Introducing Our 2026 Dance Stars
Dr. Wissam Jaber
FUNDRAISING PROGRESS
$54,405
Dr. Wissam A. Jaber, MD, is a highly respected interventional cardiologist based in Atlanta, Georgia, known for compassionate patient care and expertise in treating complex cardiovascular disease. Board‑certified in interventional cardiology and cardiovascular disease, Dr. Jaber serves as a physician at Emory Healthcare, where he specializes in advanced heart procedures, including coronary interventions and complex cardiac care. He also trains the next generation of cardiologists as Director of the Interventional Cardiology Fellowship and a faculty member at Emory University School of Medicine.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Jaber brings his passion and energy to Dancing Stars for Humanity as one of the event’s star dancers. His participation reflects his commitment not only to heart health but also to making a broader impact in the community through humanitarian support and the arts.
Monika Mueller
FUNDRAISING PROGRESS
$38,763
Monika Mueller is an award-winning technology and business leader with over 23 years of experience driving innovation and growth across Fortune 500 companies, consulting firms, and entrepreneurial ventures. She currently serves as Chief Strategy Officer at Softensity, where she has led transformative initiatives in AI, operations, and global expansion. Monika has been honored with the Women in Technology (WIT) Woman of the Year award and the Atlanta Technology Professionals (ATP) ATP of the Year award for her leadership and impact in the tech industry.
Beyond her corporate achievements, Monika is a passionate mentor and advocate for women in STEM, supporting IT Girls and serving on multiple technology boards. She brings that same energy and dedication to Dancing Stars for Humanity, where she joins fellow community leaders to raise awareness and funds for humanitarian causes while sharing her love for dance.
Alex Bush
FUNDRAISING PROGRESS
$7,345
Alex Bush is First Vice President, Wealth Management Advisor with Joyner & Associates at Merrill Lynch Wealth Management, specializing in helping athletes, families, and business owners navigate the complexities of financial planning and wealth management. With a focus on building trust and personal relationships, Alex provides guidance on everything from retirement and tax-sensitive investing to wealth transfer and concentrated stock management, helping clients focus on what matters most. He draws on his experience growing start-up sports and technology companies to deliver creative, actionable solutions and maximize results for those he serves.
Beyond his professional achievements, Alex brings his energy, competitive spirit, and commitment to community to Dancing Stars for Humanity, joining fellow leaders to raise awareness and funds for humanitarian causes while sharing his passion for dance.
Dr. Paul P. Daraei
FUNDRAISING PROGRESS
$14,360
Dr. Paul Daraei is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon based in Atlanta, specializing in both surgical and non-surgical procedures of the head and neck. Renowned for his patient-centered care and commitment to excellence, Dr. Daraei has trained with elite surgeons nationally and internationally and has authored numerous publications and book chapters on advanced facial plastic surgery techniques. He is board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and is an active member of multiple professional organizations including the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgery.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Dr. Daraei brings his energy, creativity, and dedication to community to Dancing Stars for Humanity, joining fellow leaders to raise awareness and support for humanitarian causes while sharing his passion for dance.
George Christman
FUNDRAISING PROGRESS
$50,000
George Christman is a seasoned wealth management professional based in the Atlanta metropolitan area. He serves as Managing Principal of 1817 Wealth Management, an independent firm within the Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, and holds the Certified Private Wealth Advisor (CPWA®) designation. With over 23 years of experience in the industry, George was recognized on the Forbes Top Advisor list in January 2026 for his exceptional work with Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network.
Beyond his professional achievements, George is a dedicated supporter of Meals On Wheels Atlanta (MOWA). In November 2025, he was honored as one of MOWA’s 2025 Volunteers of the Year at their 37th Annual “A Meal to Remember” gala. His efforts help provide meals and critical care coordination for Atlanta’s senior citizens, reflecting his commitment to giving back to the community. George brings this same dedication and passion to Dancing Stars for Humanity, joining fellow leaders to support humanitarian causes while sharing his love for dance.
Dr. Muath Bishawi
FUNDRAISING PROGRESS
$9,750
Dr. Muath Bishawi is a distinguished cardiothoracic surgeon and biomedical engineer whose career bridges advanced clinical care, research, and innovation. He earned his undergraduate degree in Biochemistry with honors, a Master of Public Health, and his medical degree with distinction from Stony Brook University. He completed his cardiothoracic surgical residency and a PhD in Biomedical Engineering at Duke University. Dr. Bishawi specializes in adult cardiac surgery, including coronary bypass and valvular procedures, with particular expertise in heart and lung transplantation, mechanical circulatory support, and complex surgery for patients with low ejection fraction.
In addition to his clinical practice, Dr. Bishawi holds a dual appointment as Assistant Professor of Biomedical Engineering at Emory University and Georgia Institute of Technology. His research focuses on device technologies and translational science in end-stage thoracic disease and transplantation, with funding from the NIH, NASA, and industry partners. He has authored over 100 peer-reviewed publications, holds multiple patents, and founded a medical device company currently in the FDA regulatory process.
For Dancing Stars for Humanity, Dr. Bishawi brings the same passion, discipline, and commitment to impact—using the joy of dance to help support meaningful humanitarian causes.