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

Jack Polifka

Jack Polifka

Jack Polifka earned his Ph.D. in Human Computer Interaction at Iowa State University studying how technology can be used to better understand how students use pictures and representations in college science classrooms. Jack also holds a Bachelor of Science in Web and Digital Media Development from the University of Wisconsin, Stevens Point and his M.S. in Human Computer Interaction from Iowa State University. In addition, he has 10+ years of experience as a software developer. He teaches classes related to web development, the Internet of Things, and job readiness.

Jack Polifka earned his Ph.D. in Human Computer Interaction at Iowa State University studying how technology can be used to better understand how students use pictures and representations in college science classrooms. Jack also holds a Bachelor of S... Show more

Jammal Dorsey

Jammal Dorsey

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

Randall Paterson

Randall Paterson

With over 27 years in the Student services and engagement field, Randall brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and as his son has informed him "Wisdom to match his hair color". Randall's background started in the creative field working in commercial photography and graphic design. He has used these skills extensively as he moved into higher education working with students in the areas of Student Activities, Clubs and Organization, Greek life, Orientation, Student Union Management, Freshman Year Experience and Other duties as assigned. He brings a creative mind and eye to everything he is involved in and likes to think of himself as a problem solver but most importantly as people person with boundless energy.

With over 27 years in the Student services and engagement field, Randall brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and as his son has informed him "Wisdom to match his hair color". Randall's background started in the creative field working in commer... Show more

Justin Joyce

Justin Joyce

I am currently pursuing my Doctorate of Science in Cybersecurity from Marymount University. I also work as a government contractor writing test plans for cybersecurity testing, and retired Warrant Officer from the Army.

I am currently pursuing my Doctorate of Science in Cybersecurity from Marymount University. I also work as a government contractor writing test plans for cybersecurity testing, and retired Warrant Officer from the Army. Show more

Wanda Möller

Wanda Möller

Wanda Möller

Aktuell Themen: Zukunftsfähige Lehrprofessionalität

Wanda Möller Aktuell Themen: Zukunftsfähige Lehrprofessionalität Show more

Alex Podchaski

Alex Podchaski

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

Veronika Hackl

Veronika Hackl

Veronika Hackl ist wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiterin an der Universität Passau und Unternehmerin. Ihr aktuelles Schwerpunkt-Thema ist die KI-gestützte Kompetenzvermittlung im BMBF-Projekt DEEP WRITE. In ihrem Promotionsvorhaben untersucht sie die Wirksamkeit von KI-generiertem Feedback.
Neben der Forschung begeistert sie sich für die Wirtschaft und gründete das KI Marketing Bootcamp. In diesem Kontext berät sie Unternehmen bei der Einführung von Künstlicher Intelligenz in der Unternehmenskommunikation.

Veronika Hackl ist wissenschaftliche Mitarbeiterin an der Universität Passau und Unternehmerin. Ihr aktuelles Schwerpunkt-Thema ist die KI-gestützte Kompetenzvermittlung im BMBF-Projekt DEEP WRITE. In ihrem Promotionsvorhaben untersucht sie die Wirks... Show more

Melanee Stevens

Melanee Stevens

Hello! My name is Melanee Stevens, and I am the Project Director for the Chehalis Native Connection SAMHSA Grant with the Behavioral Health Department. Currently, my job focus is working with the Suicide Prevention Grant and teaching traditional plant knowledge, gathering and uses for the plants. The goal of the grant is to bring activities to the community that will bring families together and the use of traditional plants in their everyday life.
My background is in education. I have my Masters in Curriculum and Instruction with a dual minor in ECE and Leadership. I have been a teacher in the regular classroom and the non-traditional classroom for many years. In Alaska I was the program a manger with the Qutekcak Native Tribe, the Native Youth Olympic and World Eskimo Indian Olympic coach, taught the indigenous games of the north to youth from first grade to high school. I also worked with the local Dance and Drum group that was made up of members from the Aleut, Alutiiq, Yupik, Inupiaq, Athabascan, Tlingit, and Tsimshian people.
Throughout my career I have worn many hats have worn many hats from teacher to program manager to board member and educational advocate. My most important job has been a mother and grandmother.
Born and raised in Maine, moved to Alaska on the south-central peninsula, traveled the ALCAN twice to Washington, lived in Colorado for a spell and finally came back to Washington to settle down with my daughter and grandson.
“Building Bridges 2025 – melanee.stevens@gmail.com, www.linkedin.com/in/stevensmelanee , https://www.chehalistribe.org/departments/suicide-prevention-awareness/

Hello! My name is Melanee Stevens, and I am the Project Director for the Chehalis Native Connection SAMHSA Grant with the Behavioral Health Department. Currently, my job focus is working with the Suicide Prevention Grant and teaching traditional plan... 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

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

Sharron Tendai

Sharron Tendai

In addition to her role as a Program Manager and Contracting Officer Representative at a federal agency, Sharron Tendai is the founder of Get Her to the B.A.G. and Her Big Bag Consulting, where she empowers women of color entrepreneurs to secure the funding necessary to realize their business dreams. With over 20 years of experience combined as a grant writer, reviewer (at the federal level) and consultant, Sharron is deeply committed to advancing the economic success of Black women, offering expertise in both grant writing and securing funding for nonprofit and for-profit entities. She has also shared her knowledge by teaching grant writing and conducting workshops, including her 'BAG Big Grants' workshop presented at local, national and global conferences.

Sharron’s work with Get Her to the B.A.G., a community-driven initiative that curates wealth-building and wellness experiences for women and youth in Washington, DC. With nearly $50,000 in grant funding secured from the Office of Gun Violence Prevention and the nonprofit Let's Choose Love, the project has successfully implemented five transformative events—four in-person and one virtual—benefiting over 100 participants from Washington, DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia. Partnering with the *Congress Heights Arts and Culture Center* (CHACC), a nonprofit focused on exposing and educating local communities on arts and cultural opportunities in Wards 7 and 8, Sharron has used these events to uplift marginalized communities. Get Her to the B.A.G. has been acknowledged by the Mayor of Washington, DC, Hon. Mayor Bowser via a letter of Ceremonial Greetings. Sharron Tendai also received an award from Beautiful I Am, a nonprofit organization committed to empowering and inspiring women and girls, for her extensive community contributions and good works.

As the CEO and Principal Consultant of Her Big Bag Consulting, LLC, Sharron brings her expertise in business strategy, grant writing, and digital resources to women of color entrepreneurs, creators, and social impact leaders. Her consulting firm provides tailored solutions designed to meet the specific needs of her clients, addressing the unique challenges faced by Black women in the business world. Under her leadership, Her Big Bag has become a vital partner for women-owned businesses, providing the tools necessary for long-term success.

In addition to her role as a Program Manager and Contracting Officer Representative at a federal agency, Sharron Tendai is the founder of Get Her to the B.A.G. and Her Big Bag Consulting, where she empowers women of color entrepreneurs to secure the ... Show more

Eric Muriithi

Eric Muriithi

Eric Muriithi is a dynamic Software Developer, Educator, and Social Entrepreneur with a proven track record of leadership and innovation. As the Lead Web and App Developer at Muray Innovations, a cutting-edge software development and consulting enterprise, he collaborates with early-stage entrepreneurs and established organizations to design and build software solutions, develop MVPs for proof of concept, and create marketing materials that drive customer engagement. Muray Innovations has successfully partnered with over 15 founders and consultants from five countries, helping them build digital products that have enhanced their brand presence, generated leads, and converted them into paying customers.

In addition to his work with Muray Innovations, Eric is the Co-founder of SHIELD (Social Hub for Innovation, Entrepreneurship, and Design Thinking), a pre-accelerator innovation hub with a mission to empower over 10,000 young entrepreneurs in Kibera over the next decade. SHIELD provides vital support in helping these entrepreneurs develop and implement solutions to address challenges faced in informal settlements. Eric’s key role at SHIELD involves leading web platform development and overseeing fundraising initiatives, having successfully raising grant funding in the first year of operations to support SHIELD's mission of establishing innovation hubs in underserved communities.

At Power Learn Project, Eric’s role spans across the marketing and software engineering teams as a Liaison Officer. In this capacity, he plays a critical role in managing developer relations, project management efforts, and building strategic partnerships. His work ensures a seamless collaboration between the teams and enhances the overall project execution. Additionally, Eric is an instructor for the 1,000,000 Developers for Africa initiative, guiding a cohort of over 600 learners from three African countries in building cross-platform mobile applications using Dart and Flutter. His technical expertise spans Dart with Flutter, Python, web technologies, and NoSQL databases like Firebase and MongoDB. His excellent communication and negotiation skills have been instrumental in securing partnerships and navigating client relations.

Eric’s commitment to community extends beyond the tech world. He partners with local football communities, raising funds to support their operations, including procuring training equipment such as balls, bibs, and cones. His recent milestone includes raising capital to support South C United, a local team facing financial difficulties. Soccer has been a transformative part of Eric's life, and he is passionate about giving back to the sport and the communities that foster it.

Eric has also been an active speaker at various Google Developer Student Club (GDSC) events at the Catholic University of Eastern Africa (CUEA), where he has shared his expertise in software development and the impact of generative AI. Most recently, he contributed to generative AI research at Microsoft's Africa Development Center (ADC), underscoring his commitment to staying at the forefront of technological advancements and using them to empower others.

Through his roles at Muray Innovations, SHIELD, and Power Learn Project, Eric Muriithi continues to drive initiatives that foster innovation, education, and entrepreneurship, creating a lasting impact in both the tech industry and underserved communities.

Eric Muriithi is a dynamic Software Developer, Educator, and Social Entrepreneur with a proven track record of leadership and innovation. As the Lead Web and App Developer at Muray Innovations, a cutting-edge software development and consulting enter... Show more

Dr. Ash P

Dr. Ash P

My journey is a testament to faith, resilience, and innovation. Starting as a college dropout, and then a military veteran 4 years earlier than expected, I forged my path as a self-taught programmer, proving that passion and determination can lead to success. Despite facing challenges, and doubters, I embraced lifelong learning, ultimately becoming a late education bloomer.

Now, with over a decade in STEM, I hold a doctorate in Healthcare Administration and a master's in IT Management. My diverse experience spans the manufacturing sector and local, state, and federal tech industries, where they’ve contributed to transformative projects that bridge technology and healthcare. This unique blend of practical skills and academic credentials positions me as a leader in driving impactful change in the tech and public health landscape.

My journey is a testament to faith, resilience, and innovation. Starting as a college dropout, and then a military veteran 4 years earlier than expected, I forged my path as a self-taught programmer, proving that passion and determination can lead to... Show more

Kimberly Cull

Kimberly Cull

Kimberly Cull is an accomplished naval officer, operations research expert, and passionate advocate for public service with an impressive track record of leadership and innovation. A proud 2012 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Kimberly earned her Bachelor of Science in English, where she developed a strong foundation in communication and critical thinking—skills that would prove invaluable throughout her career. In 2018, she furthered her expertise by earning a Master of Science in Operations Research Logistics Analysis from the Naval Postgraduate School, equipping her with advanced analytical tools to tackle complex logistical challenges.

As a Naval Supply Corps Officer, Kimberly spent majority of her career in Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) where she served as a Supply Officer onboard a guided-missile cruiser, honing her leadership abilities and passion for improving operational processes, particularly in supply chain logistics. Upon completing her studies at the Naval Postgraduate School, Kimberly applied her technical acumen at the Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) in Pearl Harbor, where her leadership as the Wholesale Production Director and later as the Wholesale Deputy Director resulted in significant advancements in the center’s ability to provide strategic supply support to operational units around the globe. Her data-driven initiatives helped the command exceed critical performance metrics, ultimately earning her the prestigious title of DLA’s Company Grade Officer of the Year in 2018.

Kimberly's unwavering commitment to excellence was further exemplified when, as a result of her leadership, the DLA Distribution Center received the Maj. Gen. Kenneth L. Privratsky Award for Distribution Center Excellence in 2019. Her dedication to people and culture within the organization was recognized in 2020 when she received the Maj. Gen. Michael J. Lally III DLA Distribution Excellence in People and Culture Award.

Kimberly is currently serving as a Principal Analyst at ITA International, a company on the cutting edge of Technology-Enabled Professional Services (TEPS), where she continues to leverage her extensive experience in Artificial Intelligence (AI). In this role, she utilizes her Project Management Professional (PMP) and Certified Scrum Master (CSM) certifications to guide cross-functional teams in developing and executing innovating solutions for the government.

With a diverse educational background and a wealth of experience, Kimberly excels at bridging the gap between technical teams and stakeholders. She believes in the importance of effective communication, asserting that conveying analysis findings is as crucial as conducting the analyses themselves. Clear communication ensures that organizational needs are met and that stakeholders have the confidence to make data-driven decisions.

A passionate mentor, Kimberly is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of women in the military and technology sectors. She advocates for greater representation of women in these fields and is committed to helping others navigate their paths in service and technology.

Kimberly Cull’s commitment to excellence, innovation, and public service makes her a driving force in shaping the future of logistics and technology within the government. Her legacy is one of remarkable achievement and inspiration, setting a strong example for future leaders to follow.

Kimberly Cull is an accomplished naval officer, operations research expert, and passionate advocate for public service with an impressive track record of leadership and innovation. A proud 2012 graduate of the U.S. Naval Academy, Kimberly earned her ... Show more

Zoe Lee-Park

Zoe Lee-Park

Zoe Lee-Park is a second-year Master of Environmental Science student at the Yale School of the Environment. She studies the theory of environmental justice, within a law and society framework. Outside of academics, Zoe is a Graduate Intern at the United States Forest Service and the President of the Yale Asian Graduate Network. She is part of the Conference on Asian Pacific American Leadership. Zoe will pursue her PhD in Jurisprudence and Social Policy at the University of California, Berkeley.

Zoe Lee-Park is a second-year Master of Environmental Science student at the Yale School of the Environment. She studies the theory of environmental justice, within a law and society framework. Outside of academics, Zoe is a Graduate Intern at the Un... Show more

Ara Arzumanian, Ed.D.

Ara Arzumanian, Ed.D.

Dr. Arzumanian is the long-time Director of the USC College Advising Corps for the Center for Enrollment Research, Policy and Practice (CERPP) at the USC Rossier School of Education. For twenty years he has been a youth worker in the areas of mentoring, college access, after school, juvenile justice and street outreach. At USC, he has overseen the growth of the program to directly serve over 10,000 students annually in multiple school districts across Los Angeles county. In its ten years of existence, USC CAC has directly assisted over 70,000 students to enroll in college. During that time Ara earned his doctorate in higher education administration from the Rossier School of Education, earned the staff recognition award “for creating a culture of community,” was a fellow of the Los Angeles Scholars Investment Fund Young Men of Color 2019, and was awarded USC’s Order of Arete medal for excellence in leadership and community service.

Prior to joining CERPP, Ara oversaw three youth programs and the development of a new mentoring program in Boyle Heights. Previous to that experience, he was the Vice President of Programs for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Los Angeles overseeing several programs and managing mentoring for over 1,500 matches. He developed a new corporate partnership model with Union Bank winning the National Rising Star Award. Before joining Big Brothers Big Sisters, Ara had been tapped by the international non-profit, Armenian General Benevolent Union (AGBU), to direct the Generation Next Mentorship Program (GenNext). As the director of GenNext, Ara assembled the team that grew the program five times in size and increased its services to students with the award of a prestigious US Department of Education Grant. During his tenure at GenNext, Ara served as the chair of the Glendale Healthy Start Collaborative and sat on Glendale Unified School District’s Student Attendance Review Board and the violence prevention committees of five schools. It was his experience as a youth outreach worker with the City of Glendale’s Youth Outreach Program that brought Ara to AGBU’s attention. He was a member of the three-person team that developed it from the ground up, providing intensive case management to students facing high risk factors. Specializing in violence intervention/prevention, direct street outreach, runaway recovery and cross-cultural peace-making, Ara and the team worked with over 1,800 students in five years. Due to his experience and expertise in the field of youth development, he has been invited to guest lecture at USC, UCLA, CSUN and CSULA on youth development and challenges facing America’s youth.

Dr. Arzumanian is the long-time Director of the USC College Advising Corps for the Center for Enrollment Research, Policy and Practice (CERPP) at the USC Rossier School of Education. For twenty years he has been a youth worker in the areas of mentori... Show more

Kevin Yabes

Kevin Yabes

Dr. Kevin Yabes (he/him) is a postdoctoral psychology fellow with the APA-accredited postdoctoral residency program at VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS). He earned his Ph.D. in counseling psychology with a minor in Integrated Behavioral Healthcare from New Mexico State University. Dr. Yabes also holds an M.S. in multicultural community counseling and social justice education from San Diego State University's Community-Based Block (CBB) program. He is a past fellow of the California State University (CSU) Chancellor's Doctoral Incentive Program (CDIP). His clinical/research interests are in Filipinx American/Asian American psychology, health psychology, masculinity, and cross-cultural clinical supervision. He is also the outgoing Student Representative for the AAPA Division on Filipinx Americans.

Dr. Kevin Yabes (he/him) is a postdoctoral psychology fellow with the APA-accredited postdoctoral residency program at VA Pacific Islands Health Care System (VAPIHCS). He earned his Ph.D. in counseling psychology with a minor in Integrated Behavioral... Show more

Ali Akram

Ali Akram

I'm an Agile advocate on a mission to show a bit of my passion for servant leadership and personal growth into the world of software development.
I talk about creating a PLACE where people feel engaged, trusted, and encouraged to grow.
Open communication is my way of being because it's the secret sauce to building genuine trust within teams.
Right now, I am currently supporting software delivery in the public sector achieve their goals and coaching teams to develop their Agile maturity

I'm an Agile advocate on a mission to show a bit of my passion for servant leadership and personal growth into the world of software development. I talk about creating a PLACE where people feel engaged, trusted, and encouraged to grow. Open commun... Show more

Angela Jackson

Angela Jackson

Angela is an author, writer, educator, and activist. She is on the path to completing her doctorate in educational leadership. Her dissertation topic is centered around African-American Parental Involvement. She is a former VP and active member of the UCLA Black Alumni Association. Her passion for youth and parents drives her to empower parents and youth to demand the public school system properly educate students of all colors, starting with capable African-American students who, as a whole, underperform their peers at every level of education.

Angela is an author, writer, educator, and activist. She is on the path to completing her doctorate in educational leadership. Her dissertation topic is centered around African-American Parental Involvement. She is a former VP and active member of t... Show more

Tom Benedict

Tom Benedict

I have worked with 100s of startups over the last 9+ years and love building tools that help people get out of their comfort zone. This treasure quest offers something new for people and a way to explore the city from a different perspective.

I have worked with 100s of startups over the last 9+ years and love building tools that help people get out of their comfort zone. This treasure quest offers something new for people and a way to explore the city from a different perspective. Show more

Liz Powell, Esq., MPH

Liz Powell, Esq., MPH

Liz Powell, Esq., MPH started G2G Consulting in 2007 which creates and implements government to growth (G2G) policy, funding and advocacy strategies for clients and has raised $531M in non-dilutive government funding for clients. Liz previously served as Legislative Director in Congress for two Members of Congress where she staffed the Congressional Caucus for Women’s Issues, Armed Services Committee and Small Business Committee. She also served as a Policy Analyst for UK Parliament’s Health Committee and has worked on political campaigns. She co-founded the Women’s Digital Health Network and the Women’s Health PAC and serves on the NIH Office of Research on Women’s Health and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Innovation Equity Forum Steering Committee. She earned her MPH from Harvard, JD from George Washington, and BA from Colgate.

Liz Powell, Esq., MPH started G2G Consulting in 2007 which creates and implements government to growth (G2G) policy, funding and advocacy strategies for clients and has raised $531M in non-dilutive government funding for clients. Liz previously serve... Show more

Aaron Murphy

Aaron Murphy

Aaron is a passionate design professional, consultant, and advocate for Aging-In-Place in your own community. He has been presenting at a national and international level for over 15 years. He is a licensed architect, “Certified Aging In Place Specialist” through NAHB, and an engaging and entertaining public speaker. Aaron is a known industry expert & author in the Aging-in-Place field, and a business coach teaching other executives how to own the AIP & UD niche of a home modification business. He teaches GCs, remodelers, OTs and associated fields, what it takes to become your own local go-to expert in your community. Aaron has been a Seattle radio host on subject and is a known entertainer and educator on stage across multiple home and building industries. Aaron has been preaching “Empowering Housing” for 15+ years from Chicago to Tokyo.

Aaron is a passionate design professional, consultant, and advocate for Aging-In-Place in your own community. He has been presenting at a national and international level for over 15 years. He is a licensed architect, “Certified Aging In Place Specia... Show more

Najeeb Khan

Najeeb Khan

Najeeb Khan is the Head of People & Events of Teamland, the place for high performance team training and team building. He's excited about bringing teams together.

He's the author of the business innovation book Fluid. He is also a Canadian Entrepreneur, a fellow of the School for Social Entrepreneurs-Ontario, and recognized by American Express and Ashoka as one of the 45 "Emerging Innovators," across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. He was seen on TEDx, Forbes, Huffington Post and speaking at various business schools

Najeeb Khan is the Head of People & Events of Teamland, the place for high performance team training and team building. He's excited about bringing teams together. He's the author of the business innovation book Fluid. He is also a Canadian Entrep... Show more

Marie Jarry

Marie Jarry

J’ai commencé à travailler en mode Agile, utilisant les principes et valeurs associés en 2009 année où je suis devenue maman Pour moi, faire le parallèle entre ma vie professionnelle et mon rôle de parent est devenu une évidence et une nécessité au fil du temps D’un naturel pragmatique et ayant besoin d’être dans l’action, j’accompagne mes enfants, tous deux ayant des troubles DYS, avec mes pratiques agile depuis maintenant 10 ans Eux me permettent également d’enrichir mes méthodes de mise en place de la méthode Agile en entreprise.

J’ai commencé à travailler en mode Agile, utilisant les principes et valeurs associés en 2009 année où je suis devenue maman Pour moi, faire le parallèle entre ma vie professionnelle et mon rôle de parent est devenu une évidence et une nécessité au f... Show more

Raquel Reyes Galindo

Raquel Reyes Galindo

Innovation and Development Engineer and founder of Disrupción, a science communication project. She has participated in discussion panels in Mexico and Latin America, as well as events at NASA. She contributed to the development of a lunar exploration mechanism that was tested on the International Space Station. Currently, she gives conferences and workshops on science, history, and empowerment to inspire girls and women to enter the world of science.

Innovation and Development Engineer and founder of Disrupción, a science communication project. She has participated in discussion panels in Mexico and Latin America, as well as events at NASA. She contributed to the development of a lunar exploratio... Show more

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