Gary Pryor is a former business development entrepreneur and investment banker, who specializes in mergers, acquisitions and consolidations within multiple industries, with an emphasis in foodservice and fintech. With a deep-rooted belief in the transformative power of education, Gary established the scholarship to support and nurture the next generation of leaders.A Senior Business Consultant with Waters Business Consulting, Gary’s professional journey is marked by innovation, leadership, and a commitment to excellence. He is best known as the former Founder & CEO of FuturePay Holdings Inc., a pioneering merchant-focused consumer finance company.Gary’s early career saw him specializing in mergers, acquisitions, and corporate finance with prestigious institutions like Merrill Lynch International and the Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York (JP Morgan). His expertise and vision led him to be recognized as one of the founders of the “Home Meal Replacement” industry. His contributions to the food sector didn’t stop there; he was instrumental in developing a hybrid specialty foods store named Emily’s Market while working with Arizona-based Circle K Stores Inc.Beyond his corporate roles, Gary’s entrepreneurial spirit shone brightly. He ventured into merchant banking, acquiring and selling several food-related businesses, from USDA certified food manufacturing companies to restaurants spread across the US.A graduate of St. Lawrence University in Canton, NY, Gary’s interests span from hiking and skiing to squash and golf. His rich experiences, both in business and philanthropy, make him a figure of admiration and respect in the academic and corporate worlds alike.