Dr. Tirimba Obonyo is an accomplished economist, financial analyst, and educator whose expertise bridges academic research and practical financial strategy. Holding both a PhD and the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) d… Dr. Tirimba Obonyo is an accomplished economist, financial analyst, and educator whose expertise bridges academic research and practical financial strategy. Holding both a PhD and the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) designation, he currently serves as an Associate Professor in the Department of Economics and Finance, where his teaching and research focus on applied economics, international finance, and market integration. His scholarly work, published in Applied Economics Letters, explores how global financial structures—such as U.S. dollar-denominated debt—shape equity market correlations across nations. This research provides valuable insights into balance-sheet mismatches and the systemic risks that connect emerging and developed economies, offering guidance for international portfolio design and fiscal resilience. Beyond academia, Dr. Obonyo has been a key advisor and collaborator on projects that apply data-driven analysis to real-world financial and development challenges. His thought leadership directly aligns with CODA’s mission to strengthen diaspora communities through analytics, innovation, and financial empowerment. CODA proudly welcomes Dr. Tirimba Obonyo to its Board of Governors, where his global perspective, research excellence, and dedication to equitable economic growth will help guide the organization’s next phase of impact and expansion. Read more Read less

Chris is an accomplished Information Technology leader with a career spanning over a decade, marked by significant contributions across banking, finance, and insurance sectors. His profound expertise in business systems… Chris is an accomplished Information Technology leader with a career spanning over a decade, marked by significant contributions across banking, finance, and insurance sectors. His profound expertise in business systems, financial technology, data science and AI, has been crucial in spearheading digital transformation initiatives at prestigious institutions like Bank of America, Citi Group, and Humana. Throughout his career, Chris has taken on varied roles, from being a coach and trainer to a data analyst and full-stack developer. Read more Read less

Amanda Towe is an accomplished educator with a Bachelor of Science degree from Missouri State University. Her professional journey has taken her across various educational roles in Kansas City, Branson, and she is curre… Amanda Towe is an accomplished educator with a Bachelor of Science degree from Missouri State University. Her professional journey has taken her across various educational roles in Kansas City, Branson, and she is currently serving within the Republic Public Schools System. With a commitment to fostering educational excellence, Amanda has made significant impacts in each of her roles, shaping the minds of future generations. In addition to her dedication to education, she has been an invaluable advisor for CODA for the last three years, bringing her expertise and insights to the forefront of the organization's initiatives. Her contributions continue to be a driving force in CODA's mission to empower and educate. Read more Read less