Panelist Bios

Nick De Gregorio is a Marine Corps veteran, entrepreneur, and civic leader committed to service and community impact. He joined the military shortly after 9/11, serving as an infantry officer in Iraq and Afghanistan. While engaged in a particularly difficult battle, the eternal mercy of the Lord found Nick after a decade of lost faith. Since then, Nick has been blessed to be a husband and father of two, and is grateful to live a life for God and for others.

Upon departing the service, Nick earned an MBA from Georgetown University and began a career in finance. At first a trader at Bank of America, Nick is proud to now work at Coign, a financial services startup that champions conservative, Judeo-Christian values.

Nick is a graduate of Academy of Our Lady, Class of 1999.

Charles J. Wilkes is a founding partner at Murphy Schiller & Wilkes LLP, where he represents lenders, developers, and investors in complex commercial real estate and finance transactions. Known for his strategic insight and client-first approach, Charlie has built a reputation as a trusted legal advisor and entrepreneurial leader in the industry.

He graduated magna cum laude from both The Catholic University of America and Seton Hall University School of Law. Charlie credits his Catholic education with shaping his commitment to integrity, service, and excellence—values that continue to guide his work and leadership today.