Meet Our Session Presenters

Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, CIS-SA

Angelica Bush is passionate about mental health, education, nutrition, and the arts. She attended Rice University and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology in 2006. She then participated in St. Edward’s University, where she obtained her Master of Arts degree in Counseling in 2008. Angelica began her LPC career at Communities In Schools of San Antonio, where she worked with adolescents and young adults facing a wide range of mental health issues. She employs integrative methods to assist students in enhancing their emotional self-awareness, communication skills, and coping abilities. She strongly believes all individuals should have access to education and encourages them to work hard to overcome obstacles and achieve their individual and academic goals. As a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor, Angelica continues to work with underserved populations at CIS-SA while also providing oversight to LPC Associates as they enter the field of professional counseling. Outside of work, Angelica enjoys reading, attending markets where she sells crochet crafts, volunteering at church, traveling, and spending time with friends and family.

College Access Advising Specialist, College Possible

Kylee Pearl is a dedicated College Access Advising Specialist with College Possible, where she supports students on their journey to achieve a higher education. With a background in service through Americorps as both an English tutor with Literacy First and a college access advisor with Breakthrough, she brings a strong commitment to equity, literacy, and community empowerment. As a proud first-generation graduate of East Carolina University with a degree in English, Kylee combines her passion for reading with her drive to advocate for educational access and opportunity. She believes deeply in the power of service to create lasting change in the students and communities she works with.

Assistant Professor of Practice, UTSA Social Work Department

Being born and raised in San Antonio has instilled in me a passion for appreciating and serving this beautiful community. I received both my Bachelor's and Master's of Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University and have had the opportunity to learn and work in a variety of roles since graduating. Throughout my time in the field, I have worked with children and youth displaying “challenging” behaviors, survivors of intimate partner violence, several school districts in and around San Antonio, the Bexar County court system, as a campus social worker at a middle school, and now as an Assistant Professor of Practice with the UTSA Social Work Department. Across all of these roles, I have always had a passion for teaching and training and have focused on topics such as trauma-informed care, child and adolescent brain development, motivational interviewing, working with children and adolescents in the school setting, responding to challenging behaviors, responding to suicidal ideation in children and youth, and other similar topics.

Lead Data & Systems Manager, Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Texas

Belinda Herrera (Bel) is a seasoned management professional with over 30 years of experience leading diverse teams and fostering emotionally intelligent workplaces. Known for intuitive leadership and strategic relationship-building, Bel specializes in coaching, mentoring, and developing purpose-driven cultures that empower individuals and organizations to thrive. With extensive experience in public speaking and presenting, Bel effectively engages audiences and facilitates meaningful learning experiences. Drawing on a background spanning nonprofit leadership, operations management, and certified life coaching, Bel brings a unique blend of practical expertise and emotional insight to help professionals enhance their interpersonal skills and leadership effectiveness through Emotional Intelligence.

Consultant, Family Engagement, UTSA

As a 1.5-generation American and first-generation college graduate, I bring 25 years of experience in the field of education. My professional efforts have primarily focused on advancing Bilingual/ESL and Special Education instruction and leadership. I am bilingual, biliterate, and embrace my bicultural identity. My foundational education was completed within the San Antonio ISD public school system, culminating in my graduation as Valedictorian from Lanier High School. I earned my Bachelor of Arts in Latino Studies from Dartmouth College, followed by a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). Currently, I am a doctoral candidate pursuing a Ph.D. in UTSA’s Culture, Literacy, and Language program.

Founder and CEO

Dr Cristina Serrano has been in private practice since 1998. She specializes in child, adolescent, and family therapy. She obtained her Ph.D. and Master's degree at Texas A&M University. She also attended Saint Mary's University for two years.  She holds a bachelor's degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio. She is fluent in Spanish and English. She was the director of psychology for the Texas Youth Commission in Beaumont, TX. Her primary areas of interest and expertise include working with the Latino community to provide opportunities that improve mental health.

Assistant Professor in Practice Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, UTSA

Dr. Sendejo's educational background includes the attainment of a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership Studies from Our Lady of the Lake University in 2023. Additionally, she holds a Master of Arts in Bicultural Bilingual Studies from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Dr. Sendejo has served in various roles, including administrator, educational specialist, teacher, and K-12 education professional. Notably, she held the position of Chief Academic Officer for South San Antonio Independent School District (SSAISD) and later assumed the role of interim Superintendent for the same district. Additionally, her contributions extend to a five-year tenure as Associate Superintendent at Jubilee Charter School

School Experience Director, CAST SCHOOLS Network

Dr. Carol Harle is a long-time educator, community volunteer, and mental health advocate. 

Harle graduated from the University of Texas at Austin and received her Ph.D. in Curriculum Studies from the University of Texas at Austin.

She was a teacher in both Northside ISD and North East ISD and worked as an Academic Dean at Rayburn Middle School and as a NISD Staff Development Specialist. She also served as Executive Director of the School Improvement Department in North East ISD, as Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction in San Antonio ISD, and as Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction in Harlandale ISD. Dr. Harle also worked as a school improvement consultant for schools throughout Texas before joining the CAST Schools Network, where she currently serves as the School Experience Director. She also teaches at UTSA in the College of Education and the College of Sciences. Harle volunteers with Communities in Schools and the SA Smart Steering Committee.

Professor of School Psychology, UTSA

Felicia Castro-Villarreal is a Professor of School Psychology in the Department of Educational Psychology. Dr. Castro-Villarreal specializes in and has research interests in multicultural assessment and practice, as well as consultation with school staff.

Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Urban Education Institute, UTSA

Dr. Jasmine Victor is a Postdoctoral Research Fellow at the Urban Education Institute at the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she assists with research aimed at improving the educational outcomes of San Antonio students. Her research interests include policies and practices that influence the development and trajectory of Black women in higher education, as well as student identity and leadership development. She holds a Bachelor of Journalism from UT Austin, an M.A. in Public Relations from the University of Houston, and a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies with an emphasis in Higher Education from UTSA.

President and Founder of Lizzy Perez LLC

Dr. Lizzy Pérez is part academic powerhouse, part poetic soul, and part Latina firecracker with a résumé that could deadlift a school district. A former teacher, varsity coach, assistant principal, and high school principal, Lizzy brings over 30 years of lived leadership experience to every stage she steps on, making her one of the most compelling voices not just in education but in organizational change today. Dr. Pérez is the kind of leader who sees perfectionism in leadership, especially not as a badge of honor, but as a saboteur of courage, and she has made it her mission to unmask it across boardrooms, classrooms, and communities alike. As a Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator trained by Dr. Brené Brown, and a trauma-informed care practitioner and ACE Interface Master Trainer with a PhD in Leadership Studies, Lizzy delivers keynotes that rumble, restore, and reignite purpose.
She’s equal parts thought leader, systems shaker, and emotional alchemist — the kind of presence that shifts the energy the moment she walks in. From rural South Texas roots to national conference stages, she fuses emotional intelligence, storytelling, psychological safety, and soul-deep wisdom into powerful, introspective learning experiences. Her coaching doesn’t just shift behavior; it reintroduces people to themselves. Whether she’s decoding the drama triangle, challenging toxic workplace culture, or rescuing tripod pups like Lady Ridgewood, Lizzy leads like she lives: with heart, integrity, and a healthy dose of chingona magic.

Assistant Professor of School Psychology, UTSA

Mackenzie Hart is an assistant professor of school psychology at the University of Texas- San Antonio. Her research focuses on translating evidence-based psychosocial interventions for use in settings frequented by youth to support youth in low-resource environments.

Founder and CEO of Be Well, Lead Well LLC

Dr. Natalie Fikac is a mental health professional, educator with over 29 years of educational experience. Her academic experience began as an elementary school teacher, reading interventionist, Professional School Counselor at both the elementary and secondary level, campus administrator, and district-level administrator. She has served at the Texas Education Agency on the mental and behavioral health team and now supports school mental health at the regional level at the University of Texas at Austin. She is the owner and CEO of Be Well, Lead Well LLC, and lives by the motto “You can’t pour from an empty cup,” aspiring to promote self-preservation and self-compassion in all areas of her life. She is passionate about growing leaders as a Certified Dare to Lead ™ Trainer, trained by Dr. Brené Brown. She is also certified to teach SMART (Stress Management & Resiliency Training) and is a Mindful Self-Compassion Teacher. She hopes to educate and advocate on behalf of professional educators, students, and families in the areas of mental and behavioral health, social-emotional needs, and overall wellness and resilience.

Inaugural Director of Restorative Practices &  Associate Professor of Practice at the College for Health, Community, and Policy, UTSA

Dr. Robert Rico is the inaugural Director of Restorative Practices at the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) and an Associate Professor of Practice at the College for Health, Community, and Policy. In 2012, he spearheaded and was a consultant at Ed White Middle School in San Antonio, one of Texas's first restorative justice pilot programs. He teaches undergraduate-level courses in criminal justice and restorative justice. In 2006, he founded and coordinated the Kendall County Restorative Justice Program, where he facilitated family group conferences for victims and offenders in criminal cases. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice, a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Texas at San Antonio, and a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Texas at Austin.  Rico co-authored "Restorative Discipline Practices: A Journey in Implementation By A Community of Texas Educators" (Park Place Publications, 2016).

Professor and Director of the Urban Education Institute, UTSA

Dr. Sharon L. Nichols is a Professor and Director of the Urban Education Institute. She also serves as Chair of the Department of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas at San Antonio. She teaches graduate and undergraduate classes in learning theory, motivation, development, and research methods. She has authored over three dozen books, journal articles, and book chapters related to youth development, motivation, and education policy. She is the coauthor of Collateral damage: How high-stakes testing corrupts America’s schools (with D. C. Berliner, Harvard Education Press, 2007). Her current work focuses on the impact of test-based accountability on teachers, their instructional practices, and the motivation and development of adolescents.  She is the past Vice President of Division 15 of the American Psychological Association and inaugural coeditor of the new Division 15 journal, Educational Psychology for Policy and Practice.

Community Programs Educator, The DoSeum

Dr. Tivy grew up in a career military family, living and traveling all over the world. She's a creative and inspiring educator with three decades of experience in education, workforce development, professional development, and technology. Dr. Tivy is also a master level, certified trainer working with school-age parents as young as 11 years old and grandparents who are raising young children. Her research focuses on learning through play, adult development, parent engagement, strengthening teacher-parent relationships, and empathic communication. She’s dedicated to building community and guiding individuals to reach their fullest potential through critical connections that align with the new ways we think, learn, and interact. As a Presidential Scholar, Dr. Tivy earned her Bachelor of Arts in Business from Southwestern University in Georgetown, Texas, and is a past recipient of Southwestern University's Young Alumna Achievement Award. She has a Master of Arts in Adult and Higher Education from The University of Texas at San Antonio. Dr. Tivy is also a past doctoral fellow, earning a Doctor of Philosophy in Interdisciplinary Learning and Teaching from the University of Texas at San Antonio, with a cognate area of study in early childhood education. Dr. Tivy’s passion for teaching and education extends to her civic involvement, as she has served on four state boards: the Texas State Commission on Fire Protection, the Governor's Committee on Childcare Licensing, the Governor's EMS and Trauma Advisory Council, and the Texas Commission on Human Rights.

Senior Director of Programs, AVANCE San Antonio

Erika M. Crespo is the Senior Director of Programs at AVANCE-San Antonio, where she has dedicated her career since 2006 to advancing early childhood education and family support services. A proud graduate of AVANCE’s Parent-Child Education Program (PCEP), Erika began her journey as a volunteer and quickly became inspired to pursue roles including Child Development Teacher, Home Educator, Parent Educator, Center Director, and Director of Adult Education. Erika M. Crespo is the Senior Director of Programs at AVANCE-San Antonio, where she has dedicated her career since 2006 to advancing early childhood education and family support services. A proud graduate of AVANCE’s Parent-Child Education Program (PCEP), Erika began her journey as a volunteer and quickly became inspired to pursue roles including Child Development Teacher, Home Educator, Parent Educator, Center Director, and Director of Adult Education. Today, she oversees all core programs within the San Antonio Chapter, leading the implementation of AVANCE’s two-generation strategies that integrate parenting education, workforce development, adult education, and early childhood services. Born in Austin, Texas, and raised in Venezuela, Erika brings a bicultural perspective that deeply informs her work. She holds a bachelor’s degree in law and a master’s in criminal law and criminology from universities in Venezuela, as well as an associate’s degree in psychology from San Antonio College. A two-time recipient of the LULAC Parent-Child Scholarship, first as a parent scholar herself and later through her son, Erika’s personal and professional experiences reflect the transformative power of dual-generation programming. She works closely with school districts, funders, and community partners to ensure equitable access to comprehensive, culturally responsive services for families.

Chief Executive Officer, Rise Recovery

Evita Morin is the Chief Executive Officer of Rise Recovery, a nonprofit organization in San Antonio, Texas, dedicated to supporting teens, young adults, and families in overcoming the effects of substance use. With over 20 years of experience in health and human services, Evita has been recognized for her leadership and commitment, including being named to the San Antonio Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 and honored as the NASW Alamo Region Social Worker of the Year. An impassioned advocate, childhood trauma survivor, and a person in active recovery, Evita draws from her journey to inspire and empower others, driving forward impactful programs and building strong community partnerships to advance recovery and resilience in her hometown.

Associate VP of Programs, Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Texas

Collaborative professional with an established record of success in program management, strategic thinking, relationship building, and problem-solving. I thrive in challenging environments and am adept at building consensus and rapport. I am experienced in both public speaking and behind-the-scenes writing and editing. I enjoy employing my communication skills to connect with others both personally and professionally. 

Executive Well-Being & Mindful Leadership Strategist, The Mindfulness Co.

Jeri-Ashley DeLeon Bremer (she/her/ella) is a recognized authority in mindful leadership and parenting for high-achieving professionals. With nearly 20 years of experience, she specializes in trauma-informed, research-backed strategies that cultivate emotional and psychological resilience in children, parents, educators, and leaders. Passionate about building strong, sustainable communities, Jeri-Ashley leverages an assets-based approach to create environments where future generations thrive on unconditional love and acceptance. Her work transforms educational spaces and empowers organizations to prioritize mental well-being, ensuring lasting impact across both personal and professional spheres. A sought-after speaker and thought leader, Jeri-Ashley has helped thousands prevent burnout, strengthen mental health, and rediscover purpose through her holistic approach to leadership and mindfulness. Jeri-Ashley holds a B.A. in Sociology from St. Mary's University and an M.S. in Education from Johns Hopkins University, and is a certified parent, mindfulness & meditation coach.

Chief Mental Health Officer, City of San Antonio

Jessie Higgins is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a passion for enhancing community systems to provide better patient care and support vulnerable populations in their improvement.  Jessie has served as the Chief Mental Health Officer for the City of San Antonio since June 2022.  This position in the Metropolitan Health District works to coordinate internal and external partnerships to enhance the mental well-being of San Antonio residents.  She was named the 2023 Communities in Schools All in for Kids Community Leader and recognized as one of the San Antonio Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 for 2025.

CEO, Norman Consulting

John Norman is an attorney and public education leader with deep experience leading high-profile initiatives in urban school systems. He is currently the CEO of Norman Consulting, LLC, which supports public education and nonprofit leaders with strategic planning, student enrollment, new school design, board governance, and fundraising. John served in central office leadership roles at San Antonio Independent School District for 8 years, most recently as Chief Strategy Officer. In that role, he led San Antonio ISD's 5-year strategic planning process and district rightsizing initiative. John managed SAISD’s Office of Innovation, which included the team responsible for creating and redesigning over 30 schools using new academic models and external partner support. John also led the District Grants team, which earned multi-million-dollar federal, state, and private grants to support educational programs. John serves on the Board of Directors for Communities in Schools of San Antonio and the Advisory Board for Imagine Network.

Director of Strategic Planning and Partnerships, Alamo Colleges District

Julia Stotts serves as the Director of Strategic Planning and Partnerships. With over two decades of experience in education, workforce development, and community engagement, Julia leads initiatives that remove barriers to student success. Her leadership on justice-impacted student support, including the Expunction & Opportunity Program, reflects a deep commitment to equity and second chances.

Sr. Regional Director, SJRC Texas | Belong

Kane Jaggers is a dedicated leader in the child and family wellbeing sector with a passion for creating positive change through trauma-informed care and strategic leadership. With over a decade of experience in social work, program development, and nonprofit management, Kane has spearheaded initiatives that enhance services for children and communities. Throughout a distinguished career, Kane has demonstrated expertise in case management and community building, fostering meaningful partnerships that drive sustainable impact. As a strong advocate for professional development, Kane has served as an Adjunct Faculty Liaison and Field Instructor, mentoring future social workers and shaping ethical, effective practices. During her doctoral studies in social work, Kane remained committed to advancing systemic improvements in child welfare. With a steadfast commitment to empowering individuals and strengthening communities, Kane continues to lead transformative efforts that shape the future of the child and family wellbeing system.

Program Coordinator for Community Health Education, Healthy Futures of Texas

Kassandra is the Program Coordinator for Community Health Education in San Antonio, where she collaborates with community partners to develop and implement impactful initiatives that improve sexual health outcomes and promote healthy relationships among young people. She earned her Master's degree from UTSA, specializing in Community, Health, and Policy. She is passionate about building strong partnerships to address local health needs. Outside of work, Kassy enjoys exploring San Antonio’s culture, hiking, and spending time with family and friends.

Community-Based Care Administrator, The Office of Community-Based Care Transition

Katie Elseth joined the Office of Community Based-Care Transition in July 2022 and currently serves as the Community-Based Care Administrator for Bexar County. She brings two decades of child welfare experience to her current role. Her unwavering passion for enhancing the well-being of children and families in Bexar County drives her commitment to fostering collaborative solutions to improve the child welfare system in Texas. Her previous experience with DFPS includes roles as a Conservatorship Caseworker in Bexar County, the Community Initiative Specialist, and the Regional System Improvement Specialist in Region 08. She continued her system improvement work at The Texas Alliance for Child and Family Services before returning to DFPS in 2020.  Katie holds degrees from the University of Georgia in Athens, GA, and Texas State University in San Marcos. Katie lives in San Antonio and spends most of her free time with her husband and two boys. In her free time, she enjoys reading.

School Programs Educator, The DoSeum

Kimberly is the School Programs Educator at The DoSeum. She has 17 years of teaching experience, ranging from High School Chemistry to Elementary Life Skills. Kimberly has worked with adults in a high school completion program and with students in an alternative setting. Kimberly is passionate about equity and inclusion across settings. She is a certified yoga instructor and enjoys teaching others techniques for self-regulation and relaxation.

Social Worker, House of Neighborly Service

Kris Emmanuel Gaytán, LMSW, is a licensed master social worker. He holds a Bachelor of Social Work from The University of Texas at Arlington and a Master of Social Work from the University of Texas at San Antonio. Kris has six years of experience as a Site Coordinator at Communities in Schools of San Antonio, where he has implemented trauma-informed interventions and case management services in educational settings. Kris is dedicated to providing mental health support, particularly for adults with acute mental health disorders. With a year of clinical experience at a psychiatric hospital, he uses therapeutic approaches like Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, Person Centered Therapy, Solution-Focused Therapy, and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy to help people cope with trauma, behavioral issues, grief, and discharge transitions. Currently, he works at the House of Neighborly Service, offering Child-Centered Play Therapy to children under ten. Additionally, Kris is currently a volunteer at the Pride Center of San Antonio, offering counseling services to the community. His commitment to fostering resilience and promoting mental well-being in children and families is evident in both his professional practice and community involvement.

House of Neighborly Service

Kristen Elise Moreno is a dedicated and compassionate social work professional with hands-on experience supporting diverse populations across the lifespan. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Our Lady of the Lake University and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at The University of Texas at San Antonio. Kristen has provided trauma-informed child play therapy, case management services for older adults, and exceptional customer care in high-demand environments. Her strengths lie in building trusting relationships, advocating for vulnerable clients, and creating inclusive, culturally responsive care plans. Whether working in clinical, community, or customer-facing settings, Kristen leads with empathy, organization, and a deep commitment to equity and empowerment. She thrives in collaborative environments and continually seeks opportunities to expand her impact as a future licensed social worker.

Licensed Counselor, CIS-SA

Lisa Johnson is from Austin, Texas, and earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from Saint Edward's University. Prior to working with CISSA, Lisa worked for nearly a decade with foster children in a Residential Treatment setting. Lisa has been a TBRI Practitioner since 2015 and has worked with CISSA as a Clinician for four years, helping to launch mental health programs such as Camp SOAR in NISD. Lisa has experience working with children 3-17 and adults with complex trauma, anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, borderline personality disorder, grief and loss, major life adjustments, parenting assistance, and complexities of foster care and adoption.

Regional Education Specialist, Texas Department of Family and Protective Services

Makada Ward has been employed at DFPS for 19 years in various positions. She is currently the Regional Education Specialist. In total, she has worked with youth for over 30 years. Prior to beginning her career at DFPS, Makada spent time as a special education teacher and a juvenile probation officer. She completed her master’s degree in social work at UTSA. In her free time, Makada enjoys reading and traveling with her family.

Executive Artistic Director, HUG ME Ink

Nicholas Holstein is the Executive Artistic Director of HUG ME Ink, a playwright, director, producer, event planner, theatre arts teacher, and keynote speaker. He holds a Master's degree in Entertainment Business and Sports Management, a Bachelor's degree in Sociology, and an Associate's degree in Communications. His goal is to use the arts to empower others.

Program Director, College Possible

Rana Emerson is Program Director at College Possible Texas where she oversees college access and success programming. Before joining College Possible in October 2022, Rana was Compliance Officer at George Gervin Academy in San Antonio where she ensured that the school followed state and federal education rules, and also presided over the launch of a P-TECH (Pathways in Technology Early College High School) dual-credit academy. Before returning to San Antonio in the summer of 2019, she spent 14 years as a resident of Brooklyn, New York, where she was the Director of Education and College Pathways, overseeing an after-school literacy program for young women of color at the Lower East Side Girls Club. Before that, she was a College Now dual-credit program coordinator at the City University of New York. In her spare time, Rana writes and discusses topics such as race, Blackness, representation, media, culture, and society, with a particular focus on television, film, and music. Her writing has appeared in journals such as Gender & Society and the American Journal of Sociology, as well as on websites including xoJane.com and Popmatters.com, and in The Book of Jezebel. She also enjoys spending time with her family and being engaged with San Antonio community organizations, including sitting on the board of directors of the Magik Theatre and the Community Advisory Board of Texas Public Radio.

House of Neighborly Service

Melissa Julian Martinez graduated summa cum laude from UTPB with a Bachelor's in Psychology and a Minor in Sociology.  She is currently a graduate student working towards her Master's in Social Work with a concentration on Community Administrative Practice at UTA. Melissa is an alumnus of Psi Chi Honor Society, an active member of Phi Alpha Honor Society, and a student member of the National Association of Social Workers (NASW).

Currently, Melissa is completing her MSW practicum with House of Neighborly Service's Child and Family Wellness Program. In addition to gaining valuable skills in direct practice, she is working behind the scenes to develop, analyze, and administer classroom interventions, supplemental materials, needs assessments, and program-efficacy analyses.  

As a longtime community advocate, Melissa has a strong passion for building connections among diverse organizations. She believes that by building inter-agency alliances, especially for prevention and intervention programs, we can help fill service and expertise gaps and facilitate stronger, more resilient, and empowered communities.

Associate Professor of Educational Leadership, Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi

Dr. Rosie M. Banda is a proud 1996 Sabinal High School graduate. She is the even prouder daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Frank and Maria Banda, has five siblings, and numerous nephews and a niece who still attend school here in Sabinal. Rosie earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communications with a concentration in public relations and a master’s degree in Adult & Higher Education with a cognate in Bicultural/Bilingual studies, both from the University of Texas at San Antonio. She was awarded a full Diversity Fellows Scholarship to pursue her doctorate in philosophy (PhD) in Higher Education Administration and Human Resource Development at Texas A&M University-College Station. Upon her graduation in December 2012, Dr. Banda was a Research Associate to the Samuel DeWitt Proctor Chair in Education at Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey where she spent much time exploring New York City and getting lost on subways, much to her parent’s dismay, as well as shoveling her share of snow for the ungodly cold winters the East Coast experienced. For the last three years, she has been an Associate Professor of Educational Leadership at Texas A&M University, Corpus Christi, where she teaches doctoral students. Dr. Banda has published numerous journal articles, book chapters, and co-edited books, and has also presented at local, state, national, and international conferences. Her primary area of research focuses on Latinas in engineering from an asset-based lens. Dr. Banda is a critical social justice advocate. She enjoys traveling in her spare time and reading autobiographies.

Virtual College Access Advising Specialist, College Possible

 Sarah Fiedler is a college access advisor and youth engagement leader with a strong commitment to educational equity and civic inclusion. She currently serves as a Virtual College Access Advising Specialist with College Possible, where she supports hundreds of low-income high school students through the college admissions process, leads workshops, and drives student engagement through personalized, data-informed guidance. As a Youth250 Bureau Member with Made By Us, she collaborates nationally with museums and nonprofits to create inclusive, youth-centered programming for the U.S. Semiquincentennial. Her previous roles include service as an AmeriCorps College Access Coach with College Forward, an Admissions Counselor with Cincinnati Job Corps, and experience in outreach and client services through freelance and contract work. She brings a unique blend of public speaking, mentorship, and cross-sector collaboration to her work with Gen Z and underrepresented communities.

Master’s student in the School Psychology, UTSA

Sarah Huggins is a second year Master’s student in the School Psychology program at UTSA. She is currently working in SAISD as a practicum student, gaining hands-on experience for her future career as a School Psychologist.

Founder and President, Mobile Education Center for All

Sharon Samelson Massiatte is the visionary founder of Mobile Education Center for All. With a master's degree in Educational Leadership, Sharon has devoted eight years to teaching children of all ages, gaining valuable experience in both general and special education. Her dedication to her students extends beyond the classroom, as she has coached Special Olympics participants and even taken on the role of the mascot at each school where she taught, exemplifying her deep commitment to the children she serves. Her efforts were recognized when she was named Educator of the Year for the 2022-2023 school year. Sharon's personal background is deeply rooted in diversity and resilience, as she is the daughter of a Holocaust survivor and a Vietnam War refugee. These formative experiences have instilled in her a strong dedication to providing all children with the support they need to succeed, regardless of their circumstances, and have shaped her approach to fostering perseverance and inclusivity in all her work. Beyond her professional life, Sharon is a devoted wife and mother in a blended family. She understands firsthand the importance of nurturing environments that allow every child to thrive. This insight is a cornerstone of MECA's mission and vision, driving her commitment to ensuring that all children, regardless of their background or challenges, have access to the education they deserve. Her unwavering dedication to both her family and her students continues to inspire those around her and fuels her passion for advancing educational equity.

Project Manager for Critical Incident Preparedness and Response

Susan Salinas boasts an impressive 34-year career in elementary education. During this time, she spent five years as a second-grade teacher and 25 years as an elementary school counselor. Susan holds a bachelor’s degree from Southwest Texas State University and a master’s degree in School Counseling from The University of Texas at San Antonio. Her passion lies in forging connections and nurturing strong relationships with students. At ESC-20, Susan serves as a Project Manager for Critical Incident Preparedness and Response. Her focus centers on strengthening the bond between counselors and students, ensuring counselors feel confident in their responsive service delivery. Susan plays a vital role in facilitating Crisis Intervention Response Team clusters for her region, allowing for swift deployment to support campuses during crises.

Additionally, she serves as a Behavior Threat Assessment trainer, dedicated to promoting mental health and school safety, ultimately guiding students away from the pathway to violence. Susan Salinas discovered her calling to work with children during her elementary school days. She attributes this realization to her second-grade teacher, Mrs. Potter, who left a lasting impact. Mrs. Potter’s caring nature made everyone feel seen and heard, inspiring Susan to pursue a career in education. Outside of work, Susan enjoys a variety of activities. She’s an avid runner, appreciates the outdoors, and finds solace in reading. Spending quality time with her family and friends is also a priority for her.

Grief Education Specialist, Children's Bereavement Center of South Texas

 Tami is a Licensed Professional Counselor-Supervisor with over 14 years of experience in bereavement counseling for children, adolescents, and adults, including biopsychosocial assessment and individual and group therapy. Therapeutic specialties include grief and loss, narrative therapy, and expressive arts therapies.

Health Educator, Healthy Futures of Texas

Taylor Stafford, a health educator in San Antonio, is passionate about community work that centers on youth. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology and is one semester away from completing her Master of Business Administration (MBA) and earning a certification in Community Health. With a strong foundation in both physical and emotional wellness, Taylor brings a unique blend of academic insight and lived experience to her work. She is an advocate for whole-person care, youth voice, and community-based solutions. She brings both practical tools and a deep sense of empathy to her work with youth and communities.

Director of Strategic Business Initiatives, San Antonio Behavioral Healthcare Hospital

I am a licensed clinical social worker and supervisor with 15 years of professional experience in mental health services and organizational leadership. Like most people, I am also an individual who has faced a variety of obstacles in life. Through the years, I have learned that the best way to find inner peace is by allowing life to be guided by our personal values and by continuously expanding our perspective through the pursuit of knowledge, while remaining open to all the intangible learning that can occur through genuine human connections and life experiences. I have a lot that I would like to share with others, and I firmly believe that every workshop I provide and every interaction I have serves a strong purpose.  I am honored to have the privilege of helping others maximize their potential.

Founder and CEO, East Expunctions

Yousef Kassim is the CEO and Founder of Easy Expunctions, a legal technology firm committed to removing barriers caused by criminal records. A licensed attorney and innovator, Yousef has helped thousands of individuals clear eligible charges through automated, accessible legal solutions. He is a vocal advocate for justice reform and workforce reintegration.