness so that people can meet complexity with clarity. Project Management - delivering transformative programs through building connection, collaboration and community.
Craig Cibak is the Founder of the Law Offices of Craig M. Cibak, an estate planning firm based in Reston. He focuses on helping individuals, families and business owners create estate plans that protect their assets, provide for their loved ones, and ensure their wishes are carried out. With decades of legal experience, Craig works closely with financial advisors, accountants, and other professionals to develop comprehensive plans that address wills, trusts, powers of attorney, healthcare directives, and wealth transfer strategies. He is passionate about making estate planning approachable and helping clients understand that it's an essential part of every sound financial plan, not just something to think about later in life. During this discussion, Craig will share practical insights on why estate planning matters for professionals at every stage of life and how taking a few proactive steps today can help protect both your family & your financial future.
Linked-in
Cullen Carson is a Senior Relationship Banker at M&T Bank with over a decade of experience in the financial service industry. After beginning his career applying for a teller position, he has operated in multiple positions within the banking space. Currently at M&T's Reston Business Banking Center, he has been working with businesses and personal clients to ensure they have the tools they need to increase their cash flow, protect their funds and maximize their return on investments. From his days as a Universal Banker in Georgia to his current role, Cullen has had a heart for the people behind the spreadsheets and account numbers. Cullen understands that the most important asset to any financial professional is the trust of their clients, and that's the compass through which he navigates his business.
Linked-in
Cullen Carson is a Senior Relationship Banker at M&T Bank with over a decade of experience in the financial service industry. After beginning his career applying for a teller position, he has operated in multiple positions within the banking space. Currently at M&T's Reston Business Banking Center, he has been working with businesses and personal clients to ensure they have the tools they need to increase their cash flow, protect their funds and maximize their return on investments. From his days as a Universal Banker in Georgia to his current role, Cullen has had a heart for the people behind the spreadsheets and account numbers. Cullen understands that the most important asset to any financial professional is the trust of their clients, and that's the compass through which he navigates his business.
Kathe Kanwal Bist (formerly Yamagata) is the Founder and CEO of Purple Squirrel Enterprises, a people-first Fractional HR and Talent Acquisition firm helping grow companies navigate hiring, compliance, and workforce strategy in an evolving world of work. With over 30 years of experience across HR leadership, talent acquisition, coaching, and organizational consulting, Kathe has partnered with startups, high-growth, emerging companies, and established organizations to build scalable, inclusive, and effective hiring practices. Her work sits at the intersection of technology and human judgement, advising leaders on how to leverage automation without losing empathy, trust, or culture. Known for her practical, candid approach, Kathe brings real-world insight into how AI is reshaping hiring - and where the human element remains irreplaceable.
Date and Time
Thursday Aug 20, 2026
4:00 PM - 6:00 PM EDT
Location
Ornery Beer Co. Public House
2310 Woodland Crossing Dr, Ste F, Herndon, VA, 20171
Fees/Admission
Online Registration
Please Note: There is a $10 increase on tickets at the door for walk-in registrations.
Contact Information
Torrie Turner || Operations Manager
Send Email
