Renee G. Carr, EdD is multilingual, including Spanish, French, and Greek. She is a trainer, and consultant with over 10 years of training experience, successful managing in hybrid, on-site, and virtual environments. She successfully trained adults on social-emotional learning curriculum across the country, presented at multiple conferences, and provided training of researchers at a government contractor. Her experience includes training interpreters, registration staff, law students, and other participants on federal programs.

The premise of her first book Accountability in the Classroom: Using Social-Emotional Learning to Guide School Improvement came from her dissertation topic, and it was published in 2021. The idea behind her second book Kids Before Content: An Educator's Guide on Social-Emotional Learning Competencies came from both her dissertation and her experiences with recommending a pilot social-emotional learning program.

Renee G. Carr, EdD is multilingual, including Spanish, French, and Greek. She is a trainer, and consultant with over 10 years of training experience, successful managing in hybrid, on-site, and virtual environments. She successfully trained adults on... Show more

Ananya R is a visionary leader in the realm of technology and community empowerment, currently serving as the Global Community Manager at She Loves Tech, the acceleration platform for women in technology. With a passion for building inclusive ecosystems, Ananya is committed to fostering greater visibility, creating funding opportunities, and nurturing a supportive community for women in technology worldwide.

Ananya's journey in community building and advocacy traces back to her impactful role as the Community Manager at Google Developers India. Here, she took charge of over 500 Google Developer Student Clubs (GDSC) spanning across 180+ cities. In this capacity, Ananya orchestrated strategies to expand the GDSC network, meticulously nurturing relationships with student leads to their learning journeys and professional growth. Her strategic efforts led to a remarkable increase in diversity within GDSC, ensuring that women and underrepresented groups found their voices and avenues for advancement in the tech community.

Fuelled by her unwavering commitment to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), Ananya serves as an #IamRemarkable Gold Facilitator. Her dedication to uplifting women in technology is epitomized by her pivotal role as the driving force behind the Women in Tech wing at Tinkerhub foundation. Through this groundbreaking initiative, Ananya created a nurturing and inclusive platform, Tink-Her-Hack1.0, Kerala's largest women's hackathon. This transformative event not only bridged the gender gap in technology but also empowered thousands of women to showcase their skills, creativity, and potential. Under Ananya's leadership,

Ananya's impact extends beyond her professional accolades; she is a beacon of inspiration and change in the tech community. Her Tedx and other riveting talks and thought-provoking insights have graced various institutions and platforms, inspiring countless individuals to pursue their dreams in technology.

In recognition of her unwavering dedication, Ananya has been honored with the Outstanding Women in Engineering Award 2018 in Kerala, a testament to her exemplary contributions to the field.Through her leadership, mentorship, and advocacy, Ananya R is driving positive change and paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable tech industry.

Ananya R is a visionary leader in the realm of technology and community empowerment, currently serving as the Global Community Manager at She Loves Tech, the acceleration platform for women in technology. With a passion for building inclusive ecosyst... Show more

Over the past 15 years, Keith Schumacher has become recognized as one of the leading voices in father engagement in the educational setting. Keith did not enter the educational arena as a teacher or principal, he came in as a dad. As the father of two adopted daughters and the husband of a teacher, he quickly recognized the absence of other dads participating in family engagement activities at the local school. He also noticed that there were few, if any male role models among school staff members.
After initially being turned away from the PTA, he learned about the Watch D.O.G.S. program and proposed it to the principal of his local school. He quickly became a leader in father engagement at the local, and then state and national level. He served for ten years as a National Family and Community Engagement Coordinator with the Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) organization. This was done while simultaneously serving as a senior captain with the Atlanta Fire-Rescue Department. Upon his retirement from Atlanta Fire-Rescue in 2019, he began serving full-time with the All Pro Dad Chapters program and did so for four and a half years.
In these roles, Keith has spoken at hundreds of state and national conferences including the American Association of School Administrators, National PTA, American School Counselors Association and the National Association for Family, School and Community Engagement. Keith has literally worked with hundreds of local schools and school districts in overcoming the traditional stereotypes of fathers and perceived their lack of engagement in local schools.
In 2023, Keith launched The National Alliance for Father Friendly Schools. This nonprofit organization serves as a resource for training and information on father friendly practices and programs for local schools and school districts. NAFFS can direct school administrators in more actively engaging all family members but, especially being inclusive of fathers and father figures.
Keith is working to create a culture and environment in which schools provide a welcoming and inclusive environment where fathers regularly engage and participate in the daily activities of local schools. This includes supporting students who do not have an easily recognizable father figure in their life as well.
As a national leader, Keith’s goal is to give every child an opportunity to have strong positive role models leading them to the greatest success possible.

Over the past 15 years, Keith Schumacher has become recognized as one of the leading voices in father engagement in the educational setting. Keith did not enter the educational arena as a teacher or principal, he came in as a dad. As the father of tw... Show more

Ann Cammaro is the Founder and CEO of Antarexxa Space Global, a pioneering organization dedicated to bridging the gap between spacefaring nations and emerging space countries based in Bali, Indonesia. As a passionate space advocate, educator, and strategist, Ann has championed space advocacy since 2014, expanding her impact globally through Antarexxa since 2020. Under her leadership, the company has delivered space education programs virtually to participants across 76 countries and 67 cities in Indonesia, inspiring youth, educators, and professionals to cultivate interest in the New Space economy and pursue careers in the growing space industry; most importantly to leverage space technology to improve quality of life on Earth and address global challenges.

With over a decade of experience in marketing and communication, strategic international business development, government relations, and multi-stakeholder project coordination, Ann brings a unique blend of expertise to the space sector. Her work spans industries such as infrastructure, education, cybersecurity, aerospace and defense, renewable energy, biotechnology, and environmental conservation, with a proven track record in intergovernmental and interagency collaboration.

Ann is deeply committed to fostering international collaboration, workforce development, and diversity in STEAM fields, with a focus on empowering local talent in Indonesia and beyond. Her initiatives include international study space tours, championing local teams for international competitions, and connecting Indonesian talents with global opportunities in space exploration and industry. Ann’s vision is to create a future where emerging nations play a pivotal role in shaping the space ecosystem, from Earth to the Moon and beyond.

Currently serving as a NASA Harvard-Smithsonian SciX Lead Ambassador for 2025-2027, her primary role is to promote scientific literacy and encourage academic contributions to space exploration. Ann is also the spokesperson for the recently established Indonesia Space Association, advocating for Indonesia's strategic development as a significant global space player in the near future.

Ann Cammaro is the Founder and CEO of Antarexxa Space Global, a pioneering organization dedicated to bridging the gap between spacefaring nations and emerging space countries based in Bali, Indonesia. As a passionate space advocate, educator, and str... Show more

Eshan Chattaraj has his 10+ years of experience in professional industry both in Govt and private leading MNCs comprising the area of Android Development and Python Data Analytics. Eshan is also a public Speaker in where he has been invited in many prestigious oganisations and institutions like AICTE, Niser, IISER, NIT and IITs, ISI and most of the Tier 1 Colleges. Eshan is also a Research Scholar in the field of Android, ML/AI. Institutions tagged with him are like IIT, Kharagpur and The Institution of Engineers (India). Some of the Prestigious Clients he made contributions are Google, Microsoft, Wipro Tech, Capgemini, Coca-Cola, United Health, Optum, Shaadi.com, MagicBricks, Fittr etc.
He done his graduation in Computer Science Engineering and Legal background at Corporate Laws. He has given talk in prestigious organisations like IIT/IIM, IISER, NISER, ATAL, AICTE divisional, Hackathon, ISI, Atomic Research, Law Societies and GDG etc
He has been awarded and recognized from Govt of India and CID, WB

Eshan Chattaraj has his 10+ years of experience in professional industry both in Govt and private leading MNCs comprising the area of Android Development and Python Data Analytics. Eshan is also a public Speaker in where he has been invited in many p... Show more

Eric Burden is an IT Sr Consultant with NTT DATA Services, currently serving as the Data Conversion and Reporting lead for the state of Arkansas' CCWIS project. In this role, Eric blends his Social Work experience and deep technical know-how to ensure timely delivery and development of an effective child welfare information system. Prior to this, Eric worked with the United Way of the Mid-South (Memphis) on their Driving the Dream Initiative, aimed at deploying a shared client referral and database platform to break down service silos in the Memphis social service sector. Prior to that, he served as the Director of Data Reporting for Mississippi’s Department of Child Protection Services. Eric combines his technical expertise with his education in social work (MSW from Jackson State University) to engage process improvement from people to systems. On a personal note, Eric and his wife have two children (a son and a daughter) and a very spoiled dog. They enjoy spending time in the great outdoors, hiking, kayaking, playing in creeks, finding bugs, and gardening.

Eric Burden is an IT Sr Consultant with NTT DATA Services, currently serving as the Data Conversion and Reporting lead for the state of Arkansas' CCWIS project. In this role, Eric blends his Social Work experience and deep technical know-how to ensur... Show more

Armagan is the founder of Coyotiv GmbH, and is currently on a mission to bring a scalable and nimble engineering culture to startups and enterprises.

A software architect well versed in both the backend and frontend systems, he focuses on building resilient cloud systems. He loves open source and is the author of cote, a library for building microservices with Node.js, among many others. In his free time, he loves to hack stuff with JavaScript, ranging from musical gadgets to brain signals processing.

Armagan is a public speaker, a mentor and a lecturer. He also leads Lonca, a software craftspersonship school for women engineers, and teaches JavaScript at Coyotiv School of Software Engineering.

Armagan is the founder of Coyotiv GmbH, and is currently on a mission to bring a scalable and nimble engineering culture to startups and enterprises. A software architect well versed in both the backend and frontend systems, he focuses on building... Show more

Jen Kramer has been teaching & practicing web design for over 20 years. Most recently, she is a Lecturer at Harvard University Extension School in the Master's of Liberal Arts in Digital Media Design program, where she teaches five courses per year on front-end web development. She's also a prolific video author, creating over 40 training courses for LinkedIn Learning/Lynda.com, Frontend Masters, O'Reilly Media, and others. She earned her MS in Internet Strategy Management from Marlboro College.

Jen Kramer has been teaching & practicing web design for over 20 years. Most recently, she is a Lecturer at Harvard University Extension School in the Master's of Liberal Arts in Digital Media Design program, where she teaches five courses per year o... Show more

I am an Associate Professor of Anatomy and Cell Biology at the College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, with over thirty years of experience in medical education and academic leadership. I hold a Ph.D. in Anatomy from Manipal University, India, and specialize in clinical anatomy, reproductive biology, and molecular pathology. I teach across medical, dental, pharmacy, and allied health programs and serve as Course Chair, Unit Coordinator, and Lead Faculty within the integrated MBBS curriculum. I am a highly published researcher and a recipient of multiple awards for academic and teaching excellence.
In addition to my academic responsibilities, I provide leadership in community engagement and sustainability initiatives. I lead the LEAF (Linking Education and Farming) initiative at the University of Sharjah and spearhead multidisciplinary projects focused on food‑waste composting, plastic recycling, organic farming, and zero‑waste campus practices. Through these initiatives, I facilitate experiential learning and have trained many students in applied sustainability and environmental stewardship. Notably, I guide the first successful cultivation of black wheat in the UAE, contributing to national food security and sustainable agricultural practices. Through sustained collaborations with governmental organizations, non‑governmental agencies, and community outreach programs, I continue to advance sustainability education, social responsibility, and environmental awareness within the University of Sharjah and the wider community.

I am an Associate Professor of Anatomy and Cell Biology at the College of Medicine, University of Sharjah, with over thirty years of experience in medical education and academic leadership. I hold a Ph.D. in Anatomy from Manipal University, India, an... Show more

Amy Barthelemy is the solo founder of GovParti (govparti.net), a free civic intelligence platform covering all 3,127 US counties. The platform stores data from almost50 federal sources locally, functioning as a living civic archive resilient to federal data removal. She is a published researcher (SSRN: 10928268), Latina first-generation American, military spouse, and mom.

Amy Barthelemy is the solo founder of GovParti (govparti.net), a free civic intelligence platform covering all 3,127 US counties. The platform stores data from almost50 federal sources locally, functioning as a living civic archive resilient to feder... Show more

💃 Devika Toprani is a systems architect and the founder of Somagraphic Learning™, a research-backed, human-first, AI-supported visual-cognitive framework built around Attempt → Map → Refine.

It helps educators and learners externalize early thinking, make concept relationships visible through a codified visual grammar (Shape-Emotion Grammar™), and refine understanding only after structure is clear (grounded in embodied cognition, cognitive load theory, and human-AI interaction research).

🤖 Unlike AI tools that polish output too early, Somagraphic Learning™ introduces a deliberate orientation layer before AI engagement - positioning AI at the refinement stage, not the starting point. It surfaces the learner's sequence, dependencies, tensions, and conceptual gaps "before" AI assistance arrives - so clarity supports reasoning rather than replacing it.

💪 Long-term vision
Scaling her framework across EdTech, K-12, Higher Education, MedEd, Learning Management Systems, HR Training and Organizational Strategy.

🎯 The goal?
To enhance critical thinking, AI Literacy, Responsible AI, reduce cognitive load and bridge the global CLARITY gap.

🌎 Professional Experience
- Expertise in learning design, workforce strategy, program operations, and analytics
- Built national accreditation systems and competency evaluation pipelines
- Developed centralized learning infrastructure across K-12 and higher education
- Global exposure across Oman, India, the UAE, and the United States

🎓 Education
Devika holds an M.S. in Management & Quantitative Sciences (STEM) with academic foundations in Psychology and Education.

🌸 Perspectives
Devika pioneers the philosophy that "Learning is not AI-made; it is Soul-made." Conceptual clarity begins with the learner's own struggle, and AI enters later for refinement.

🤖 Open to aligned cross-sector pilots, grants, fellowships and strategic investment partnerships to scale Somagraphic Learning™

💃 Devika Toprani is a systems architect and the founder of Somagraphic Learning™, a research-backed, human-first, AI-supported visual-cognitive framework built around Attempt → Map → Refine. It helps educators and learners externalize early think... Show more

Information Security specialist and cybersecurity enthusiast with a robust background in offensive operations and digital investigations. His expertise is backed by industry-standard certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Pentest+, Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM), and CERT Incident Response Process Professional.

After years of experience in the Brazilian corporate sector, he currently serves as a Police Agent at the Civil Police of the Federal District (PCDF). In this role, he leads the design and implementation of Offensive Security (Red Team) solutions and Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) operations.

As a key member of the CSIRT (Computer Security Incident Response Team), he acts as a senior analyst, responding to critical cyber events with high social impact. His current research focuses on the industrialization of cybercrime and the development of automated forensic pipelines for large-scale threat hunting.

Information Security specialist and cybersecurity enthusiast with a robust background in offensive operations and digital investigations. His expertise is backed by industry-standard certifications, including Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Pentest+,... Show more

Verónica Recchia is a lawyer and psychologist focused on the intersection between artificial intelligence, decision-making and human cognition. Her work explores how algorithmic systems reshape perception, judgment and responsibility.

She lectures at the University of Buenos Aires (UBA) and UTN FRBA, and is co-founder of the EIA LATAM Committee (Ethical Committee for Artificial Intelligence), an ongoing project aimed at developing ethical frameworks for the region.

Her approach moves beyond the idea of AI as a tool, framing it instead as part of a hybrid decision system where human and machine cognition interact.

She is the author of Agilidad y Talento. Egoísmo y Altruismo del Poder (A pesar de la MENTE CLICK) (https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FNXD3GJQ
), and is currently developing MenteClick.ia (The Continuity of the Species) (ISBN: 978-631-01-1706-5). She also leads, together with co-authors, the ongoing work EIA LATAM Manifesto (ISBN: 978-631-01-4930-1).

Verónica Recchia is a lawyer and psychologist focused on the intersection between artificial intelligence, decision-making and human cognition. Her work explores how algorithmic systems reshape perception, judgment and responsibility. She lectures... Show more

Shivaram K R is an innovator, researcher, and serial entrepreneur. He focuses on the impact of emerging technologies on humanity through his key strengths: initiative, innovation and implementation. He has 20 years of hands-on experience in Artificial Intelligence. He is a domain expert in multiple emerging technologies and has built 11 tech startups to solve the world’s problems. He is currently the Co-founder and CEO of Hue Learn.

Alumni of IIT Delhi, he has 10 years of experience in algorithmic trading and quantitative research. He has built High Frequency Trading strategies and Cross Asset Investment Strategies during his tenure in Bank of America, Edelweiss and Societe Generale. He created a robotics lab to do research on AI, robotics, 3D printing, IoT and other emerging technologies. He started his entrepreneurial journey in 2014 from his lab. He uses the first principles approach to build his startups. He has built products that use AI to solve problems in the domain of commodity trading, genomics, education, drone delivery, high-frequency trading and healthcare. He has advised government bodies and the World Economic Forum on the impact of emerging technologies. He is a TEDx speaker and has spoken at various global forums such as Green Accelerator at Davos during the World Economic Forum Annual Event, COP28 on use of AI in Education.

Shivaram K R is an innovator, researcher, and serial entrepreneur. He focuses on the impact of emerging technologies on humanity through his key strengths: initiative, innovation and implementation. He has 20 years of hands-on experience in Artificia... Show more

Amanda Brock is CEO of OpenUK and has built one of the most recognised and impactful organisations in open source. She is also the Executive Producer of State of Open Con 25 taking place 4 - 5 February 2025 in London having founded and produced the ‘23 and ‘24 events building to over 800 attendees, and over 200 speakers.

A lawyer with 25 years’ experience, 5 as GC of Canonical, she’s been instrumental in shaping open source’s legal frameworks, as she was in shaping internet law during the early 2000’s.
Regularly contributing to tech press, she edited “Open Source: Law, Policy and Practice”, (2022).

Amanda is a sought-after and contagious international keynote speaker, speaking at tech events and international events like COP29 on topics from open source software to AI. A regular contributor to the tech press across a wider range of areas, Amanda is the editor of Open Source Law, Policy and Practice (2nd edition) published by Oxford University Press in October ‘22, with open access thanks to the Vietsch Foundation https://amandabrock.com/books

Current Advisory: UK Cabinet Office Open Standards Board; UKRI Digital Research Infrastructure; UKRI Exascale; KDE; commercial boards – Mimoto, Scarf, FerretDB and Space Aye; and is Fellow Open Forum Academy; Distinguished Fellow Rust Foundation; European Representative, OIN.

Past Advisory includes: Chair, UN Technology and Innovation Labs Open Source and IP Advisory Group’; OASIS Open Projects Initiative; British Computer Society Inaugural Influence Board; UK Government Energy Sector Digitalisation Task Force; elected Board Member Open Source Initiative; and Commercial Advisory Boards at Beamery and Everseen.

Recognition: Computer Weekly’s 50 Most Influential Women in UK TechC(2023, 2024) listed as #20 in 2024; Computing IT Leaders 100 (2023, 2024); ‘ INvolve HERoes list “(2023, 2024); “Women Who Will”, Changemaker (2023); INvolve Heroes (2022, 2023); and Novi Awards Advocate for Change in Gender Equality Honouree (2024); Ambassador Open Charge Alliance. Amanda was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award in the Women, Influence & Power in Law UK 2022.

Judging: IDG Foundry CIO 100 2023, 2024); and Senior Judge, First Enable Role Model List by Dow (2024) having been a Judge in the We are Tech Women Rising Star Awards in (2021, 2022).

linkedin.com/in/amandabrocktech
@amandabrockUK
@openuk_uk
https://openuk.uk
https://amandabrock.com/

Amanda Brock is CEO of OpenUK and has built one of the most recognised and impactful organisations in open source. She is also the Executive Producer of State of Open Con 25 taking place 4 - 5 February 2025 in London having founded and produced the ‘... Show more

Mestre em Gestão de Riscos pelo Departamento de Computação Aplicada da Universidade de Brasília (UnB), com especializações em Gestão da Segurança da Informação e Comunicações (UnB), Regulação de Telecomunicações (Inatel) e Gestão Pública (IFSC). Possui 18 anos de experiência no setor privado de telecomunicações, atuando em funções técnicas e de gestão antes de ingressar no serviço público.
É servidor de carreira da Anatel desde 2007, onde ocupou diversos cargos estratégicos: Gerente Operacional de Redes na área de Gestão da Informação, Gerente da Unidade Operacional no Maranhão , Assessor na Secretaria do Conselho Diretor, Assessor e Gerente substituto na Gerência de Canais de Relacionamento com os Consumidores, e atualmente, ocupa o cargo de Gerente de Planejamento, Desenvolvimento e Segurança de Sistemas na Superintendência de Gestão Interna da Informação.

Mestre em Gestão de Riscos pelo Departamento de Computação Aplicada da Universidade de Brasília (UnB), com especializações em Gestão da Segurança da Informação e Comunicações (UnB), Regulação de Telecomunicações (Inatel) e Gestão Pública (IFSC). Poss... Show more

My work is shaped by professional experience and lived reality.

A career in law enforcement and public service has included leading programs focused on community safety, supporting missing persons investigations, and working in close partnership with Tribal communities across Washington State. That work has revealed gaps that often exist between systems and the communities served—and the critical role of trust built through consistency, respect, and accountability.

Connection to this work is also deeply personal.

Previously a foster parent, having an extended kinship network, and a descendant of a federal Indian boarding school survivor, bringing a perspective shaped by lived experience and a deep understanding of loss, resilience, and the lasting impacts of historical and intergenerational trauma. These experiences inform relationship-building, listening, and engagement—with a strong commitment to culturally responsive and trauma-informed practices.

Work alongside Tribal leaders, advocates, and partner agencies has supported efforts addressing Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People (MMIWP), with a focus on strengthening collaboration and improving system responses.

At the core of my work is a belief that meaningful change happens at the intersection of relationships, accountability, and action. Focus remains on building trust and creating solutions informed by the voices and experiences of those most impacted.

My work is shaped by professional experience and lived reality. A career in law enforcement and public service has included leading programs focused on community safety, supporting missing persons investigations, and working in close partnership w... Show more

Stephanie served as a turnaround principal in Arizona at a Title One school. Focused on high yield strategies, the school became an A-rated Arizona School, A+ School of Excellence, ICLE Model School for Growth, and Stephanie was named a top ten principal in Arizona for student growth. She believes effective school improvement focuses on changing school culture with high school wide expectations; using a research-based curriculum with integrity; and using data effectively to focus on individual student growth. As a WestEd School and District Improvement Specialist she coaches school and district leaders in strengthening tier one instructional practices and data systems and practices.
Stephanie holds an Ed.S. in Leadership (Oakland University), M.Ed. in Media & Technology (Eastern Michigan University), and a B.A. in Journalism. (Grand Valley State University). She has extensive knowledge through continued doctoral level courses and leadership experiences in effective K-12 organizations and has presented at many national conferences, including The National Elementary and Secondary Act (ESEA) Conference, Center for Model Schools, and the Arizona Department of Education Teachers' Institute for Leading and Change (TILC) Conference.

Stephanie served as a turnaround principal in Arizona at a Title One school. Focused on high yield strategies, the school became an A-rated Arizona School, A+ School of Excellence, ICLE Model School for Growth, and Stephanie was named a top ten princ... Show more

Katerina Brandes hat einen Bildungshintergrund in Ressourcenmanagement und Entwicklungszusammenarbeit und verfügt über Forschungserfahrung zu globalen Nachhaltigkeitsthemen, unter anderem in Tansania und Indien. Ihre freiberufliche Arbeitserfahrung in der Erwachsenenbildung führten sie an das Zentrum für Lehrentwicklung der TH Köln. Dort arbeitet sie in einem Karriereentwicklungsprogramm für Wissenschaftler*innen früher Karrierestufen mit dem Schwerpunkt transformative Wissenschaft. Ihr besonderes Interesse liegt in der Gestaltung kreativer, interaktiver Workshopformate mit körperorientierten und theaterpädagogischen Methoden.

Katerina Brandes hat einen Bildungshintergrund in Ressourcenmanagement und Entwicklungszusammenarbeit und verfügt über Forschungserfahrung zu globalen Nachhaltigkeitsthemen, unter anderem in Tansania und Indien. Ihre freiberufliche Arbeitserfahrung i... Show more

Aline holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Würzburg and a Master’s degree from RWTH Aachen University. Since 2021, Aline is a Scientific Associate at the Center for Learning and Teaching Services, where she coordinated various Projects, including the "#Digitalkompetenz.nrw" project to enhance digital skills.

Aline holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biology from the University of Würzburg and a Master’s degree from RWTH Aachen University. Since 2021, Aline is a Scientific Associate at the Center for Learning and Teaching Services, where she coordinated various ... Show more

Christopher I. Mathews Jr., LCSW, MPH, is the Capacity Building and Technical Assistance Manager at the Emory COMPASS Coordinating Center within Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health and a current Doctor of Social Work (DSW) student at Tulane University. He has extensive experience supporting community-based nonprofit organizations through capacity-building, program development, and evaluation, with a focus on strengthening organizational infrastructure and sustainability. His background in public health and social work includes facilitating trainings, providing technical assistance, and engaging organizational leaders through qualitative approaches. As a licensed clinical social worker, he is trained in conducting sensitive conversations and engaging participants in an ethical and respectful manner.

Christopher I. Mathews Jr., LCSW, MPH, is the Capacity Building and Technical Assistance Manager at the Emory COMPASS Coordinating Center within Emory University’s Rollins School of Public Health and a current Doctor of Social Work (DSW) student at T... Show more

Dr. Jennifer Warren is an educational leader with over 20 years of experience spanning classroom, district, and higher education leadership. She holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Lamar University, and she currently serves as the Executive Director of Special Programs at Bryan ISD. She prioritizes innovative staffing, program redesign, and university partnerships that improve outcomes for all learners.

Dr. Jennifer Warren is an educational leader with over 20 years of experience spanning classroom, district, and higher education leadership. She holds a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Lamar University, and she currently serves as ... Show more

Dr. White is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry, with secondary appointments in Psychology, Public Health Sciences, and Community Health and Prevention at the University of Rochester (UR). In her university faculty roles, she leads change initiatives to deepen community engagement and public health approaches to health promotion as well as child development via service, education and research. From 2004-19, she also directed the Office of Mental Health Promotion (OMHP), prior to leading a nonprofit for five years beginning in 2019. OMHP oversaw community, consumer and diversity affairs for Psychiatry faculty and staff. Dr. White directs collaborative and participatory research. She promotes mental health supporting behaviors, services utilization, injury prevention as well as child and family development strategies within community-based settings. Her research applies system and data science methods in community engaged research, mental health promotion, and injury prevention systems. Her years of research and administrative experiences in developmental psychology emphasize the role of community settings such as childcare, arts centers and after-school programs in child development.

Upon completion of her doctorate in Human Development and Psychology from Harvard's Graduate School of Education, she was an AAAS/SRCD fellow in the U.S. Senate and the National Institutes of Health. She was a visiting scientist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in 2017 to foster the implementation of systems science approaches to state suicide prevention.

Dr. White is currently an elected member and chair of UR’s Research Policy Committee, and currently co-chair of the Faculty Senate. She has been a member of Faculty Senate since 2019. Her interests include promoting community engagement in all mission areas and promoting a campus climate centered on inclusion, equity, well-being, and families.

Dr. White is an Associate Professor of Psychiatry, with secondary appointments in Psychology, Public Health Sciences, and Community Health and Prevention at the University of Rochester (UR). In her university faculty roles, she leads change initiati... Show more

Dr. Monifa McKnight is an accomplished executive leader, governance strategist, and former Superintendent of Montgomery County Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in the United States. With more than 25 years of experience leading complex institutions, she is known for guiding organizations through high-stakes transitions, strengthening governance, and building resilient, people-centered leadership cultures. As Founder of McKnight Lotus Leadership Group, she advises executives and boards on leadership strategy, crisis navigation, and sustainable performance. She also serves as a leadership coach for the University of Maryland’s Central Office Leadership Academy (COLA) and holds board roles with Bowie State University, Africa University, and the National Capital Area Council of Scouting America.

Dr. Monifa McKnight is an accomplished executive leader, governance strategist, and former Superintendent of Montgomery County Public Schools, one of the largest school districts in the United States. With more than 25 years of experience leading com... Show more

Dr. Ashley Y. Carpenter is a scholar and leader in the field of gifted education, currently serving as a Clinical Assistant Professor and the Director of Professional Development and Publications at the Center for Gifted Education (CFGE) at William & Mary. Her work is defined by a commitment to equity and excellence, focusing on bridging the gap between academic research and classroom practice. Her leadership in the field was recently recognized with the prestigious 2024 Early Leader Award from the National Association for Gifted Children (NAGC), honoring her significant contributions to the growth and development of gifted and talented children.
Dr. Carpenter’s expertise lies at the intersection of underserved gifted populations, twice-exceptional (2e) learners, and the impact of socioeconomic status on talent development. At CFGE, she spearheads national and international professional development initiatives, training educators to implement research-based curricula and inclusive identification practices. She also serves as a key researcher for Project BUMP UP, a federally funded Javits grant focused on increasing math proficiency for high-potential students in high-poverty schools.
A former middle school teacher for 14 years, Dr. Carpenter brings a practical, practitioner-oriented lens to her work. She is a frequent speaker at local and national conferences, where she advocates for the "hidden" gifted student. Through her various roles, Dr. Carpenter continues to foster educational environments where diverse talents are not only recognized but meticulously nurtured.

Dr. Ashley Y. Carpenter is a scholar and leader in the field of gifted education, currently serving as a Clinical Assistant Professor and the Director of Professional Development and Publications at the Center for Gifted Education (CFGE) at William &... Show more

Dr. Seema Sidhu is a transformative district leader and the 2026 AUHSD ACSA Central Office Administrator of the Year. Currently serving as the Director of Learning and Development for the Anaheim Union High School District, Dr. Sidhu oversees the strategic "braiding" of millions in state and federal programs to move the needle on equity and justice. A former English teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal, her career is defined by a refusal to accept the status quo of top-down governance. Dr. Sidhu is recognized for bringing innovation to compliance, dismantling administrative silos to institutionalize authentic democratic school governance. Her leadership in operationalizing the "Voice to Action" Equity Transformation Cycle has resulted in historic academic gains for English Learners and at-promise youth. A recipient of the Woman of Distinction Award from the California State Senate, Dr. Sidhu is a sought-after speaker on AI implementation, strategic planning, and the power of shared leadership. She holds an Ed.D. in Organizational Leadership from the University of La Verne and is dedicated to equipping leaders with the tools to transform school systems and level up through student voice and agency.

Dr. Seema Sidhu is a transformative district leader and the 2026 AUHSD ACSA Central Office Administrator of the Year. Currently serving as the Director of Learning and Development for the Anaheim Union High School District, Dr. Sidhu oversees the str... Show more

Dr. Richard L. Watkins is a scientist, strategist, and advocate working at the intersection of research, policy, and society. He is the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of The Science Policy Action Network, Inc. (SPAN), where he is responsible for setting the organization’s overall direction and service strategy. He leads the development of SPAN’s consulting offerings and operational infrastructure, with a focus on impact across education, innovation, and public health.

Dr. Watkins holds a Ph.D. in Microbiology and Immunology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a B.S. in Psychology from Fayetteville State University. His scientific background informs a systems-level approach to policy advising and program design, particularly in areas such as school safety, mental health, and science-based governance.

A dynamic communicator and bridge-builder, Dr. Watkins also hosts The Richard Watkins Podcast, a platform for thought leaders across disciplines. His work continues to shape public conversations and institutional strategies through science, equity, and community engagement.

Dr. Richard L. Watkins is a scientist, strategist, and advocate working at the intersection of research, policy, and society. He is the Founder, Chairman, and CEO of The Science Policy Action Network, Inc. (SPAN), where he is responsible for setting ... Show more

Alfi is a pioneer in the space of Learning & Development, with a revised approach to development centred around self-directed learning.

He is also a co-host on the “Edit Undo Podcast” and a Mentorship enthusiast.

Among other things, Alfi is a lifelong student in the field of mentorship, having played the role of a mentor at Jack Academy’s UX Bootcamp and a coordinator with Sprint, a student work-readiness program based in Pretoria, South Africa.

Alfi is a pioneer in the space of Learning & Development, with a revised approach to development centred around self-directed learning. He is also a co-host on the “Edit Undo Podcast” and a Mentorship enthusiast. Among other things, Alfi is a l... Show more

Emerald Akhaumere, a 22-year-old Nigerian trailblazer, is rewriting the narrative in the world of technology. Her journey began at the age of 15, fueled by an unquenchable passion for tech and a fierce determination to make a difference.

Emerald's tech odyssey has been nothing short of remarkable. Her early involvement in SWENext kindled her love for the field, setting the stage for an incredible transformation. From these roots, she ascended to become a Collegiate Member and a Collegiate Club Lead, championing inclusivity in STEM.

Emerald's accomplishments in the SWE Recruitment Challenge, where she clinched top positions multiple times, speak volumes about her zeal for SWE's mission and the advancement of women in tech. She believes that innovation thrives in diversity, and she's a living testament to this ideology.

But her journey didn't stop there. Emerald's commitment transcends borders; she proudly serves as a SWE Global Ambassador, amplifying the organization's impact and values globally. She's passionate about fostering a global community that empowers women to thrive in the tech universe.

As the newly appointed GDSC Lead at BAZE University, Emerald is poised to make an indelible mark. Her leadership and dedication are set to empower a new generation of tech enthusiasts.

Emerald's story is a testament to the incredible potential that emerges when passion meets dedication. She's breaking barriers, paving the way for underrepresented voices in tech, and proving that age is no limit when it comes to making waves in the world of technology.

Emerald Akhaumere, a 22-year-old Nigerian trailblazer, is rewriting the narrative in the world of technology. Her journey began at the age of 15, fueled by an unquenchable passion for tech and a fierce determination to make a difference. Emerald's... Show more

William Veronesi Rocha, é servidor efetivo do INSS, desde abril de 2004. Graduado em Ciência da Computação pela Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Minas Gerais. Possuí MBA em Gestão Publica e Certificação em Gestão e Processos de Inovação pela Certiprof e especialização em Gestão e Governança de TI pela FGV.
No INSS, de 2004 a 2010, fez parte da equipe de todas as instancias hierárquicas, assumindo em 2010 a Coordenação Geral de TI do órgão, que na época era a instancia responsável por toda a TI do instituto. Em 2011 foi cedido a DATAPREV onde já passou por vários cargos de gerencia e desde 2018 é o Gerente do Departamento de Inovação da DATAPREV.

William Veronesi Rocha, é servidor efetivo do INSS, desde abril de 2004. Graduado em Ciência da Computação pela Pontifícia Universidade Católica de Minas Gerais. Possuí MBA em Gestão Publica e Certificação em Gestão e Processos de Inovação pela Certi... Show more