Maja is on the Scientific Computing Team (SCOUT) at Equinor. She has an academic background in philosophy, linguistics and logic and a professional background in web dev and agile coaching. Professionally speaking, she’s into stuff at the intersection of dev and design and all things process, collaboration and quality improvement. She is also one of the organizers of the Frontiers Bergen meetup group. Unprofessionally speaking, she into shiny things—parrots, tropical plants, obnoxious nail polish. Also Wittgenstein and powerlifting. Please come say hi to her if you like any of these, too. 😄

Maja is on the Scientific Computing Team (SCOUT) at Equinor. She has an academic background in philosophy, linguistics and logic and a professional background in web dev and agile coaching. Professionally speaking, she’s into stuff at the intersectio... Show more

Dr. Andrew Young Choi is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Pace University, where he teaches and supervises in the Clinical Health Psychology Program.

His award-winning scholarship employs queer of color critique to illuminate the complexities of intersectionality, racism-related stress, and identity among Asian Americans. Leveraging psychoanalytic concepts, his interdisciplinary research explores the evolving nature of anti-Asian racialization and its theoretical and clinical implications. He brings advanced methodological expertise, including critical analysis, multivariate statistics, psychometrics, structural equation modeling, and qualitative content analysis. He has authored over 20 publications and received more than 30 awards, honors, and fellowships for his intellectual contributions.

Dr. Choi is board-certified in Counseling Psychology and specializes in culturally responsive psychodynamic psychotherapy for high-performing professionals from diverse backgrounds. He creatively integrates insight-oriented, goal-focused, and decolonial principles to support a broad range of mental health goals. He has provided effective care across diverse settings—including college counseling centers, community mental health clinics, and inpatient and outpatient hospitals—with extensive public sector experience serving clients from global majority and LGBTQ+ populations.

He earned his PhD in Counseling, Clinical, and School Psychology from the University of California, Santa Barbara, and his American Psychological Association (APA)-accredited Doctoral Internship in Health Service Psychology at the Counseling and Student Development Center of the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. He completed his Postdoctoral Fellowship in Clinical Psychology at Cambridge Health Alliance / Harvard Medical School. He is an alumnus APA Minority Fellow, Pacific Athletic Conference (PAC-12) Postgraduate Scholar, and University of California Regents Special Fellow.

Dr. Andrew Young Choi is an Assistant Professor of Psychology at Pace University, where he teaches and supervises in the Clinical Health Psychology Program. His award-winning scholarship employs queer of color critique to illuminate the complexit... Show more

With a background in "Data Analytics for Business and Finance" and currently pursuing a Master's degree in "Finance", I explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, data-driven decision-making and society.

My main speaking focus is AI and Justice, a topic through which I examine the ethical, social and legal challenges raised by increasingly intelligent technologies. I'm particularly interested in how AI shapes decisions, affects people and challenges our understanding of fairness, accountability and responsibility.

Beyond the technology itself, I believe in the importance of making complex topics accessible, encouraging critical thinking and creating meaningful conversations between different perspectives. Through public speaking and my involvement in STEM and AI education, I aim to connect technical innovation with its real-world implications.

With a background in "Data Analytics for Business and Finance" and currently pursuing a Master's degree in "Finance", I explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, data-driven decision-making and society. My main speaking focus is AI and ... Show more

Susie Xiyu Liu is an MA student in History at Columbia University. Her research focuses on Chinese American history during the exclusion era, particularly the intersections of religion, urban politics, municipal governance, and immigration. Her current project examines Protestant reform networks and the political governance of New York's Chinatown in the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries.

Susie Xiyu Liu is an MA student in History at Columbia University. Her research focuses on Chinese American history during the exclusion era, particularly the intersections of religion, urban politics, municipal governance, and immigration. Her curre... Show more

22 ans d’expérience professionnelle, dont 13 dans l’Agilité, principalement auprès de grands comptes engagés dans des transformations complexes.

Mon parcours combine audit organisationnel, management de projet, conduite du changement, coaching Agile et coaching professionnel.

Mes domaines d’expertise couvrent le coaching et la formation Agile / SAFe, l’accompagnement des équipes et des managers, le coaching individuel, le développement des hauts potentiels ainsi que l’utilisation d’outils d’analyse comportementale (DISC, Selfie…).
Je suis également coach certifiée CliftonStrengths (Gallup, coaching de talents).

Passionnée par les dynamiques humaines et l’expression créative, je pratique le patinage artistique, le théâtre et l’improvisation, et je m’intéresse également à l’écriture et à la traduction.

22 ans d’expérience professionnelle, dont 13 dans l’Agilité, principalement auprès de grands comptes engagés dans des transformations complexes. Mon parcours combine audit organisationnel, management de projet, conduite du changement, coaching Agi... Show more

David Handlos is a software engineer, technologist, educator, and conference speaker with over two decades of experience building enterprise software, automation frameworks, and integration solutions within the financial services industry. He specializes in applying AI, software engineering, and automation to solve complex business and technical challenges.

In addition to his industry work, David serves as an adjunct instructor at Southern New Hampshire University, where he teaches software engineering, software testing, and automation. He also works as an independent genealogist, using technology, historical records, and AI-assisted research to solve complex family history problems, locate ancestral records, and document lineage for citizenship-by-descent and other genealogy projects.

David enjoys speaking about AI, automation, software engineering, and the creative ways technology can be applied to solve problems beyond traditional software development.

David Handlos is a software engineer, technologist, educator, and conference speaker with over two decades of experience building enterprise software, automation frameworks, and integration solutions within the financial services industry. He special... Show more

Lena Chen (she/her) is an artist and Ph.D. student at the University of California, Berkeley in the Department of Theater, Dance, and Performance Studies. Her scholarship examines the figure of the Asian America woman as (Tiger) Mother and Whore. Her work appears in the edited volumes Curating as Feminist Organizing (Routledge, 2022), Sex Work Now (NYU Press, forthcoming), and To Be Named (Routledge, forthcoming). She has taught classes on feminist theory, performance art, and socially engaged art. As an artist, she has exhibited, performed, and screened her work internationally. She has been awarded grants and residencies from Mozilla Foundation, Sundance Institute, Millay Colony for the Arts, Center for Cultural Power, Burning Man Global Arts Fund, Office of Public Art, and others. Currently, she is hosting community workshops on AAPI sexuality to devise a collective performance as part of her practice-based research.

She is a co-founder of JADED, the largest AAPI arts and cultural platform in Western Pennsylvania, and a founding member of MATERNAL FANTASIES, an interdisciplinary collective of mothers/artists and their children. She coordinates the Performing Asian American and Diasporic Sexualities working group at UC Berkeley’s Center for Race & Gender.

Lena Chen (she/her) is an artist and Ph.D. student at the University of California, Berkeley in the Department of Theater, Dance, and Performance Studies. Her scholarship examines the figure of the Asian America woman as (Tiger) Mother and Whore. Her... Show more

Russian literature lover, writer, rock climber/star.
Former Google Developers Expert and Microsoft MVP, founder of great communities.

Russian literature lover, writer, rock climber/star. Former Google Developers Expert and Microsoft MVP, founder of great communities. Show more

Morten Rand-Hendriksen is a technology educator, keynote speaker, and developer specializing in AI, bleeding edge web standards, tech- and design ethics, and the intersections between technology and humanity.

When Morten talks about technology, people listen (as evidenced by his 90,000 followers on LinkedIn and 150,000 followers on TikTok).

For more than 15 years, Morten has helped millions of people around the world empower themselves by helping them understand and use emerging technologies. If you work on or with the web, there's a good chance you've seen one of his online courses or viral videos, read his articles and tutorials, or attended one of his live presentations. In his work he uses his neurodivergent understanding of the world to translate complex technical concepts into practical knowledge people can apply in their work and lives.

Morten uses his background in philosophy, politics, and design to explore how technology shapes human experience, communication, communities, and power structures. He centres his work around helping people build a healthy disrespect for the sanctity of technology so they can develop the functionings and capabilities to do and be what they have reason to value, and the agency and autonomy to build their own futures in a rapidly changing technological landscape

Every keynote, conference talk, panel discussion, and workshop Morten delivers is filled to the brim with relatable stories, deep technical insight, and practical takeaways, giving audiences the tools they need to engage with technology on their own terms.

Morten Rand-Hendriksen is a technology educator, keynote speaker, and developer specializing in AI, bleeding edge web standards, tech- and design ethics, and the intersections between technology and humanity. When Morten talks about technology, pe... Show more

Catherine Okonkwo is a Nigerian writer, researcher, speaker and media creator, and the founder of Still Becoming™. Her work explores youth development, identity, personal growth, education and social impact. She is an active committee member of the International Conference on Artificial Intelligence and Research (ICAIR) since 2024, where she has contributed to academic research review and served as a Keynote Chair/Track Chair.

Catherine is also the author of five books: Still Becoming, Unrushed: The Art of Growing at Your Own Pace, Seven Days Emotional Guide to Step into Your Becoming, The Anatomy of a Changemaker, and Paradox. She has published 15+ articles and has experience in public speaking, research, writing, podcasting and youth-focused media. Through her work, she creates conversations that encourage young people to develop self-awareness, think critically, discover purpose and participate meaningfully in society.

Catherine Okonkwo is a Nigerian writer, researcher, speaker and media creator, and the founder of Still Becoming™. Her work explores youth development, identity, personal growth, education and social impact. She is an active committee member of the I... Show more

Non sono un'esperta di AI. Sono esperta dell'impatto dei cambiamenti sulle persone — incluso quello tecnologico. Ho lavorato con aziende in trasformazione per quattro decenni: ho visto cosa blocca davvero il cambiamento, e cosa può aiutare a sbloccarlo. Ed oggi metto questa esperienza anche al servizio di aziende, team e persone che stanno affrontando l'adozione AI.

Non sono un'esperta di AI. Sono esperta dell'impatto dei cambiamenti sulle persone — incluso quello tecnologico. Ho lavorato con aziende in trasformazione per quattro decenni: ho visto cosa blocca davvero il cambiamento, e cosa può aiutare a sbloccar... Show more

Elijah Dale is a U.S. Army veteran, author, and host of With All Due Respect, a podcast focused on politics, civic participation, and the challenges facing a rising generation of Americans.

After serving in the Army and overseas, Elijah returned to school to study political science at Arizona State University. His work now centers on bringing ordinary people back into civic conversations—particularly young Americans who feel disconnected from politics and institutions.

Through writing, podcasting, public speaking, and conversations across political and generational lines, Elijah explores questions about economic opportunity, public service, political division, and what Americans owe one another as citizens.

His central message is simple: decisions are made by the people who show up.

Elijah Dale is a U.S. Army veteran, author, and host of With All Due Respect, a podcast focused on politics, civic participation, and the challenges facing a rising generation of Americans. After serving in the Army and overseas, Elijah returned t... Show more

Adya Mishra is the Founder & CEO of Qualia and the originator of Recipient Intelligence, an emerging field dedicated to enabling AI systems to understand and adapt to the people they communicate with.

Her work draws upon artificial intelligence, communication theory, and cognitive science to examine how machines can become more perceptive participants in human communication.

Previously, Adya was a nationally ranked Speech and Debate champion and graduated in three years from the University of California, San Diego.

Adya Mishra is the Founder & CEO of Qualia and the originator of Recipient Intelligence, an emerging field dedicated to enabling AI systems to understand and adapt to the people they communicate with. Her work draws upon artificial intelligence, ... Show more

Prof. Dr. Stoyana Natseva is a Bulgarian psychologist, researcher and educator. She is Full Professor (Profesor Titular B) of Psychology and Education at Universidad Azteca and Professor of Practice in Business Psychology at Dunster Business School, Switzerland. She is the founder of Happy Life Academy® and the Happy Life Institute for Direct Change Science, and President of IAPTC®. She created the Internal Autobiographical Map (IAM) framework and the Direct Change Solution® (DCS®) applied system. She is the author of more than twenty books and two scholarly monographs, and has trained over 100,000 students across more than 50 countries.

Prof. Dr. Stoyana Natseva is a Bulgarian psychologist, researcher and educator. She is Full Professor (Profesor Titular B) of Psychology and Education at Universidad Azteca and Professor of Practice in Business Psychology at Dunster Business School, ... Show more

Rebecca Farabaugh is an award-winning marketing, customer insights and experience, and organizational strategy leader, speaker and facilitator with 20+ years of experience helping organizations understand people, navigate change and turn complexity into action.

As a certified Human-Centered Design practitioner and founder of HumanISE, Rebecca challenges leaders to keep humans at the center of work, especially in an increasingly AI-driven world where the uniquely human capabilities of curiosity, critical thinking, empathy, sensemaking, storytelling and trust-building are becoming increasingly valuable.

Rebecca brings together data, research, storytelling, strategy and human-centered design to help audiences think differently about the human advantage in business, AI and tech enablement, operational efficiency, customer and employee experience, data storytelling, brand and marketing, organizational change and the future of work.

Her sessions are practical, interactive, thought-provoking and fun. They are designed to challenge assumptions and leave people with ideas they can actually use.

Rebecca has spoken and facilitated sessions for organizations including the American Marketing Association, AdWeek, Insights Association, Quirks Media, GetWIT, 24/7 Compliance, Highmark Health, Koppers, University of Pittsburgh and Duquesne Light Company. Her recent talks include Stop Designing for Customers. Start Designing for Humans, Designing for Data Excellence, and Beyond the Numbers: Tell a Story with Your Data.

Rebecca holds an M.S. in Marketing Science from the University of Pittsburgh and is a LUMA Institute Certified Practitioner of Human-Centered Design.

She helps people see what they couldn't see before—and gives them the tools to do something about it.

Rebecca Farabaugh is an award-winning marketing, customer insights and experience, and organizational strategy leader, speaker and facilitator with 20+ years of experience helping organizations understand people, navigate change and turn complexity i... Show more

Audrey Franklin is the Founder of HyperStriver and a Career and Leadership Development Coach who helps people find their path, live with purpose, and lead with power. Her journey began with her first paying job as a Front Desk Agent at a small hotel in New Mexico. Over the next decade, she worked her way through college while building a successful career in hospitality. She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Lodging and Resort Management from the University of Nevada and held several roles at MGM Grand, including Agent, Night Auditor, and Concierge. Although she was proud of what she was accomplishing, she could not ignore the feeling that something important was missing.

Audrey knew she enjoyed helping people, solving problems, creating positive experiences, and supporting others. At the same time, she felt called to do something more meaningful, something that would allow her to help people grow, lead, and create a lasting impact. That feeling led her back to school, where she earned a Master’s Degree in Psychology and began exploring the connection between human behavior, personal development, leadership, and meaningful work. Although her career transition did not happen exactly as planned, she continued growing professionally in the hospitality and technology industries, eventually moving into project management and leading complex initiatives and teams.

Even as Audrey built a successful career, the same questions remained: What was she truly meant to do? What kind of impact did she want to make? How could she create a life and career that felt both successful and meaningful? She searched for answers through books, podcasts, research, and the work of psychologists, coaches, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders. Over time, the answer became clear. Her purpose was not simply to build projects, it was to help people build lives and careers they love, create work that reflects their values, and become leaders who make a positive difference.

That purpose inspired Audrey to create HyperStriver. Through coaching, workshops, training, and leadership development experiences, she helps early-career professionals, emerging leaders, and purpose-driven individuals gain clarity, build confidence, and take meaningful action. Her work brings together career clarity, leadership growth, personal development, and positive impact. She believes people are rarely stuck because they are lazy or incapable. More often, they are disconnected from who they are, what matters most to them, and the impact they are capable of making. HyperStriver helps people reconnect those pieces and move from confusion to clarity, from misalignment to purpose, and from dreaming about change to intentionally creating it.

Today, Audrey is also pursuing a PhD in Business Psychology, with academic interests in meaningful work, leadership development, prosocial behavior, and positive organizational impact. She is a Project Management Professional, wife, mother, entrepreneur, lifelong learner, and outdoor enthusiast who believes some of life’s best conversations happen on a trail, around a campfire, on the lake, or while exploring somewhere new. To Audrey, being a HyperStriver means intentionally pursuing growth, embracing meaningful challenges, and using your strengths, purpose, and opportunities to create something meaningful. She believes people are capable of more than they realize and that life and work become more fulfilling when we stop drifting and start moving with intention.

Audrey Franklin is the Founder of HyperStriver and a Career and Leadership Development Coach who helps people find their path, live with purpose, and lead with power. Her journey began with her first paying job as a Front Desk Agent at a small hotel ... Show more

Lawyer & Psychologist | AI Ethics & Cognitive Sovereignty | Co-founder, EIA LATAM Committee | Lecturer (UBA & UTN FRBA)

Verónica Recchia is a lawyer, psychologist, university lecturer and independent researcher specializing in AI ethics, cognitive sovereignty and hybrid intelligence. She lectures at the University of Buenos Aires (UBA) and UTN FRBA and is co-founder of the EIA LATAM Committee, an interdisciplinary initiative advancing ethical AI governance from a Latin American perspective.

She is co-author of the EIA LATAM Manifesto – AI Ethics in Latin America: A Female Perspective in Defense of Human Dignity and the Future of Human Decision-Making (Zenodo: https://zenodo.org/records/21212138), author of Agilidad y Talento. Egoísmo y Altruismo del Poder (Despite the MENTE CLICK Mindset) (Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FNXD3GJQ), and is currently writing MENTECLICK.IA: The Continuity of the Species (ISBN 978-631-01-1706-5).

Her research focuses on AI ethics, cognitive sovereignty, algorithmic governance, hybrid intelligence and the future of human decision-making.

Lawyer & Psychologist | AI Ethics & Cognitive Sovereignty | Co-founder, EIA LATAM Committee | Lecturer (UBA & UTN FRBA) Verónica Recchia is a lawyer, psychologist, university lecturer and independent researcher specializing in AI ethics, cognitive... Show more

DeAngelo Burse is a behavioral scientist, TEDx speaker, and author of Yours To Design: Constructing a Life That Is Meaningful. He developed the NIMBLE framework to help people navigate hereditary and environmental influences to become their ideal selves. As a PhD candidate in psychology at the University of Birmingham in England, his research explores self-regulation, character education, and applied behavioral science. He earned a Master of Science in Psychology, specializing in social psychology, and is certified in Choice Theory® and Reality Therapy.

DeAngelo teaches social psychology and abnormal psychology as a university professor. He is also CEO of Breakroom Huddle, where he works as a keynote speaker, workshop facilitator, and coaching psychologist, delivering evidence-based programs for Fortune 500 companies, healthcare systems, and government agencies. His work has been featured on ABC, CBS, and NBC-affiliated channels.

Additionally, DeAngelo is the creator of 90-Second Psychologist, a video series that transforms complex psychological concepts into immediately applicable insights in just 90 seconds. He also hosts the Social Curiosity Podcast and speaks globally on the Science of Becoming—exploring character development, personal transformation, and human flourishing. Based in Charlotte, North Carolina, DeAngelo enjoys spending time with his wife and three kids, outdoor activities, grilling, and watching NFL football.

DeAngelo Burse is a behavioral scientist, TEDx speaker, and author of Yours To Design: Constructing a Life That Is Meaningful. He developed the NIMBLE framework to help people navigate hereditary and environmental influences to become their ideal sel... Show more

Ich bin Kulturwissenschaftlerin und betreibe die Online-Coworking-Community THE WRITING ACADEMIC, einen Zusammenschluss von Wissenschaftler*innen, die ihr Schreiben priorisieren und das Format der Focus-Session für einen produktiven Schreiballtag einsetzen. Ich veranstalte Schreib-Retreats für Wissenschaftler*innen (Schreibaschram) und bin als Coach und Trainerin in der wissenschaftlichen Weiterbildung aktiv.

Ich bin Kulturwissenschaftlerin und betreibe die Online-Coworking-Community THE WRITING ACADEMIC, einen Zusammenschluss von Wissenschaftler*innen, die ihr Schreiben priorisieren und das Format der Focus-Session für einen produktiven Schreiballtag ein... Show more

Crystal T. Ash is a dynamic speaker, host, moderator, life strategist, and author whose passion is rooted in empowering individuals to unlock their full potential. An esteemed 2006 graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Bachelor's degree in Health Sciences and 2013 graduate of Liberty University, where she earned a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling. With over 15 years of speaking experience, Ash brings a wealth of knowledge and authenticity to her engagements. Her insightful presentations on personal and professional development captivate audiences, as she skillfully breaks down barriers and creates opportunities for success. Her signature talk is No More Orange Popsicles: Empowering thru Core Values, which examines how operating through core values can serve as a compass for making aligned decisions and positively impacting others.

In 2021, Ash published her debut book, Lessons from My Grandma's Table, further exemplifying her commitment to inspiring others through storytelling and authentic engagement. She is renowned for infusing her speaking engagements with vibrant energy, warmth, and a genuine desire to uplift her community. Whether addressing young or mature audiences, Ash’s core message encourages self-discovery, personal growth, and meaningful transformation, inspiring all to live out their true purpose.

Crystal T. Ash is a dynamic speaker, host, moderator, life strategist, and author whose passion is rooted in empowering individuals to unlock their full potential. An esteemed 2006 graduate of the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Bachelor's... Show more

Danita Samuel Prakash is a cybersecurity professional and researcher specialising in human factors, cybersecurity, and human centred security. She holds an MSc in Cyber Security and Human Factors and has over five years of experience across IT and cybersecurity. Her research explores social engineering, AI, and the human factors behind cyber threats. Danita has contributed to academic research and presented on cybersecurity and technology across conferences and professional forums, with her work published in venues including the ACM Digital Library. She is also the founder of Cyber Seren and a 2026 Everywoman in Technology Awards Rising Star winner.

Danita Samuel Prakash is a cybersecurity professional and researcher specialising in human factors, cybersecurity, and human centred security. She holds an MSc in Cyber Security and Human Factors and has over five years of experience across IT and cy... Show more

Joshua Rumbaoa Jerome Garcia is a Ph.D. candidate at The Graduate Theological Union at Berkeley studying Asian American theologies and religions, specializing in hermeneutics. His dissertation project, entitled Peril! In the House of Omri: The Asiatic Racial Form and Biblical Hermeneutics, engages critical theory from Asian and Asian American literary criticism and cultural studies to formalize critical theories of racial formation as theological analytics and illuminates how the intellectual viability of contextual theology is inherently tied to the material and political commitments of ethnic studies.

Joshua holds master’s degrees in religion and theology from Yale University and Boston University, respectively, as well as dual bachelor’s degrees in psychology and biblical studies from George Fox University. When not struggling through critical theory, he tries to consume pour over coffee, romcoms, and world football as unpretentiously as possible.

Joshua Rumbaoa Jerome Garcia is a Ph.D. candidate at The Graduate Theological Union at Berkeley studying Asian American theologies and religions, specializing in hermeneutics. His dissertation project, entitled Peril! In the House of Omri: The Asiati... Show more

Debby Spitzer is an international speaker, literacy specialist, educational consultant, and historical fiction author with more than 25 years of experience in education and publishing.

Debby speaks at education conferences throughout the United States, as well as international literacy and early childhood education conferences. Her presentations focus on the Science of Reading, early literacy development, phonemic awareness, phonics, play-based learning, and social-emotional development. Known for her engaging, interactive presentation style, Debby brings research to life through hands-on activities, practical strategies, and real-world classroom applications that inspire educators and provide ideas they can immediately put into practice.

In addition to her work in education, Debby is passionate about history and storytelling. She is the author of The Girl Who Rode in Secret, a young adult historical novel set in the Netherlands during World War II. Inspired by more than 20 years of historical research, visits to the Netherlands, and interviews with individuals connected to the Dutch Resistance, her writing explores courage, resilience, and the extraordinary contributions of ordinary people.

Her manuscript was shortlisted for the 2026 Historical Novel Society First Chapters Competition (Children's & YA) and was a finalist in the 2025 Writers' League of Texas Manuscript Contest.

Whether speaking about literacy, early childhood education, or history, Debby brings research, storytelling, and practical insights together to engage and inspire audiences.

Debby Spitzer is an international speaker, literacy specialist, educational consultant, and historical fiction author with more than 25 years of experience in education and publishing. Debby speaks at education conferences throughout the United St... Show more

Roy Vũ earned his Ph.D. (2006) in history at the University of Houston. He is now a history professor at Dallas College. Roy volunteers as an advisory board member for the Alliance for Texas History Membership Committee, Foodways Texas, and Keep Irving Beautiful, where he is the 2018 Texas state recipient of the Sadie Ray Graff Education Award. His book, Farm-to-Freedom: Vietnamese Americans and Their Food Gardens, was released in September 2024 by Texas A&M University Press. Additionally, Roy recently co-edited a U.S. Civil Rights history reader with Dr. Darryl Howard titled, A Dream Sustained, Not Deferred: Sustainability Topics in U.S. Southern Civil Rights History, published by Kendall Hunt in August 2026. He is currently co-editing an anthology with Dr. Thao Ha titled, Our Southern Accents: Asian American Voices in the South, to be released by Rutgers University Press in July 2027. He and his wife, Ngọc, live in Irving, Texas.

Roy Vũ earned his Ph.D. (2006) in history at the University of Houston. He is now a history professor at Dallas College. Roy volunteers as an advisory board member for the Alliance for Texas History Membership Committee, Foodways Texas, and Keep Ir... Show more

Vivian Lei is a 4th-year PhD candidate from the Department of English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University. She's currently working on a dissertation that uses authors’ personal archives to investigate how the U.S.’s imperial expansion into the Pacific and Caribbean in the first half of the 20th century is a historical process that seeps into the most private, intimate, and
personal spheres of identity and cultural formation.

Vivian Lei is a 4th-year PhD candidate from the Department of English and Comparative Literature at Columbia University. She's currently working on a dissertation that uses authors’ personal archives to investigate how the U.S.’s imperial expansion i... Show more

Dr. Mohamed Ali Saeed is a senior educational leader with over 25 years of experience in Arabic language education, curriculum development, educational leadership, and school improvement. He currently serves as Senior Leader for Ministry of Education subjects at Safa British School, Dubai, leading whole-school strategy to strengthen teaching quality, improve student outcomes, and advance curriculum innovation.

Holding a PhD in Educational Leadership, Dr. Mohamed is also an experienced bilingual school inspector, with extensive expertise in evaluating teaching, curriculum implementation, assessment, and school performance against national and international quality standards. Throughout his career, he has led educational improvement projects, developed Arabic curricula aligned with UAE and international frameworks, and coached educators to translate research into effective classroom practice.

His educational philosophy centres on ambitious expectations, inclusive teaching, and meaningful learning. He believes that every learner should experience both appropriate challenge and the support needed to succeed. For him, language education develops more than linguistic competence: it strengthens identity, critical thinking, creativity, and the confidence to communicate with purpose. He views assessment as a tool for understanding learners’ starting points, guiding teaching, and making progress visible.

His leadership philosophy combines a clear shared vision with trust, collaboration, and accountability. He believes sustainable school improvement grows through investing in people, listening to their perspectives, and creating a culture in which educators can reflect, question, and refine their practice. He advocates leadership that builds collective expertise and evaluates success through its impact on students’ learning and well-being.

A passionate advocate for excellence in Arabic education, Dr. Mohamed delivers professional learning on curriculum design, assessment, Arabic phonics in Early Years, AI in education, and effective classroom practice. His work connects educational research with practical implementation, helping teachers strengthen their practice and improve outcomes for learners.

Dr. Mohamed Ali Saeed is a senior educational leader with over 25 years of experience in Arabic language education, curriculum development, educational leadership, and school improvement. He currently serves as Senior Leader for Ministry of Education... Show more

Amy J. Wilson is the founder of Culture Shift Studio and the author of Empathy for Change, with a new book, The Shift That Sticks, in progress. Her work focuses on the human side of change: how people, teams, and institutions unlearn old patterns so that new tools and practices actually last.

Amy served as a White House Presidential Innovation Fellow and co-created Innovation.gov, a public-sector resource used by hundreds of thousands of federal employees. She also co-founded the Better Government Movement, a community of practice that grew to more than 5,000 public servants across 112 federal agencies. Her speaking has included the UN, the White House, SXSW, Google, Stanford, and the World Bank.

Today she works with nonprofits, government agencies, and social enterprises on organizational readiness, leadership, and sustained culture change. She is an RSA Fellow, an Aspen Tech Policy Fellow, and a Prosci Certified Change Practitioner.

Amy J. Wilson is the founder of Culture Shift Studio and the author of Empathy for Change, with a new book, The Shift That Sticks, in progress. Her work focuses on the human side of change: how people, teams, and institutions unlearn old patterns so ... Show more

Bea Mensing is a member of Klasse Klima with a background in Performing Arts, Philosophy and Education. Her interest lies in creating interdisciplinary and inclusive learnspaces, that combine theory and practice and consider cognitive and sensual aspects.

Bea Mensing ist ein Mitglied von Klasse Klima mit einem Hintergrund in Performativen Künsten, Philosophie und Bildung. Ihr Interesse liegt darin, interdisziplinäre und möglichst inklusive Lernräume zu gestalten, die Theorie und Praxis verbinden und sowohl kognitive als auch sinnliche Aspekte beachten.

Bea Mensing is a member of Klasse Klima with a background in Performing Arts, Philosophy and Education. Her interest lies in creating interdisciplinary and inclusive learnspaces, that combine theory and practice and consider cognitive and sensual asp... Show more

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC
President & Chief Executive Officer, Fathers & Families Coalition of America
Author | Founder, Borinqueño Within Press | Certified Executive Coach | Clinical Social Worker | Veteran | Researcher | Policy Architect | Curriculum Developer | International Trainer

"I am a Boricua. A dad. A soldier. A professional social worker. An advocate. A teacher. A professor. A counselor. And a friend. And with every role, I lead with love and serve with purpose."

Biography
Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC, is a globally celebrated architect of fatherhood engagement, social policy reform, and transformative leadership development. For over four decades, he has shaped public health, child welfare, mental health, and professional education—building bridges across disciplines, communities, and continents. His career is defined by multidimensional leadership and a relentless pursuit of equity, healing, and opportunity for all. A proud father, soldier, social worker, and visionary educator, he has devoted his life to helping people rediscover hope, dignity, and purpose. His reach spans early childhood education, public health, leadership development, and fatherhood advocacy—fields that, in his hands, become pathways toward healing and intergenerational equity.

"Insights give way to dreams—developing vision—creating purpose that ends in your why."

Foundations: Service, Resilience, and Cultural Identity
Born into a low-income household and shaped by the adversity of the child welfare system, James began his journey at age 17 as a U.S. Army Combat Medic. By 22, he became one of the youngest Substance Abuse Counselors in the Department of Defense, retiring with honors and meritorious distinction in the reserves. Over more than two decades of military service, he developed expertise in trauma response, behavioral health, and law enforcement. This experience forged his devotion to discipline, compassion, and advocacy for the vulnerable.

James's service has been recognized at the highest levels: he is the recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Call to Service Award (President Barack Obama), Points of Light Award (President George H. W. Bush), Meritorious Service Medal (U.S. Department of Defense), and Congressional Certificates from Maxine Waters, Sheila Jackson-Lee, Barbara Lee, and Diane E. Watson. He is deeply honored by the Ceremonial Elder Proclamation from the Qutekcak Native Tribe of Alaska, the National Social Worker Leadership Resolution (FFCA), and hundreds of additional accolades from national, state, tribal, and community organizations.

Architect of Systems Change: Building Movements, Securing Hope
As founder and CEO of the Fathers & Families Coalition of America (FFCA), Dr. Rodríguez transformed a grassroots Arizona network into an international force with offices in California and Puerto Rico, and active partnerships across North America, the Caribbean, Africa, Europe, and Australia. He was instrumental in creating one of the nation's first TANF-funded fatherhood programs, a model that generated over $75 million in resources and has been replicated nationwide. Under his leadership, FFCA's International Families & Fathers Conference—now in its 27th year—has become a global destination for educators, policymakers, and innovators, advancing justice and family well-being.

A founding steering committee member of the Fatherhood Research & Practice Network (FRPN) at Temple University, James has shaped federal research and policy, serving as principal investigator and senior research consultant on projects for the Office of Refugee Resettlement, CDC, NIMH, and the Oregon Center for Applied Science. His work has driven advances in public health, trauma-informed care, and family resilience.

Signature Curriculum Development and Thought Leadership
James is a master architect of transformational curricula and professional development, including the Advanced Practitioner Credential™ Course (NASW Arizona-approved), OAR Leadership Institute™ (Ownership • Accountability • Responsibility), FFCA DiSC Model™, Ikigai & The Power of Kintsugi™, and SAMHSA-approved Fatherhood and Mental Health Curriculum. He also developed the Strengthening Families Through Nurturing Leadership model. His trainings are lauded for blending cognitive science, neuroplasticity, emotional intelligence, trauma-informed care, and actionable leadership strategies, and have reached over 30,000 professionals—social workers, educators, clinicians, nonprofit leaders, and public officials—across the U.S. and four continents. Over 85% of program graduates report improved outcomes, including higher client engagement and service completion.

Certified as an Executive Coach, Master Trainer for The John R. Wooden Course™, Certified DiSC® Trainer, Life Coach, Ikigai Coach, and Schema Therapy Practitioner, Dr. Rodríguez's leadership development institutes have set new standards for excellence in behavioral health and family services.

Academic Impact, Mentorship, and Global Teaching
Dr. Rodríguez's educational reach is extraordinary. He has served as faculty, lecturer, or keynote at:

University of Southern California
Arizona State University
Morehouse College
Howard University
Columbia University
Yale University
University of Houston
Clark Atlanta University
Mesa Community College
Central Arizona College
Cornell University
Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico
University of the West Indies (Jamaica)
University of Guelph (Canada)
Malcolm X College
Sobo Tribal Nation
Navajo Nation
Qutekcak Native Tribe (Alaska)
Numerous First Nations and international partners
He developed and directed over 30 undergraduate and graduate courses, established statewide programs, and has keynoted and taught from Ivy League classrooms to tribal communities. He serves on the editorial board of PHYLON: The Clark Atlanta University Review of Race and Culture, which he joined upon the appointment of Dr. Obie Clayton, Jr., and supports scholarship on race, family, and social change.

Policy Leadership, Board Service, and Community Engagement
Dr. Rodríguez's policy influence extends to every level of government. He has developed legislation for Connecticut's Fatherhood Initiative, served on Arizona and California TANF/family-strengthening task forces, and advised the New York City Mayor's Fatherhood Advisory Council, DYCD, and ACS. He has shaped policy in partnership with SAMHSA, Region II Head Start, the State of Maryland, and the National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health. He has provided expert testimony before the U.S. House Ways & Means Committee. He collaborates with Congressman Danny K. Davis and hosts national Fireside Policy Roundtables on equity, child support, and education reform.

His board service is cross-sectoral and visionary, including:

100 Black Men – Arizona Chapter
AGAPE Adoption Agency
Maricopa County Human Services
Fatherhood Corrections Network
Black Family Preservation Institute
And numerous national, state, and tribal boards
Public Health, Equity, and Systems Innovation
James has led multiple national initiatives addressing mental health equity, early childhood wellness, and culturally responsive care—serving Latino, African American, Somali, First Nations, and other underserved communities. His work with the Somali Association of Arizona, the Hispanic/Latino and African American Parent Depression Research Project, and tribal partners has been recognized for its transformative impact on systems and inclusion.

Author, Storyteller, and Purpose-Driven Advocate
As founder of Borinqueño Within Press and author of the forthcoming The Purpose Within—Rise Out of the Ashes Like the Phoenix, Dr. Rodríguez's story is a testament to resilience, hope, and the enduring power of purpose. He weaves together memoir, leadership philosophy, and spiritual reflection, inspiring audiences to discover their own capacity to lead and transform.

Personal Values, Humanity, and Enduring Legacy
Above all, Dr. Rodríguez is a father, grandfather, and mentor. He draws daily inspiration from his children—Antonio (Cassandra), Amber Rodríguez-Young, LMSW (Daric), and Jazmín Rodríguez—and his grandchildren, Ariston and Adalena. His life and work are an expression of core values: love, empathy, humility, and a drive to uplift others. Whether leading a boardroom, inspiring a conference, or building coalitions for social change, James delivers wisdom, practical strategies, and hope—leaving every audience moved to action.

"Leadership is not about titles. It is about being water—shaping, flowing, and giving life wherever you go." — Bruce Lee.

If your organization seeks a keynote speaker, leadership institute facilitator, or strategic advisor who brings unparalleled experience, intellectual rigor, cultural fluency, and a proven record of impact, Dr. James C. Rodríguez is the transformative presence your audience deserves.

Contact:
james.rodriguez@fathersandfamiliescoalition.org
www.fathersandfamiliescoalition.org

"Never The End, Never Goodbye, Just I love You." – Your Friend, James

Dr. James C. Rodríguez, MSW, CADC President & Chief Executive Officer, Fathers & Families Coalition of America Author | Founder, Borinqueño Within Press | Certified Executive Coach | Clinical Social Worker | Veteran | Researcher | Policy Architect ... Show more

Aaron Gross directs the Center for Food Systems Transformation (CFST) at the University of San Diego, where he is also Founding Faculty in Food Studies and a tenured Professor of Theology and Religious Studies. CFST supports research and practice aimed at equitable, climate-friendly food systems, with a focus on reducing food-related Scope 3 emissions in higher education and closing the gap between institutional values and campus food practices — work that runs through faculty, students, and dining operations alike. Gross is founder and board chair of Farm Forward, whose research and advocacy target factory farming, and co-founder of the Better Food Foundation, which develops and deploys behavioral strategies, including plant-based defaults, to shift institutional procurement and student food choice. He collaborated with Jonathan Safran Foer on Eating Animals and brings more than two decades of work in food ethics and animal agriculture to applied campus change.

Aaron Gross directs the Center for Food Systems Transformation (CFST) at the University of San Diego, where he is also Founding Faculty in Food Studies and a tenured Professor of Theology and Religious Studies. CFST supports research and practice aim... Show more