Government, Social Sector & Education

Valued individuals involved in shaping public policies, providing essential services, and promoting education, tirelessly looking to improve society and empower citizens

Nicky Meindl (They/Them)

Nicky Meindl (They/Them)

Nicky is a queer, Chicane, and non-binary educator based in Long Beach, CA. They hold a bachelor's degree in education and a master's in curriculum and instruction, both of which were awarded by Chapman University. Nicky's research primarily focuses on the intersection of Queer Theory and Ethnic Studies. Their current role as a neurodivergent special education teacher has helped shape their understanding of disability in education.

Nicky is a queer, Chicane, and non-binary educator based in Long Beach, CA. They hold a bachelor's degree in education and a master's in curriculum and instruction, both of which were awarded by Chapman University. Nicky's research primarily focuse... Show more

Laura MacDonald

Laura MacDonald

Strengthening relationships between strategic technology vendors and Acuity, Inc. to serve critical federal missions.

Strengthening relationships between strategic technology vendors and Acuity, Inc. to serve critical federal missions. Show more

Johanna Schafer

Johanna Schafer

Dedicated to identifying and optimizing the value of teams, individuals, and organizations, Johanna is a lead consultant at Impact Makers with expertise in change management, agile transformation, process improvement, and coaching.

Dedicated to identifying and optimizing the value of teams, individuals, and organizations, Johanna is a lead consultant at Impact Makers with expertise in change management, agile transformation, process improvement, and coaching. Show more

Naureen Imran

Naureen Imran

I transitioned into tech through self-learning , bootcamps and an MSc in Computer Science, after managing a business for over a decade.

I transitioned into tech through self-learning , bootcamps and an MSc in Computer Science, after managing a business for over a decade. Show more

Grant Salmond

Grant Salmond

Amateur astronomer, physics, mathematics and chemistry teacher (secondary), BEd, MSc.

Amateur astronomer, physics, mathematics and chemistry teacher (secondary), BEd, MSc. Show more

Jason Scott Quinn

Jason Scott Quinn

I’m a NYC-based professional actor, improv comedian, and adjunct instructor. I’ve appeared in theatres all over the country performing in everything from Shakespeare to Neil Simon to Shrek: The Musical. You may have even seen me dancing in my underwear on One Tree Hill or co-starring in commercials with NASCAR driver Jeff Gordon or the Roaming Gnome. Improv comedy is my passion and I can be seen making audiences, my scene partners, and myself laugh regularly at some of the best and worst improv shows in New York City.

As an educator, I have taught Acting, Improvisation, Public Speaking, Communication Studies at too many colleges to mention. I also teach and coach acting, improv, and applied improv for theatres, private groups, and individuals, and in the corporate space.

I’m known at Collegiate Empowerment for connecting with participants from the toughest mandatory audiences to passionate student leaders to coaching participants through my comedy, passion, high energy, and enthusiasm. Within CE, I’m known for focusing on what students want and need, being a kickass teammate and making weird faces during team meetings.

I’m a NYC-based professional actor, improv comedian, and adjunct instructor. I’ve appeared in theatres all over the country performing in everything from Shakespeare to Neil Simon to Shrek: The Musical. You may have even seen me dancing in my underwe... Show more

Jeren Hicks

Jeren Hicks

Jeren Hicks is a lifelong dinosaur enthusiast and a software developer turned program manager. With experience spanning nearly every role in a software company over the past 20 years, Jeren has found his true passion in helping teams thrive and achieve success. His mission is to empower individuals and foster collaboration—oh, and to share his boundless love of dinosaurs. Seriously, he really loves dinosaurs.

Jeren Hicks is a lifelong dinosaur enthusiast and a software developer turned program manager. With experience spanning nearly every role in a software company over the past 20 years, Jeren has found his true passion in helping teams thrive and achie... Show more

Nathan Riel-Elness

Nathan Riel-Elness

Nathan has worked in a variety of positions in higher education including student activities, diversity, student conduct/Title IX, & orientation. He has experience at both mid-size public universities and currently works at a small, private institution.

Nathan has worked in a variety of positions in higher education including student activities, diversity, student conduct/Title IX, & orientation. He has experience at both mid-size public universities and currently works at a small, private instituti... Show more

Kayla Schaefer

Kayla Schaefer

Kayla Schaefer is an Agile practitioner with over a decade of experience in organizational transformations. As an Agile Coach at Collins Aerospace, she has trained many individuals in Agile practices, leading multiple transformations from standalone teams to fully integrated scale programs. Prior roles as a team contributor, scrum master, and release train engineer showcase her adeptness in driving Agile methodologies, improving sprint success rates, and championing Agile practices. Kayla takes a unique approach to Agile transformations, including embedding with teams and focusing largely on change management practices. Her commitment to transparency, efficiency, and continuous improvement has earned her respect and admiration, making her a trusted figure in Agile transformations. Outside of her career, Kayla resides in Iowa and enjoys gardening, bike riding and anything to beat the wild Midwest weather.

Kayla Schaefer is an Agile practitioner with over a decade of experience in organizational transformations. As an Agile Coach at Collins Aerospace, she has trained many individuals in Agile practices, leading multiple transformations from standalone ... Show more

Margaret Dettloff

Margaret Dettloff

Margaret Dettloff is the Program Manager for the Bold Scholars Program at The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). In this role, Margaret is dedicated to fostering the personal, academic, and career success of her students. The Bold Scholars Program is a comprehensive four-year initiative designed to provide support, resources, and a vibrant community to help student engage early in their university experience, build their networks, and participate in career-focused experiential learning. In her role, Margaret oversees the delivery of a wide range of services aimed at helping student navigate university life and achieve their goals. Margaret holds a Bachelor's in Business Management and a Master's in Business Administration. Margaret has been in higher education for over 16 years. Fun Facts: I love to go horseback riding, woodworking, reading, working on family ancestry information, and spending time with my family and friends.

Margaret Dettloff is the Program Manager for the Bold Scholars Program at The University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). In this role, Margaret is dedicated to fostering the personal, academic, and career success of her students. The Bold Scholars... Show more

Roy Orosco

Roy Orosco

Dr. Roy Orosco isn’t just a researcher or school administrator—he’s a hands-on champion for equity, shaping a brighter future for students and teachers every single day! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, Dr. Orosco first served our nation as a proud Marine and then came back home to make a difference where it matters most: in our schools!

Dr. Roy Orosco isn’t just a researcher or school administrator—he’s a hands-on champion for equity, shaping a brighter future for students and teachers every single day! Born and raised in California’s Central Valley, Dr. Orosco first served our nati... Show more

Paul Cevallos

Paul Cevallos

Caracas, Venezuela (1984)
I'm an instructional designer, specializing in the design of massive and hybrid learning solutions. My work focuses on creating scalable teacher training programs and leading a technopedagogical team to implement innovative approachs in online education.

Caracas, Venezuela (1984) I'm an instructional designer, specializing in the design of massive and hybrid learning solutions. My work focuses on creating scalable teacher training programs and leading a technopedagogical team to implement innovative... Show more

Wanda Curlee

Wanda Curlee

Dr. Wanda Curlee oversees works with university students and oversees the mentoring program at the Project Management Institute. Her business career spans over many industries, including IT, Government, Insurance, Telecommunications and Consulting. Dr. Curlee researches the practical aspects with Artificial Intelligence especially in Project Management. Dr. Curlee has published three books; two delve into complexity theory and one is about virtual PMOs. She has earned four PMI credentials: PfMP, PgMP, PMP and PMI-RMP. Dr. Curlee is a Professor at American Public University in the School of Business.

She is proud to be the mother of three children who have served or currently serve in the US Military. She met her husband, Steve, while both were serving in the US Navy.

Dr. Wanda Curlee oversees works with university students and oversees the mentoring program at the Project Management Institute. Her business career spans over many industries, including IT, Government, Insurance, Telecommunications and Consulting. D... Show more

Beatrice Bottini

Beatrice Bottini

Interessata alla ricerca e all’innovazione di approcci e metodi per lo sviluppo delle persone e delle organizzazioni, dopo diversi anni di esperienza gestionale nell’ambito del marketing e del project management ha deciso di dedicarsi al Coaching individuale, di team e organizzazioni. Grazie alla sua conoscenza diretta dei meccanismi di funzionamento delle organizzazioni, Beatrice lavora con professionisti aiutandoli a rafforzare la loro consapevolezza organizzativa, a sviluppare sinergie tra bisogni e obiettivi organizzativi e personali. Nei suoi interventi adotta approcci sperimentali per lo sviluppo delle competenze relazionali e della leadership, utilizza strumenti di facilitazione esperta, serious play, training frontale ed esperienziale.

Interessata alla ricerca e all’innovazione di approcci e metodi per lo sviluppo delle persone e delle organizzazioni, dopo diversi anni di esperienza gestionale nell’ambito del marketing e del project management ha deciso di dedicarsi al Coaching ind... Show more

Lauren Hope

Lauren Hope

Meet Lauren Hope, a dynamic entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and military spouse. With ventures like Hope Design Ltd. and the #ShopMilitary campaign, she's not just building businesses but fostering change. As the force behind the Lauren Hope Collective and Military Spouse Mafia, Lauren empowers others while earning recognition like the 'Mighty 25' award. She's instrumental in shaping opportunities for military spouses through advisory roles with the Military Spouse Corporate Career Network and the Military Family Advisory Network. But where she truly shines is on stage, captivating audiences at events like the Institute for Veterans and Military Families and the Military Influencer Conference. Lauren's journey embodies resilience, courage, and unwavering hope, inspiring all to embrace their potential and rewrite their stories.

Meet Lauren Hope, a dynamic entrepreneur, motivational speaker, and military spouse. With ventures like Hope Design Ltd. and the #ShopMilitary campaign, she's not just building businesses but fostering change. As the force behind the Lauren Hope Coll... Show more

Darrel Raines

Darrel Raines

Darrel is currently the Orion Flight Software System Manager at NASA, Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. He has over 40 years experience in Commercial, Department of Defense, and NASA aircraft/spacecraft software. He has worked on software for the F-16, OV-1, AHIP, Space Station, Space Shuttle, and the Multi-Purpose Crew Vehicle (Orion). He has worked with embedded software control systems his whole career.

Darrel is currently the Orion Flight Software System Manager at NASA, Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. He has over 40 years experience in Commercial, Department of Defense, and NASA aircraft/spacecraft software. He has worked on software for t... Show more

Andreas Wennmann

Andreas Wennmann

Theologian, Coach and public speaker

Theologian, Coach and public speaker Show more

Jeff Williams

Jeff Williams

Jeff joined VDOE in May 2021 shortly before the oversight of childcare transferred from the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) to the VDOE. Jeff has 20+ years of childcare experience as a regulator, policy developer, provider and consumer. He worked in a licensed childcare program and ran a religious exempt childcare program before becoming a Licensing Inspector with VDSS, working his way up the organization. In 2011, he left VDSS to work for another state agency in the field of regulation but returned to VDSS in 2019 as a Project Manager for the Division of Family Services for VDSS. Jeff is the proud father and grandfather of 3 daughters and 5 grandchildren. His personal and professional experiences help him understand the struggles that providers face and the importance of the OCCHS collaborating with providers to keep children healthy and safe.

Jeff joined VDOE in May 2021 shortly before the oversight of childcare transferred from the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS) to the VDOE. Jeff has 20+ years of childcare experience as a regulator, policy developer, provider and consumer.... Show more

Anand Kumar

Anand Kumar

Anand's a technology executive with over 23 years of experience transforming businesses through innovative IT solutions.

Anand's a technology executive with over 23 years of experience transforming businesses through innovative IT solutions. Show more

Dheeraj Madhukar

Dheeraj Madhukar

Director at TechnoLegends| Trainer at CDAC Under The Ministry of Electronics (ACTs & Applied AI Department) and Information | Corporate Trainer at Indian Air Force Under the Ministry of Defense

Director at TechnoLegends| Trainer at CDAC Under The Ministry of Electronics (ACTs & Applied AI Department) and Information | Corporate Trainer at Indian Air Force Under the Ministry of Defense Show more

Kevin Cunningham

Kevin Cunningham

Kevin Cunningham is a seasoned software consultant and enthusiastic educator, known for boosting teams' development skills and leading smooth transitions to new technology stacks. With a particular talent for maximising the potential of Node.js in various environments, Kevin transforms tech hurdles into stepping stones for growth.

Drawing from his rich background in classroom teaching, Kevin transforms complex concepts into engaging and accessible learning experiences. Whether it's an online tutorial or an in-person workshop, he knows just how to ignite those "Eureka!" moments.

Off-duty, Kevin trades tech talk for the great outdoors. He's likely to be found embarking on an adventure with his family, proving that even in a world of code, there's always room for a bit of fun!

Kevin Cunningham is a seasoned software consultant and enthusiastic educator, known for boosting teams' development skills and leading smooth transitions to new technology stacks. With a particular talent for maximising the potential of Node.js in va... Show more

Kenyetta Clarke

Kenyetta Clarke

I am a Alabama Native. Military Army Veteran. I am Natural Hair and Microlocs Specialist, licensed instructor and Salon Owner with over 15yrs in the Natural Hair Industry.
I have a huge 30,000+ social Media following with clients all over the US.

I am a Alabama Native. Military Army Veteran. I am Natural Hair and Microlocs Specialist, licensed instructor and Salon Owner with over 15yrs in the Natural Hair Industry. I have a huge 30,000+ social Media following with clients all over the US. Show more

Spencer Ho

Spencer Ho

At Flock Consulting, we specialise in empowering organisations to transform data into actionable insights, driving strategic decision-making, operational efficiency, and sustainability. Our work with Central Plains Water Limited (CPWL) is a testament to how tailored data strategies can make a lasting impact.

Discover how CPWL partnered with Flock Consulting to revolutionise operations through a modern data platform. By tapping into existing data, CPWL improved water reporting, asset management, and preventative maintenance, strengthening resilience and aligning with their long-term vision for sustainable water management.

During this session, Mark McKenzie (Operations Manager, CPWL), Marieke Mahoney (Advisory Consultant, Flock Consulting), and Spencer will share how data-driven strategies have transformed CPWL’s operations. Learn how Flock’s Advisory Services can help your organisation get started, navigate challenges, and embed data strategies for long-term success.

At Flock Consulting, we specialise in empowering organisations to transform data into actionable insights, driving strategic decision-making, operational efficiency, and sustainability. Our work with Central Plains Water Limited (CPWL) is a testament... Show more

Raul Barth

Raul Barth

Raul is a SAFe Practice Consultant and trainer at Gladwell.

Raul Barth is a seasoned Agile Coach, trainer and SAFe SPCT Candidate with a deep understanding of Lean and Agile values and principles. With a Green Belt in Lean and certifications as a Professional Scrum Master I & II (PSM) and Professional Scrum Product Owner (PSPO), Raul brings a wealth of expertise to his work.
Over the past 13 years, Raul has gained extensive international experience in Agile, software development, IT, R&D, team management and leadership, having worked in diverse locations such as Brazil, France, and the UK. Throughout his career, he has dedicated more than 8 years to Lean and Agile.

Raul's technical proficiency is rooted in his academic background, holding Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Computer Engineering, as well as a Master's degree in Big Data. His practical experience in Agile spans across various roles, including team member, Product Owner, Scrum Master, and Agile Coach and Consultant. For the past 5 years, he has been actively engaged in guiding organizations through Agile transformations.

Passionate about Agile and Lean, Raul firmly believes that successful Lean-Agile transformations depend on mindset and people. He views frameworks, methods, and processes as tools to achieve goals such as faster time-to-market, quality, motivated teams, and customer satisfaction.

Currently, Raul serves as a consultant and trainer, leveraging his expertise in English, Portuguese, and French. He is dedicated to supporting Gladwell's partners in their pursuit of success through Agile and digital transformations.

Raul is a SAFe Practice Consultant and trainer at Gladwell. Raul Barth is a seasoned Agile Coach, trainer and SAFe SPCT Candidate with a deep understanding of Lean and Agile values and principles. With a Green Belt in Lean and certifications as a... Show more

Joris Quarshie

Joris Quarshie

Kalvin Tuel

Kalvin Tuel

Every human person I ever met wears many hats. Me, being human, is no different. I wear many hats. The goal in my life is make sure the priority is right to make the most of the life I have been given. I am a human first, I deeply care about people and want to bring happiness and a feeling of connection to each and every one of them.
Once the human connection has been made then we can work together to make the world a better place. That's where the software gardener comes in. We can create great software that works well, is a pleasure to use and easy to maintain and modify.

Every human person I ever met wears many hats. Me, being human, is no different. I wear many hats. The goal in my life is make sure the priority is right to make the most of the life I have been given. I am a human first, I deeply care about people a... Show more

Riza Utile

Riza Utile

Riza Gallo, CEO at Speak Up Business English Solutions, stands at the forefront of fusing ESL with Web3 technology. Her pioneering approach is reshaping language education, establishing her as a notable figure in the global educational scene.

In her mental health podcast, Riza's ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level has made her podcast a valuable resource for those seeking understanding and support. She offers deep insights, leveraging her rich experiences and knowledge to enlighten and engage a broad audience.

As a global speaker, Riza's fusion of Philippine heritage and international acumen captivates and connects with varied audiences. Her style is inclusive and relatable. Serving clients in more than three dozen countries, her efforts bridge cultural divides, demonstrating how language and tech can unite people.

Her entrepreneurial journey is marked by spirited leadership and creativity. At Speak Up Business English Solutions, Riza cultivates an adaptive and welcoming setting, appealing to diverse learners. Her initiatives in utilizing Web3 technologies demonstrate her forward-thinking approach, positioning her at the forefront of the evolution in learning.

In her personal roles as a mother, Riza finds balance and grounding, illustrating the harmony between personal fulfillment and professional achievement. Her commitment to both family and career exemplifies the ability to lead a multifaceted life with grace and effectiveness. She illustrates the capacity to navigate complex roles with poise.

Riza Gallo's journey is a testament to the power of combining passion with innovation. Her dedication to enhancing the ESL learning experience, along with her mental health advocacy and deep connection to her Filipino roots, establishes her as a distinct and influential figure in the educational and entrepreneurial spheres.

Riza Gallo, CEO at Speak Up Business English Solutions, stands at the forefront of fusing ESL with Web3 technology. Her pioneering approach is reshaping language education, establishing her as a notable figure in the global educational scene. In h... Show more

Kristy Blake

Kristy Blake

Specialises in the for purpose sector with a particular focus on animal welfare, communities and the intersection between the two. 18 years of fundraising and communications experience and a strong background in operational management, strategic development and internal communication.

Specialises in the for purpose sector with a particular focus on animal welfare, communities and the intersection between the two. 18 years of fundraising and communications experience and a strong background in operational management, strategic deve... Show more

Abderrahmane Merradou

Abderrahmane Merradou

Hey, I'm Merradou Abderrahmane. I've been all over Morocco, from Feguig to Tanger to Marrakech :)
After finishing high school, I jumped into a two-year SOLICODE bootcamp partnered with Simplon, where I learned web and mobile development. Besides coding, I was actively involved in various initiatives that greatly influenced my career.

One of my main contributions was organizing the first and second editions of SOLIHACKATHON. Additionally, I played an active role in our school club, leading robotics and programming workshops for kids using robots and Scratch.

Later, I joined Simplon Maghreb and focused on deploying social projects. I led workshops for over 1000 kids facing difficult situations across Morocco, aiming to involve them in the tech revolution.

Currently, I'm a Project Manager at Simplon Maghreb, overseeing the ENAA bootcamp in Beni Mellal. I'm passionate about tech education and love inspiring others to explore the fascinating world of technology, especially getting kids excited about it!

Hey, I'm Merradou Abderrahmane. I've been all over Morocco, from Feguig to Tanger to Marrakech :) After finishing high school, I jumped into a two-year SOLICODE bootcamp partnered with Simplon, where I learned web and mobile development. Besides cod... Show more

Amanda Lawson

Amanda Lawson

Senior Director for Orientation and Academic Success

Senior Director for Orientation and Academic Success Show more

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