With 15 years of experience at Baylor University, Jordy Dickey currently serves as the Director of Student Activities. Her involvement with ACUI began in 2016 when she became the Web & Social Media Coordinator for Region II, a role she held until 2018. Since then, she has taken on several leadership roles, including Ed Session Co-Chair for the 2020 Atlanta Conference Program Team (2017–2020), Co-Leader for the Sustainability Community of Practice (2019–2021), and Board of Trustees At-Large Member (2020–2022). She currently contributes as a Member of the Education and Research Fund and as a Digital Badge Instructor for Inclusive Spaces.

With 15 years of experience at Baylor University, Jordy Dickey currently serves as the Director of Student Activities. Her involvement with ACUI began in 2016 when she became the Web & Social Media Coordinator for Region II, a role she held until 201... Show more

The past 5 years of my career in the Information Technology Industry, following my background as a graduate of Computer Science and experience working as a Technical writer in some amazing Companies. Sync with teams to gather information needed to create documents that guide users on how to use the products, technical blogs, open source documentation, developer documentation, and portal.

The past 5 years of my career in the Information Technology Industry, following my background as a graduate of Computer Science and experience working as a Technical writer in some amazing Companies. Sync with teams to gather information needed to cr... Show more

As president of Catbird Content, Torrey Podmajersky helps teams solve business and customer problems using UX and content. She has written inclusive and accessible consumer and professional experiences for Google, OfferUp, and Microsoft and for Catbird Content clients. She wrote the best-selling Strategic Writing for UX, and teaches at schools and conferences in North America and Europe.

As president of Catbird Content, Torrey Podmajersky helps teams solve business and customer problems using UX and content. She has written inclusive and accessible consumer and professional experiences for Google, OfferUp, and Microsoft and for Catbi... Show more

Sanskriti Kadam is a social entrepreneur, AI researcher, and founder of IntelligenZ Talks, a student-led podcast bridging tech and humanity. She has mentored 2000+ students, led initiatives like Girl Up Coders, and spoken at national tech forums—driving impact through stories, mentorship, and innovation.

Sanskriti Kadam is a social entrepreneur, AI researcher, and founder of IntelligenZ Talks, a student-led podcast bridging tech and humanity. She has mentored 2000+ students, led initiatives like Girl Up Coders, and spoken at national tech forums—driv... Show more

I am a seasoned and certified Business Analyst with a distinguished career spanning numerous industries and countries. I have successfully spearheaded complex technical projects and delivered full project lifecycles for diverse system implementations. My passion for enhancing user experiences and optimizing processes through rigorous product research and business analysis has driven my career. I possess a proven track record in digital transformation, requirements engineering, data management, and process improvement across various industries and countries, including the United Kingdom, Turkey, Nigeria, Ghana, and the United Arab Emirates. My expertise extends to requirements engineering, business process improvement, SAAS, CRM, ERP systems, and driving organizational change within the retail, finance, education, e-commerce, healthcare, and information technology sectors.
As the Founder of the David Odepidan Business Analysis Community (DOBAC), a non-profit organization, I have fostered a global network of business analysis professionals. Our community comprises members from Canada, Ireland, Malawi, Vietnam, the United Kingdom, South Africa, the United States, and other countries.
In addition to my community leadership, I have served as a peer reviewer for the IIBA Head Office.
He is a full member of the International Institute of Business Analysis (IIBA), a Member of the British Computer Society (MBCS) The Chartered Institute for IT, and He is based in Manchester, United Kingdom.

I am a seasoned and certified Business Analyst with a distinguished career spanning numerous industries and countries. I have successfully spearheaded complex technical projects and delivered full project lifecycles for diverse system implementations... Show more

Solly Makofane is a self-taught South African technologist and entrepreneur who began as a freelance graphic designer and grew into a full-stack web and application developer. Driven by a passion to empower underserved communities, he builds accessible digital solutions and runs cloud-based services using AWS. Solly’s journey proves that determination, curiosity, and the right tools can break down barriers and unlock opportunity for anyone, anywhere.

Solly Makofane is a self-taught South African technologist and entrepreneur who began as a freelance graphic designer and grew into a full-stack web and application developer. Driven by a passion to empower underserved communities, he builds accessib... Show more

Benson Barry – Corporate Diplomat | Change Expert | Visionary Leader


Benson Barry is a distinguished Certified Corporate Diplomat and Change Expert, renowned for his ability to empower organizations to navigate complex business relationships and transformative change. As the Managing Director of Barry Consulting Agency, he leads a team dedicated to helping businesses and institutions resolve conflicts, drive sustainable growth, and build resilient leadership frameworks.

With over eight years of cross-sector experience, Benson has collaborated with globally recognized organizations, including Mott MacDonald (UK), Euro Exim Bank (UK), and Merchant Trade (USA), as well as numerous institutions across diverse industries. His expertise spans high-stakes negotiations, strategic change management, leadership development, and corporate governance, ensuring that organizations thrive in dynamic environments.

Core Expertise & Leadership
Benson specializes in:
- Diplomatic Business Negotiations– Bridging cultural and organizational divides to foster win-win outcomes.
- Conflict Resolution & Management – Aligning diverse stakeholders through constructive dialogue.
- Change Management & Transformation – Guiding organizations through uncertainty toward long-term resilience.
- Leadership Development – Cultivating effective leadership at all organizational levels.
- Corporate Governance & Compliance – Establishing ethical, transparent, and accountable frameworks.

Under his leadership, Barry Consulting Agency provides tailored consulting and training services, equipping clients with strategies to align business goals with sustainable growth. Benson is deeply passionate about innovation, collaboration, and empowering organizations to maximize their potential in an ever-evolving global landscape.

A Visionary Beyond Business
Beyond his corporate influence, Benson Barry is a visionary leader of the Sacred Order of the Remnants, a mission-driven initiative focused on building, illuminating, and guarding the gates of cities and cultures. This unique dual role reflects his commitment to transformational leadership—both in business and societal impact.

With a reputation for strategic insight, diplomatic acumen, and transformative leadership, Benson Barry continues to inspire organizations and communities to embrace change, foster excellence, and achieve lasting success.

Connect with Benson Barry to explore how his expertise can elevate your organization’s growth and leadership journey.

Benson Barry – Corporate Diplomat | Change Expert | Visionary Leader Benson Barry is a distinguished Certified Corporate Diplomat and Change Expert, renowned for his ability to empower organizations to navigate complex business relationships ... Show more

Mr. G is an ai and greentech startup founder, and business coach for startups for the New Zealand Government, United Nations Development Programme in Cambodia and for the Social Tides programme for ai and impact startups across the EU.

His sustainable business approach has won him the Ministry of Science, Technology and Innovation's Green Business Awards and helped push the sustainable business agenda for organizations such as the United Nations and Oxfam to the Royal Government of Cambodia.

He has a strong belief that empathetic dialogue and design are key life skills to both personal and professional success, and is currently on a mission to solve real world issues through empathy, entrepreneurship and principled leadership.

Mr. G is an ai and greentech startup founder, and business coach for startups for the New Zealand Government, United Nations Development Programme in Cambodia and for the Social Tides programme for ai and impact startups across the EU. His sustai... Show more

Abhishek is a cybersecurity instructor at Sheryians Coding School and a digital forensics and cybercrime investigation expert actively working with Madhya Pradesh Police and multiple state police. As a lead instructor and mentor, he trains both law enforcement officers and cybersecurity students across India, bridging the gap between technical theory and ground-level crime investigations.

Abhishek was an active speaker and community contributor at events like TEDx and THM Indore, where he conducted hands-on workshops and CTF-based learning sessions to promote cybersecurity awareness and skill development in cloud security, network defense, and ethical hacking.

Abhishek is a cybersecurity instructor at Sheryians Coding School and a digital forensics and cybercrime investigation expert actively working with Madhya Pradesh Police and multiple state police. As a lead instructor and mentor, he trains both law e... Show more

Derek M. Scheller Jr. – Cybersecurity Leader | Veteran | Advocate for Empowerment Through Security

Derek M. Scheller Jr. is a seasoned cybersecurity professional with over 13 years of experience spanning offensive security, cyber defense, and strategic consulting. A U.S. Army and Air National Guard veteran, Derek now serves as the Practice Manager of Security Engineering at Stratascale, where he leads high-performing teams in delivering cutting-edge cloud and hybrid security solutions.

His career journey—from tactical military operations to corporate cybersecurity leadership—has shaped his mission-driven approach to technology, leadership, and resilience. Derek holds top industry certifications, including CISSP, OSCP, and multiple SANS designations (GREM, GPYC, GCIH, GCED, GSEC), and specializes in vulnerability management, red/purple teaming, SIEM optimization, and security program development.

Beyond his technical expertise, Derek is a passionate educator and mentor. He hosts two widely respected podcasts—"Security Happy Hour" and "Walk With Me"—aimed at guiding newcomers into cybersecurity and inspiring personal growth. He also collaborates with schools to bring cybersecurity education to the next generation.

A compelling and relatable speaker, Derek brings authenticity, practical insight, and a deep sense of purpose to every engagement. Whether he's discussing threat detection, burnout in security teams, or the human side of cyber leadership, Derek connects with audiences through his real-world experience and passion for making security a force for good.

Derek M. Scheller Jr. – Cybersecurity Leader | Veteran | Advocate for Empowerment Through Security Derek M. Scheller Jr. is a seasoned cybersecurity professional with over 13 years of experience spanning offensive security, cyber defense, and stra... Show more

Rashda Munawar – Author & Educator

Rashda Munawar is a dedicated educator, author, and advocate for a growth mindset. Holding a Master’s degree in Mathematics, she is passionate about fostering resilience and confidence in young learners.

Her debut children's book, Think Big, was inspired by her personal journey as a mother navigating her daughter’s early diagnosis of type 1 diabetes. Recognizing the power of mindset in overcoming challenges, Rashda strives to equip children with the tools to embrace mistakes, persevere, and think beyond limitations.

Beyond writing, she enjoys exploring growth mindset literature, playing board games, reading, practicing yoga, taking nature walks, and baking. Through her work, Rashda hopes to inspire both educators and young readers to believe in the power of growth and self-discovery.

Rashda Munawar – Author & Educator Rashda Munawar is a dedicated educator, author, and advocate for a growth mindset. Holding a Master’s degree in Mathematics, she is passionate about fostering resilience and confidence in young learners. Her d... Show more

At just 24 years old, Jimmy Klimowicz brings over a decade of experience in preaching and public speaking to stages across churches, schools, businesses, events, and community groups. Known for a dynamic presence and a gift for connecting across generations, Jimmy Klimowicz began speaking at the age of 13 and has since developed a powerful voice marked by authenticity, clarity, and purpose.

With a Bachelor's degree in Communications, Jimmy Klimowicz blends academic insight with real-world speaking experience, delivering messages that are both impactful and deeply relatable. Whether addressing faith-based audiences or professional groups, Jimmy Klimowicz consistently brings a message of hope, direction, and transformation.

Beyond the stage, Jimmy Klimowicz hosts a podcast that dives into faith, purpose, and everyday leadership. Their influence also extends to social media and YouTube, where they post thought-provoking content that engages thousands of viewers and listeners each month.

Jimmy Klimowicz is passionate about equipping others to walk in purpose, communicate with confidence, and live with intentionality—and brings that passion to every platform they touch.

At just 24 years old, Jimmy Klimowicz brings over a decade of experience in preaching and public speaking to stages across churches, schools, businesses, events, and community groups. Known for a dynamic presence and a gift for connecting across gene... Show more

Valentina Vasilov is certified research integrity trainer, personcentered-integrative coach (DACB, GwG, RTC) as well as facilitator in areas of career development and communication. She has many years of professional experience in doctoral education as well as working experience in diversity management in the academic field. As a member of the GC Plus Team she offers counselling to early career researchers and designs programmes and trainings for the development of transferable skills.

Valentina Vasilov is certified research integrity trainer, personcentered-integrative coach (DACB, GwG, RTC) as well as facilitator in areas of career development and communication. She has many years of professional experience in doctoral education ... Show more

At just 20 years old, Dylan brings a powerful first hand perspective on what young people need to feel seen, supported, and heard. As the co-founder of Fourddo (four-dee-do), he and his sister have served thousands by spearheading national initiatives in mental health, activism, and the arts—partnering with organizations like Nike, KIA Motors, Macy's and No Kid Hungry. He is a believer in the power of storytelling as a tool for connection, healing, and change.

Dylan has held several advisory and ambassadorial positions at the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Young Futures Org, Made By Us, Civics Unplugged, Adolescent Content, The Foundation for Social Connection, Boston Healthcare for the Homeless, the United States Tennis Association, the American Philosophical Society, and UNICEF USA. At his alma mater, Emerson College, he advises the President and the Dean on equitable and inclusive solutions for students. His creative pursuits have also recognized him as a Norman Lear and Bruno Mars Fund Scholar. This spring, he was recognized as a Finalist at Sundance and produced a premiere at Tribeca Film Festival.

At just 20 years old, Dylan brings a powerful first hand perspective on what young people need to feel seen, supported, and heard. As the co-founder of Fourddo (four-dee-do), he and his sister have served thousands by spearheading national initiative... Show more

Dan Lewis is a Digital Transformation Leader with 20+ years of experience in IT operations and digital solutions. With over a decade of consulting experience and seven years leading digital transformation in local government, Dan has driven innovation and operational excellence for diverse organizations. At the City of Seattle, he modernized various services, enhancing collaboration and automating workflows for a workforce of over 10,000 employees.

Dan’s expertise lies in leading impactful teams, crafting transformative strategies, and delivering innovative technology solutions that align with business goals. He speaks on topics such as Digital Transformation Strategy, Leadership in Technology, Microsoft 365 and Copilot, Emerging Technology Adoption, IT Governance Best Practices, and AI Governance.

Passionate about helping customers solve real-world challenges through technology, Dan combines deep technical expertise with a focus on positive outcomes for people. When he’s not transforming organizations, Dan enjoys gaming, hosting digital transformation talks, and connecting with audiences on Twitch and LinkedIn.

Dan Lewis is a Digital Transformation Leader with 20+ years of experience in IT operations and digital solutions. With over a decade of consulting experience and seven years leading digital transformation in local government, Dan has driven innovatio... Show more

Jesus Gil es un especialista el área de datos e Inteligencia Artificial, actualmente se desempeña como Arquitecto de Soluciones de Nube (CSA) en Microsoft
Por 12 años consecutivo fue nombrado MVP de SQL Server
Es coautor de 2 guías oficiales de Migración escritas para Microsoft Corporation y del libro Power BI MVP Book
Es ingeniero en sistemas, pero su pasión por la Educación lo llevó a obtener una maestría y un Doctorado en Ciencias de la Educación
Cuenta con +25 años de experiencia en la industria, desde el año 2007 ha dado entrenamientos tanto en México, USA, LATAM y Europa
Desde el año 2008 es un speaker habitual en eventos de tecnología dando charla en México, USA, LATAM y Europa

Jesus Gil es un especialista el área de datos e Inteligencia Artificial, actualmente se desempeña como Arquitecto de Soluciones de Nube (CSA) en Microsoft Por 12 años consecutivo fue nombrado MVP de SQL Server Es coautor de 2 guías oficiales de Mig... Show more

Licenciado en Economía Social | Docente Universitario | Mentor en IA aplicada a la Educación y Emprendimientos

Con más de 20 años en la Economía Social y Solidaria, se ha dedicado a la educación, el desarrollo comunitario y la incorporación de tecnologías para la inclusión social. Cuenta con una Licenciatura, Maestría y Tecnicatura en Economía Social, un Diplomado en IA para Docentes y formación como Formador de Formadores.

Es Director y creador de la Licenciatura en Economía Social en la UNLZ, donde también enseña la materia Trabajo y Sociedad. Diseña y dirige cursos, talleres y mentorías sobre IA para estudiantes, docentes, investigadores y emprendedores, adaptados a realidades organizacionales.

Desde la RED THIA impulsa la integración ética y accesible de la IA en América Latina, apoyando a pymes, cooperativas y organizaciones sociales. Su enfoque humanista promueve una IA al servicio de la justicia social, la inclusión digital y el cuidado de la vida y el planeta.

Licenciado en Economía Social | Docente Universitario | Mentor en IA aplicada a la Educación y Emprendimientos Con más de 20 años en la Economía Social y Solidaria, se ha dedicado a la educación, el desarrollo comunitario y la incorporación de tec... Show more

Colleen is an Associate Vice President and Michael Baker’s Greater DC / Maryland Planning Practice Lead, with 25 years of experience in transportation and environmental planning and policy. She leads a team of professionals dedicated to accelerating the electrification of the transportation sector through the development of plans, programs, and policies for state and local governments.

Colleen returned to Michael Baker in February 2021 following her employment as the Assistant Director of the Maryland Department of Transportation’s (MDOT) Office of Planning and Capital Programming (OPCP). During her tenure at MDOT, Colleen oversaw long-range environmental planning and the planning and deployment of innovative transportation technologies including zero emission vehicles (ZEV) and connected and automated vehicles (CAV). She managed MDOT’s air quality and climate change mitigation programs and participated in national discussions related to the electrification of the transportation sector, sharing her expertise with the White House, the National Governor’s Association (NGA), the Transportation Research Board (TRB), and the American Association of State and Highway Transportation Officials (AASHTO).

Colleen is a member of the TRB Standing Committee on Alternative Fuels and Technologies (AMS40). She is the former Chair of the AASHTO Air Quality Climate Change and Energy subcommittee of the Committee on Environment and Sustainability.

Colleen is an Associate Vice President and Michael Baker’s Greater DC / Maryland Planning Practice Lead, with 25 years of experience in transportation and environmental planning and policy. She leads a team of professionals dedicated to accelerating ... Show more

Jeremy Darling is renowned for leading diverse teams to deliver impactful technical solutions in an ever-evolving technology landscape. His career spans developing data-driven innovations, from COVID-19 analytics to transformative tools in higher education. Beyond his expertise in distributed computing, serverless architectures, and containerization, Jeremy is deeply passionate about fostering human connection in the workplace.

As a mental health advocate and management speaker, Jeremy empowers leaders to navigate sensitive challenges—such as suicide, team loss, and crises—through empathy, resilience, and thoughtful communication. He combines his technical acumen with a focus on emotional well-being to create environments where individuals and teams can thrive.

When he's not guiding teams or delivering talks, Jeremy embraces a holistic approach to life by practicing yoga and exploring the intersections of mental health and wellness.

Jeremy Darling is renowned for leading diverse teams to deliver impactful technical solutions in an ever-evolving technology landscape. His career spans developing data-driven innovations, from COVID-19 analytics to transformative tools in higher edu... Show more

Thea Soehren, CBAP, is a celebrated leader, problem solver, speaker and Business Analyst with over 20 years of experience, and 15 in the Information Technology arena.

Thea has worked in the Information Technology field for much of that time. Her experience spans a variety of industries including nuclear, medical diagnostics, insurance, US Tax, software development, marketing, professional services and management consulting. Previously, she worked as an enterprise change consultant for KPMG.

Currently, Thea works for Cincinnati Insurance Company and is a member of the Business Analysis Center of Excellence (BACoE) for IT Business Analysts.

She has extensive experience working in both Waterfall and Agile projects, simultaneously serving a variety of roles, such as Business Analyst, Scrum Master, Product Owner, Agile Coach, Program Manager, Project Manager, Problem Solver and Head Cheerleader.

A lifelong learner, Thea has been coaching and teaching for 15 years. Since 2013, she has been involved in leading IIBA® Chapters in Kansas City, Topeka, and Tampa Bay, Florida. She is currently the President of the Tampa Bay, Florida USA Chapter and frequently speaks and leads multi-week study groups for other IIBA Chapters and various organizations worldwide. Thea is very active on LinkedIn and strives to assist every person she can.

Thea was one of the authors of the A Guide to the Business Analysis Body of Knowledge® (BABOK® Guide) as well as the book Business Analysis: Bridging the Gap Across Industries with the second in that series coming out in 2025.

Thea founded and leads the BA Force Multiplier Movement, a worldwide effort to engage individuals use stories to convey the value of Business Analysis, to realize their potential and provide encouragement.

She provides business consulting, personal coaching, speaks internationally and finds places to be a positive impact. When not working or teaching Business Analysis, Thea enjoys spending time with her husband, Lance, making their home a peaceful retreat, and finding new things to learn.

Thea Soehren, CBAP, is a celebrated leader, problem solver, speaker and Business Analyst with over 20 years of experience, and 15 in the Information Technology arena. Thea has worked in the Information Technology field for much of that time. Her e... Show more

Designer and user researcher using human centred approaches to developing services, products and content. Also co-founder of a social enterprise, Unwaste.io, using data and technology to create circular economies for plastic waste. Experience in untangling complex problems in healthcare, public services and social innovation. Advocate of Women in Tech.

Designer and user researcher using human centred approaches to developing services, products and content. Also co-founder of a social enterprise, Unwaste.io, using data and technology to create circular economies for plastic waste. Experience in unta... Show more

Vishal Shah is a seasoned Data Analyst with over three years of experience in harnessing machine learning, data modeling, and big data technologies to drive transformative insights across diverse sectors. Currently, he serves as a Business Data Analyst at the Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources, where he designs predictive models and scalable data pipelines to enhance wildlife management and public safety. A Master’s graduate in Computer Science from New York University, Vishal has led innovative projects—from real-time stock market analytics to AI-driven public safety systems—demonstrating a unique ability to bridge advanced AI methodologies with practical, high-impact applications.

Vishal Shah is a seasoned Data Analyst with over three years of experience in harnessing machine learning, data modeling, and big data technologies to drive transformative insights across diverse sectors. Currently, he serves as a Business Data Analy... Show more

Stephanie is a Forbes-featured author of the best-selling networking book, Confident Introvert and host of the podcast/event series, redefining what it means to be successful with less hustle and more fun, meaning and wellness, Holistic Ambition. Stephanie has helped thousands of people celebrate their strengths, step into their authentic confidence, and make meaningful connections through building out community over 1k in-person events at organizations like YPOSF, speaking at places like Harvard University, years behind-the-scenes at TEDx, and 1:1 coaching.

Stephanie is a Forbes-featured author of the best-selling networking book, Confident Introvert and host of the podcast/event series, redefining what it means to be successful with less hustle and more fun, meaning and wellness, Holistic Ambition. Ste... Show more

Kolapo Imam is the Founder and Lead Facilitator at Prodcademy, an institute focused on raising the next generation of Product Leaders. He is a Product Manager with experience in building API products that power payments, virtual accounts, and funds transfer across Africa. His work focuses on developer experience, product strategy, and cross-functional delivery of scalable fintech infrastructure.

Prior to this, Kolapo served as a Product Marketing Manager at Nexford University, leading initiatives across product adoption, B2B positioning, and competitive intelligence. He has also worked in product and growth roles at PropertyPro Nigeria, Versus Africa, and through multiple consulting projects.

With a unique background spanning product marketing, technical product management, and tech sales, Kolapo brings a deep understanding of how to build and position business, enterprise and consumer products for growth. In 2022, he was nominated by HackerNoon for Product Management, Business Growth and Strategy.

Kolapo Imam is the Founder and Lead Facilitator at Prodcademy, an institute focused on raising the next generation of Product Leaders. He is a Product Manager with experience in building API products that power payments, virtual accounts, and funds t... Show more

Denette Dunn is a dedicated sustainability expert and public speaker with a wealth of experience in both public service and the private sector. She previously served as a vice mayor and currently represents the Pine District as a council member.

As a council member, Denette established the Pine Citizens Advisory Committee to address the specific concerns of her district. Since its inception, the committee has grown to include more than 100 members, demonstrating her ability to foster collaboration and strengthen community involvement in local governance.

Dunn’s professional experience spans both the private and public sectors. She worked as the Municipal Services Manager at Republic Services, overseeing municipal contracts valued at over $85 million across the southwest region. In addition to this role, she was a registered lobbyist, advocating for legislation promoting effective and sustainable partnerships between private companies and municipalities.

Her leadership extends to numerous boards and commissions, including the WESTMARC Board and the Peoria Planning and Zoning Commission. Denette also served as president and legislative liaison for the Arizona Recycling Coalition, where she contributed to advancing sustainable practices and policies throughout the state.

Before her work in public service, Denette held various marketing, sales, and management roles. From 2007 to 2011, she worked as the Director of Marketing and Community Relations at Hudson Baylor Corporation, overseeing material recovery operations and managing public relations efforts. She also worked closely with municipal and state officials to secure grants and sponsorships for various initiatives.

After her time at Hudson Baylor, Denette continued her career at Republic Services, managing contracts and contributing to legislative advocacy. Later, at Dickson Sweeping, she helped expand the company’s operations in Arizona and Nevada, working on projects such as compressed natural gas fuel stations.

Since 2019, Denette Dunn has served as a Peoria Council member, working to support the city’s growth and sustainability. She also supports charitable organizations, including Hart Pantry, West Valley Connect, and You Matter Too, an anti-bullying nonprofit.

Denette Dunn is a dedicated sustainability expert and public speaker with a wealth of experience in both public service and the private sector. She previously served as a vice mayor and currently represents the Pine District as a council member. A... Show more

Meet Rona! She's a whirlwind of vibrant energy and connection. With her engaging style, she brings a sense of joy to workplaces everywhere. As an expert in Purposeful and Attuned Play, Rona blends the core elements of leadership and engagement with the magic of play, transforming workplace dynamics and boosting personal satisfaction.

Rona's unique mix of corporate savvy and wellbeing wisdom, paired with her deep understanding of play and flow, allows her to translate complex ideas into relatable and enjoyable stories. Her sessions are dynamic, packed with practical tools to weave play into daily work life, fostering an environment where creativity and collaboration flourish.

In her role as coach and consultant, Rona has left a lasting mark on countless organizations. She's nurtured creative thinking, honed leadership skills, and deepened connections through enhanced communication. Her tailor-made programs are grounded in evidence-based practices, boosting team morale and connectivity while encouraging a fresh reimagining of workplace culture.

Rona has been featured in Shondaland, Nebraska Bride, Pierless Magazine, Town and Country, Corporate Wellness Magazine and seen and heard on TV and radio stations from San Diego and San Francisco to New York .

With the Playful Mind Project, Rona positions herself as a key partner for organizations ready to breathe new life into their corporate environments. Ready to make work fun again?

Meet Rona! She's a whirlwind of vibrant energy and connection. With her engaging style, she brings a sense of joy to workplaces everywhere. As an expert in Purposeful and Attuned Play, Rona blends the core elements of leadership and engagement with t... Show more

Sandi Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, transformational speaker, educator, and author dedicated to helping women heal, grow, and live life on purpose. With over a decade of experience as a professional school counselor and community therapist, Sandi blends clinical insight, faith, and real-world wisdom to empower others to rewrite their narratives and reclaim their peace.

Her passion for helping others is deeply rooted in her own journey of resilience. After facing seasons of personal loss, emotional struggle, and identity shifts, Sandi chose healing over hiding. She now uses her story as a testament that wholeness is possible—and that it’s never too late to begin again.

As a speaker, Sandi is known for her warmth, authenticity, and ability to create safe spaces for real conversations. She speaks on topics such as compassion fatigue, burnout, emotional resilience, solution-focused counseling, and the power of building authentic friendships in a disconnected world. Whether in a conference setting or an intimate retreat, she invites her audience into deeper connection—with themselves and with others.

Through her retreats, books, and speaking engagements, Sandi continues to inspire others to move from surviving to thriving with intention and purpose.

Sandi Johnson is a Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, transformational speaker, educator, and author dedicated to helping women heal, grow, and live life on purpose. With over a decade of experience as a professional school counselor and comm... Show more

The most impactful thing a speaker can do, is to facilitate an experience, and help participants to draw a correlation between the experience, what they learned and how they will apply it in their life. Because of this, each talk involves both interaction with the audience and personal reflection time.

In her interactive workshops and keynote addresses, Caitlin quickly quells the, “I could never do improv!” fear and makes accessible, the principles professional actors use, to be better communicators, teammates, and leaders.
Disarming and energetic, Caitlin opens up the most skeptical attendees, allowing them to learn through applying the Improv Approach, and even crack a smile along the way.

Caitlin Drago’s mission is to create cultures of empathy, creativity, and trust, beginning with how people communicate and connect.

She is an LA-based actor turned upstate NY-based certified leadership coach, trainer, facilitator, and author of Approaching Improv – Communication and Connection in Business and Beyond. Acting taught her to be present, self-aware, empathetic and to prioritize connection with others. Improv taught her to listen, trust her gut and deal with the unexpected in a positive and creative way. She currently works with leaders and teams to help them to listen to one another, communicate and connect, using improvisation as a platform for interactive learning.

Caitlin spent ten years studying improv at places like the nationally accredited Upright Citizen’s Brigade and has spent the last nine years working with leaders and their teams across industries, including, but not limited to higher education, hospitality, tech, marketing, healthcare and real estate. She’s been featured in Medium’s Authority Magazine, Rochester’s Democrat and Chronicle, a variety of podcasts and has spoken at various conferences, including the Talent Development Think Tank, the International TWA Conference, CNY SHRM, and DisruptHR Rochester.

Past clients include:
Gartner
Rochester Regional Health System
Starbucks
Fee Brothers

Testimonials:

“Caitlin's energy, enthusiasm, and sprinkling of humor eased the tensions in our group and the entire experience was packed with valuable team collaboration insights. We found ourselves using this technique the very same day we learned it.”

S.M. Digitronik Labs

“We focused on communication in a completely different way. Not a seminar-feel, but a fun, engaging way to demonstrate the importance of being open and positive. I stepped
outside my comfort zone. As an introvert, the idea of improv was horrifying. But it was fun!”

J.G., VWR

"Caitlin did an excellent job facilitating a workshop for my team. From the time we first met to preparation and the actual workshop, she was helpful and engaging and was highly focused on ensuring my workshop went the way I had envisioned. My team had excellent feedback afterwards and I can say it had an immediate positive impact on how my team interacted and felt about communication."

I.G., Gartner

The most impactful thing a speaker can do, is to facilitate an experience, and help participants to draw a correlation between the experience, what they learned and how they will apply it in their life. Because of this, each talk involves both intera... Show more

Pai da Cecília e do Inácio, esposo da Ana Lúcia, membro da Comunidade de Vida Cristã (CVX), curitibano e sofredor do Coritiba. Desde a pandemia, optou por morar na zona rural de Piraquara (Região Metropolitana da capital paranaense), onde cria galinhas, joga bola com os filhos, colhe amoras, figos e Physalis e está cavando (bem aos poucos!) um pequeno lago para os futuros gansos da família. Jornalista e economista, sempre trabalhou em organizações com forte impacto social. Atualmente, é responsável por ajudar o Grupo Marista, uma instituição de mais de 7 mil colaboradores e com uma história bicentenária, em sua estratégia ESG, articulando iniciativas transversais e proprietárias das Frentes de Missão (unidades de negócio) PUCPR, Saúde, FTD Educação e Centro Marista de Defesa da Infância; e monitorando indicadores e avaliando a evolução da maturidade - sempre procurando nutrir uma mentalidade ágil, com foco nas pessoas, na entrega de valor e na melhoria contínua.

Pai da Cecília e do Inácio, esposo da Ana Lúcia, membro da Comunidade de Vida Cristã (CVX), curitibano e sofredor do Coritiba. Desde a pandemia, optou por morar na zona rural de Piraquara (Região Metropolitana da capital paranaense), onde cria galinh... Show more

Corporate Career
I had an amazing 30-year career as a corporate trainer and speaker. Through my company, IEC Enterprises, I trained over 10,000 public and private sector employees on topics including communication skills, conflict management, team building, problem-solving, and leadership.

Connecting The Dots
One day, it dawned on me that I was applying many of the tips and tools from my training to raising my children—and they worked extremely well. These techniques helped me develop a unique and successful parenting style. I realized that there were valuable lessons here that I wanted to share with others.

Adulting and Parenting Work
In 2019, I expanded my training focus to the adulting and parenting arena with the publication of my book, “Growing Into Your Parenting Role” (Mountain Arbor Press). Since then, I’ve blogged extensively on these topics, been featured as a guest on various adulting and parenting podcasts, conducted engaging webinars, and developed skills-based training programs based on the concepts, tips, and tools in my book.

In 2021, I founded the Adulting and Parenting Academy (AP Academy) with a mission to help young adults build strong, fulfilling relationships that last. The Academy now houses all my adulting, parenting, and personal growth consulting.

Corporate Career I had an amazing 30-year career as a corporate trainer and speaker. Through my company, IEC Enterprises, I trained over 10,000 public and private sector employees on topics including communication skills, conflict management, team b... Show more