Speakers: Marianne Gribbon, Maria Lopez, Leslie R. Reid, M.S. Ed., and Kathleen Innocenti, M.S. Ed.
Marianne Gribbon (she/her/hers), MA, MS is an experienced educator with over 15 years of leadership in P-12. Equity in education is the cornerstone of her work. From preschoolers to out of school youth, she works to expand opportunities for all.
Maria Lopez graduated from Brooklyn College with a Bachelor’s degree in special education and social work. She has been working with children for the last eight years. She is also a Registered Behavioral Therapist RBT. Maria has dedicated the last six years in the classroom as a lead teacher, teaching children with special needs. Recently, I have become a the lead member of her school’s PBIS Committee which encompasses what she believes in: utilizing positive behavioral interventions and supports to foster and supports individuals.
Leslie R. Reid, MSEd. is a knowledgeable professional with 25+ years’ experience in Program Development and Evaluation, Workforce Readiness and Secondary Education. She is particularly adept at constructing and managing programs that integrate the five core components of effective educational programs: high-quality academic achievement; stakeholder partnerships; career and technical education training and credentialing; volunteerism and social action. Ms. Reid is an innovator in the fields of distance learning, outreach, recruitment, and building community partnerships and her work has set the standard in the Youth Development learning community.
Kathleen Innocenti, MSEd. is an experienced special education HS teacher at The Fedcap School. The Fedcap School is an accredited private school in West Orange, New Jersey, dedicated to helping students ages 13-21 classified with cognitive, multiple, or behavioral disabilities succeed and thrive into adulthood. Through individualized and group instruction, our students flourish through our comprehensive academic curriculum and behavior modification programs. Kathleen works with students to gain equal access to educational opportunities that enhance decision-making, problem- solving and social skills, improving their quality of life—both in school and after graduation.
Speakers: Dr. Anne Marie Ristow, Roxana Zapata, Ann Meggs, and Pamela Sudduth
Dr. Anne Marie Ristow has dedicated her career to advocating for equity in education across multiple continents. Her ceaseless sense of servant leadership extends all curiosities, enthusiasm and creativity through the inspirations of those who have paved the path before her-for which she is most grateful. She has served within school, district, university, state, national and international teaching, coaching, researching and leading roles. Dr. Ristow’s systems-thinking has been acknowledged through nominations as Disney Teacher of the Year, awards of District and State Regional Reading Coach of the Year, National Board Certification and as a Fulbright Teaching and Leading Scholar. Currently, she is coordinating student support and academic achievement in the state of Florida for the University of South Florida’s Institute of School Reform. Her equity advocacy has brought her to her dream work of taking people from poverty to purpose through education and healthcare revitalization in Africa.
Roxana Zapata has worked in education over the past 20 years and worked for 14 years within the Florida Education system as a school psychologist, district coach for MTSS implementation, Florida Department of Education regional school improvement specialist and as part of the state’s Bureau of School Improvement Professional Development Team. She obtained her Education Specialist degree from Florida International University and completed a Harvard Graduate School of Education certificate program – Leading Change in Education Systems: Effective Policy and Practice for Improving Outcomes. Most recently, Roxana was the Director of Professional Development for School Leaders for the Innova Schools network of 63 schools in Lima, Peru and has worked with the British Council as Peru’s School Transformation Manager and the Regional Manager of the Americas of the Core Skills, 21st century skills, training program. Roxana is currently Co-Founder and Academic Director of EDvolution Perú, offering learning experiences, coaching and community to school leaders in Peru and other countries in Latin America.
Ann Meggs was born in Belize, Central America, raised in Brooklyn, New York, and now calls Bradenton, Florida her home. Her compassion, empathy, and leadership are directly related to her educational experiences, fantastic role models, and knowledgeable instructors. Her positions included: substitute teacher, paraprofessional, math teacher, principal, school improvement specialist, instructional coach, and education consultant. During her leisure time, traveling and being on the beach takes her to her happy place.
Pamela Sudduth is a Learning and Development Facilitator of Literacy for the PS/RtI Project at the University of South Florida. She has a diverse background in the field of education with over twenty years experience. Pamela has a Master’s Degree in Reading and a Bachelor’s Degree in Specific Learning Disabilities as well as certifications in English for Speakers of Other Languages, English, and her Reading Endorsement. Her experience as an Exceptional Education instructor, secondary English and reading educator, school-based Exceptionality Specialist, and Reading Coach as well as on district and state level teams for school improvement brings well-rounded experiences to classrooms, schools, and districts throughout the state of Florida.
Speaker: Frank Mata
This is my 17th year in the high school ELA classroom. I have presented at both California Association for Teachers of English (CATE) and Expository Reading and Writing Course (ERWC) annual leadership conferences. I have also been a discussion panelist for various equity symposiums organized by Riverside County Office of Ed., University of Redlands, and UC, Riverside. I am a Fellow for the Institution for Teachers Of Color (ITOC) and was recently published in the California English journal for an essay titled “Being James Baldwin.”
Speaker: Kristen Miller, M.S. Educational Leadership
Kristen Miller, M.S. Educational Leadership – Following a three-year engineering career, Kristen Miller spent 14 years in education teaching predominantly high school mathematics, AVID and Career Technical Education, and serving as a middle school Vice Principal in Northern California. Seeing a huge need for high quality social and emotional interventions, systems and supports, Miller created a youth empowerment organization, With Heart Project (WHP), to work alongside schools and districts promoting Social-Emotional Wellness (SEL), Restorative Practices (RP), and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). In her inaugural year, she partnered with a high poverty middle school in Northern California to create and implement practices, processes, and procedures to decrease student suspension rates and increase academic achievement. Her results were remarkable. Her efforts yielded a 79% growth in Common Core Mathematics achievement, as well as reduction in discipline and attendance infractions, increase in GPA, and increase in math and reading grade levels among at-risk students.
Speaker: Dr. Yvette Latunde
Dr. Yvette Latunde is a Professor of Organizational Leadership and Co-Director of the LaFetra College of Education Center for Educational Equity and Intercultural Research (CEEIR) at the University of La Verne. In her role with CEEIR she assists the community in identifying, studying, and recognizing P-20 schools that engage in highly effective practices that results in equitable outcomes for all students (no achievement gaps). The center also provides professional development for the college, university, and community on best practices for diverse P-20 learners.
Currently Dr. Latunde is assisting schools throughout California with developing effective family, school, and community partnerships through African American Parent Advisory Councils and community partnerships.
Speakers: Dr. April Clay, Gwendolyn Easley, and A.K. Parker
Dr. April M. Clay is the Chief Executive Officer and founder of two mental health organizations: Clay Counseling Solutions and it’s non-profit subsidiary, Clay Counseling Foundation. Her work focuses on infusing cultural responsiveness and restorative practices into education and counseling. Alongside her team, she works to close the educational opportunity gap and provide adult and student behavior support services. Dr. Clay’s education and background includes serving as a teacher, school counselor, therapist, researcher and university professor. She possesses a License in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Doctorate in Education with an emphasis on Educational Justice. (Education Title: Ed.D.)
Gwen Easley (she/her) is an Inland Empire native. She recently received her MA in Counseling from La Sierra University and is working on her PPS credential for School Counseling. She also works part-time as a Direct Interventionist in the field of Applied Behavior Analysis, supporting families who have children with special needs. Gwen enjoys spending volunteering with the anti-human trafficking organizations, Operation Transformation & Forgotten Children, Inc., supporting social justice initiatives and planning fun activities with her friends & family.
K. Parker, (they/them) is a Black, Queer, and Non-binary registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor. Parker is a graduate from Loma Linda University’s Masters of Science in Counseling Program, earning their degree in both School and Clinical Counseling. They have a wealth of experience leading support groups for LGBTQ+ students, notably working as a group facilitator for Transgender/Non-Binary students at the University of California, Riverside and The Claremont Colleges. They currently serve as a board member for Inland Empire Prism Collective (IEPC), helping to develop programs that assist and advocate for the needs of LGBTQIA+ youth of color in San Bernardino. By mindfully being aware of their own intersectionality and experience of being a Black and Gender Non-binary individual, Parker brings passion and commitment to fostering an environment where marginalized groups feel safe and supported in navigating through their unique journeys.
Lunch Session Hosted by: Sierra Semone
Sierra Semone is a certified Make-Up Artist, a plus-size model, actress and entertainer who promotes self-love and positive body image. She completed her certificate for make-up and special effects at Elegance International School for Professional Make-up and Special Effects in Hollywood, California. Her expertise includes applying beauty make-up and special effects. She has experience in musical theater, modeling, singing, dancing and she is currently in pursuit of obtaining a career in the entertainment field to serve as an influence in society. Her major goal is to bring awareness to bullying. Sierra is looking forward to entering into the field of entertainment and plans to inspire others through the arts.
Speakers: Dr. Yvette Harris, Dr. Yasmin Sayyed, Dr. Charlena M. Morton, and Dr. LaTasha Cooper
Dr. Yvette Harris is a senior consultant for Education and Development Resources Consulting Services, Inc. (EDR). Dr. Harris is an author as well as an Internationally Certified John Maxwell Trainer, Speaker, and Coach. She has a passion for providing high quality services. Her passion and commitment to serving has resulted in a client list including former professional athletes, youth, parents, and the re-entry population. Dr. Harris earned her Doctorate in Education Leadership and Education Specialist degrees from Liberty University. In addition, she earned, M.S. Degrees in Education Administration from National University and Counseling and Guidance from Cal State San Bernardino. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science from Cal Poly Pomona; and an Associates in Liberal Arts from Mt. San Antonio College.
Speakers: Dr. Talisa Sullivan and Dr. Anne Marie Ristow
Dr. Sullivan is a champion for Equity and Access and has been an educator for over 20 years serving students, teachers, staff, parents, and the community across four large counties: Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino. She earned a Ph.D. in Education with an emphasis on Urban Leadership. Her area of expertise includes marginalized youth who have experienced intergenerational trauma. She has built a rapport as an Adaptive Leader and Equity Champion throughout the Greater Los Angeles Area. She also serves as the CEO and Lead Consultant for Transformational Leadership Consulting “TLC” Services. She is the creator of the Q10 and has a magnitude of knowledge and training in education and is passionate about working with educators who prepare students for 21st Century college, careers, and overall success. Dr. Sullivan’s mission is to make a positive impact on education by disrupting systemic barriers that impede success, building sustaining bridges that empower others, and ensuring our historically marginalized students, staff, teachers, and leaders have what they need to be successful in all of their endeavors.
Dr. Anne Marie Ristow has dedicated her career to advocating for equity in education across multiple continents. Her ceaseless sense of servant leadership extends all curiosities, enthusiasm and creativity through the inspirations of those who have paved the path before her-for which she is most grateful. She has served within school, district, university, state, national and international teaching, coaching, researching and leading roles. Dr. Ristow’s systems-thinking has been acknowledged through nominations as Disney Teacher of the Year, awards of District and State Regional Reading Coach of the Year, National Board Certification and as a Fulbright Teaching and Leading Scholar. Currently, she is coordinating student support and academic achievement in the state of Florida for the University of South Florida’s Institute of School Reform. Her equity advocacy has brought her to her dream work of taking people from poverty to purpose through education and healthcare revitalization in Africa.
Speaker: Frank Arce
Frank Arce has been in education for about 20 years. Getting to college, in and of itself, was truly an achievement against all odds for him. As an educator, school leader, and now a member of district leadership, Frank has spoken at various venues on the power of making powerful connections with students.
Speakers: Dr. Yvette Harris, Dr. Tonikiaa Orange, Dr. Yasmin Sayyed, Dr. Kennita Burns Johnson, Dr. Kimberly Kelly-Rolfe, Roslyn D. Morris, Dr. Charlena M. Morton, Dr. Angela N. Campbell
Dr. Yvette Harris is a senior consultant for Education and Development Resources Consulting Services, Inc. (EDR). Dr. Harris is an author as well as an Internationally Certified John Maxwell Trainer, Speaker, and Coach. She has a passion for providing high quality services. Her passion and commitment to serving has resulted in a client list including former professional athletes, youth, parents, and the re-entry population. Dr. Harris earned her Doctorate in Education Leadership and Education Specialist degrees from Liberty University. In addition, she earned, M.S. Degrees in Education Administration from National University and Counseling and Guidance from Cal State San Bernardino. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Behavioral Science from Cal Poly Pomona; and an Associates in Liberal Arts from Mt. San Antonio College.
Speaker: Dobijoki Emanuela Bringi, Ed.D
Dobijoki Emanuela Bringi is an Ed.D Candidate at Western University. With an MA in Education and a BA in Multicultural and Indigenous Studies, Dobijoki centers her work on the educational improvement and success of Black and marginalized students and communities. Her research is currently centered on: Indigenous African knowledges, decolonization, anti-Black racism, and organizational improvement. Dobijoki Emanuela is the founder of Dobijoki Personal Development & Vital Vibes App, a joint service which uses an African-centered lens in supporting people in owning their Power Stories. Dobijoki also uses her platform to amplify the voices of Black, Indigenous, and marginalized communities through her radio show and podcast, You are Power Radio.
Speaker: Dr. Margaret Weaver
Dr. Margaret Weaver is the Director of Composition and a Professor of English at Missouri State University. Her areas of expertise include writing center studies, feminist theory, and rhetoric/composition. Her work has appeared in such publications as Writing Center Journal and Journal of Advanced Composition.
Speakers: Dr. April Clay, Tawon Green, and Chanel Treadwell
Dr. April M. Clay is the Chief Executive Officer and founder of two mental health organizations: Clay Counseling Solutions and it’s non-profit subsidiary, Clay Counseling Foundation. Her work focuses on infusing cultural responsiveness and restorative practices into education and counseling. Alongside her team, she works to close the educational opportunity gap and provide adult and student behavior support services. Dr. Clay’s education and background includes serving as a teacher, school counselor, therapist, researcher and university professor. She possesses a License in Marriage and Family Therapy and a Doctorate in Education with an emphasis on Educational Justice. (Education Title: Ed.D.)
Tawon Green grew up on the Westside of San Bernardino, CA. He graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from Bethel College in Kansas. Currently, he is the Program Director for Clay Counseling Foundation. He serves as a lead facilitator for our Restorative Practice circles and synergy activities. Tawon is a certified Restorative Practices facilitator and provides therapeutic behavioral support to students. Tawon prides himself in providing support for individuals who’ve essentially lost their voice due to their social economic status. His goal is to help individuals’ become the best version of themselves.
Chanel Treadwell is a registered Associate Professional Clinical Counselor, working for Clay Counseling Solutions in a dual role as Clinical Counselor and Program Coordinator. She has a Masters in Clinical Counseling, a Bachelors in Psychology and a minor in Diversity studies . Her own multicultural upbringing and training provides her with great empathy and multicultural competence when working with her clients. Chanel’s previous clinical internships have spanned work with clients as young as toddlers and across various walks of life.
Chanel also has her PPS credential and has engaged in several school counseling internships spanning all of K-12. She is a licensed trainer for the International Institute of Restorative Practices. Her drive comes from a wish that school counselors were available when she was a young student, and is now passionate in working to fill that gap for our current generation of students.
Speaker: Dr. Jacqueline L. Sanderlin, Ed.D.
Dr. Jacqueline Sanderlin is an educator, author, and speaker. Known for being a community partnership guru and has secured over 350 community partnerships and counting! She is the Founder and CEO of the Why Not Incubator where she coaches educational leaders and corporate teams how to connect and create win-win situations.
Jose relocated and began working for Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) with students with severe social and emotional trauma as well as students who were released from juvenile detention centers and expelled from their local high schools. While working for LACOE, Jose mentored and assisted students with their academics. In addition, Jose also spent time taking students and parents on field trips to several community colleges and universities.
Moreover, he helped multiple students graduate from high school and move on to seek higher education at local community colleges. Additionally, he also helped with leading professional development and mentorship programs for students.
Lastly, Jose worked for Rolling Hills Prep and Renaissance School of The Arts and Science for four years. There he was a history and physical education teacher, and a learning specialist. As a learning specialist, Jose worked with students with learning differences. He helped students organize their homework, prepare for quizzes and tests, and maintain their daily schedules.
Jose was in constant communication with student advisors, teachers, parents, and counselors to ensure that students were performing and getting their work turned in on time and on track to graduate high school. While at Rolling Hills Prep and Renaissance School of The Arts and Science, Jose transformed students’ lives by helping them achieve high levels of success and happiness, which in turn led them to graduate high school and move on to local community colleges and universities
Speaker: Dr. Shelley Jones-Holt
Dr. Shelley Jones-Holt has served the educational leadership field for over 20 years as a pK-12, Collegiate, and Adult teacher, principal, director and superintendent. Dr. Jones-Holt has been a champion of eliminating the school to prison pipeline by creating pipelines to career and life success. Addressing educational challenges with a sociological lens focused on equity leadership that supports and nurtures students, employees and families to achieve their personal best. She is now serving as a Racial and Educational Equity Consultant providing training, facilitation, coaching and support to equity-driven teams and organizational, legislative, and educational leaders across the nation. She is the founder of Leadership Legacy Consulting, LLC and the of a non-profit Family Legacy 5 focusing on providing technical and educational support to families.
Speaker: Dr. Sharroky Hollie
Dr. Sharroky Hollie is a national educator who provides professional development to thousands of educators in the area of cultural responsiveness. Since 2000, Dr. Hollie has trained over 150,000 educators and worked in nearly 2,000 classrooms. Going back 25 years, he has been a classroom teacher at the middle and high school levels, a central office professional development coordinator in Los Angeles Unified School District, a school founder and administrator, and university professor in teacher education at Cal State University. Sharroky has also been a visiting professor for Webster University in St. Louis and a guest lecturer at Stanford and UCLA. In addition to his experience in education, he has authored several texts and journal articles. Most recently, he wrote Strategies for Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Teaching and Learning (2015) and contributed a chapter in the Oxford Handbook of African American Language (2015). Dr. Hollie’s first book, Culturally and Linguistically Responsive Teaching and Learning: Classroom Practices for Student Success, was published in 2011, followed soon thereafter by The Skill to Lead, The Will to Teach, co-written with Dr. Anthony Muhammad. Also, Dr. Hollie has been a contributing author with Pearson publishing, in the Cornerstone and Keystone textbook series (2009), Prentice Hall Anthology (2012), and iLit e-series (2014). In 2003, he and two colleagues founded the Culture and Language Academy of Success, a laboratory school that demonstrated the principles of cultural responsiveness in an exemplary school wide model, which operated until 2013.
Speaker: Dr. Samantha Cuillier
Dr. Samantha Cuillier has dedicated her professional career to eliminating discrimination, sexual harassment and sexual misconduct in primarily educational settings through fair and neutral investigating of students, staff and faculty in addition to creating developmentally appropriate preventative programming for students, staff and faculty.
Speaker: Dr. Shelley Jones-Holt
Dr. Shelley Jones-Holt has served the educational leadership field for over 20 years as a pK-12, Collegiate, and Adult teacher, principal, director and superintendent. Dr. Jones-Holt has been a champion of eliminating the school to prison pipeline by creating pipelines to career and life success. Addressing educational challenges with a sociological lens focused on equity leadership that supports and nurtures students, employees and families to achieve their personal best. She is now serving as a Racial and Educational Equity Consultant providing training, facilitation, coaching and support to equity-driven teams and organizational, legislative, and educational leaders across the nation. She is the founder of Leadership Legacy Consulting, LLC and the of a non-profit Family Legacy 5 focusing on providing technical and educational support to families.
Speaker: Dr. Katie Novak
Katie Novak, Ed.D. is an internationally renowned education consultant. With 18 years of experience in teaching and administration, an earned doctorate in curriculum and teaching, and eight published books (Links to an external site.), Katie designs and presents workshops both nationally and internationally focusing on the implementation of inclusive practices, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), multi-tiered systems of support, and universally designed leadership. Novak’s work has impacted educators worldwide as her contributions and collaborations have built upon the foundation for an educational framework that is critical for student success.
Dr. Novak is the author of the best-selling book, UDL Now! A Teacher’s Guide to Applying Universal Design for Learning in Today’s Classrooms. Her book, Innovate Inside the Box, with George Couros, explores how to create innovative and purposeful learning opportunities for students within the constraints of educational systems. Let Them Thrive was endorsed by the PACER Foundation. Two additional publications, of which she is a co-author, have been endorsed by leading professors in the field of education and state departments of education. UDL in the Cloud was endorsed by the Executive Director of The Initiative on Learning and Teaching at MIT while Mitchell Chester, the late Commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE), endorsed Universally Designed Leadership.
Novak’s work has been highlighted in many publications including Edutopia, Language Magazine, NAESP Principal, ADDitude Magazine, Commonwealth Magazine, The Inclusion Lab, Think Inclusive, School news, the Huffington Post, Principal Leadership, District Administrator, ASCD Education Update, and School Administrator.
Speaker: Frank Arce
Frank Arce has been in education for about 20 years. Getting to college, in and of itself, was truly an achievement against all odds for him. As an educator, school leader, and now a member of district leadership, Frank has spoken at various venues on the power of making powerful connections with students.
Session Host: Larisa Sharifi
Larisa Sharifi (she/her/hers) has her B.A. in French from Columbia University and her M.S. in Reading from SUNY Albany. She also has certification in Educational Leadership from The College of New Jersey, with a focus on professional development and organizational culture. As a TCK educator, and after 15 years in international teaching and leadership, she is driven to focus on the emotional health and wellbeing of studentsandteachers. She believes that equity work should be joyful and pleasurable and is interested in how emergent strategy can be applied to educational community organizing. Yoga, walks in minimal footwear, and spending time with her 2-year-old daughter Ayla keep her (relatively) grounded during this COVID moment. She currently lives in Hannover, Germany.
Speakers: Jina Poirier, M.Ed., Anne Wolff, M.Ed., Brianne Parker, M.Ed., and Ryan Hinkle
Jina Poirier, M.Ed. is a Program Specialist with the Orange County Department of Education, Alternative, Community, & Correctional Educational Schools and Services (ACCESS) program. Jina has 19 years experience in both traditional and non-traditional settings. Prior to her current position as a Program Specialist: Academic Interventions, she held the positions of classroom teacher and Program Specialist for EL Services. Jina has used her experience in designing and implementing activities and programs for promoting academic engagement and success of students coming from diverse social backgrounds. She has her B.S. in Human Services and a M.Ed. in Education. Jina was one of the initial creators of ACCESS 2 Character Education (ACE). Jina is a Trainer of Trainers in Restorative Practices trained through the International Institute for Restorative Practices, (IIRP). She is a Level 1 Google Certified Educator.
Anne Wolff, M.Ed. is the Educational Technology User Support Assistant with the Orange County Department of Education, Alternative, Community, & Correctional Educational Schools and Services (ACCESS) program. Over the course of a ten year career, she has built her professional reputation utilizing expertise in education, arts, media, entertainment, and information/communication technologies on three principles: hard work, efficiency, and continuous improvement. She supports students and staff with technology in the classroom as well as trains students and staff on new technology. She holds a B.S. in Political Science, B.S. Multimedia Design Technology, and an M.S. in Educational and Instructional Technology. Anne has earned CTE credentials in Information and Communication Technologies, and Arts, Media, and Entertainment. She is a Level 1 and 2 Google Certified Educator.
Brianne Parker, M.Ed. is a Teacher at Pacific Coast High School with the Orange County Department of Education, Alternative, Community, & Correctional Educational Schools and Services (ACCESS) program. Prior to her current position as a teacher at Pacific Coast High School, she has held the positions of EL TOSA, Classroom, and Assistant Principal. She has also taught for the Adult ESL program as well as college level courses. She has 18 years of experience in alternative education and holds a B.A. in English Literature and a M.Ed. in Education. She is a Level 1 Google Certified Educator.
Ryan Hinkle is the ELA TOSA with the Orange County Department of Education, Alternative, Community, & Correctional Educational Schools and Services (ACCESS) program. He supports staff with the implementation of ELA standards along with the promotion of differentiated instruction and Universal Design for Learning. Ryan was one of the initial creators of ACCESS 2 Character Education (ACE) and continues to develop and promote its curriculum. Ryan has been involved with alternative education since 1999. He is a Level 1 Google Certified Educator.
Speakers: Dr. John B. Craig
Dr. John Craig is an Associate Professor, Chair for Educational Development Services, and Director of the Academic Success Program/ACT 101 at West Chester University of Pennsylvania. He earned his Doctor of Education Degree in Educational and Organizational Leadership at the University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education, and his Master’s and Bachelor’s degrees in Education at Temple University. Dr. Craig is the editor of the Journal of Access, Retention and Inclusion in Higher Education, a peer review journal with a national audience. He is also the Immediate Past President of the Pennsylvania Conference on Higher Education, Inc.
Speakers: Gerard Vargas and Jose Hernandez
The curriculum’s designer and professional development director, Gerard Javier Vargas, has extensive experience and expertise in curriculum design, teacher training, instructional coaching, Socio-Emotional Learning (SEL), and cognitive neuroscience. Gerard taught high school science for 12 years at Animo Leadership Charter High School, leading staff professional development and helping it become the 7th best high school in California according to the 2019 US News and World Report. Gerard was a teacher leader for 10+ years at various levels (grade level leader, science department chair, and district-wide science professional development lead).Gerard is also an adjunct clinical faculty member at Loyola Marymount University, teaching science methods and brain-based teaching to educators in the graduate school of education. Gerard was instrumental in the development of Loyola Marymount’s CMAST program, where he developed new brain-based teaching approaches that led to high student achievement and engagement. (His students’ science test scores were the highest in the Green Dot Public Schools district for 6 consecutive years). In 2009 he received the national teacher of the year award by the prestigious Sigma Xi association, a scientific research honors society of Nobel Prize Laureates, including Albert Einstein. The CMAST program is a top-notch professional development program that has resulted in high levels of student achievement at all grade levels in Math and Science around the nation.
After teaching, Gerard was a science curriculum specialist for five years at Green Dot Public Schools where he led district-wide science teacher professional development, NGSS curriculum writing, and instructional coaching for middle and high school math and science teachers. Gerard gives guest lectures and workshops at various education conferences around the nation, inspiring the integration of brain-based teaching, literacy strategies, and SEL methods to improve Common Core and NGSS results (CSTA, NSTA, GLATSA, etc). He continues to consult various school districts in instructional professional development, SEL implementation, and school culture improvement. He is trained and certified in a range of teaching approaches including Thinking MapsTM, Reading Apprenticeship (RA), Literacy Design Collaborative (LDC), Brain-Based Teaching (CMAST), NGSS and Common Core, SEL instruction, and other methods that improve student academic achievement and mental health. We continually seek teacher and student feedback through focus groups, surveys, pilot lessons, and teacher interviews in order to continually improve the student experience and SEL outcomes for schools.
Co-founder Jose Hernandez started his teaching career at Animo Leadership Charter High School, where he taught history and English for seven years. During his teaching career at Animo Leadership Charter High School, Jose’s history and English classes had among the highest test scores in the entire school district. In addition, Jose’s history classes outperformed all other world history classes in Greendot Public Schools. While at Animo Leadership Charter High School, Jose was also part of the Discipline Review Board (DRB), where he oversaw student behavior cases and provided assistance to further support schools, teachers, and parents with behavior and academic problems.
Jose relocated and began working for Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE) with students with severe social and emotional trauma as well as students who were released from juvenile detention centers and expelled from their local high schools. While working for LACOE, Jose mentored and assisted students with their academics. In addition, Jose also spent time taking students and parents on field trips to several community colleges and universities.
Moreover, he helped multiple students graduate from high school and move on to seek higher education at local community colleges. Additionally, he also helped with leading professional development and mentorship programs for students.
Lastly, Jose worked for Rolling Hills Prep and Renaissance School of The Arts and Science for four years. There he was a history and physical education teacher, and a learning specialist. As a learning specialist, Jose worked with students with learning differences. He helped students organize their homework, prepare for quizzes and tests, and maintain their daily schedules.
Jose was in constant communication with student advisors, teachers, parents, and counselors to ensure that students were performing and getting their work turned in on time and on track to graduate high school. While at Rolling Hills Prep and Renaissance School of The Arts and Science, Jose transformed students’ lives by helping them achieve high levels of success and happiness, which in turn led them to graduate high school and move on to local community colleges and universities
Speaker: Kristen Miller, M.S. Educational Leadership
Kristen Miller, M.S. Educational Leadership – Following a three-year engineering career, Kristen Miller spent 14 years in education teaching predominantly high school mathematics, AVID and Career Technical Education, and serving as a middle school Vice Principal in Northern California. Seeing a huge need for high quality social and emotional interventions, systems and supports, Miller created a youth empowerment organization, With Heart Project (WHP), to work alongside schools and districts promoting Social-Emotional Wellness (SEL), Restorative Practices (RP), and Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS). In her inaugural year, she partnered with a high poverty middle school in Northern California to create and implement practices, processes, and procedures to decrease student suspension rates and increase academic achievement. Her results were remarkable. Her efforts yielded a 79% growth in Common Core Mathematics achievement, as well as reduction in discipline and attendance infractions, increase in GPA, and increase in math and reading grade levels among at-risk students.
Speaker: Heather (Salemme) Cowap, MS, MEd
Heather Cowap, MS, MEd. has spent 15 years in the high school science classroom. Inspired by the goal of enticing students to be motivated and engaged in content, Heather has used UDL (Universal Design for Learning) to engage and inspire her students to learn more deeply.
Speaker: Dr. Fabiola Bagula
Fabiola Bagula, Ph.D. is the Senior Director for the Equity Department at San Diego County Office of Education. She leads equity work across the 42 districts served. Dr. Bagula is faculty at both CSU San Jose and RISE San Diego, an organization that strives to promote adaptive leadership and equity consciousness with grass roots efforts. Dr. Bagula has vast public education experience and was the recipient of the Cesar Chavez visionary award for the Latinx community.
Speaker: Dr. Emily Guetzoian
Dr. Guetzoian has a passion for student success, particularly for unique, underserved, and/or non-traditional student populations. She currently works with primarily international, graduate-level, business students to support their academic, communication, and writing success.
Speaker: Dr. Felicia Conlan
Dr. Felicia Conlan, a Speech-Language Pathologist in the Los Angeles Unified School District, has served as a clinician, Master Teacher, supervisor and Speech Program Lead. A former broadcast journalist and bilingual teacher, Conlan has held several leadership roles in community and professional associations and presented in state and national conferences.
Speakers: Dr. Angela Clark Louque, Dr. Hannah Kivalahula-Uddin, Dr. Susan Haynes, and Dr. Carmen Beck
Angela Clark Louque is a Professor and Co-author of the book Equity Partnerships: A Culturally Proficient Guide to Family, School, and Community Engagement. Her areas of research include leadership, equity and inclusion, equity action plans, and policy and curriculum development. She consults with districts, county offices of education, and higher education institutions on Black faculty, students, and families.
Dr. Kivalahula-Uddin is a Professor at California State University, San Bernardino. Her research agenda is about intergenerational historical trauma and the need for individual and collective healing. Her work suggests that we (our students) cannot learn to our/their potential until we have healed from intergenerational historical trauma. It is the first research in the United States that shows a relationship between poor academic achievement and intergenerational historical trauma.
Susan Haynes, Ed.D, or more commonly known as Dr. H, is a professional educator in both the Community College and Secondary Education settings. She has written curriculum, developed numerous multicultural programs, and served as Master Teacher and Master Counselor. Susan has taught psychology in the chemical dependency counseling certificate program at Los Angeles Southwest College for over 10 years.
Dr. Carmen Beck’s education began in Lima, Peru where she was born. She attended the University of Lima and completed two years of General Studies. After she immigrated to the United States, she obtained a Bachelor of Science Degree in Liberal Studies at the University of Redlands. She later obtained a Masters of Arts in Literacy and English Language Development from Azusa Pacific University. Soon after, she obtained an Administrative Services Credential from the same university. She earned a doctorate in Educational Leadership also at Azusa Pacific University.
She is currently serving as an Adjunct professor in the Educational Leadership Department at Cal State San Bernardino. Her role is not only to teach classes, but to help coordinate and plan the education of teachers that want to become new administrators. Dr. Beck believes it is exciting to prepare the next generation of equity leaders!
As the Chief Academic Officer at Inglewood USD, she worked with a dedicated and dynamic group of individuals focused on student achievement and ensuring that our 8,700 students have the best education possible. They have finalized and started implementing their strategic plan.
Three years ago, she earned the certification for Chief Innovation Officer from Education Innovation Alliance and participated in the EL Roadmap workgroup where she created the policy for English Learners.
As a contributor to the field of education for over 20 years, she has served in many different roles, such as bilingual paraprofessional, teacher, college professor, middle school vice principal, principal, and director. Dr. Beck has been fortunate to work side by side with other leaders, mentors, and dedicated staff, students, and parents to provide the best service.
By serving as the Director of Curriculum/Instruction and Academic Enrichment for San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools, she gained a plethora of experiences, insight, and professional learning. As an administrator in San Bernardino City USD, she gained an exceptional background in curriculum, instruction, assessment, PBIS, MTSS, and leadership development.
Her professional focus is and has always been making student learning a priority and a guide for all instructional decisions.
Speaker: Dr. Judy D. White
Dr. Judy D. White served as the 12th Riverside County Superintendent of Schools. In her role, Dr. White worked with the county’s 23 school districts and the staff at the Riverside County Office of Education, to ensure high-quality education that invests in all students while developing and sustaining strong collaborative relationships with students, teachers, parents, and the community for student success. Superintendent White was born in Los Angeles California, graduated with honors from Cajon High School in San Bernardino, and earned an academic scholarship to Occidental College where she obtained a degree in Sociology, received a Master’s Degree in Education with an emphasis in Counseling from California State University San Bernardino and a teaching credential from UC Irvine. She later attended UC Riverside for her administrative credential and Azusa Pacific University for her doctorate in Educational Leadership. Dr. White describes herself as a servant leader and has added value to every position that she has ever held by increasing graduation rates, empowering students through internships, facilitating a countywide adopt-a-school process and Million Deliberate Acts of Kindness campaign.
Speaker: Frank Mata
Frank Mata is entering his 17th year in the ELA classroom at Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Eastvale, CA, located just outside of Orange County. He primarily teaches 12th grade ERWC and AP English Language & Composition. Also, he is an adjunct professor at the University of Redlands teaching a course called “Social Justice in Education” to credential and graduate candidates. His current project is piloting/writing a “b” compliant 12th grade ELA course focused solely on Social Justice & Equity. Frank recently obtained fellowship with the Institution for Teachers of Color Committed to Racial Justice (ITOC). He has presented at both ERWC Leadership and CATE conferences on the topics of Teacher & Student Power Dynamics, James Baldwin, and the Rhetorical Precis. Most recently, his article “Being James Baldwin” was published in California English Journal’s September, 2020 issue in which he focuses on the timeliness of James Baldwin’s challenge for educators given today’s social and political climate.
Speaker: Dr. Margaret Weaver
Dr. Margaret Weaver is the Director of Composition and a Professor of English at Missouri State University. Her areas of expertise include writing center studies, feminist theory, and rhetoric/composition. Her work has appeared in such publications as Writing Center Journal and Journal of Advanced Composition.
Speaker: Noaveyar Lee
Noaveyar Lee is the District Lead Counselor in Rialto Unified School District and the Chief Executive Officer of Speakeasy The Noaveyar Way LLC. She advocates for equity, self-improvement and enlightenment. Professionally, she advocates to empower all students, educators and community to be committed life-long learners.
Speaker: Dr. Shani Chen
Dr. Shani Chen is an education consultant, teacher, and writer. She founded Educate U, a career coaching platform to inspire, mentor, and teach students to build sustainable and prosperous careers. She also was a Linked Learning grant recipient from the James Irvine Foundation and continues to conduct research on career and technical education issues.
Hosted by: Latonja Davis-Benson, Professor Queen Bee Artist
Latonja Davis-Benson is an art professional and associate faculty in studio art at University of Riverside, Moreno Valley Community College and Mt. San Jacinto Community College. She received her science degree in radiology, Bachelor in Graphic Design and finally a Master in Fine Art, which have been the blessings to carry her through science and art careers. She is empowered by positive momentum and creative invention – that shapes who we are. She never stops at simple or less. She has led more than 3000 students over the past 2 decades in art education; teaching on what art means and how it can improve lives.
She has also been an integral part of the community by supporting K-12 schools with art program design and delivery, as well as, working with various galleries and museums during exhibition seasons.
Latonja currently runs 2 businesses; Latonja Fine Art Studio – Original Fine Art and Paint Hive Studio – Sip, Paint, and BEE Merry! She resided in Riverside County and has been an art icon for many of her followers – students and art collectors.
Speaker: Dr. Cherilynne Hollowell
Dr. Cherilynne Hollowell is a high school history and ethnic studies teacher as well as a Brandman University adjunct instructor. She has been a professional development facilitator, speaker, and guest lecturer on such topics as Equity: Not Just Another BuzzWord; A Teacher’s Guide to Preventing Bullying in the Classroom; Using Contemporary Music to Develop a Socio-Political Consciousness and to Create Change; Lit and Literate: Authentically Increasing Student Engagement (Hip Hop Education); and A Pathway to Equity via Cultural Proficiency. Her dissertation study Culturally Responsive School Leadership: How Principals Use Culturally Responsive Leadership Strategies to Develop Engaging and Inclusive School Environments for All Students reflects her devotion and commitment to the creation, maintenance, and sustainment of places of schooling that reflect and account for the needs of all students. http://digitalcommons.brandman.edu/edd_dissertations/239
Dr. Hollowell’s many community involvements including Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., DECIDE Riverside, BLU Advisory Board, and Empowering Young Women allow her to live out her passion of uplifting, informing, equipping, empowering, and encouraging young people to believe that they can be the best at everything they touch or envision despite their circumstances and despite what others say about them. Most importantly, she wants young people to operate and walk in the truth that they are valued, heard, and seen. One Love.
Speakers: Mary Alpaugh and Dea Simon
Coming Soon!
Coming Soon!
Speaker: Marti Miles-Rosenfield
Marti Miles-Rosenfield, Director of College Strong. For 33 years, Marti has taught English and Developmental Writing to underprepared students. Her interests include mindfulness, neuroplasticity, and Positive Psychology, and she incorporates these concepts into her curriculum. In 2017, she earned a Certificate of Positive Psychology (CAPP) and became certified in MBSR this past summer. Her concerns include equity in education, digital wellness, and mental health and well-being among students.
Speaker: Heather (Salemme) Cowap, MS, MEd
Heather Cowap, MS, MEd. has spent 15 years in the high school science classroom. Inspired by the goal of enticing students to be motivated and engaged in content, Heather has used UDL (Universal Design for Learning) to engage and inspire her students to learn more deeply.
Speakers: Dr. Jocelyn Manigo and Dr. Tiffany E. Jones
Dr. Jocelyn Manigo serves as Director of the Learning Assistance and Resource Center at West Chester University. She earned a Doctorate of Education from Widener University in school administration with an emphasis on curriculum, instruction and staff development. Her research interests include academic coaching, peer tutoring, and self-regulated learning.
Dr. Tiffany E. Jones is an Assistant Professor and Learning Specialist for the Academic Success Program at West Chester University. Her research interests include first year students, minority student empowerment, academic advising, learning strategies, and faculty development.
Speaker: Dr. Ameera Ali
Dr. Ameera Ali recently completed her PhD at York University. She has taught in York’s Department of Sociology (where she received two teaching awards) and has worked in York’s teaching and learning center, The Teaching Commons. She is currently conducting research on student experiences of equity and accessibility in higher education.
Quantum 10 (Q10) is a fusion of 10 different theories, frameworks, and practices that together focus on enhancing educational equity.
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