Meet the Judges
Get ready to meet the powerhouse panel behind Start Up Lehigh Valley 2025! These distinguished judges aren’t just here to watch the show—they’ll be in the thick of it, evaluating pitches, asking the smart, tough questions, and getting into the nitty-gritty of each venture’s business model.
Each judge brings serious entrepreneurial cred and industry experience, giving them the sharp eye needed to spot promising startups. As founders pitch their ideas, the judges will assess everything from innovation and feasibility to market potential and team strength. Their insight will help determine which ventures rise to the top—and ultimately, who takes home the SULV 2025 honors.
Stephen Tang
Steven is a distinguished leader and mentor with over 40 years of executive and governance experience in the global life sciences, public health, nonprofit, and higher education industries. As the current chairman of NOW Diagnostics Inc. and former chairman and CEO of OraSure Technologies, he has been actively involved in fostering innovation and nurturing emerging companies throughout his career. Steve is honored to bring his expertise to the Lehigh Valley Start-Up competition as a judge, where he looks forward to supporting and elevating the next generation of visionary entrepreneurs. ✨
Emma Fleck
Emma is an innovative and award-winning educator. As a Professor of Entrepreneurship at the AACSB Accredited Sigmund Weis Business School at Susquehanna University, she teaches business start-up, innovation strategies, problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills to support and elevate the student experience as young entrepreneurs. Over her career, she has supported hundreds of businesses to grow and thrive in Ireland, Colorado, and Pennsylvania, where she now lives with her two boys. ✨
Kathryn Colonna Worrilow
Kathryn is Founder and Chief Scientific Officer of LifeAire Systems. A reproductive physiologist, she holds a Ph.D. from the University of Virginia and completed postdoctoral training at the University of Pennsylvania. Her pioneering research on embryogenesis and air quality led to the development of LifeAire’s patented air purification technology. Dr. Worrilow holds 30 patents, has authored over 75 publications, and is a 2025 Edison Award recipient. A frequent national and international speaker, she also serves on biodefense and health equity advisory boards. She is passionate about science education and values time with her husband and twin sons. ✨