Authors & Presenters

Reuben J. Gresham, PhD, is a cluster superintendent for school improvement and operations with Gwinnett County Public Schools. He was a national award-winning high school principal, assistant principal, teacher, and coach.

Tihesha Henderson has more than 21 years of experience in education as a teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, lead principal, and executive director. She is passionate about transforming school culture and addressing the social-emotional needs of students and staff.

Tom Hierck has been an educator since 1983 in a career that has spanned all grade levels. He has been a teacher, an administrator, a district leader, a department of education project leader, and an executive director.

Ava Hogan-Chapman, EdD, has over 25 years of experience in education focused on educator growth and student achievement. She has served as an elementary school teacher, alternative education instructor, homeschool educator, associate professor, and behavior coach.

Shawn Hurt is principal of Inkster Preparatory Academy in Michigan. As a school turnaround specialist, he has a laser focus on student achievement and transforming school culture.

Joseph Ianora, principal on special assignment at Campbell Union High School District, has been an educational leader for more than 35 years, guiding schools by fostering learning communities for students, staff and parents. He has been lucky enough to hold almost every position within a school site, from custodian up to principal and everything in between. He has worked with inner city schools and suburban districts, and he has K–16 experience with an emphasis on high school.

Dr. Rosa Isiah has served students in her community for 27 years. Currently, she serves as director of elementary, equity, and access for Norwalk La Mirada USD in California. Dr. Isiah is passionate about equity and access, multilingual education, leadership, and closing opportunity gaps for historically underserved students. Dr. Isiah’s experiences as an immigrant, English learner, and a child in poverty add to her passion for her work.

As a national and international professional speaker, trainer, and author, Carlos Johnson, aka “Coach Carlos,” utilizes his experience and research to change school culture and increase parental engagement, student enrollment, and staff and student retention.

Alexander McNeece is director of instruction and state and federal grants for Garden City School District in Michigan. He is also a children’s book author and award-winning former principal of Douglas Elementary School.

Michael Meechin is an award-winning educational leader, strategist, and thought partner. Currently, Michael supports schools and districts nationwide to move their work forward by breaking down systemic barriers to improvement.