Our Panelists
Jeff Bellveau
Geoff Belleau is an education program administrator at the California Department of Education. He has over 25 years of experience as a high school, middle-school, and elementary-school educator. Before joining the Department of Education, he was a county office administrator, serving as program manager for instructional technology. In this role, he coordinated instructional technology projects along with district IT administrators and worked with schools and districts on technology integration and professional development. He has presented at several state and national education technology conferences. As a semi active blogger he has also published several articles to help educators and administrators implement technology in the schools.
Phil Boyte
Phil Boyte has spent his career transforming school culture, helping thousands of educators create environments where everyone feels seen, safe, and empowered to thrive. As founder of Learning for Living, he developed programs like Link Crew, WEB, and Breaking Down the Walls, which have profoundly impacted schools nationwide. Author of School Culture By Design and host of its podcast, Phil champions storytelling as a relationship-building tool and leads the People First Administrators Training, equipping leaders to prioritize connection and cultivate vibrant school communities.
Michael Crooke
Dr. Michael W. Crooke, former CEO of Patagonia (1999–2005), is a businessman and academic with leadership experience spanning outdoor apparel, venture capital, and healthcare. He has held faculty positions at Pepperdine University and the University of Oregon and currently chairs RandE Holdings LLC and the Avamere Health Services Advisory Board. Co-founder and co-Chairman of WAYB, a values-driven company reimagining family travel gear, Crooke specializes in integrating environmental and social considerations into business strategies to enhance brand differentiation and long-term shareholder value.
Kristy Drutman
Kristy Drutman, known as “Brown Girl Green,” is a youth climate activist passionate about the intersections of media, diversity, and environmentalism. She has spoken to thousands and led workshops on environmental storytelling across the U.S., collaborating globally to create culturally relevant content that inspires solutions to the climate crisis.
Kathleen Francis
Kathy Francis is Chair and President of WISE (Women in Sports and Events), the leading organization for professional women in sports and events. Founder of Oasis Sports Ventures, she develops amateur sports programs promoting physical activity and social engagement. Kathy has held leadership roles at the USTA, NJSEA, and Major League Baseball, where she led national campaigns, youth programs, and initiatives celebrating legends like Jackie Robinson and Hank Aaron.
Janiyah Gaston
Janiyah Gaston, a senior at Southern Illinois University majoring in Communication Studies with a specialization in Public Relations and a minor in Journalism, holds leadership roles as President of the SIUC chapters of the National Association of Black Journalists and Black Women’s Task Force. She also serves as Seasonal Public Relations Team Lead for Digital4Good, using her skills to make a positive impact on kids’ lives.
Beth Houf
Beth Houf is the principal of Capital City High School in Jefferson City, Missouri, and co-author of Lead Like a PIRATE: Make School Amazing for Your Students and Staff. She facilitates leadership training for the Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education and serves on various local, state, and national principal associations. A former adjunct professor and current doctoral student at the University of Missouri, Beth has received numerous accolades, including Missouri Exemplary New Principal and NASSP Principal of the Year. She also advises Future Ready Schools and is a Solution Tree PLC at Work Associate. Beth's proudest accomplishments are her two sons, Paul and Dawson, whom she helped guide through schools she has led.
Sharlee Jeter
Sharlee Jeter is the president of The Turn 2 Foundation, a nonprofit founded by her brother Derek Jeter to help young people achieve their full potential through leadership, academics, and healthy lifestyles. She also serves as vice president of strategy and development for Jeter Ventures and oversees the children and adult divisions of Jeter Publishing. Sharlee is a board member of the Women's National Basketball Players Association and co-author of The STUFF: Unlock Your Power to Overcome Challenges, Soar and Succeed, which empowers readers to recognize their strength and potential.
Richard Berlin
Richard Berlin, founding Chair of DREAM Charter School, served as DREAM’s Executive Director from 1997 and became co-CEO with Eve Colavito in 2021. Starting as a volunteer baseball coach in 1994, he led DREAM’s growth from a summer program into a nationally recognized organization serving over 2,000 youth from Pre-K to precollege across East Harlem and the South Bronx through charter schools and sports-based youth programs. He holds a BA in Political Science from the University of Wisconsin-Madison, studied Political Theory at the London School of Economics, and completed nonprofit management certificates at Columbia University.
Zack Britton
Zack Britton has had a 10+ year pitching career in Major League Baseball with the Baltimore Orioles and the New York Yankees. Zack was drafted out of high school from Weatherford High School in Texas in 2011.
Zach joined Aaron for the first ever Leadership in the Clubhouse where he shared his experiences leading on teams from Little League into the Major Leagues
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Josue De Paz
Josue De Paz is the CEO and co-founder of First Tech Fund (FTF), a nonprofit founded in 2020 that provides free technology access, mentorship, and career pathway guidance to low-income students of color, leveling the academic and professional playing fields. Previously, he managed partnerships at Girls Who Code and has held roles in financial services and advertising. A 2022-23 Obama Foundation Scholar at Columbia University, he is also a Coro Workforce Systems Leadership Fellow and NLC Fellow. Originally from Cuernavaca, Mexico, Josue immigrated to the U.S. at age 5, holds a B.S. in Political Science from Santa Clara University, and lives in Brooklyn, NY, with his wife and dog.
Lindi Duesenberg
Lindi Duesenberg is the founder and executive director of DMF Youth, an NYC nonprofit dedicated to empowering underserved youth through afterschool and summer programs focused on holistic growth. A former professional dancer and creator of the popular Dance Motivation Fitness workout, Lindi now channels her passion into motivating children and teens to succeed in all aspects of life. Through DMF Youth, she addresses the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of NYC’s youth, providing tools and support to help them thrive and achieve their full potential.
Lisa Friedman Clark
Lisa Friedman Clark, known as the “Luckiest Unlucky” person, has embraced a life full of big challenges and successes. Standing out at 6’1” with red hair, she graduated from Cornell University in 1984 with a degree in Electrical Engineering and began her career at IBM before transitioning to banking. Despite life’s difficulties, Lisa remains optimistic and dedicated to her work and community. Now residing in Boca Raton, FL, with her husband, Bruce, she co-founded Tall Order, a family business creating fashion-forward socks and accessories that support nonprofits aiding families in need, inspired by her twin sons, Michael and Daniel, who live in Manhattan.
Dr. Sameer Hinduja
Dr. Sameer Hinduja, Professor at Florida Atlantic University and Co-Director of the Cyberbullying Research Center, is an internationally recognized expert on cyberbullying, sexting, and social media abuse. With seven books and over 20,000 research citations across various disciplines, he trains global audiences—including educators, technologists, and students—on promoting positive technology use. Dr. Hinduja has collaborated with major corporations like Google and Meta, organizations like the UN and the White House, and serves as Co-Founder and Editor-in-Chief of the International Journal of Bullying Prevention.
Finn Jacobson
Finn Jacobson is a student mental health advocate from Portland, OR who has worked collaboratively on a nationwide level with various organizations, including Work2BeWell, #ICANHELP, and The Conversationalist.
On the ground, he has worked with Students for a Healthy Oregon on several mental health related bills in the Oregon legislature and volunteered at the YouthLine as a lead crisis worker. Finn is currently in his first year at the University of Oregon, where he is studying Global Studies and Linguistics while continuing his mental health advocacy.
Kim Karr
Kim Karr is the heart and soul behind Digital4Good!
After being a teacher for 13 years, Kim co-founded this movement to inspire students to use the internet and social media in a positive way. Digital4Good is not just a program — it's a revolution that's been recognized by big names like Aaron Judge from the New York Yankees and major tech companies like Google, Snapchat, and Facebook. Kim has shared the #ICANHELP message with over 470,000 students and trained thousands of teachers and school administrators on how to guide their students in using social media wisely. Kim Karr isn't just talking about making a change — she's making it happen every day.
Amelia King
Amelia King, a sophomore in high school, is passionate about promoting open communication within families regarding social media use, inspired by Dr. Hinjua's seminar on cyberbullying and social media. She advocates for positive social media practices and has developed leadership skills through a middle school law and leadership program. Amelia's principal describes her as someone who brings out the best in others, believing that true leadership is about helping others succeed. She credits her accomplishments to the leadership and support she receives from her parents, teachers, and school staff.
Milani Myers
I am Milani Myers, and I pride myself in setting an example for my community and ensuring they feel heard. I am currently the Vice President of New York Jeter’s Leaders Executive Council and previously the Class Representative during my sophomore and junior year, which includes/included speaking for the best interest of my peers.
In the classroom I am an outspoken and respectful student who encourages my classmates to speak up for themselves, while also making sure that the classroom feels like a safe space for them to do so. In both the program and school, it is my number one goal to lead with good intentions no matter what I am doing.
Winter Owens
I am Winter Owens and I strive to be a virtue for my community. I serve to ensure guidance and reflect kindness among peers surrounding me, whether that's being helpful to those in need or being a leader.
I am currently the Senior Representative for Kalamazoo Jeter’s Leaders Executive Council, advocating for voices unheard and invoking change. Additionally, I am also the Vice President of my class at Kalamazoo Central High School, where I advocate for equality and serve to listen to my peers so their voices too can be heard. As a student, I am quite determined and outspoken, encouraging my peers to always be true to themselves and work hard. In both communities my number one aspiration is to lead and be a name they’ll always remember for being impactful.
Atif Rafiq
Atif Rafiq is the former President of Commercial & Growth at MGM Resorts, where he led a team of executives to shape the company’s growth strategy, including customer experience and new offerings. Prior to MGM, Atif was the Chief Digital Officer and Global CIO for Volvo and served as Chief Digital Officer and Corporate SVP at McDonald’s from 2013 to 2017, where he led one of the world’s largest digital transformations. He has also had a 17-year career in major tech companies, including Amazon.
Amber Sabathia
Amber Sabathia is an entrepreneur, philanthropist, mentor, and public speaker who co-founded and serves as Executive Director of the PitCCh In Foundation, which enriches the lives of at-risk youth in inner cities. With over two decades in the baseball world alongside her husband, CC Sabathia, Amber is also a member of the New York Road Runners Board of Directors, focusing on youth, communities, and DEI initiatives. She recently joined the Board of Get In The Game, an organization promoting kindness, dignity, and diversity among youth. Amber holds a BA in Liberal Studies from San Francisco State University and a Certificate of Philanthropy from NYU. She lives in New Jersey with CC and their four children.
Matthew Soeth
Matthew Soeth is the Executive Director of the Thriving in Games Group, a global nonprofit supporting video game development and fostering safe online spaces. With a background in business development for tech startups and large platforms, including serving on TikTok's Global Trust & Safety Team, he has extensive experience in creator support and brand safety. Matt is the co-founder of #ICANHELP and co-creator of #Digital4Good, initiatives celebrating youth leveraging tech for social impact. He also co-founded the Social Media Helpline, the first U.S. support service for schools addressing social media challenges. A former educator with 15 years of experience, Matt developed policies and resources for online safety in schools and continues to advise nonprofits like the Aaron Judge ALL RISE Foundation.
Olivia Van LeDtje
Olivia Van Ledtje (“LivBit”) is a reader, thinker, and kids' voice believer. Using technology to inspire empathy, equity, and activism, Olivia’s mission is to share messages with the world that are hopeful, kind and true. Olivia is the creator of LivBits—short videos for kids and teachers about reading, thinking, and life. Her work is featured internationally as a model for digital citizenship and kid creation. Olivia is a much sought after international keynote speaker and author of Spark Change: Make Your Mark on the Digital World with her mum, Cynthia Merrill.
Dr. Michele Kong
Michele Kong, MD, MBA, is the co-founder of KultureCity, a leading non-profit focused on sensory accessibility and inclusion for individuals with invisible disabilities. A Professor of Pediatrics at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, she works in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit at Children's of Alabama and is an NIH-funded researcher on respiratory viral illnesses in critically ill children. Michele was awarded the 2019 Woman of Impact Award and named to the 2021 Good Morning America Inspiration List. She is also an endurance athlete, having completed both a 100-mile race and an Ironman.
Laura Ogando
Laura Ogando began her career as an elementary special educator with the New York City Department of Education, where she advocated for using technology to enhance equity and access for all learners. She later worked as a digital literacy specialist, designing curriculum that integrated digital literacy, computer science, and project-based learning. Currently, Laura is the Program Manager for Digital Literacy and Inclusion with the Division of Instructional and Information Technology (DIIT). She trains teachers across the U.S. in accessibility, Google tools, and digital citizenship and has presented at various conferences, including ISTE. Laura holds multiple ed tech certifications and leads professional development workshops in schools and districts.
Axel Perez
Axel Perez is a champion for education and an advocate for equitable leadership. Raised by Mexican immigrant parents in the vibrant and diverse neighborhoods of South East Los Angeles, he takes immense pride in his roots. Axel is the founder and Executive Director of Simply Wholehearted, a non-profit organization dedicated to developing heart-centered leaders who make a positive impact on their communities and beyond. His contributions have earned him the honor of being recognized as an Orgullo Latino by California Assembly Speaker Emeritus Anthony Rendon (62nd Assembly District). Axel is devoted to giving back and uplifting his community to create a world that knows no borders.
Anthony Rizzo
Anthony Rizzo is a Major League Baseball 1st baseman. Drafted by the Boston Red Sox, he has played at the Major League level for the San Diego Padres, the Chicago Cubs and the New York Yankees over his 14-year career.
A cancer survivor, Anthony is also the founder of the Anthony Rizzo Family Foundation.
Blake Snell
Blake Ashton Snell is a two time Cy Young Award winner and current American professional baseball pitcher for the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball (MLB). He has previously played in MLB for the Tampa Bay Rays, San Diego Padres, and San Francisco Giants.
Maya Tarantino
Maya Tarantino is a senior in highschool and serves as the Social Impact Coordinator for #ICANHELP. She was born and raised in Maryland and is looking forward to attending Duke University next year as a Public Policy Major. She is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness and has served on various boards and non-profits to improve mental health in her community. In her free time, Maya enjoys playing lacrosse, spending time with her family, going on hikes, and playing the guitar.
Shreyaa Venkat
Shreyaa Venkat is a 20-year-old junior at Georgetown University majoring in Global Health and the founder and CEO of NEST4US, a nonprofit dedicated to kindness, generosity, and social good. With a team of over 5,000 volunteers, NEST4US has contributed over $2.5 million in volunteer hours and impacted tens of thousands in 30 countries across 6 continents. Over the past 12 years, Ashreyaa has dedicated 4,500+ service hours to global causes including hunger, social justice, mental health, education, poverty, and climate action.