Liz Rockstroh serves as Chief of Staff and Assistant Vice President at the University of Texas–San Antonio. She holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of California–Davis and has volunteered with ACUI as a curriculum designer and faculty for the Social Media and Modern Marketing Digital Badge Course. Liz has presented on the topics of assessment, student leadership, and motivation at ACUI Region II and ACUI Annual conferences.

Liz Rockstroh serves as Chief of Staff and Assistant Vice President at the University of Texas–San Antonio. She holds a doctorate in educational leadership from the University of California–Davis and has volunteered with ACUI as a curriculum designer... Show more

Tom Graham is an IT professional with over 30 years of experience, offering a rich blend of technical expertise and a versatile skill set. His career spans various roles such as Public Accounting, Accounting Controller, Human Resources Manager, Developer, Scrum Master, and Business Systems Analyst, demonstrating his versatility and adaptability across a range of industries, including healthcare, food, automotive, and oil.

Tom is an entrepreneurial spirit who manages a successful family business alongside his corporate career. This unique blend of technical knowledge and business acumen makes him an asset in any project.

Outside of work, his passions come alive. He's a dedicated family guy who enjoys his time with loved ones. His love for vintage technology is evident in his hobby of restoring antique cars and radios.

Tom is committed to his community, volunteering his time to various organizations, including disaster relief efforts and educational initiatives. He is an active member of the Amateur Radio Relay League, Spotter Network, Amateur Radio Emergency Services, Toastmasters, and various local organizations. Committed to sharing his knowledge, he frequently engages in speaking events at colleges, schools, and museums.

Tom Graham is an IT professional with over 30 years of experience, offering a rich blend of technical expertise and a versatile skill set. His career spans various roles such as Public Accounting, Accounting Controller, Human Resources Manager, Devel... Show more

Chloé is from Toronto, and made the move to beautiful BC in 2017. A lifelong learner, Chloé holds a diploma in veterinary technology from Seneca College, a certificate in canine rehabilitation from University of Tennessee, as well as a Bachelor of Science in Economics and a Masters of Public Administration both from Northern Michigan University. She has worked across Canada and the US in multiple sectors including animal welfare, veterinary medicine (exotics, small animal, mixed animal, integrative, rehabilitation, shelter medicine), academia, veterinary corporate operations, and non-profits.

Chloé is from Toronto, and made the move to beautiful BC in 2017. A lifelong learner, Chloé holds a diploma in veterinary technology from Seneca College, a certificate in canine rehabilitation from University of Tennessee, as well as a Bachelor of Sc... Show more

Dan Gartin is a Director in North Highland's Public Sector portfolio, where he focuses on large scale business and technical challenges faced by HHS organizations. He also leads North Highland's Quality Assurance and Software Testing practice area.

Dan Gartin is a Director in North Highland's Public Sector portfolio, where he focuses on large scale business and technical challenges faced by HHS organizations. He also leads North Highland's Quality Assurance and Software Testing practice area. ... Show more

Maria Ashby is a developer educator and engineer who is passionate democratizing advanced technical skills for women and minorities in tech. She is currently building the 3percentclub, a non-profit organization dedicated to this mission. Maria creates educational content and hosts events around Kubernetes and data. Before diving into the developer advocacy space, she worked in computer science education for K-12 students in lower-income communities and worked as a data scientist at a F500 company.

Maria Ashby is a developer educator and engineer who is passionate democratizing advanced technical skills for women and minorities in tech. She is currently building the 3percentclub, a non-profit organization dedicated to this mission. Maria creat... Show more

Formateur, Coach et Facilitateur, j’interviens depuis 30 ans avec agilité et enthousiasme auprès des individus et des équipes, pour les accompagner vers plus de travail collaboratif. Mes outils au quotidien ? La ludo-pédagogie, le coaching d’équipe et la facilitation collaborative, par la créativité et le plaisir du partage. Je laisse aussi une place prépondérante au CORPS dans tous mes processus collectifs et vous propose de l'expérimenter " in vivo corporellement" au travers de cet atelier.

Formateur, Coach et Facilitateur, j’interviens depuis 30 ans avec agilité et enthousiasme auprès des individus et des équipes, pour les accompagner vers plus de travail collaboratif. Mes outils au quotidien ? La ludo-pédagogie, le coaching d’équipe e... Show more

With over a decade of dynamic experience across leadership development, diversity and inclusion, and human resources, Sheila Vance-Tisby is a recognized thought leader and speaker in the areas of leadership, women’s leadership, emotional intelligence, and organizational transformation. Sheila's career spans multiple industries, where she has spearheaded high-impact programs that cultivate resilience, foster effective leadership, and promote equity in the workplace.

As the Founder and Principal Consultant for Rebel Leader Lab, Sheila designs and delivers bespoke leadership development programs for organizations looking to accelerate talent growth and foster emotional intelligence within their teams. Having consulted for major companies such as Amazon Web Services, New Balance, and Georgia Tech Research Institute, she brings firsthand knowledge of how to lead teams through transformative change, manage conflict, and build emotionally intelligent leaders. Her leadership programs have been implemented by companies across the U.S., and her impact continues to resonate within the corporate world.

A frequent speaker at conferences and corporate events, Sheila captivates audiences with her powerful insights on emotional intelligence, leadership resilience, and mediation techniques. She is known for blending practical strategies with inspirational storytelling, leaving her audiences empowered to lead with empathy, resolve conflicts, and create inclusive work environments.

With a strong educational foundation including an MBA from Concordia University and over 10 years of progressive leadership experience, Sheila’s expertise positions her as a top speaker for organizations committed to developing future leaders and fostering workplace excellence.

With over a decade of dynamic experience across leadership development, diversity and inclusion, and human resources, Sheila Vance-Tisby is a recognized thought leader and speaker in the areas of leadership, women’s leadership, emotional intelligence... Show more

Dr. Deborah Higdon is an educational leader with 38 years of experience. She was a high school teacher, middle school assistant principal and a principal. She is currently an acting K-12 administrator and an adjunct professor for Montgomery College.

Dr. Higdon presented at Fathers and Families International Conference in 2022 and 2023. She is the co-author of the article, “Courageous Conversations for Cowards” published in the November 2015 edition of the Association for Middle Level Education magazine.

Dr. Higdon is currently co-authoring a book with Dr. Chacko Abraham, titled Changing the Narrative: A Framework for Engaging Fathers.

Dr. Deborah Higdon is an educational leader with 38 years of experience. She was a high school teacher, middle school assistant principal and a principal. She is currently an acting K-12 administrator and an adjunct professor for Montgomery College. ... Show more

Jammal Dorsey is a Product Leader with 20+ years of experience crafting innovative strategies. As the driving force behind Eleven (XI) Miles, LLC, he's passionate about building impactful products that delight customers and create positive change.

He's spearheaded digital transformation for a $7B healthcare system, generating $70–110M in annual savings. He's also led the development of AI-powered health tools and crucial solutions during the COVID-19 pandemic that helped mitigate the virus's spread. His expertise spans industries, from healthcare and fintech to government, with a trail of successful mobile apps and SaaS solutions.

Beyond his corporate and entrepreneurial ventures, Jammal is a dedicated mentor, investing his time in guiding the next generation of technology leaders through organizations like the Black Product Managers Network, Techstars, and American on Tech. He is deeply committed to fostering inclusive growth and development, actively supporting emerging talent at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

An accomplished author and thought leader, Jammal is known for his engaging perspectives on leadership, product management, and digital transformation. Whether addressing an audience of executives, entrepreneurs, or students, Jammal inspires action and innovation, leaving a lasting impact.

Jammal Dorsey is a Product Leader with 20+ years of experience crafting innovative strategies. As the driving force behind Eleven (XI) Miles, LLC, he's passionate about building impactful products that delight customers and create positive change. ... Show more

JaiEvonte Dickerson is a dynamic keynote speaker and mentor dedicated to inspiring personal growth, fostering resilience, and creating impactful connections. As a leader in a thriving men’s Christian community, JaiEvonte is committed to empowering men to align their lives with faith, embrace their unique seasons, and discover their God-given purpose.

A passionate advocate for mental health, JaiEvonte promotes the importance of emotional well-being and self-care. With a heart for service, he helps others navigate life’s challenges through encouragement, authenticity, and practical tools for building a balanced and fulfilling life.

JaiEvonte brings a unique blend of wisdom, faith, and actionable insight to every speaking engagement, leaving audiences inspired to transform their perspectives and pursue their highest potential.

Here are two of JaiEvonte’s key presentation topics:

“Walking in Purpose: Overcoming Fear and Embracing Faith as Men of God”

This presentation inspires men to confront the fears and doubts that often hold them back from stepping into their God-given purpose. Drawing from personal experiences and biblical truths, it explores how faith provides the strength to overcome challenges and align life with God’s will. Attendees will learn practical steps for discovering their unique calling, leaning on prayer and scripture, and taking bold action even in uncertain circumstances.

The message emphasizes that living a life of purpose is a journey of trust, courage, and obedience to God. By relying on the promise of Philippians 4:13—“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”—men will be encouraged to break free from fear, embrace their divine mission, and live a life that glorifies God and uplifts others.

“Brotherhood and Kingdom Leadership: Building Legacy Through Christ”

This presentation highlights the transformative power of brotherhood and the responsibility of Kingdom leadership. It delves into the importance of building strong, accountable relationships with other men to foster growth and resilience. Drawing from Proverbs 27:17—“As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another”—it showcases how brotherhood equips men to lead their families, communities, and themselves with integrity and strength.

With Jesus Christ as the ultimate example of servant leadership, the message challenges men to lead with love, humility, and purpose. It encourages them to build a legacy rooted in faith by mentoring the next generation, living with intention, and leaving a spiritual impact that will resonate for years to come. This presentation inspires men to rise to their calling as leaders in God’s Kingdom while leaning on the power of community.

JaiEvonte Dickerson is a dynamic keynote speaker and mentor dedicated to inspiring personal growth, fostering resilience, and creating impactful connections. As a leader in a thriving men’s Christian community, JaiEvonte is committed to empowering me... Show more

Wanda Möller

Aktuell Themen: Zukunftsfähige Lehrprofessionalität

Wanda Möller Aktuell Themen: Zukunftsfähige Lehrprofessionalität Show more

Community Evangelist en torc. Ingeniera en Mecatrónica por el TECNM Campus Veracruz.
Se desempeña como Community Builder creando, desarrollando estrategias de crecimiento y creación de programas en comunidades de tecnología. Por lo que colabora y es co-creadora en Technolatinas, es embajadora de Women Tech Makers, y facilitadora Golden de #IAmRemarkable.
Activista social para reducir la brecha de género y digital mediante actividades voluntarias con comunidades y programas enfocados a STEM. Entusiasta en tecnologías Cloud Computing, diseño de servicios y de experiencia de usuarios.
Practicante de artes marciales y gusto por el café.

Community Evangelist en torc. Ingeniera en Mecatrónica por el TECNM Campus Veracruz. Se desempeña como Community Builder creando, desarrollando estrategias de crecimiento y creación de programas en comunidades de tecnología. Por lo que colabora y es... Show more

Alex Podchaski started as Chief Technology Officer for Trinity Preparatory School in Winter Park in July 2022. Previously, he served as the Director of Educational & Information Technology at North Broward Preparatory School in Coconut Creek, Florida, where he was responsible for coordinating all STEAM based initiatives (FIRST, MATE, Cybersecurity, Esports, & Drones) as well as the technology infrastructure of the school. He was the first independent school leader to obtain the Certified Educational Technology Leader (CETL) certification from CoSN, He has taught at both the high school and college level, was an instructor for CoSN on CETL fundamentals, and served as a mentor in ATLIS’s Leadership Institute. Alex has experience in research computing, instructional support, technology integration, network operations and project management over his career in K12 and Higher Education technology organizations. He has presented at national conferences (NBOA, CoSN, ATLIS, FETC, NSBA), organized regional school conferences (NJAIS, FCIS) and edcamps. He is an Apple Learning Coach, graduate of the FPF Student Privacy program, serves on the Education Steering Team of the Open Voice Network, and has been involved with the New Horizon and CoSN K12 Innovation Advisory Board. Alex is also the co-founder and moderator of #edtechchat, a long running professional development discussion on twitter for the global edtech community.

Alex Podchaski started as Chief Technology Officer for Trinity Preparatory School in Winter Park in July 2022. Previously, he served as the Director of Educational & Information Technology at North Broward Preparatory School in Coconut Creek, Florida... Show more

Hi, I'm Sarah Kop, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) with extensive experience in managing and implementing cybersecurity strategies across various sectors, including Information Technology (IT), Operational Technology (OT), and critical infrastructure. In my role, I collaborate with global organizations to develop practical cybersecurity plans that align with international standards and regulatory requirements.

I am passionate about making the field of cybersecurity accessible to diverse communities. To this end, I founded XDoSec, a nonprofit organization that provides guidance and support to individuals from various backgrounds transitioning into the cybersecurity field. Through this initiative, I mentor professionals in building successful careers in cybersecurity.

I believe that collaboration and the human element are essential to success in the field of security. As such, I actively participate in conferences, workshops, and events focused on strengthening organizational resilience against emerging cyber threats.

Hi, I'm Sarah Kop, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) with extensive experience in managing and implementing cybersecurity strategies across various sectors, including Information Technology (IT), Operational Technology (OT), and critical infr... Show more

Dezaree' Lusk is originally from Dallas, Texas. She received her Cosmetologist license from Duncanville High School in 2011. Dezaree' received her Bachelor's of Social Work Degree from Prairie View A & M University in December of 2014, and her Master's of Social Work Degree from the University of Houston in May of 2016. Dezaree' is currently a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a specialty in Health & Behavioral Health. Her experience includes being a Director at the second largest psychiatric hospital in Houston, Texas. With Divine Beauty Bar, Dezaree has combined her love for Cosmetology and Social Work by helping individuals experiencing hair loss (Alopecia). Divine Beauty Bar is widely known for their Wigs for Veterans at no cost initiative! Dezaree' has taken this initiative further by leaving the Corporate world and becoming a full-time, licensed Cosmetology School Owner of Divine Beauty Bar & Hair Loss Institute. Programs include Cranial Prosthesis Curriculum teaching others how to accept Insurance and Veteran Benefits, Permanent Makeup, a full Cosmetology Program and much more!

Dezaree' Lusk is originally from Dallas, Texas. She received her Cosmetologist license from Duncanville High School in 2011. Dezaree' received her Bachelor's of Social Work Degree from Prairie View A & M University in December of 2014, and her Master... Show more

David's distinguished career spans over four decades, ignited by his foray into the world of information technology back in 1983. He has taken on a multitude of technical and managerial roles across diverse sectors, including the private sector, Federal government, state government, and higher education. His wealth of experience and invaluable insights garnered from these diverse domains make him a force to be reckoned with.

In 1993, David joined the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill as a Novell Server Administrator for Administrative Data Processing. Over the years, he proved himself as a leader, ultimately assuming the position of Assistant Dean for Information Technology and HIPAA Security Officer for the UNC Adams School of Dentistry from 2011 to 2022. David's dedication to the University and his management of information technology professionals since 1996 are testaments to his exceptional leadership and loyalty.

Education lies at the core of David's personal journey, and his academic achievements speak volumes about his commitment to excellence. A graduate of Hampton University with a bachelor's degree in Mass Media Arts, David legitimized his technical expertise by obtaining a master's degree in Computer Networking and a Post Graduate Certificate in Information Assurance from East Carolina University. Not stopping there, he solidified his position by earning a Certified Government Chief Information Officer certificate from the UNC School of Government.

In 2022, David added two prestigious and highly respected certifications to his repertoire: the Certified Information Systems Security Professional from ISC2 and the Certified Information Security Manager from ISACA.

David's passion for continuous learning and dedication to professional associations have solidified his status as a leader. He is a member of the Epsilon Pi Tau technical honor society, the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, and the Information Systems Security Association.

His affiliation with the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Incorporated exemplifies his commitment to scholarship, community and service.

David's distinguished career spans over four decades, ignited by his foray into the world of information technology back in 1983. He has taken on a multitude of technical and managerial roles across diverse sectors, including the private sector, Fede... Show more

Matt Biewener has been working with Drupal since version 6, was an Acquia Triple-Certified Drupal Expert, and has been developing web-based solutions to both operational challenges and client-facing programmatic needs for 15+ years. He has an MPH in maternal and child health, and has leveraged technology to modernize and amplify the reach, quality, and impact of services across public health domains. At Abt Global, Matt is a senior application developer responsible for Drupal DevSecOps and code.

Matt Biewener has been working with Drupal since version 6, was an Acquia Triple-Certified Drupal Expert, and has been developing web-based solutions to both operational challenges and client-facing programmatic needs for 15+ years. He has an MPH in ... Show more

Ambreen Hasan is the Director of Institutional Research and Effectiveness at Cleveland Institute of Art under the Office of Academic Affairs. She has over 11 years of higher education experience, and has been involved with efforts related to student success, retention, and data visualization mainly using Power BI.

Ambreen Hasan is the Director of Institutional Research and Effectiveness at Cleveland Institute of Art under the Office of Academic Affairs. She has over 11 years of higher education experience, and has been involved with efforts related to student ... Show more

Jennifer Ann Mason is the Vice President of Workforce Transformation and Learning at Planet Technologies, where she leads the Evolve 365 team as they help transform organizations and agencies through user adoption and various learning activities, including customized adoption playbooks, training videos designed for internal business processes, ongoing learning campaigns and personalized Champions Programs. Helping organizations adjust how they approach learning as they move forward with digital transformation and change the way they work.

Jennifer has been awarded the Microsoft MVP over 10 consecutive years and is a nationally known speaker at worldwide conferences. She is the author of over 6 SharePoint Technical Books and helps lead and coordinate the local user’s group in her hometown. The Microsoft Community is a big part of Jennifer’s interest and you can often find her at local events, community forums or working behind the scenes to coordinate various Diversity & Inclusion conference tracks.

Jennifer has been with Planet Technologies over 5 years and is looking forward to the future of the government workplace. The changes of the cloud are being felt more and more every day and the journey of adoption for many agencies is just beginning! Being able to help various agencies do more and do things differently is just a small thing that gets her excited! From helping them transition from paper or excel forms to PowerApps and Power BI or to Teams and SharePoint from email – all changes big or small that help people work more efficiently are foundations worth celebrating in Jennifer’s mind!

In her spare time, you can often find Jennifer traveling all over the US with her husband Corey and her pup Bowser. From the beaches to the mountains to the vineyards, you just never know where they might end up for a few days!

Jennifer Ann Mason is the Vice President of Workforce Transformation and Learning at Planet Technologies, where she leads the Evolve 365 team as they help transform organizations and agencies through user adoption and various learning activities, inc... Show more

I discovered Agile in a startup in the United States, as a developer of financial solutions. When I came back to France, empirical approaches were still unknown. So I quickly switched to coaching teams and organizations. I still work as a Scrum Master/Agile Coach.

I am always looking for real challenges aiming at performance and work well done, based above all on human relations and team building.

I discovered Agile in a startup in the United States, as a developer of financial solutions. When I came back to France, empirical approaches were still unknown. So I quickly switched to coaching teams and organizations. I still work as a Scrum Maste... Show more

I have a background in economics and social entrepreneurship. I began my career working with a grassroots organisation in Calcutta, India, where I surveyed climate migration patterns and assessed the electrification needs of urban slum settlements. Previously, I held roles at organisations such as the Carbon Tracker Initiative (a London-based climate think tank), Agami (a non-profit based in India supporting innovation in law and justice ), and Ashoka Innovators for the Public (global philanthropy supporting social entrepreneurs around the world), where I focused on addressing systemic inequality, promoting social innovation, and shaping climate policy in South Asia.

My interest in critical minerals began during my Master’s studies in Ecological Economics, where I explored the just transition aspects of the Green New Deal.

I have a background in economics and social entrepreneurship. I began my career working with a grassroots organisation in Calcutta, India, where I surveyed climate migration patterns and assessed the electrification needs of urban slum settlements. P... Show more

Data Scientist enthusiast, Co-Organiser of Pydata Port Harcourt and Team Lead at Port Harcourt School of Ai

Data Scientist enthusiast, Co-Organiser of Pydata Port Harcourt and Team Lead at Port Harcourt School of Ai Show more

Dr. Anika Davis is CEO of Winning Results, an organizational development firm. In addition, she is the COO/CoFounder of QoreInsights, an education technology company that uses AI to improve teacher effectiveness. Dr. Davis has a proven track record of growing organizations and developing individuals to achieve record breaking, award-winning results.
As an organizational psychologist, Dr. Davis has held executive leadership roles in financial services, operations, sales/marketing, and human resources. She is an expert at leveraging corporate culture to create and improve employee engagement, productivity, and team collaboration. She holds an EdD (Vanderbilt University) and is a certified KAI practitioner.

Dr. Anika Davis is CEO of Winning Results, an organizational development firm. In addition, she is the COO/CoFounder of QoreInsights, an education technology company that uses AI to improve teacher effectiveness. Dr. Davis has a proven track record o... Show more

Inspired, self-motivated, and IT-driven manager.
For the past 5 years was responsible for software development, team management, and building trustworthy relationships with clients in E-learning.
Specializing in complex and huge projects. In my portfolio - are huge Universities, Government projects especially in Ukraine and Africa (with UNESCO, UNICEF etc).

Inspired, self-motivated, and IT-driven manager. For the past 5 years was responsible for software development, team management, and building trustworthy relationships with clients in E-learning. Specializing in complex and huge projects. In my po... Show more

I am currently in my final year studying B.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, with a strong interest in how machines can learn and make decisions. I have hands-on experience with various Machine Learning projects and enjoy sharing my knowledge with others. I’ve given talks at college events and love breaking down complex topics into simple, fun explanations. My goal is to make this session interactive and help everyone understand the basics of Machine Learning, even if you’re new to it. Let’s explore the world of AI together.

I am currently in my final year studying B.Sc. in Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning, with a strong interest in how machines can learn and make decisions. I have hands-on experience with various Machine Learning projects and enjoy sharing m... Show more

Wendi O. Brown, a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel, has a distinguished career as a Chief Strategist, advising senior U.S. and NATO on strategic planning, risk management, and crisis management. She has been instrumental in managing multinational cyber operations and executing critical logistics missions across Europe and Africa, ensuring readiness for U.S. forces. Her experience spans key roles at U.S. Africa Command and U.S. European Command, where she oversaw complex military operations. Wendi holds two advanced degrees in Cybersecurity and has earned multiple military awards, including the Bronze Star Medal for her exemplary service. For fun, Wendi enjoys the Mediterranean beaches in Greece, and traveling to Italy and Spain.

Wendi O. Brown, a retired Army Lieutenant Colonel, has a distinguished career as a Chief Strategist, advising senior U.S. and NATO on strategic planning, risk management, and crisis management. She has been instrumental in managing multinational cybe... Show more

Karo es maker y product manager con background en Ingeniería Robótica y un master en Analítica de Datos. También es profesora y educadora digital. Karo lidera PyLadies Bogotá y Colombia, organizaciones que promueven la participación de las mujeres en la programación en Python en su país, Colombia. Ella es parte activa de la comunidad y fellow de la Python Software Foundation. Con más de diez años de experiencia creando hardware y software para diversas disciplinas e industrias, Karo tiene un amplio conocimiento en su campo. Le apasiona crear oportunidades y fomentar espacios de crecimiento personal y profesional. En su tiempo libre, se dedica a la joyería y leer en compañía de su perro Ramón.

Karo es maker y product manager con background en Ingeniería Robótica y un master en Analítica de Datos. También es profesora y educadora digital. Karo lidera PyLadies Bogotá y Colombia, organizaciones que promueven la participación de las mujeres en... Show more

Dr. Tia Murry is an influential leader and the Co-Founder of Veridian Christian University (VCU), where she focuses on blending faith with learning to empower students for impactful careers. Dr. Tia is also the Founder of FLI, LLC, where her transformative F.L.I. method (Forgive. Let Go. Initiate.) inspires women to lead balanced, purpose-driven lives. Dr. Tia has a proven record in driving strategic initiatives, managing multimillion-dollar budgets, and developing sustainable growth strategies.

A sought-after International Speaker, Dr. Tia has delivered keynotes for universities, nonprofits, and conferences, including the renowned SpeakerCon stage with figures like Les Brown. Her bestselling book, F.L.I. Forgive. Let Go. Initiate., quickly became an Amazon Best Self-Help Short Read, chronicling her journey through personal challenges with courage and resilience.

Recognized with the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, Dr. Tia has received numerous honors, such as the Women of Distinction by the United Nations Global Women Foundation, Women In Management Africa, Champion Leadership Award U.K., and the Lifetime Commitment to Community Service Award.

Dr. Tia's true joy lies in empowering women, advocating for economic advancement, and inspiring audiences through her talks on leadership, faith, and personal growth. Outside of her professional sphere, she is a devoted mother to Derrick, Tamia, and Jazmyn, and a proud grandmother to Amaiah. Her passion for inspiring transformation makes her an invaluable presence at events where she combines authenticity with actionable insights.

Dr. Tia Murry is an influential leader and the Co-Founder of Veridian Christian University (VCU), where she focuses on blending faith with learning to empower students for impactful careers. Dr. Tia is also the Founder of FLI, LLC, where her transfor... Show more

Program Manager of Digital Academy @Adobe
| Social Impact | Diversity & Inclusion | Creativity | Education | Multi-media Art | Indigenous Innovation |
Through her work with the Adobe Digital Academy as well as other local organizations, Natalie’s efforts to make the technology ecosystem more diverse and inclusive are informed from her own experience and understanding of the complexities as a Bay Area born resident breaking into tech. With her experience in education and non-profit curriculum development, she is bringing an innovative approach to creating access and bridging different communities in the innovation space. As a former alum, Natalie is excited to share her insights now in a supporting role as Program Manager for the Adobe Digital Academy.

Natalie Isabel Contreras [Papasquialii Tepehuan, P'urhépecha, Coca] is a leader in the diversity, equity and inclusion space, born in occupied Yelamu Ohlone Territory also known as San Francisco, CA. Natalie has experience as an educator, multidisciplinary creative and program manager and has served different Bay Area organizations & initiatives. As a leader in the Social Impact space, she is passionate about strengthening connections + increasing access to opportunities between innovation, art and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Color) culture & community. Natalie began by participating in local non-profit organizations geared towards people of color to increase access and representation in the local tech economy such as TechSF, Hack the Hood, Impact Hub & the Kapor Center. After participating in programming, events, attending panel discussions and hackathons she knew that she had a responsibility to voice the need for increased visibility, access and advocacy for people in her community. With both technical and creative skills, she has applied her skills to many areas in web development, product management, education, film making, photography and mural design, and has worked with organizations such as the Golden Gates National Parks Conservancy and the Native American Health Center. Currently Natalie is the program manager for the Adobe Digital Academy which is a an accelerated pathway into tech and design careers. She is proud of her multi-lineage ancestry, and continues to dream up ways to better serve the many cultural communities she is connected to. She is exploring how BIPOC people can lead innovative solutions specific to communities by leveraging the use of technology for empowerment.

Program Manager of Digital Academy @Adobe | Social Impact | Diversity & Inclusion | Creativity | Education | Multi-media Art | Indigenous Innovation | Through her work with the Adobe Digital Academy as well as other local organizations, Natalie’s e... Show more

Chris is an experienced nonprofit professional who has spent the last 15 years as a dedicated educator, network builder, and advocate for non-profit organizations. Chris is currently the Head of Programs at the Interledger Foundation. He oversees all aspects of the programatic activity of the foundation.

Chris is an experienced nonprofit professional who has spent the last 15 years as a dedicated educator, network builder, and advocate for non-profit organizations. Chris is currently the Head of Programs at the Interledger Foundation. He oversees all... Show more