Education
Education
Education:
12th U.S. Secretary of Education
Dr. Miguel A. Cardona is an American leader and educator. He served as the 12th United States Secretary of Education, a position he was nominated for by President Joe Biden.
Research Professor & Historian of Education
Diane Ravitch is a research professor of education at New York University and a prolific writer, who has published more than 500 articles and reviews for scholarly and popular publications on the subject.
Inner-City Youth & Education Advocate
Founder of the Harlem Children’s Zone, Canada addresses inner city poverty and violence. His model was featured in Waiting for Superman and has been replicated across the U.S.
Emmy & Pulitzer Prize Winning Journalist
Maria Hinojosa is the Pulitzer Prize-winning founder of Futuro Media based in New York City. She has written four books, won multiple awards, and is the Anchor and Executive Producer of the Peabody Award-winning show Latino US.
Big Data Expert, Professor, Host of Nova Wonders
A popular TED speaker and passionate STEM education advocate, Dr. Williams deploys data in unusual and insightful ways, viewing subjects ranging from health to diversity in a new light.
Best-Selling Author on Science of High Performance
Best-selling author David Epstein has made it his mission to uncover the keys to achieving high performance in any domain. In his latest book, Range, he examines the world’s top performers, from professional athletes to artists and more.
Best-Selling Author of Thrivers, Parenting & Child Expert
Educational psychologist Dr. Michele Borba is as world-renowned for her warm, down-to-earth speaking style as she is for cutting edge insights. Her informative presentations leave audiences with usable strategies.
Teacher & Student Inspirational Speakers
Donna Porter and DJ Batiste have a story that is sure to inspire all audiences. Porter has dedicated her life to the field of education and changed DJ Batiste’s life by introducing him to Conscious Discipline.
Higher Education Thought Leader
Selingo has spent his journalism career covering colleges and universities worldwide. His book, College (Un)Bound: The Future of Higher Education and What It Means for Students, explores the college of tomorrow.
Globalization & Education Expert
Speaker Yong Zhao is the presidential chair and associate dean for global education at the University of Oregon. He covers everything from policy to innovation and technology.
"Maria" on Sesame Street & Best-Selling Author
Having retired her iconic Sesame Street character “Maria,” Manzano now dedicates her time to speaking and writing on education, communication, and Hispanics in the media.
Superintendent of Los Angeles Unified School District
The former Superintendent of Miami-Dade County Public Schools, Alberto M. Carvalho is a nationally recognized expert on education transformation and finance who has successfully elevated his district’s academic profile.
Founder & CEO of REthinc
Kate Gerson is a powerful advocate for equity in American institutions. With over 25 years racial equity work and education leadership, Kate has emerged as a thought leader.
Renowned Finnish Educator & Scholar
Pasi Sahlberg is a Finnish educator and scholar. Known as the international “school improvement activist,” he shares his experiences in classroom teaching, teacher education, and global educational change.
CEO of Robin Hood
Richard is the CEO of Robin Hood and former Chief Executive Officer of Achievement First, a network of 37 public charter schools providing an excellent education to 15,000 students across New York, Connecticut and Rhode Island.
US Army Lieutenant Colonel / Education Advocate
Consuelo Castillo Kickbusch is the highest-ranking Hispanic woman in the Combat Support Field in the US Army. She is recognized for her work on teen pregnancy, gang violence and parenting education.
Human-Centered Thought Leader, Bestselling Author & Managing Director at Seramount
Steve Pemberton is a visionary human-centered thought leader and the Founder and CEO of The Lighthouse Academy.
Author, Literacy Advocate, Former NFL Champion & Inspirational Speaker
When former New England Patriot’s wide receiver Malcolm Mitchell entered the University of Georgia, he could only read at a junior high level—something he realized after attending his first English class and recognizing he wasn’t at the same literacy levels as his peers.
Globally Recognized Authority on Leading & Creating Cultures of Dignity
Harvard’s Dr. Donna Hicks is an expert in human dignity and a specialist in conflict resolution. Through her work Dr. Hicks has identified a major obstacle in our human relationships and shares how to use dignity as a way of repairing relationships.
Expert on the Impact of Financial & Emotional Poverty on Learning
Ruby K. Payne, Ph.D. is the founder of aha! Process and an author, publisher, and career educator. She is recognized internationally for A Framework for Understanding Poverty, her foundational book and workshop.
Innovator & Leader in Teacher Education
The former Dean of the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of the University of Toronto, Michael Fullan is an expert on education reform. He advises lawmakers with the moral goal of universal education.
Critical Thinking Evangelist, Founder and CEO of thinkLaw
Colin Seale was born and raised in Brooklyn, NY, where struggles in his upbringing gave birth to his passion for educational equity. Tracked early into gifted and talented programs, Colin was afforded opportunities his neighborhood peers were not.
Inspirational Principal
Being driven by a purpose larger than the self is the theme of I Choose to Stay, a memoir written by the award-winning school principal and speaker Salome Thomas-EL.
Entrepreneur, Author & Former Education Leader
Entrepreneur, speaker, author, and former education leader David Hardy Jr. has an accomplished career in leading transformational change in organizations across multiple industries.
Fellow, Int'l Center for Leadership in Education
Eric Sheninger is a Senior Fellow and Thought Leader on Digital Leadership with the International Center for Leadership in Education (ICLE) and Scholastic Achievement Partners (SAP).
Master Educator, Consultant & Author
Dr. Brown III, without a doubt, offers the most uniquely inspiring, relevant, and entertaining yet profoundly challenging presentations around. A life-long social justice advocate, he is admired around the world for his simple and direct “Real Talk.”
Higher Education Evangelist & CEO, University Innovation Alliance
Named one of the “16 Most Innovative People in Higher Education” by Washington Monthly magazine, Dr. Bridget Burns is the founding executive director of the University Innovation Alliance (theUIA.org).
The Professors: Nationally Recognized Educators
Dr. Richard White, inspirational speaker and full professor at the University of New Mexico, and Dr. Kevin Sanders, director of the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music at the University of Memphis, have spent over two decades in higher education.
The Professors: Nationally Recognized Educators
This unusual duo of tuba and piano, present events containing musical performances as well as opportunities to discuss diversity in many of its forms – gender, race, cultural, ideological and textural.
Acclaimed Rapper, Financial Literacy Guru & Social Influencer
What do you call an acclaimed rapper, math teacher, financial literacy guru, social influencer, and award-winning motivational speaker? Dee-1.
Directors of Gender, Sexuality and Women's Studies and Professors of Teacher Education at Montclair State University
Monica Taylor and Emily J. Klein are professors at Montclair State University focusing on Teaching and Learning, Education, and Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies.
Deputy Superintendent & Senior Executive Officer of the Office of Equity & Access (OEA) for New York City’s Department of Education
With an unyielding commitment to a vision of transforming the lives of adults, children, communities and school systems, Dr. Ruby Ababio-Fernandez comes to the work with over twenty-three years of experience in education and leadership.
Innovative Educator & Chair of the Acosta Institute for Healing-Centered Education
Dr. Angel Acosta is a transformative leader, educator, and speaker, renowned for his innovative work at the intersection of social justice, mindfulness, and education.
Real-Life Deaf Football Coach
Keith Adams is a head coach football at California School for the Deaf in Riverside, but he also has been a long time coach for over 30 years in various sports in hearing and deaf sports.
Neuroscientist & Mental Health Advocate
Dr. Addy is a sought-after speaker on college and university campuses, a popular conference keynote speaker, and a frequent guest on podcasts and community panels where he discusses topics of neuroscience, mental health, faith, and diversity.
Award-Winning School Leader
Allyson Apsey has been an award-winning school leader for nearly 20 years, leading all levels from elementary to High School. Allyson had the honor to help open a highly successful charter school in northern Michigan.
Former Chancellor of the New York City Public Schools
David C. Banks is the former Chancellor of the New York City Public Schools, the largest school system in the United States.
Inspirational Educator & Author
The author of the memoir Nobody Don't Love Nobody, the story of her first teaching job at a school for homeless children, Stacey Bess shares a powerful message of mentorship and service.
Founder and Past President of Solution Tree & HOPE Foundation
Award-winning author and educational leader, Alan Blankstein served for 25 years as President of the HOPE Foundation, which he founded and whose honorary chair was Nobel Prize winner Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
Leadership Catalyst & Innovator
Dr. Christopher Bonn stands as an exemplary figure in the field of educational leadership, demonstrating a unique and powerful approach to revitalizing struggling organizations.
Co-Founder of She’s the First
In the past decade as She's the First Co-Founder and Chief Programs Officer, Christen has revolutionized outdated models of philanthropy by shifting power to the most vulnerable.
Former US Senator & Ambassador
Known as a builder of political bridges with deep expertise in both the public and private sector, Ambassador Scott Brown speaks from more than 30 years of experience as a diplomat, senator, military officer, trade negotiator and bestselling author.
Dean of Harvard’s Renowned Radcliffe Institute
Tomiko Brown Nagin is a prize-winning author, eminent legal scholar and historian, dean of Harvard’s renowned Radcliffe Institute, and pathbreaking leader in higher education.
Counseling Psychologist, Former Chief DEI Officer & Former President of the American Counseling Association (ACA)”
Dr. S. Kent Butler is a dedicated advocate for social justice and a passionate supporter of family, firmly believing in the power of community to uplift and inspire.
Educator & Congressional Candidate
Tierney Cahill is an award winning educator that inspires audiences around the country with her experience of running for Congress as a sixth grade teacher.
Trauma Survivor & Internationally Recognized Trauma Informed Care Expert
Tonier works tirelessly to raise the awareness about trauma informed care around the world. Tonier is an advocate and educator, speaking all over the world on trauma, addiction, incarceration, homelessness, substance abuse and mental health.
Co-Founder of 826 National, Leader of Enterprise for Youth & The Teacher Salary Project
Ninive Calegari is the co-founder, with Dave Eggers, of 826 National, which she helped grow from a local tutoring program into an influential education phenomenon that partners with schools, families, and community organizations across the country.
Country Music Singer & Anti-Bullying Advocate
Named one of Billboard’s Artists to Watch List in 2018, Jessie is a country music singer and anti-bullying advocate. She hopes her advocacy and music will encourage audiences to lift each other up, rather than knocking each other down.
Best-Selling Author of The AI Infused Classroom & Co-Host of The Digital Learning Podcast
Holly Clark is the author of The AI Infused Classroom, and a leading global strategist for AI in education, guiding schools and districts through the integration of AI best practices and policies.
Former Broadcaster & Professional Baseball Player
Roberto Clemente, Jr. is a universally respected philanthropist, humanitarian, entrepreneur, producer, former broadcaster, and professional baseball player.
Award-Winning Author, Educator & Former School Counselor
Julia Cook, M.S. is a national award-winning children’s author, counselor, and parenting expert. The goal behind Cook’s work is to actively involve young people in fun, memorable stories and teach them to become lifelong problem solvers.
Educator
Dr. Rudy Crew is the former superintendent of the Miami-Dade County Public School system and chancellor of New York City.
Scholar & Educator
Speaker Linda Darling-Hammond is a professor of teaching at Stanford University, where she focuses on school restructuring and teacher education.
Best-Selling Author, Educator & Thought Leader
Jennifer De Leon is author of the YA novel Don’t Ask Me Where I’m From which was chosen as a Junior Library Guild selection, and the essay collection White Space: Essays on Culture, Race, & Writing, which is a recipient of the Juniper Prize in Creative Nonfiction.
Award-Winning Essayist & Critic
William Deresiewicz is an award-winning essayist and critic, a frequent college speaker, and the best-selling author of Excellent Sheep: The Miseducation of the American Elite and the Way to a Meaningful Life.
Former Mayor of Miami
As former mayor, speaker Manny Diaz transformed Miami from a poor, crime-ridden, and economically stagnant city to a flourishing metropolis with a hurtling skyline.
Transformative Dignity, Inclusion & Belonging Expert & Award-Winning Trilingual Poet & Rapper
Dr. Omékongo Dibinga is the UPstander. His life’s mission is to inspire all across the globe to take a stand when they witness an injustice, no matter how small or large.
Elementary School Teacher & Author
A third-grade teacher and thus a witness to the joys of discovery, Phillip Done inspires readers with the everyday adventures and milestones of his students in his irresistible collection of bite-sized essays.
Performing Artist, Founder of the Sphinx Organization, & Best-Selling Author
Named a 2005 MacArthur Fellow, President Obama’s first appointment to the National Council on the Arts and member of President Biden’s Arts Policy Committee, Aaron P. Dworkin is former dean and current Professor at the University of Michigan.
CEO of Not Impossible Labs
Recently named by Fortune Magazine as one of the Top 50 World’s Greatest Leaders, Mick Ebeling has sparked a movement of pragmatic, inspirational innovation.
Child Advocate
Founder and Director of the Children's Defense Fund, Marian Wright Edelman achieved victories in mandatory education for children with disabilities and health benefits for uninsured children.
Psychologist & Author
Renowned psychologist and author of Reinventing Childhood, David Elkind provides the information and guidance that parents and teachers need to work effectively with the new generation of children in our care.
Teacher & Diversity Trainer
Chosen as one of Peter Jennings' ABC-TV's "Person of the Week," Jane is the adaptor of the "Blue Eyes, Brown Eyes" discrimination experiment. This ground breaking exercise is the pinnacle of all other diversity programming in the country today.
Journalist & ADHD Authority
Katherine Ellison is a Pulitzer Prize-winning investigative journalist, former foreign correspondent, and author of Buzz: A Year of Paying Attention, a memoir from a mom with ADHD about her son with ADHD.
NASA Aerospace Engineer, Defense Tech Strategist, Program Manager & STEM Educator
Named one of the top 50 minority women in science and engineering, Ericsson is the first African-American woman to receive a Ph.D. in engineering from NASA’s Goddard Flight Center.
Chief Security Fanatic
For over 25 years, Nick has been on a first name basis with computers. Since the age of 7 he’s been building computers and programming in multiple languages. Landing his first IT job at age 15, Nick founded Windy City Networks, Inc at 19.
One of America's Most Celebrated Schoolteachers
A once-in-a-lifetime educator, Rafe Esquith may be the most inspiring school teacher in America. Called “a genius and a saint” by The New York Times, Esquith stresses the need to make students our priority.
Global Education Thought Leader, Author, Futurist & Inventor
Charles Fadel is a global education thought leader and author, futurist and inventor. He is the founder and chairman of Center for Curriculum Redesign.
Award-Winning Educator, Entrepreneur & Author
Over the past decade, Brandon P. Fleming has become one of the most highly awarded and sought-after educators, entrepreneurs, authors, and speakers in the world.
Pulitzer Prize Winning Author
James Forman, Jr. started the Maya Angelou Public Charter School and is a Professor of Law at Yale Law School. He also worked as a law clerk for Justice Sandra Day O’Connor of the U.S. Supreme Court and is a Pulitzer Prize Winning Author.
Inventor, CEO of Jara & Forbes 30 Under 30
Soraya Fouladi is the Founder & CEO of Jara, on a mission to ensure the 816 Million children in high-poverty and low-connectivity communities globally can get access to a quality education, anywhere, anytime, through her invention, the Jara Unit.
Educational Leader, Social Justice Advocate, Strategist & Author of Being Black in America’s Schools
Brian Rashad Fuller is educational leader, social justice advocate, strategist and author with a passion for addressing the needs of historically underserved students.
Psychologist & Expert on Violence & Children
An expert on youth violence and bullying, Dr. James Garbarino has served as consultant or advisor to a wide range of organizations and is a fellow of the American Psychological Association.
Theoretical Physicist Known for Supersymmetry
A pioneer in advancing our understanding of supersymmetry, supergravity, and string theory, Gates captivates with his ability to explain complex theories in a fun, accessible way.
Gen Z Enthusiast, Tech Innovator & Professor
Kristen Geez is a globally recognized Gen Z Enthusiast, Tech Innovator, and highly sought-after International Speaker and Professor, with a mission to inspire and empower the next generation.
Singer/Songwriter
For more than 35 years, Debbie Gibson has been a true pioneer and force in the entertainment industry. A singer, songwriter, producer, musician, actor, and entrepreneur, she embodies what it truly means to be an icon.
Best-Selling Author & Harvard Professor of Education and African American Studies
Jarvis R. Givens is a professor of education and faculty affiliate in the department of African & African American studies at Harvard University.
Animal Scientist & Autism Self-Advocate
The most accomplished adult with autism in the world, Grandin inspired the HBO film Temple Grandin (starring Claire Danes). Grandin shares the challenges and successes of her fascinating life.
Inspirational Educator & Author
Erin Gruwell helped students "written off" by the system harness the power of education to graduate high school. Her dedication to her students resulted in the publication of The Freedom Writers Diary.
Photographer & Founder, POSITIVE EXPOSURE
Rick Guidotti has spent the past 25 years collaborating internationally with communities to affect a sea of change in societal attitudes toward individuals living with genetic, physical, behavioral or intellectual differences.
Founder of Bits N’ Bytes Cybersecurity Education
Known as the” Teenage Security Supergirl,” Guru fuses together her experiences as a first-generation American teenager, her powerful insights from starting two nonprofits, and her vision to build a secure future for all.
Leading Hispanic Educator
Dr. Ana Guzman served as senior advisor to the Secretary of Education under Clinton. She has been in educational administration for over 15 years as the leading voice for Hispanic Americans in education.
Senior Fellow M-RCBG at the Harvard Kennedy School & Former College President
Gregory Haile has exceptional leadership experience in both the public and private sectors. By the time he was 40 years old, he had become the president of Broward College, one of the largest colleges in the United States.
“Coach E" & Founder of The Miracle Project
Elaine Hall developed "The Seven Keys to Unlock Autism" and used these methods to train staff & create The Miracle Project, an arts program for children of all abilities, which was profiled in AUTISM: The Musical.
Renowned Former BBC Education Editor & Bestselling Author of The Brain That Loves to Play
Dr Jacqueline Harding is a multi award-winning international child development and education expert. As a former BBC Education Editor, she is recognised for her influential work advising the UK government, practitioners and parents.
Renowned Author & Researcher Advocating for Equitable and Inclusive Education
Andy Hargreaves is Visiting Professor at the University of Ottawa in Canada and Research Professor at Boston College in the US. He is an elected member of the US National Academy of Education.
Former Surgeon General of California
Dr. Nadine Burke Harris is an award-winning physician, researcher and public health leader who has spent her career on the front lines of some of our world’s most pressing public health challenges.
Juvenile Court Judge & Star of Judge Hatchett
Nationally recognized as an expert on juvenile & social issues, Judge Glenda Hatchett garnered national appeal for her award-winning show, Judge Hatchett. She is the author of Dare to Take Charge.
Author, Screenwise & Digital Citizenship Expert
A workshop leader and consultant, Dr. Devorah Heitner founded Raising Digital Natives to serve as a resource for schools and organizations wishing to cultivate a culture of responsible digital citizenship.
Author & LGBTQ Rights Advocate
Jessica Herthel is the co-author of the children’s picture book, I Am Jazz. She uses the book as a classroom tool and why it is imperative to make schools and communities a safer place for ALL children.
Author & Expert in International Education
Carl Hobert, a leading voice on global education equity, human rights and social justice, reveals how to harness creativity, passion, teamwork, and determination to make the world a better place.
President, Urban Learning & Leadership Center
Dr. John W. Hodge is president and co-founder of Urban Learning and Leadership Center (ULLC), an organization focused on student achievement and reduction of the achievement gap.
Authority on Generations in America
Neil Howe is a best-selling author and expert on generations in America. He gives powerful insights into today's generation, what motivates them as consumers and workers, and how they will shape our future.
President Emeritus of UMBC
Award-winning educator and diversity expert Hrabowski transformed UMBC with his enthusiasm for STEM. Partnering with businesses, UMBC fosters skills to ensure employability.
Psychotherapist & Parenting Expert
Katie Hurley, LCSW, is a child and adolescent psychotherapist, parenting expert, and writer. She is the founder of “Girls Can!” empowerment groups for girls between ages 5-11.
Education & Cultural Futurist
Ravi's journey as a rock star, aviator, cultural diplomat for the US Department of State, and keynote speaker is an inspiring example of how to pivot and succeed in an ever-changing world.
Superintendent - K12 Educational Thought Leader
Dr. Michael Hynes works as a Superintendent in New York. His mission is to spread the message of the importance of a holistic approach to educating children around the world.
Co-Founder, The Miracle Project
Diane Isaacs is a film and TV producer and is the co-founder and President of Green Moon Productions where she produced And Starring Pancho Villa As Himself. She is a co-author of The Seven Keys to Unlock Autism.
National/International Education Consultant & Author
Robert Jackson began his teaching career over 20 years ago in Indianapolis Public Schools with a No More Excuses teaching approach with all of his students. As an educator, he didn’t allow his students to feel sorry for themselves.
Assistant Professor of Public Health
Dr. Portia Jackson Preston is an Assistant Professor of Public Health at California State University, Fullerton, where she conducts research on multilevel approaches to self-care, and examines stressors such as racism drivers of health inequity.
Visionary in Agentic AI-Driven Decision Intelligence
Dr. Moriba Jah is an internationally recognized, award-winning scientist, educator and MacArthur fellow acknowledged for his work in space environmentalism.
Education Policy Advisor, Children’s Book Author, Film Producer, & Public Servant
Nicole Jain has dedicated her career to public service and leadership specifically in the realm of K-12 public education policy and management.
Greatest Jeopardy! Player of All Time & Jeopardy! Host
Ken Jennings became the stuff of legend when he beat fellow champs “Jeopardy James” Holzhauer and Brad Rutter to win $1 million and be named the “Greatest Jeopardy! Player of All Time.”
Thought Leader & Founding Director, LBJ School of Public Affairs CSRD
In Fall 2015, Dr. Peniel E. Joseph joined the University of Texas at Austin as Founding Director of the Center for the Study of Race and Democracy.
Educator & Technology Expert
A teacher, administrator, author, international consultant, university instructor and speaker, Ian Jukes focus has consistently been on the compelling need to prepare children for their future, not our past.
Best Selling Author & K12 Education Leader
Principal Baruti Kafele, a highly regarded urban educator in New Jersey for more than 20 years, has distinguished himself as a master teacher and a transformational school leader.
World-Renowned Theoretical Physicist
Dr. Michio Kaku is an authority in Einstein's unified theory field, innovation, and "the future of the future.” He explores the science of tomorrow from computing power and AI to communication and genetics.
Professional Surfer & Phd Scientist
Dr. Cliff Kapono is a professional surfer, chemist and journalist. Born on the eastern shores of Hawai‘i, his life involves equal parts science as it does surf.
Cognitive Scientist and Humanistic Psychologist & Host: The Psychology Podcast
Renowned humanistic psychologist, Scott Barry Kaufman, explores the depths of human potential by challenging traditional metrics of success.
Clinical & Research Psychologist
Daniel Kindlon is a clinical and research psychologist specializing in the behavioral problems of youths. He focuses on the diagnosis and treatment of emotional problems, learning disabilities, and ADD.
Self-Diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome
Rosie King became well-recognized after accurately diagnosed her own Asperger's Syndrome. After her popular TEDMED talk, she raises awareness about autism and is working towards becoming a professional actress.
Son of Martin Luther King, Jr. & Civil Rights Activist
As the oldest son of the late Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Mrs. Coretta Scott King, Martin Luther King III serves as an ambassador of his parent’s legacy of nonviolent social change.
Professor at Montclair State University in the Department of Teaching and Learning & the Department of Gender, Sexuality & Women’s Studies
Emily J. Klein is a professor at Montclair State University in the Department of Teaching and Learning, the PhD program in Teaching and Teacher Education, and the Department of Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies.
Education Expert & Author
Alfie Kohn speaks widely on human behavior, education, and parenting and is the author of 12 books. Time describes him as " the country's most outspoken critic of education's fixation on grades [and] test scores."
Educator & Social Justice Advocate
A former urban teacher, Jonathan Kozol is a long-term public education activist. He confronts the mania of high-stakes tests, the invasion of private corporations in schools, and the inequalities of urban schools.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning NYT Columnist
How good do you really have to be, to be christened the reporter’s reporter…by other reporters? You have to be Nicholas Kristof – good.
Leadership Educator and Scholar, Master Trainer & Award-Winning Author
Jonathan is a leadership educator, scholar, and trainer. Jonathan began his career as a university administrator by focusing on leadership development, community engagement, and reflection initiatives.
Sociologist, 2x TED Speaker & Author
Dr. Anindya Kundu is a 2-time TED Speaker and is author of the new book, The Power of Student Agency: Looking Beyond Grit to Close the Opportunity Gap.
Educator / Attorney / Author
A human relations and education expert, Dr. Crystal Kuykendall has gained national recognition for her extensive talents in promoting problem resolution. She is President of her own firm, K.I.R.K., Inc.
Educator, Best-Selling Author, Recovery & Prevention Coach
Teacher and NYT best-selling author, Jessica Lahey, inspires audiences with her rallying cry to allow children to experience failure as an integral part of becoming successful, resilient and self-reliant adults.
Founder & CEO of PlayWerks
Shirin Laor-Raz Salemnia is the Founder and CEO of PlayWerks, an independent interactive media company that creates high-quality, innovative, multi-platform immersive experiences for children and adults.
Sociologist, Educator & Author
Sara Lawrence-Lightfoot, a MacArthur prize-winning sociologist, is the Emily Hargroves Fisher Professor of Education at Harvard University, where she has worked since 1972, and the author of nine books.
Chief Engineer, Jet Propulsion Laboratory
A renowned science fiction writer who produced the Cosmos series with Carl Sagan, B. Gentry Lee is responsible for the engineering integrity of all the robotic planetary missions managed by JPL.
School Turnaround Expert & Carol Grotnes Belk Distinguished Professor of Urban Education
Dr. Chance W. Lewis is the Carol Grotnes Belk Distinguished Professor of Urban Education and former Provost Faculty Fellow for Diversity, Inclusion and Access at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.
Heart Inspired Speaker, Leadership Consultant & Author
Dr. Luff is an overcomer! As the son of a single-parent housekeeper, he was homeless in high school but went on to become a first-generation college graduate three times over despite being told that he was not college material.
Host & Managing Editor of #RolandMartinUnfiltered
A dynamic and influential voice on the intersection of politics, social justice and race, Martin gives a voice to the voiceless and speaks truth to power on the issues of the day.
Bestselling Author, Poet & Advocate
Aija Mayrock is a bestselling author, poet, and advocate. Forbes Magazine wrote about Aija Mayrock, “With hundreds of thousands of social media followers, Aija Mayrock uses writing and performing to connect, educate, and advocate...”
Founder of iResearch Corporation
Serena has dedicated her life to the advancement of science and to science education with the nation’s most promising youth. Dr. Serena McCalla was raised in New York City, and fell in love with science as an elementary school student.
Actress & Mathematician
Danica McKellar was first introduced to us as “Winnie Cooper” on the iconic television classic, The Wonder Years. Danica is the apotheosis of pop culture meets nerd culture. Her message to girls? Smart is sexy!
Brain Scientist
Wherever the very latest neuroscience intersects with real-world challenges facing the workplace, education, healthcare, and our everyday lives, you’ll find energizing insights from brain scientist John Medina.
Best-Selling Author & “America’s Historian”
History. Legacy. Character. Great leadership. Brad Meltzer draws upon the themes of his best-selling books and popular television shows, challenging audiences to look at their lives, work and mission through the lens of legacy.
Cornelius Vanderbilt Professor of Education & Author
H. Richard Milner IV is Cornelius Vanderbilt Chair and Professor of Education in the Department of Teaching and Learning at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College.
Learning Disabilities Advocate
A dyslexic writer and activist who did not learn to read until age 12, Mooney earned an honors degree in English from Brown University and is co-founder of Project Eye to Eye, a mentoring program for learning disabled students.
NYT Best-Selling Author & Motivational Leader
Moore energizes audiences with his remarkable personal story of overcoming adversity through education, embracing personal responsibility and emerging as an inspirational leader.
Certified Suicide Prevention Trainer & Award-Winning Author
Anne Moss Rogers is an emotionally naked® speaker, TEDx storyteller, certified suicide prevention trainer, NAMI Virginia board member, and the award-winning author of Diary of a Broken Mind.
Teacher & Author
Trevor Muir is a passionate educator, speaker, and author who believes in the transformative power of education.
Educator, Author & Activist
Dr. Muñoz was the founding chair of the first Chicano Studies department in the nation at the California State University at Los Angeles and is the author of texts on the Mexican American political experience.
Inspirational Speaker & Best-Selling Author
Formerly homeless, Liz Murray transformed her life of despair into an inspiring journey of determination, hope and hard-won success. Lifetime produced a movie about Murray’s life story entitled Homeless to Harvard, which was nominated for three Emmys.
Award-Winning Science Journalist & Author
Donna Jackson Nakazawa is an award-winning science journalist, author of seven books, and an internationally-recognized speaker whose work explores the intersection of neurobiology and human emotion.
Former Asst Secretary, Secondary & Elementary Ed
Susan B. Neuman is a professor of early childhood and literacy and chair of the Teaching and Learning Department at the New York University’s Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development.
One of the Nation’s Leading Scholars on Race, Inequality & Education
Pedro Noguera is the Dean of the Rossier School of Education, and a Distinguished Professor of Education at USC. He is one of the nation’s leading scholars on issues related to race, inequality, and education.
Education Technology Leader
Nationally renowned expert on the role of technology in restructuring K-12 education. Consultant for schools and industries as they plan the use of technology in their environments.
Award-Winning Author, Poet & Spoken Word Artist
José Olivarez is the son of Mexican immigrants. His debut book of poems, Citizen Illegal, was a finalist for the PEN/ Jean Stein Award and a winner of the 2018 Chicago Review of Books Poetry Prize.
Geneticist, Professor, Mentor & TEDx Speaker
Dr. Tiffany Oliver is a dynamic motivational speaker, author, professor, and scientist. For almost 20 years, she has captivated audiences with her research and presentations on leadership, persistence, and excellence.
Supreme Court Justice & Former Football Player
Minnesota’s first African-American Supreme Court Justice, Alan C. Page, was elected to the court in 1992 after serving as an assistant attorney general. He was reelected in 1998 and 2004.
Higher Education Professional & Author
Wes Parham MBA, Ph.D. is a national speaker in the critical areas of organizational and individual development, innovative leadership, and educational engagement. He is also the founder of the field of "Haterology."
Author of The Assertive Parent, Support Coach & Mental Health Educator
Daniel Patterson empowers people to discover their hope for the future through a powerful story of personal recovery and reinvention. Since he began his recovery journey, he has established two successful multi-million companies.
Forbes-Featured Best-Selling Author & Education Advocate
Business strategist, 2020 IPPY Gold Book Award Winner, and Forbes-featured bestselling author Jean Paul Paulynice, MBA is one of the country’s foremost African-American motivational writers and speakers with a genuine passion for helping people.
President & CEO, The Boston Foundation & Former President, Emerson College
Lee Pelton became President and CEO of The Boston Foundation in June 2021, after serving as president of Emerson College in Boston for 10 years. He is a nationally respected leader with a long career in higher education.
Actor, Ugly Betty / Education Advocate
With an acting career in film, television, and theater spanning almost thirty years, starred on the hit series Ugly Betty. A former teacher, he maintains his passion for education.
Professor at NYU & Founding Director, CREATE Consortium
Dr. Jan L. Plass is a Professor at New York University, holding the Paulette Goddard Chair in Digital Media and Learning Sciences. He is the founding director of the CREATE Consortium for Research and Evaluation of Advanced Technology in Education and co-director of the Games for Learning Institute.
Former Teacher & Elementary Principal
Toby Price is a former teacher and elementary principal. He is a husband, an educator, a writer, a story teller, an artist, and the King of Dad Jokes.
Actor, Breaking Bad
Steven Michael Quezada is an actor, comedian and writer. His crowning achievement was playing DEA Agent Steve Gomez on the multi-award winning TV mega hit Breaking Bad.
Actor, Director, Writer, Producer
Improvisational actor John Ratzenberger gained international fame as the character "Cliff" in the NBC phenomenon Cheers. He has enjoyed success as a screenwriter, director, producer, and Emmy-nominated actor.
Education Expert on Assessment & School Reform
Dr. Douglas Reeves is one of the most noted experts on education and school reform. As a researcher, reformer, and educator, he has received some of the most noteworthy awards in his respective fields.
Founding Executive Director of the National Institute for Student Success
Timothy Renick is the founding Executive Director of the National Institute for Student Success and Professor of Religious Studies at Georgia State University.
Founder of Green Bronx Machine
Stephen Ritz is a South Bronx educator/administrator who believes that students shouldn't have to leave their community to live, learn, and earn in a better one.
Award-Winning Scholar & Professor of Political Science at Brown University.
Melvin Rogers is an award-winning scholar and stands as a distinguished academic renowned for his insightful contributions to the discourse on race and democracy within the realms of American culture and politics.
Football Player, Rhodes Scholar, Humanitarian
A gifted athlete, scholar, and philanthropist, Myron Rolle was a professional football player, Rhodes scholar, and humanitarian who strives to be an inspirer of dreams, a teacher of fitness, and a leader for many.
Pulitzer Prize-Winning Author & Columnist
Tina Rosenberg is co-writer of the New York Times "Fixes" column and author of Join the Club: How Peer Pressure Can Transform the World.
Child Health, Safety & Welfare Expert
Janet Rosenzweig makes life safer for children, easier for parents, and more rewarding for professionals who have dedicated their careers to serving children and families.
Founder & Artistic Director of National Disability Theatre
Mickey Rowe is on the autism spectrum. He was the epicenter of significant publicity when he became the first autistic actor to play Christopher Boone, the lead role in the Tony Award-winning play “The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time.”
Executive Producer, Host & Best-Selling Author
From the Baltimore Opera to QVC shopping channel, executive producer, host, and best-selling author Mike Rowe has had hundreds of jobs and relished his role as a chronic freelancer.
Emmy Award Winning Motivational Speaker, Author & Producer
Against all odds on a gridiron South Bend, Indiana, Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger carved his name into history books as perhaps the most inspiring graduate of the University of Notre Dame.
Former Education Correspondent, NPR
A former elementary and middle school teacher, Sanchez was the education correspondent for NPR. His reports air on NPR's award-winning newsmagazines Morning Edition, All Things Considered, and Weekend Edition.
Daughter of Malcolm X, Professor & Author
Sharing the legacy of her parents, Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz, Ilyasah is an inspirational role model, youth advocate and champion of women and girl empowerment.
Learning Experience Designer & DEI Consultant
Ken currently holds an M.A. in Education with a specialization in Educational Technology as well as New Media Design and Production. He has worked as an Educator for over 20 years and spent most of his classroom experience teaching technology.
Chairman, Special Olympics
Shriver is a social leader, educator, author, film producer and entrepreneur. As the Chairman of Special Olympics, he serves over 4.9 million athletes with intellectual disabilities from 172 countries around the world.
Co-CEO, Archie Comic Publications
Silberkleit is co-CEO of Archie Comic Publications, one of the most successful, longest-running brands in the history of the comic industry. She believes the comic book is a valuable tool for developing literacy.
Leader, Author & Speaker
Dr. Jill Siler served as the Superintendent of Gunter ISD for nearly ten years and now serves as the Deputy Executive Director for Professional Learning for the Texas Association of School Administrators (TASA).
Teacher, Author & Humorist
With 30 years spent as a teacher and staff development instructor, Debbie Silver doesn't just know her way around the classroom- she is familiar with the challenges educators face at every level.
Best-Selling Author & Leadership Educator
Rachel Simmons is the author of the New York Times bestsellers Odd Girl Out and The Curse of the Good Girl, and Enough As She Is.
Founder of LiberatED
Dr. Dena Simmons is the founder of LiberatED, a liberatory approach to social and emotional learning, racial justice, and healing. She is also the inaugural scholar-in-residence at the Institute for Racial Justice at Loyola University of Chicago.
Founder of Pacific Educational Group, Inc.
A product of public elementary and independent secondary school, Singleton founded Pacific Educational Group, Inc. (PEG) to support families in their transitions within and between K–12 and higher education.
Early Literacy Advocate & Author of Reading for Our Lives
Author and literacy advocate Maya Smart argues that to attain the consciousness, solidarity, and equity our society so desperately needs, we must be informed and deliberate in raising a nation of readers.
Innovative Educational Consultant
Speaker David Sousa is the author of How the Brain Learns, in which he translates discoveries on brain research into practical and effective classroom strategies.
Child Prodigy & Education Advocate
Called a "tiny literary giant" by Diane Sawyer, teenager Adora Svitak has authored three books and taught over in 400 schools and classrooms worldwide.
Founder & CEO, National CARES Mentoring Movement
The visionary that built the Essence brand, Taylor left the magazine to found an organization devoted to breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty among African-Americans.
Director of Gender, Sexuality, and Women's Studies & Professor in the Department of Educational Foundations at Montclair State University
Monica Taylor is the Director of Gender, Sexuality, and Women’s Studies, a professor in the Department of Educational Foundations, as well as in the teacher education and teacher development doctoral program at Montclair State University.
Child & Family Psychologist
Speaker Michael Thompson has worked in over 200 schools nationwide. He co-wrote the bestseller Raising Cain: Protecting the Emotional Life of Boys.
Educator, Author & Humanitarian
Thompson is an educator, author, mentor to urban youth and retired school psychologist. She created Reverse the Adverse, a trauma-informed care training for educators and mental health professionals.
Champion for Women's and Refugee Rights, First Rhodes Scholar from Afghanistan & Founder of Dosti Network
Summia Tora is the founder of Dosti Network, an organization dedicated to empowering Afghans both within Afghanistan and those living as refugees with crucial resources and education.
Innovative Educator
A California Teacher of the Year, speaker Marco Antonio Torres is a professional filmmaker who integrates the use of technology into the classroom to empower students.
Maryland's 1st Female Lt. Governor
As Maryland's first female Lieutenant Governor, speaker Kathleen Kennedy Townsend has worked tirelessly on behalf of children and families.
Author, Humorist & Public School Advocate
Tsing Loh is an award-winning author, academic and host of the syndicated radio show "The Loh Down on Science." She is also the author of the book The Madwoman In The Volvo: My Year Of Raging Hormones.
Education Specialist
An education author and former co-director of the Change Leadership Group at the Harvard Graduate School of Education, speaker Tony Wagner has worked for more than 30 years to improve schools.
Artist & Motivator
Committed to leading businesses to new levels of vision and performance through creativity, speaker Erik Wahl helps people identify - and overcome - roadblocks to success.
Inaugural Associate Professor of Equity & Inclusion in Education Policy at Vanderbilt University
Dr. Chezare A. Warren is the inaugural Associate Professor of Equity & Inclusion in Education Policy at Vanderbilt University’s Peabody College of Education and Human Development.
Award-Winning Writer & Educator
Tony Weaver, Jr. is an award winning writer and educator creating diverse stories that make young people feel seen and valued. After seeing the impact that media stereotypes had on students in his community, Tony created new media narratives.
Best Selling Author & Principal of the Year
Adam has been a teacher, Assistant Principal, Principal and Director of Innovation for a district with 35,000 students.
Education Columnist for CBC Radio
Joel Westheimer is University Research Chair in Democracy and Education at the University of Ottawa and education columnist for CBC Radio’s Ottawa Morning and Ontario Today shows.
Freedom Fighter, Critical Scholar & Equity Strategist
Dr. Whitaker is Director of the Center for Urban Education, Equity, and Improvement at Cabrini University. He focuses on the psychology of race and racism, issues related to diversity, equity, inclusion (DEI), and more.
Inspirational Speaker, Professor, Principal Tubist & Best-Selling Author
With over two decades of performing on the world’s classical music stages, tubist Richard White has matured into a musician known for his clear sound and stylistic flexibility.
FOX News Commentator
Widely regarded as one of America’s top speakers, New York Times Best-selling Author, Fox News Political Analyst and Award-winning Columnist Juan Williams has a talent for motivating and inspiring audiences.
Award-Winning Trumpeter, Composer, Teacher, Arranger
Dontae Winslow is one of the rising stars in the music industry. He is known as an A-List arranger, music producer, touring trumpeter, film composer, and educator in Hollywood.
Founder and CEO, Room to Read
Speaker John Wood left a career at Microsoft to form Room to Read, a nonprofit helping children in the developing world escape poverty through education.
Co-Founder, Apple Computer, Inc.
Speaker Steve Wozniak changed the computer world when he designed Apple's first product line: Apple I and II. He is also a philanthropist focusing on computer use in schools.