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WELCOME
Welcome: The Board of Directors welcomes you to our flagship program, the IX ECOC Summit. It is our desire to partner with indi-
viduals and organizations in achieving our mission.
Mission: To dismantle the cradle to prison pipeline for children of color and children of poverty, through education.
What We Do: ECOC, Inc., recently acquired 501(3)c status. We provide three programs:
The Annual Educating Children of Color Summit provides a unique opportunity for educators, juvenile justice, and child
welfare professionals to enhance their ability to retain and inspire the students they serve. It is also an opportunity for high
school students to learn about themselves while they explore higher education. Finally, the Summit is an opportunity for
parents to learn to communicate with schools and with their children in order to maximize their child’s success. Through
professional registrations at the Summit we award money to students helping to defray the cost of higher education. Over
the last 8 years, ECOC has awarded in excess of $90,000 in scholarships and educational gifts as well as 90 laptops to stu-
dents attending the Educating Children of Color Summit.
ACT Preparation is a ten week program, beginning in January (after the Summit) and ending in April (when the Colorado
ACT is administered). It is open to all high school students. The emphasis is on taking practice ACT tests is identifying and
correcting areas that need improvement.
Diversity University is a five day training program designed to help individuals address their biases, leverage their power to
address problems of disparate treatment of youth within their work environment, and ultimately to train others.
Please visit our website to learn more at www.educatingchildrenofcolor.org. We encourage you to send us your constructive
comments, suggestions and ways that we can work together to achieve our goal. Thank you! and enjoy the day.
Sincerely,
Board Chair, Regina Walter, ECOC Inc. (4th Judicial District)
Chair Elect, Evelyn D. Taylor (Education Advocate)
Treasurer, Mittie Pedraza (Trainer/CFI)
Secretary, Amy Markwell (Office of the County Attorney)
Rhonda Campbell (D-49)
Eric Graham (US Army)
Dr. Peggy Jacobs (D-49)
Mary Katungu ( Educator)
Evan Mahon (Student Representative D-49 )
Janelle Sisneros (Colorado Springs Municipal Probation)
Katie Puryear (Pikes Peak Community College) New Board Member – Welcome to ECOC
Dr. Dorothy Williams (Regis University) New Board Member – Welcome to ECOC
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IN HONOR OF DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING JR.’S BIRTHDAY
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Clifton Taulbert
Clifton Taulbert, world-renowned author, speaker and entrepreneur, is the keynote speaker for the Educating Children of
Color Summit to be held at Colorado College from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. His first book, ’Once Upon A Time When We
Were Colored’ is a national best seller, a major motion picture, and a requested gift for President Nelson Mandela upon
his release from prison. Eight Habits of the Heart, one of Taulbert’s thirteen books garnered him an invitation by former
Supreme Court Justice, Sandra Day O’Connor to address members of the court and their invited guests. Taulbert’s liter-
ary work ignited the journey that has taken him throughout the world. As a recognized thought leader on the issues of
community, Taulbert has lectured at Harvard University Principals Center and the United States Air Force Academy.
--http://www.cliftontaulbert.com/about-clifton-taulbert/--
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APPRECIATION
We would like to express our sincere appreciation for the participation of the following individuals and organizations. Their support and
assistance makes it possible for every participant to “Embrace Choices and Challenges.”
STUDENT AMBASSADORS AND COORDINATORS
Harrison School District 2 Academy School District 20
Harrison High School Rampart High School
Ali Duran, Teacher Pete Alvarez, Principal
Michelle Smith, Teacher Video Production, Photography and Videography
Sierra High School Leslie Gordon, American Sign Language Teacher
Mac Seargent, Teacher Patrick Moring, KRAm and English Teacher
Falcon School District 49 Academy School District 20
Vista Ridge High School Air Academy High School
Dr. Peggy Jacobs, Teacher Natalie Paluso, Teacher
Colorado Spring School District 11
Palmer High School
Michael Chamberlin, Teacher
Debra Brown, Dean of Students
ACTION PLANNING FACILITATORS
Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church
Iota Omicron Lambda Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated
USAFA Admissions Office Outreach
Xi Pi Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Incorporated
ONLINE REGISTRATION AND EVENT PLANNING VOLUNTEERS
Colorado Springs Teen Court
Colorado Springs Public Utilities
This Summit is impossible without the assistance of many additional volunteers including other community members committed
to the success of youth and the success of the event.
Finally, a special thank you to Colorado College’s Dean of Students, Mike Edmonds,
and the amazing assistance of Colorado College provided by
Brenda Soto, Karin Henriksen, Stephanie Daigle, and Sarah Breyfogle
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Bobbi Ashley and Regina Walter, Co-Chairs of the 2016 Educating Children of Color Summit express gratitude to the individuals that
make up the Summit Planning Committee and the ECOC, Inc. Board of Directors. Their tireless commitment to the event and to ALL
youth is truly inspirational.
Vicki Brown, Fountain Fort Carson School District 8
Susan Burt, El Paso County Department of Human Services
Belenda Cornelius, Pikes Peak Community College
John Cox
Erick Cruz, Colorado Technical University and Colorado Springs Teen Court
Ray Edwards
Debbie English, Colorado Springs Teen Court
Christina Fletcher
Rebecca Gallegos, Colorado Springs School District 11
Walter Glover, United States Olympic Committee
Rosemary Harris Lytle, NAACP
Linda Hunt-Stone
Kristina Iodice, El Paso county Department of Communication
Jennifer Johnson, Colorado Technical University
Namati Katungu, Educator and Entrepreneur
Dr. Regina Lewis, Pikes Peak Community College
Woody Longmire, Harrison School District 2
Elaine Nolen, University of Denver, Sturm School of Law
Donna Olalde, Office of the Guardian ad Litem
Manuel Pedraza
James Pogue
The Honorable David Prince, 4th Judicial District
Lynn Schulz, El Paso County Department of Human Services
Joseph Shelton
Gary Smith, Reading Success
Don Stevens
Ted Stevens, Colorado Springs School District 11
ARTIST BIOGRAPHY
Ted Stevens is an educator with more than 30 years experience in School District 11. Stevens taught art for more than 20 years, and
holds degrees from Kansas State University, UCCS and Adams State University. Stevens is encouraged by the growth of ECOC as a
community summit to address the social, educational and institutional inequities and challenges faced by children and
families of color in the Pikes Peak Region.
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THE ACT PREPARATION PROGRAM
Two 10 week ACT classes will be offered for students to assist with preparation for the April ACT
examination. Students are expected to attend every week with the exception of Spring Break. Awards
will be given for perfect attendance and for the greatest increase in ACT score over the course of the
program.
January 26- April 14, 2016: The Tuesday night sessions will be held from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at the Welte
Education Center in Fountain.
January 27-April 15, 2016: The location for the Wednesday night sessions is yet to be determined.
Sign up at the ECOC Desk, or by emailing [email protected] or [email protected]
DIVERSITY UNIVERSITY
July 25-July 29, 2016
Regis University
The purpose of this institute is to improve the ability of professionals and the community to
respond to the needs of a culturally diverse population. The week long Diversity University
is free to all participants, but does require a commitment for the full week. If you are
interested please sign up at the ECOC desk. Questions may be directed to Regina Walter,
[email protected].
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ADAMS STATE UNIVERSITY CREDIT
Applying for Credit from Adams State University
Professionals applying for .5 Graduate Credit from Adams State University are
required to:
1. Attend all conference sessions, including 3 breakout sessions and create an Action Plan.
2. Actively engage in discussions and activities during these sessions.
3. Complete and turn in feedback/evaluation forms for each session attended.
4. Complete and turn in a reflection paper describing implementation of a strategy/resource into their
current professional practice; i.e., instruction, parental involvement, counseling, etc. The pa-
per should be no more than one page, double-spaced in length. This product will be submitted to the
Instructor of Record by February 15, 2016. The Reflection paper is to be submitted to
[email protected] by February 15, 2016. The Instructor of record is Judge Regina
Walter, 719-640-6633.
Summit participants who want this credit must complete a course registration form during the Summit
and submit this form and the $27.50 fee at the ECOC table. We will have instructions from Adams
State regarding the submission of these registrations to their Extended Studies Division.
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Time STUDENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS Location
7:45 – 8:30 am
8:30 – 9:00 am Activity El Pomar
Check in / Registration Gymnasium
9:00 – 9:15 am
Welcome Remarks
9:15 – 10:00 am America the Beautiful, Colorado Springs Signing Choir, Directed by SueAnn Gurwell
10:00 – 10:15 am Jill Tiefenthaler, President, Colorado College
10:15 – 11:45 am Keenan Wright, Freshman, Colorado College
Statistics and White House Welcome
Judge Regina Walter, El Paso County, ECOC Co-Chair
Embracing Choices and Challenges
Clifton Taulbert, Author and Entrepreneur
Break
BREAKOUT SESSIONS I
Be AWARE™: YOUth are Transforming the World- This session introduces ECOC Armstrong
students to AWARESM (Action Within a Resilient Environment) that provides community Max Kade
service credits for graduation and helps build student resumes for college applications Theater
and employment. In 75 minutes, students experience a program introduction and hands-
on experience with a mentored process and people who can help them chart a course Room 300
through the Post-2015 environmental, climate change and social resilience agenda to
change outcomes that affect their lives.
Presented by Lynn Wilson, CEO, SeaTrust Institute and Jennifer Mwangi, Program Man-
ager and Hydrological Scientist, SeaTrust Institute
Designing a Powerful Action Plan for Your Life and Direction- Inspiring youth to un- Armstrong
derstand their life choices and to take bold action to change the trajectory in their own Theater
lives gets Isaac fired up!! As a Business and Life Coach, Isaac helps people Dream Big
and Achieve the Success of their dreams.
Presented by Isaac Ring, CVA
Embracing Your Roots: Why is it so Important?- As a Deaf Chicano, the speaker will Cornerstone
discuss his life experiences growing up in a border city and how he maintained his roots Room 130
as he navigated through the predominantly White residential School for the Deaf and
higher education institution.
Presented by Rogelio Fernandez, President, Council de Manos
Finding your why? Empowering Youth through Dance-Experience Hip Hop and ex- Cossitt
plore the question “What is your why?”. This session will give you the opportunity to ex- Gymnasium
plore your values, passion and goals, as well as to learn the fundamentals of Hip Hop. All
participants are auditioning to perform in the closing ceremony at the summit.
Presented by Suavé, HipHopConnXion
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STUDENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Ganas and Choices: How These Affect Your Future---The Size and Teacher are Armstrong
the Same- In life, we are presented with many decisions, but there are few that will Room 256B
impact the rest of our life. How to decide which path to take can lead you to success or
failure. The choices we make when we are young will follow us as a permanent tattoo.
“Ganas” is something that comes from within and is the fuel that carries us forward
when times get tough.
Presented by Dr. Jesús Borrego, Affiliate Professor, Computer Information Systems
and Information Assurance, Regis University
The Importance of STEM- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Armstrong
(STEM) plays in the success of every child for competitiveness and future economic Room 302
prosperity. This presentation is inquiry based, engaging, and dynamic with a make-and
-take-it STEM activity for students to understand the importance of this field of educa-
tion.
Presented by Evelyn Adams, Educator HSD2
Gay Straight Alliances, Allies and other LGBTQ topics –This session will cover Armstrong
LGBTIQ terminology, safe zones, resources for youth, and GSAs. Participants will en- Room 301
gage in activities on bullying prevention, and on creating empathy for those who are
coming out to accepting or rejecting families.
Presented by Mary G. Malia, Executive Director Inside Out Youth Services
It’s OK 2B different- A Former Correctional Officer, Tina Burse has witnessed first- Palmer Hall
hand the pain it causes the child who has incarcerated parents. 70% of children who Gates
have a loved one incarcerated will end up there themselves if they don’t receive proper Commons
and effective intervention. This session is designed to help youth escape negative cy-
cles, and to embrace choices and challenges.
Presented by Tina Burse
Prototyping: 3D Imaging, Design and Printing/3D Technologies Armstrong
and Entrepreneurship-3D imaging, design and printing are bringing us into the Room 231
next Great Industrial Revolution – mass customization. Capture and view your 3D im-
age, design your own biomedical prototypes, and see 3D printing up close in this
hands-on course. Learn about entrepreneurship, technology and how 3D printing can
aid in the process of product invention, design, prototyping and manufacturing.
Presented by Diana Hall, Entrepreneur and Inventor
Raspberry PI Workshop: Programming, Computing and Inventing with Barnes
Raspberry PI -This workshop will focus on the Raspberry PI, a credit card sized com- PC Lab
puter. Students will learn what the PI can do and what others are doing with their PIs Room 203
(inventions). Students will explore PI’s software, complete a hands-on tutorial of
SCRATCH, a graphical programming language developed by MIT, and create their
own SCRATCH program.
Presented by Trisha Litz, Regis University
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STUDENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS Cornerstone
Room 131
Servant Leadership: Increasing Your Influence for Change –This session will define
Servant and Transformational Leadership, and how they apply to classroom, career and
life. It will discuss the importance of understanding perspective, how to increase
Self-Awareness, the power of leadership, and effective communication. The session will
demonstrate how developing these qualities can assist students throughout life.
Presented by Anthony Perez, Founder, Success is a Language
Space System Design & Environmental Hazards-In this session students will explore Armstrong
a career in engineering. They will examine systems we interact with every day and will Room 326
design a system for terrestrial applications. The session will explore environmental
hazards of electronics in space, including radiation effects. Students will learn the
expectations and opportunities for the next generation of engineers.
Presented by Curtis Bell, Analog and Mixed Signal Applications Engineer, Cobham Sem-
iconductor Solutions
The Choices We Make: How Early Decisions Will Affect Our Future- This inspiration- Armstrong
al session will follow the life journey of JoAnna Borrega and provide students with insight Room 256A
and knowledge on how to navigate life, embrace choices and challenges.
Presented by JoAnna Borrego, Affiliate Professor Westwood College
The Trades Pay: Why Not Earn and Learn? -How do you earn a living in this econo- Armstrong
my? That is the question that young adults need to consider as they begin examining all Room 328
the options that are available. Why not learn a trade and start a business? This session
will demonstrate that vocational training can open up a world of possibilities from
employment opportunities to starting your own business.
Presented by Joy Cress and Rick Johnson, The Career Building Academy
11:45 – 1:00 pm LUNCH El Pomar
Gymnasium
Plenary – Recovering from Racism
Presented by Stephany Rose Spaulding, Spoken Word Poet and Professor, Women’s
and Ethnic Studies, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
BREAKOUT SESSIONS II
1:00 – 2:15 pm #RISEABOVE- This is a motivational workshop for youth who may need a little extra Armstrong
motivation. This workshop is intended to inspire youth to #RISEABOVE their current Theater
BREAKOUT SES- situations and circumstances and achieve desired greatness.
SION II
Presented by Dr. Craig Boykin (GED to PhD)
Don't Let Anything (or Anyone!) Stop You- Everyone only gets assigned one life. Palmer Hall
What do you really want to see out of your life? Many obstacles will occur throughout Gates
your life- maybe people don't think you can do something, or you don't know what to do Commons
next. This presentation, by a Deaf lawyer, will both challenge you to prove others wrong
and help you create a plan to make it happen! There will be interactive activities including
acting out situations and group brainstorming.
Presented by Tawny Holmes, Esq., National Association of the Deaf
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STUDENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Entrepreneurial Mindset - The workshop will discuss the importance of developing an Cornerstone
entrepreneurial mindset. The discussion will define what an entrepreneur is, and why it is Room 131
important that you identify and develop certain qualities and skills of entrepreneurs re-
gardless of whether you see yourself being in business or not.
Presented by Anthony Perez, Founder Success is a Language SESSIO
Exploring a Career in Physical Therapy- This session will introduce students to a re- Armstrong Room
warding career in physical therapy. 342
Presented by Dr. Wendy Anemaet, Regis University
Finding your why? Empowering Youth through Dance-Experience Hip Hop and Cossitt
explore the question “What is your why?”. This session will give you the opportunity to Gymnasium
explore your values, passion and goals, as well as to learn the fundamentals of Hip Hop.
All participants are auditioning to perform in the closing ceremony at the summit.
Presented by Suave, HipHopConnXion
Let’s Prevent Unwanted Pregnancy-An unplanned pregnancy can easily be put on Armstrong
hold for someone who is prepared, aware and educated. In this session, you will learn Room 328
teen PG facts, myths that lead to pregnancy, differences between the male brain and the
female brain and what a male can do about sex and birth control.
Presented by Ingrid Silva, El Paso County Department of Health and Environment
Navigating the Cultural Misconceptions, Identity, and Social Constructs of Cultural Cornerstone
Competency- This session provides background information as to how misconceptions Room 130
are formed and how students can successfully navigate those misconceptions. First ac-
knowledging that cultural misconceptions exist and how those misconceptions are used
to define us, students in this session will walk away with identified tools and resources for
successful navigation of cultural competency.
Presented by Aaron J. Griffen, Principal, Sierra High School and Elton Kirkwood, Career
Readiness Academy
Pathways Out of the Pipeline: Immigration Options for Undocumented Youth- Armstrong
Training will be provided on immigration status options for undocumented youth. The Room 326
session will also address the rights, risks, and realities that young undocumented people
and their families should know about.
Presented by Elizabeth Zambrana, Esq., Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy Network
Prototyping: 3D Imaging, Design and Printing/3D Technologies Armstrong
and Entrepreneurship-3D imaging, design and printing are bringing us into the Room 231
next Great Industrial Revolution – mass customization. Capture and view your 3D image,
design your own biomedical prototypes, and see 3D printing up close in this hands-on
course. Learn about entrepreneurship, technology and how 3D printing can aid in the
process of product invention, design, prototyping and manufacturing.
Presented by Diana Hall, Entrepreneur and Inventor
11
STUDENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS Barnes
PC Lab
Raspberry PI Workshop: Programming, Computing and Inventing with Raspberry Room 203
PI -This workshop will focus on the Raspberry PI, a credit card sized computer. Students
will learn what the PI can do and what others are doing with their PIs (inventions). Stu-
dents will explore PI’s software, complete a hands-on tutorial of SCRATCH, a graphical
programming language developed by MIT, and create their own SCRATCH program.
Presented by Trisha Litz, Regis University
Robotics-Create your own robot in this fun and interactive session. Every participant will Cornerstone
leave with a mini-robot. Room 302
Presented by Christopher Marro, Sierra High School, and students Cheyanne Cum-
mings, Jamie Periquet, Raven Stovall and Steven Mulholland
Stand Up and Stand Out against bullying and teen suicide- David Verdu is the Olin
Founder/Creator of Way Beyond Measure, a program that impacts the lives of students Room 1
and communities. The session is designed to: “Educate future leaders locally and Na-
tionally, Empower students to STAND UP STAND OUT, Encourage a culture to achieve
their goals, and Equip this generation to be leaders.”
Presented by David Verdu, lifelong educator and coach
Treat Her Like a Woman: Let’s End Misogyny- Our culture continues to perpetuate a Armstrong
sexualized version of women, one that devalues intellect and initiative. The focus of this Room 302
session is to teach men how to be an advocate against misogyny and domestic violence.
The focus for women is to teach how to demand the respect you deserve.
Presented by Antonio Coffey, US Army and Pastor Sam Harris, House of Refuge Chris-
tian Center
Unpacking our names: A journey of meaning, identity, memory and self- This work- Armstrong Max
shop explores names and how they define who we are as individuals and differentiate us Kade Theater
from one another within our communities. Participants will also gain tools to help com-
municate how names are linked to identity, family, place, community, and culture. Room 300
Presented by Junior Reina, MA, UC Denver and Robert Montoya, MA, UC Denver
2:15 – 2:30 pm Break
2:30 – 4:00
BREAKOUT SESSIONS III
Careers in the Hospitality Industry- Take a digital tour of the world and learn the op- Armstrong
portunities in the hospitality industry. Room 256A
Presented by Rick Reese
College and Scholarship Interview Skills- The session will cover interview strategies Armstrong
ranging from professional dress to connecting with an interviewer. This training has been Room 234
provided to students that received the Daniels Fund Scholarship, Boettcher Scholarship,
Gates Millennium Scholarship, and LEDA Scholar winners to name a few.
Presented by Markus Moeder-Chandler and April Matulovich
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STUDENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Committed to Being Fabulous on Purpose-The purpose of this session is to provide Armstrong
skills and knowledge to empower youth to evolve into well-rounded women and men of Room 326
Excellence by educating, inspiring, empowering and uplifting them. If you don't know who
you are then you don't know where you’re going, this class will provide direction and en-
courage youth to shake off limits and achieve their destinies.
Presented by Regina English, Mrs. El Paso County 2016
Exploring a Career in Physical Therapy- This session will introduce students to a re- Armstrong
warding career in physical therapy. Room 342
Presented by Dr. Wendy Anemaet, Regis University
Finding your why? Empowering Youth through Dance-Experience Hip Hop and ex- Cossitt Gymna-
plore the question “What is your why?”. This session will give you the opportunity to ex- sium
plore your values, passion and goals, as well as to learn the fundamentals of Hip Hop. All
participants are auditioning to perform in the closing ceremony at the summit.
Presented by Suave, HipHopConnXion
How to Become a Software Developer- In this session, I would discuss some of the Barnes
keys of becoming a software developer such as, having the tools needed for the job (all PC Lab
free tools), learning how to find online help (working smarter not harder), and how to Room 203
grow your skills as your aptitude grows.
Presented by Tommy Wells, Senior Software Engineer and Architect, Insurance Tech-
nologies, Inc.
Know Your Deaf Rights- Talila Lewis of HEARD will show case the film, Know Your Cornerstone
Deaf Rights, featuring Marlee Matlin. The film is the product of a collaboration between Room 308
HEARD and the ACLU.
Presented by Talila Lewis, HEARD
Learn Your Legal Rights in Colorado (LYRIC) -This workshop will educate and em- Cornerstone
power the youth of Colorado about their 4th, 5th, and 6th amendment rights in a fun and Room 131
interactive manner.
Presented by Hannah Proff, Esq. and Michael Juba, Esq.
Manhood: Strategies for Success!-Colorado Springs business, military and religious Palmer Hall
leaders discuss the true meaning of success and how to achieve it. Join these men as Gates Com-
they discuss the choices and challenges they have encountered on their road to success. mons
Presented by Felton Crawley, Kervin Mack, Troy Jackson, Dirk Hunter-Ellis, Eric Gra-
ham, Walter Campbell, Bernard Harris, CJ McCampbell
Operating in Your True Identity & Living Your Authentic Truth- The purpose of this Cornerstone
workshop is to introduce attendees to a healthy identity, using personality assessment Room 130
and relate it to personal leadership, self-esteem, and problem solving. Additionally, ses-
sion attendees will be able to take away tools on how to freely be themselves.
Presented by Tory L. White, Creative Pathways Counseling & Consulting, LLC
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STUDENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Robotics-Create your own robot in this fun and interactive session. Every participant will Cornerstone
leave with a mini-robot. Room 302
Presented by Christopher Marro, Sierra High School, and students Cheyanne Cum-
mings, Jamie Periquet, Raven Stovall and Steven Mulholland
What could he/she be thinking: Understanding the minds of the opposite sex--The Worner Center
latest research in brain development and gender differences. This session will address WES Room
issues of maturity, learning, and success.
Presented by Dakota Hoyt, Gurian Institute
When Life Gives You Lemons: Finding Your Voice- Your voice is a superpower. Over- Armstrong
coming hardships, facing tough days of school, navigating a future, and setting goals are Room 231
all possible and can be enhanced with effective communication skills. Learn about the
power of your voice before hearing from a first year Pikes Peak Community College stu-
dent whose voice helped him overcome severe bullying in high school and empowered
him to embrace his college courses with strength and courage. You will leave this ses-
sion with tips to embrace and enhance the power of your voice as you continue your jour-
ney in high school and begin a new chapter at college.
Presented by Connor O’Brien-Hatfield, TCA College Pathways and Katie M. Puryear,
Pikes Peak Community College
YOU ROCK: Leadership skills-Leadership is misunderstood to be a skill that a person Armstrong
is born with. But, it can be learned and applied to both your personal and professional Theater
life. Leaders make choices, take action and make a difference in the world around them.
Be the leader the world needs.
Presented by Michelle Mras
You’ll Wanna Know: You have the power to reduce your risk of disease-This Armstrong Room
presentation focuses on the power of youth to reduce cancer risks in their life: including 328
sun safety/skin cancer risk reduction; vaccination for Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) for
the prevention of cancers related to HPV; and self-examination for breast and testicular
cancers. It covers cancer basics: what cancer is, what may cause cancer, how it is most
commonly detected and treated. It is also an introduction to the Health Care Profession.
Presented by Carolyn Kalaskie, MS, Penrose Cancer Center
4:00 – 4:10 pm Break El Pomar
4:10 – 4:40 pm CLOSING CEREMONY AND SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS Gymnasium
Judge Regina Walter, El Paso County, ECOC Co-Chair
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PROFESSIONAL BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Time Activity Location
7:45 – 8:30 am El Pomar Gymnasium
8:30 – 9:00 am Check in / Registration
9:00 – 9:15 am Welcome Remarks
America the Beautiful, Colorado Springs Signing Choir,
Directed by SueAnn Gurwell
Jill Tiefenthaler, President, Colorado College
Keenan Wright, Freshman, Colorado College
Statistics and White House Welcome
Judge Regina Walter, El Paso County, ECOC Co-Chair
9:15 – 10:00 am Embracing Choices and Challenges
10:00 – 10:15 am Clifton Taulbert, Author and Entrepreneur
10:15 – 10:45 am
Break
BREAKOUT SESSION I
Early Childhood “Education” or Early Childhood “Life” : Meeting the 21st Worner Center
Century Needs of Young Children of Color Both In and Out of the Classroom WES Room
Setting- Despite unfair preK-3 school suspensions, overrepresentation in special-
ed, mental health concerns, poverty, and other negative aspects, the importance of Cornerstone
establishing the positive foundation of learning in early childhood life must not be Room 302
lost. Together we can ensure a brighter horizon for the children not only inside the
classroom but in life. Armstrong
Room 234
Presented by Dr. Marilyn Chipman, Metro State University
Effective Communication: Schools' Roles and Obligations under the ADA for
Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students- The session will address the latest develop-
ments in federal law and policy, including the newly released ADA guidelines on
effective communication from the U.S. Department of Education and U.S. Depart-
ment of Justice. The impact on transition planning and mainstreamed classrooms
will be discussed. Information will also be shared on national resources, the use of
interpreters and the monitoring of successful inclusion along with promoting self-
advocacy in students.
Presented by Tawny Holmes, Esq., Education Policy Counsel at National
Association of the Deaf
Flipped Instruction-This session will demonstrate how to provide content outside
of class time, the benefits of application taking place during class time, and chal-
lenges with Flipped learning instruction will be discussed. Participants will experi-
ence a sample flipped lesson that focuses on differentiation, including use of
unique types of activities to model in classroom.
Presented by Peggy Jacobs, EdD and Andrea McCorquodale, D-49
15
PROFESSIONAL BREAKOUT SESSIONS Worner Center
Gaylord Hall
Match the Ads: A Workshop on Media Influence- Theorizing hegemonic mass
media as one of the most important “information-diffusing socializing agencies” in
the United States, this course allows attendees to develop the competencies nec-
essary for analyzing media codes and conventions and interpreting the myriad
meanings and ideologies generated by media texts. More specifically, we explore
how gender, sexuality, race, class, citizenship, and other social, cultural, and politi-
cal markers are constructed in mass media, including the multidimensional impe-
tuses for and implications of these constructions.
Presented by Dr. Heidi Lewis, Colorado College
Mindfulness in the Classroom- How many of us have ever been asked to “pay Cornerstone
attention” when we were in school? How many of us were taught what “paying Room 301
attention” means? In this session, you will be given the tools to practice Mindful-
ness. You will learn the research-based benefits of incorporating Mindfulness into
your classroom. We will talk about what is happening in the brain (for all different
ages) when we are practicing Mindfulness, and address resources for any age
group.
Presented by Devra Allen, Nueva Ventura
N!gga/er Word: Is There A Message in the Madness?-Who is allowed to say the El Pomar Gymnasium
N!igga (er) word? What do we do/say when N!gga (er) is said in our classrooms,
hallways, practice fields, and resident halls? Ignoring the N!gga (er) word is not an
option anymore – you can hear N!gga anywhere at any time in the 21st century.
Remember Paula Deen? What about Trayvon? The NFL? This workshop offers
suggestions about the importance of understanding the various realities associated
with N!gga (er) and recommends how to challenge and encourage all people, but
specifically young people, to consider the ramifications of casual or uniformed us-
age of a powerful and troublesome word.
Presented by Dr. Eddie Moore, White Privilege Conference
Reinforcing the Future: Adult On-Call- Thousands of years ago, Cicero said that Cornerstone Richard
human kind was created to live in community. However, that community is not au- Celeste Theater
tomatic. With the youth that cross our paths, we as adults, must be intentional in
the building process. In this session we will share stories of the adults who stepped
up and the transformation that occurred.
Presented by Clifton Taulbert
Reinstating parental rights as an alternative to aging out of foster care- C.R.S. Armstrong
19-3-612, enacted in 2014, provides for the reinstatement of the parent-child legal Room 257A
relationship in certain child welfare cases where parental rights have been termi-
nated. This session will address the specific requirements of Colorado’s statute and
how the statue could be utilized for youth in long term foster care.
Presented by Rebecca Casey, Esq. , 11th Judicial District and Loretta Koehler,
Esq., 1st Judicial District
16
PROFESSIONAL BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Thinking Outside the Box: Exploring and Motivating for the Future with the Cornerstone
Visual Arts- This presentation will focus on effective ways of increasing motivation Room 308
and exploration in ourselves and our students through experiencing the questions
that arise while trying to understand and create visual art. We will learn easier,
observe more and increase empathetic discernment of differences. We need to
wake up to our reality and become explorers of our current and past artistic worlds,
and give ourselves permission and others to think outside the box.
Presented by Becky Myers, Artist and Educator
11:45 – 1:00 pm LUNCH El Pomar
Gymnasium,
Plenary – Recovering from Racism
Presented by Stephany Rose Spaulding, Spoken Word Poet and Professor, Wom-
en’s and Ethnic Studies, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
BREAKOUT SESSIONS II
1:00 – 2:15 pm Bridging the Digital Divide: Innovative approach to the delivery of classroom in- Armstrong
struction The Surge365 "World Virtual Trips" model bridges the digital divide by Room 256A
BREAKOUT SES- making it fun to learn geography and go on world "virtual" field trips without leaving
SION II the classroom. The digital divide is the inability to access technology due to socio-
economic factors. This hinders schools and students from offering and receiving a
quality education. "84% of teachers believe new technologies are creating a bigger
divide between affluent and disadvantaged schools." @ pewresearch.
Presented by Rick Reese, Motivational Speaker and Entrepreneur
Building emotional intelligence in students to promote better choices and Cornerstone Richard
overcoming challenges- Due to the multitude of obstacles students may face, Celeste Theater
students do not always have the skills to make positive choices and embrace and
overcome challenges. If students are able to conceptualize their own level of emo-
tional intelligence, then they will have better skills to embrace difficult choices and
challenges. The presentation will also provide strategies for teachers to model
emotional intelligence, and how to be an emotionally competent teacher as well as
recognizing and enhancing emotional intelligence in students.
Presented by Bryan Bohanan, EdD, UC Denver and DPS
Ethnic Studies is Our Fight- This workshop will address why many students of Armstrong
color struggle academically and the importance of including Ethnic Studies in K-12 Room 234
programs.
Presented by Rogelio Fernandez, President of Council de Manos
LGBTQ individuals and Education-This session will address legal and education- Armstrong
al issues associated with gender diversity and explore the lived experiences of Room 301
youth who are LGBTIQ.
Presented by Mary G. Malia, Executive Director Inside Out Youth Services
17
PROFESSIONAL BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Pathways Out of the Pipeline: Immigration Options for Undocumented Youth- Armstrong
Training will be provided on immigration status options for undocumented youth. Room 326
The session will also address the rights, risks, and realities that young undocu-
mented people and their families should know about.
Presented by Elizabeth Zambrana, Esq., Rocky Mountain Immigrant Advocacy
Network
Recruiting, Training and Preparing the Next Generation of Teachers- This ses- Cornerstone
sion will share the new, NxtGEN 4 Year Undergraduate Residency Model Room 301
(4YUGR), an initiative of the School of Education and Human Development, Uni-
versity of Colorado Denver in partnership with a high-poverty, diverse urban school
district. The aim of the NxtGEN is to close the achievement gap by preparing the
next generation of diverse teachers by strategically recruiting local diverse talent,
providing a highly supported, clinically-intensive customized pathway for prepara-
tion in urban school settings, and supporting new teachers through innovative dif-
ferentiated induction.
Presented by Paula Gallegos, NxtGEN Undergraduate Residency Coordinator,
Katlyn Pedone, NxtGEN Undergraduate Student, Kobi Nelson, NxtGEN Graduate
Assistant, Aleah Vigil, NxtGEN Undergraduate Student, and Lisa Silverstein,
NxtGEN Graduate Assistant
Rigor or Rigor Mortis- Are We Killing Our Kids?-Education talks about "rigor"- Armstrong
but doesn't always discuss what it is and what it should look like. Participants' will Room 257A
leave with a clear definition of what "rigor" is and will also find out what “rigor” is-
n't. The program will open with the ASCD-DVD “Use Students’ Diverse Cultural
Backgrounds to Enhance Student Achievement.”
Presented by Beverly Bennett-Roberts, Educator
Shifting Paradigms & Pedagogy: Trauma-Informed, Culturally Responsive & Cornerstone
Disability Positive Education Changes Everything-This presentation will illus- Room 308
trate how our collective failure to address trauma and disability experienced by our
youth contributes to our children being pushed out of school and into a penal sys- Worner Center
tem that only serves to further traumatize young people and pave the way to adult Gaylord Hall
incarceration. This session centers on trauma-informed care, disability justice and
universal equality to undermine the root causes of the school to prison pipeline.
Presented by Talila Lewis, HEARD
Transforming Ourselves to Become Culturally Inclusive Educators- What can
we do differently to create a welcoming, inclusive, and exciting educational environ-
ment for the 21st century? How can we overcome the many obstacles to creating
cultural inclusiveness, including: Implicit Bias, Stereotype Threat, Micro aggres-
sions, Identity-Blindness, among others? Pushing past these challenges requires a
willingness to consider our own biases, and a commitment to learning what we
don't know we don't know. In this interactive workshop we will reflect on our envi-
ronments, our practices, and ourselves using eight transformative steps. This ses-
sion should particularly benefit educators of any experience level who are willing to
engage in self-reflection and who are specifically interested in increasing their
teaching effectiveness by making their classrooms more culturally inclusive.
Presented by Dr. Dena Samuels, UCCS
18
PROFESSIONAL BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Understanding the Minds of Boys and Girls-The latest research in brain devel- Worner Center
opment and gender differences. This session will address issues of maturity, learn- WES Room
ing and success.
Presented by Dakota Hoyt, Gurian Institute
White Privilege/Achievement Gap- This interactive, informational, challenging El Pomar Gymnasium
and energetic session examines and explores white privilege/oppression and the
imperative that those promoting diversity must “get in on the conversations.” Partic-
ipants will leave with the skills and knowledge necessary to begin addressing is-
sues of white privilege/oppression individually and institutionally.
Presented by Dr. Eddie Moore
2:15 – 2:30 pm Break
2:30 – 4:00 pm
BREAKOUT SESSION III
Better Solutions for Better Outcomes: Strategies for Academic Success of Cornerstone
Latino Students- We must understand the value of the Latino student’s sense of Room 301
belonging and self, thus the building of self-worth. This workshop will examine and
discuss best pedagogical practices to address instructional needs, monitor stu-
dents for any personal or learning difficulties and will explore strategies for quality
academic instruction that identify the student’s social, developmental, mental and
physical health, judicial and economic issues, etc. Relevant practices of mentor-
ship, relationship building, home visits, etc. will also be discussed.
Presented by Dr. Fae Garcia Bush & LaTisha Quintana, MSW, 4th Judicial District
Bridging Best Practices with Cultural Competency for Students with Excep- Worner Center
tionalities- This session focuses upon how cultural competence will result in a Gaylord Hall
greater identification of students of color into gifted and talented programs and for
Advanced Placement. At the end of this session, parents and educators will be able
to identify misconceptions which result in labeling, tracking and de facto-
segregation policies that hinder or deny special education services to students in
need or to students who are gifted in areas not readily identified by “standardized”
IQ tests.
Presented by Aaron J. Griffen, Principal, Sierra High School, Dawn Thomas, Sec-
ondary Language Arts Instructional Coordinator, HSD2, Jymil Thompson, Asst.
Principal, Sierra High School
Headlines and Hatred: How to inspire and engage youth when life is threaten- El Pomar Gymnasium
ing-This session will look at the work of Claude Steele and address the power of
suggestion and self-fulfilling prophecies. Participants will address the impact of
stereotypes and micro-aggressions, and learn tools to assist youth to succeed de-
spite a political and social environment that devalues them.
Presented by Dr. Regina Lewis, PPCC
19
PROFESSIONAL BREAKOUT SESSIONS
How to Motivate the Unmotivated "Teaching with Poverty in Mind"- Learn how Cornerstone
to help at-risk students succeed. It’s clear that students from poverty are often at a
disadvantage when it comes to education, and educators can find it challenging to Richard Celeste
help such students become positively engaged in their own learning. Students from Theater
poverty often need more help engaging in the classroom. Above all, Craig J. Boykin
advises educators to avoid giving up on “difficult” students by deciding that cer-
tain students “can’t be taught,” and provides powerful examples of at-risk students
succeeding in large numbers in supportive environments. He also admonishes, "If
you don't teach it, don't punish students for not doing well at it!”
Presented by Dr. Craig Boykin (GED to PhD)
If You Are Riding a Horse and it Dies, Get OFF!-This workshop will focus on Armstrong
evidence-based educational programs worth investigating, as well as decode some Room 257A
of the latest school jargon. As participants increase their understanding of best
practices, they may find the answer to enhancing academic success for all children;
specifically children of color and children of poverty. The session includes a TED
talk message from Rita Pierson, “Every Child is a Champion.”
Presented by Beverly Bennett-Roberts , Educator
The Raising of America: Early Childhood and the Future of Our Nation- Armstrong
Room 302
We all want what’s best for our children, so why is child well-being in the U.S. so
much worse than the other rich nations? Why do we allow our most vulnerable chil-
dren to fall so much further behind the median? How does the squeeze on young
families and caregivers—the squeeze for time, money and resources—‘drip down’
on infants and young children and alter the wiring of their developing brains with
potential long-term consequences? This session moves back and forth between
the science of human development and the stories of families and communities
struggling to provide the rich and responsive environments all children need to
thrive – while too often hindered by social conditions and inequities that impede
their every effort. It doesn’t have to be this way. What initiatives and national priori-
ties might enable all our children the opportunity for a strong start while building a
more prosperous and equitable future for our nation?
Judy Casey, Educator
Wise Practices for Maximizing Real-World Student Experiences with Science Armstrong
through Combining Online Expert Training with Classroom and Community Max Kade Theater
Activities: Session- In this workshop, classroom teachers of students from 5-13 Room 300
years of age use the program AWARE Academy(SM) to explore ways to integrate
online, classroom and community activities. This cost-free environmental and cli-
mate change science program applies current environmental and climate science,
issues within local social contexts through projects students can do in the class-
room and community while utilizing mobile technologies and online access to ex-
pert knowledge.
Presented by Lynn Wilson, CEO, SeaTrust Institute, Daniel Reed, Education Direc-
tor, SeaTrust Institute, and Dorothy Williams, Professor and Director, Regis
University
4:00 – 4:10 pm BREAK El Pomar Gymnasium
4:10 – 4:40 pm CLOSING CEREMONY AND SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS
Judge Regina Walter, El Paso County, ECOC Co-Chair
20
PARENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS
Time Activity Location
7:45 – 8:30 am
8:30 – 9:00 am Check in / Registration El Pomar
Gymnasium
9:00 – 9:15 am
Welcome Remarks
America the Beautiful, Colorado Springs Signing Choir, directed by SueAnn Gurwell
Jill Tiefenthaler, President, Colorado College
Keenan Wright, Freshman, Colorado College
Statistics and White House Welcome
Judge Regina Walter, El Paso County, ECOC Co-Chair
9:15 – 10:00 am Embracing Choices and Challenges
Clifton Taulbert, Author and Entrepreneur
10:00 – 10:15 am Break
BREAKOUT SESSION I
10:15 – 11:45 am Branding Your Child’s Education Through Advocacy, Legislative Process, and Bemis Lounge
Marketing- Through this session, parents will recognize advocacy tactics that are
used to inform/misinform and learn to use those tactics and the information to their
advantage to garner support for their local schools.
Presented by Aaron J. Griffen, Principal – Sierra High School and Jamilah Taylor, AP
Student – Sierra High School
Drugs in our Community and Your Child-Heroin, molly, pot and spice have been in Bemis
our schools and in our headlines. Learn about the availability and impact of Great Hall
substances in our community. Learn how to identify and intervene with our youth.
Presented by Lynn Riemer, President, ACT on Drugs, Inc.
Reinforcing the Future: Adult On-Call- Thousands of years ago, Cicero said that Cornerstone
human kind was created to live in community. However, that community is not auto- Richard Celeste
matic. With the youth that cross our paths, we as adults, must be intentional in the Theater
building process. In this session we will share stories of the adults who stepped up and
the transformation that occurred. Presented by Clifton Taulbert
11:45 – 1:00 pm LUNCH El Pomar
Gymnasium
Plenary – Recovering from Racism
Presented by Stephany Rose Spaulding, Spoken Word Poet and Professor, Women’s
and Ethnic Studies, University of Colorado, Colorado Springs
21
PARENT BREAKOUT SESSIONS
BREAKOUT SESSIONS II
1:00 – 2:15 pm How to Go to College for Free: Enhancing Your Child’s Educational Opportunity Bemis Lounge
Through Concurrent Enrollment- Participants will learn how Sierra High School and
2:15 – 2:30 pm Harrison High School in School District 2 have partnered with many universities which
2:30 – 4:00 pm allowed our students to gain college credits through approved concurrent enrollment
courses at our high school. The presentation will include facts and statistics that show
4:00 – 4:10 pm enrollment in college level courses in high school will allow children of color the oppor-
4:10 – 4:40 pm tunity to attend college and succeed.
Presented by Robert J. Bentley, CSU Pueblo Adjunct Professor of History and Political
Science, Kiara Mitchell and Violeta Flores, Sierra High School
Keeping Children Safe on the Internet-The task of protecting our children online is Bemis
challenging and grows daily. While the internet offers a world of education materials, Great Hall
fun, games and social connections, it can also risk your child’s physical, psychological,
and emotional well-being. Parents will gain valuable information on privacy, avoiding
strangers/unknown sources, YouTube, on-line bullying, and what’s appropriate for
social media.
Presented by Diana Mitchell, Asst. Superintendent HSD2, Doug Larkey, Instructional
Coordinator HSD2, and Ryan Smith, HSD2 District Technology Coordinator
Break
BREAKOUT SESSION III
FAFSA, Financial Aid, 529 plans and other college money matters-This session Bemis
will address funding your child’s college education, including applying for financial aid Great Hall
and scholarships.
Presented by Brianna Kutauskas and Freddy Burciaga, College in Colorado
The Importance of STEM- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Bemis Lounge
(STEM) plays in the success of every child for competitiveness and future economic
prosperity. This presentation is inquiry based, engaging, and dynamic with a make-and
-take-it STEM activity for parents to understand the importance of this field of educa-
tion.
Presented by Evelyn Adams, Educator HSD2
Break El Pomar
CLOSING CEREMONY AND SCHOLARSHIP AWARDS Gymnasium
Judge Regina Walter, El Paso County, ECOC Co-Chair
22
PRESENTER BIOGRAPHIES
Evelyn Adams is an educator with a strong STEM background currently working in Harrison School District 2. Evelyn holds a Mas-
ter’s Degree in Curriculum & Instruction and is a published writer and advocate for children from diverse backgrounds. Her 13 years’
experience in the field of education has taken her from teaching a K-5 science curriculum in Academy District 20 to general educa-
tion at International Baccalaureate schools where she advocated for integrating curriculum. Among Evelyn’s many accomplish-
ments, she has organized science fairs, sponsored science clubs and motivated many students to reach their full potential.
Devra Allen holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from Colorado State University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and
is currently employed through Colorado Springs School District 11 as a School Social Worker for the Nueva Ventura program
(grades 9-12th), which is part of Tesla Educational Opportunity Center on the Roy J. Wasson Academic Campus. She specializes
in working with youth who exhibit behavioral issues and/or learning disabilities.
Dr. Wendy Anemaet holds a BS in Biology and Pre-Med and in Athletic Training from Mount Vernon University in Ohio, an MS in
Physical Therapy from USC in California, and a PhD in Aging Studies from the University of South Florida. She is a Geriatric Clinical
Specialist as well as being certified as a wound specialist and an athletic trainer.
Curtis Bell received his BS in Computer Engineering from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs. He is working towards an
MS in Electrical Engineering with a focus on analog and power systems. Previously, Curtis worked as a Systems Design Engineer
for space applications. In this position, he designed and tested single board computers for satellites.
Beverly Bennett-Roberts is an Associate Professor and the Program Coordinator for the Early Childhood Leadership Institute
Scholarship Program at the University of the District of Columbia in Washington, DC. Beverley holds four certifications in Special
Education and a secondary principal’s license. She was the recipient of the 2014 Distinguished Member prize given by the National
Society of Collegiate Scholars and in 2008 was awarded the “Excellence in Education and Exemplary Service” award presented by
the Loudoun County, Virginia NAACP.
Robert Bentley has been a history teacher at Sierra High School for six years. He holds his BA in Political Science from the Uni-
versity of Colorado at Colorado Springs and will graduate in May 2016 with a Master’s Degree in History from Colorado State Uni-
versity Pueblo. Mr. Bentley teaches concurrent enrollment history and political science courses at Sierra High School and is the
Chair of the Social Studies Department.
Bryan Bohanan is a counselor at PUSH Academy at Montebello Campus working to meet the emotional and social needs of stu-
dents while helping them to consider and prepare for college and career. In addition to working as an adjunct faculty member in the
Urban Community Teacher Education program at the University of Colorado Denver, Bryan works with students and families to
equip them with the necessary tools to be active and contributing members of challenging school contexts.
Dr. Jesus Borrego has over 25 years of experience in industry and government, in areas of technology with emphasis in computer
science, programming, databases, computer networks and computer security. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical
Engineering, Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science, Master of Science in Computer Science, and PhD in Applied Man-
agement and Decision Sciences with emphasis in Information Systems Management.
JoAnna Borrego has over 10 years of experience in Program and Project Management with emphasis in software and systems
planning, scheduling and process improvement. She has managed multiple small to large size projects utilizing the Software Devel-
opment Life Cycle and a variety of Project Management tools. Ms. Borrego holds a Bachelor's Degree in Computer Information
System with Networking emphasis and a Master's in Computer Information Technologies with emphasis in Database Management.
She enjoys teaching computer related courses at the college level and is an Affiliate Professor at Westwood College. She regularly
volunteers in STEM activities at Regis University Colorado Springs campus.
Craig J. Boykin is a motivational speaker and presenter. Craig is one of the nation's leading authorities in understanding and stim-
ulating human potential, utilizing a powerful delivery, and newly emerging insights to teach, inspire, and channel people to new lev-
els of achievement. Craig’s personal mission in life is to provide hope to individuals who feel that their current situation is hopeless.
Craig travels the country presenting his seminar, “Make Life Count.” Craig published his first book in 2013 titled, “My Life, Your In-
spiration,” has been featured on TBN and won various awards.
23
PRESENTER BIOGRAPHIES
Alfredo "Freddy" Burciaga joined College in Colorado in January of 2013 as Director of Financial Education. Freddy started his
career in financial aid at CSU-Pueblo 14 years ago and has been in higher education ever since. His experience includes outreach,
financial aid counseling, mentoring, and supervising. Freddy is from southeastern Colorado and earned his bachelor's degree from
CSU-Pueblo.
Tina Burse is a youth advocate and publisher traveling the world to "Equip Young Minds.” Tina is the Founder and CEO of the It’s
Ok 2B Different Youth Mentoring Program in Las Vegas, Nevada. Her devotion to today’s youth has inspired her to author two
books and host her own radio show, NO More.
Walter Campbell attended Tuskegee University where he was commissioned as an Air Force Officer under the Air Force Reserve
Officer Training Corps. Mr. Campbell served the United States Air Force 21 years as a Space Officer in a variety of leadership and
staff positions, with varying levels of responsibility, throughout the United States, Europe, and Australia. Upon retiring from the Air
Force in September 2002, Walter has remained in the Department of Defense working as a government civilian employee for the
U.S. Army as a Space Analyst. He works tirelessly at Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church as Director, Finance Committee. Walter
Campbell holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Management Science from Tuskegee University and a Master’s Degree in Computer Re-
sources Management from Webster University.
Judy Casey has been active in various teaching and leadership roles in public education. She has been involved in literacy organi-
zations at the local and state levels in Wisconsin and Colorado. Since retiring from Academy School District 20 in Colorado Springs
as an elementary principal, Judy has supervised elementary student teachers and future principals for four local universities and the
University of Denver. Her work with student teachers at the University of Northern Colorado will continue in 2015-2016. She is ac-
tive as a member of the Women’s Foundation of Colorado Regional Steering Committee as well as a member of the Boards of Direc-
tors of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), The Woman’s Educational Society of Colorado College, Griffith Cen-
ters, and PILLAR.
Rebecca Casey has practiced extensively in the areas of juvenile and family law. She has served as an assistant county attorney,
guardian ad litem and Respondent’s counsel in dependency and neglect cases, defense counsel and guardian ad litem in delinquen-
cy cases, and has represented foster parents, relatives, and private parties in adoptions. Currently, Rebecca serves in the 11th Judi-
cial District-Fremont County as a Family Court Facilitator in domestic cases and a Self-Represented Litigant Coordinator for all case
types. She was chair of the 11th Judicial District’s SB-94 Committee for five years, court liaison for the development of the District’s
CASA program, and is the court liaison for the District’s National Adoption Day events.
Dr. Marilyn Chipman is an educational sociologist and an administrator at Metropolitan State University of Denver. She serves as
Educational Equity Coordinator in the federally-funded MSU-Denver Region VIII Equity Assistance Center, which provides profes-
sional development, consultant services, and training for schools, districts, state agencies, and tribal education agencies within the
six-state region encompassing Colorado, Utah, Wyoming, Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota. She also is affiliate/adjunct
faculty within the MSU-Denver Departments of Education where she was a tenured professor prior to becoming an administrator.
Antonio Coffey is active duty in the US Army and is the Boys to Men Program Manager for the House of Refuge Christian Center, in
Colorado Springs.
Felton Crawley retired from the US Army at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, and is employed as a Research Analyst with the United
States Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Prisons. Felton holds a BS in Criminal Justice and an MBA in Business Manage-
ment. He is a graduate of the US Army’s Command and General Staff College, Military Intelligence Officer’s Basic and Advance
Course, Air Defense Artillery Course, and Missile Defense Course.
Joy Cress joined The Career Building Academy in 2012 as the Executive Director and oversees the educational programming. To-
gether with Rick Johnson, she has opened four campuses in Southern Colorado and will be opening a 5th in 2016.
Cheyanne Cummings is a student at Sierra High School.
Regina Rena English is the founder and CEO of My African American Miss, LLC., a pageant organization for African American
Youth. She served as an After School Performing Arts Director with West Star School of Arts from 2006 to 2009 where she taught
theater and Modeling/Pageantry. She was nominated and selected as Mrs. El Paso County 2014 and Mrs. El Paso County 2016.
24
PRESENTER BIOGRAPHIES
Rogelio Fernández, Jr. is a Business Account Executive with CSDVRS, LLC. He is the Founder of the Texas Latino Council of the
Deaf and Hard of Hearing and he is a graduate of Gallaudet University in Washington, DC.
Violeta Flores is a junior at Sierra High School in Colorado Springs. She takes part in GT Pathways which allows her to earn her
associate degree in general studies before completing high school. She is currently working to graduate with a major in computer
engineering and a minor in Spanish translation and photography.
Paula Gallegos is the NxtGEN Residency Coordinator and mentors undergraduate elementary and special education majors through
ParaEducator Internships in Denver Public Schools. Before she began working at the University of Colorado Denver she worked in
Denver Public Schools for 13 years teaching secondary English and concurrent enrollment courses, as well as serving as a college
readiness coordinator for 5 years.
Dr. Fae Garcia-Bush has worked as a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in both the private sector and in the judicial and school sys-
tems. In 1982 she received her Master of Social Work degree from the University Of Denver School Of Social Work. She graduated in
2004 from Fielding Graduate University in Santa Barbara, California, with a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Change with an
emphasis in social justice.
Eric Graham received his Regular Army commission as a Second Lieutenant from Morris College in Sumter, South Carolina under
the auspices of the University of South Carolina. MAJ (P) Graham currently serves within the Cyber Directorate North American Aero-
space Defense Command and US Northern Command (NORAD-USNORTHCOM) at Peterson Air Force Base in Colorado Springs,
Colorado. He earned his Master’s Degree in Information Technology with a Specialization in Project Management from the University
of Maryland.
Aaron Griffen is the principal of Sierra High School. His 15-year educational career includes eight years as an assistant principal and
seven as an English teacher and department chair, football and basketball coach, parental involvement chair, and campus and district
presenter. He holds Bachelor Degrees in English and History and a Master's Degree in Educational Administration from Prairie View
A&M University. Additionally he is a PhD Candidate at Texas A&M University in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Ur-
ban Education.
Diana Hall is a Colorado native with a degree in chemical engineering from Colorado School of Mines and master’s degree in busi-
ness from CSU in Fort Collins. Her experience includes working in engineering and software for Fortune 500 companies across the
country, extensive speaking engagements including a TED talk. Diana is also a utility patent holder. In 2014, she founded Amphibi-
anSkin, a Colorado-based 3D design and printing company.
Bernard Harris is a retired federal agent, founding member of the Pikes Peak Strategic Group (PPSG) and is currently a National
Sales Director with the AmeriPlan Corporation in Plano, Texas. Prior to entering the discount healthcare field Bernard served over 35
years in law enforcement working on three continents and in 20 different countries. He earned an Associate’s Degree in Law Enforce-
ment, Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Management, and an MBA in International Business. He is an author, having pub-
lished a pamphlet for the DEA in 2003, Nothing New – Marijuana Use is Still Abuse.
Pastor Sam Harris is the minister at the House of Refuge Christian Center in Colorado Springs.
Tawny Holmes, Esq. is an Equal Justice Works fellow at the National Association of the Deaf (NAD) sponsored by Morgan, Lewis, &
Bockius, LLP, focusing on Education advocacy nationwide. Tawny holds Bachelor’s Degrees in Deaf Studies and Sociology as well
as a Master’s Degree in Deaf Education from Gallaudet University in Washington, DC. Tawny has four years of teaching experience
with deaf and hard of hearing children at all grades at two different schools including being a family educator. She received her Juris
Doctorate degree from University of Baltimore School of Law, focusing on family law and education law. She is currently the coordina-
tor of the national Education Advocates program and the chair of the Education Strategy Team for NAD.
Dakota Hoyt has worked in education for over 30 years as a teacher, math and science specialist, assistant principal, and director of
professional development. She currently works as an educational consultant for the Gurian Institute.
Dirk Hunter-Ellis holds a BA in Communications with a minor in Television Production from San Jose State University and an Electri-
cal Certification from Penn Foster. For the last 17 years he has worked for Citi Group as a Business Trainer, traveling throughout the
US and Canada facilitating sales training and leadership seminars. He has been a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity for 32 years.
25
PRESENTER BIOGRAPHIES
Troy L. Jackson graduated from Mitchell High School and from UCCS with a BS in Business. He currently works for Kinder Morgan
Inc. as a natural gas industry professional and has been employed in that industry for the majority of his working life. He joined the
Emmanuel Missionary Baptist Church Deacon’s Ministry in 1993 and was ordained in 1996. He also serves in the Emmanuel Media
Ministry, Laymen’s Ministry, Men of Valor Choir and in the Bereavement Ministry.
Dr. Peggy Jacobs has served as a school administrator and assistant director of Special Education as well as taught grades 1-12 for
general and special education students of various disabilities in districts around the United States and overseas. Peggy serves on the
board of Educating Children of Color (ECOC) and firmly believes that all students deserve a quality education in preparation for suc-
cessful careers.
Rick Johnson is a successful business owner and started Johnson Heating and Plumbing more than 30 years ago. In 2010, he shift-
ed his career pathway to starting The Career Building Academy, a vocational training program for high school students.
Michael Juba graduated from the University of Colorado at Boulder School of Law in 2007. He started his career at the Denver Trial
Office of the Colorado State Public Defender and worked extensively with children in juvenile criminal court. In 2012, Michael started
his own criminal defense firm and now focuses mainly on representing kids in criminal court, with a specialization in representing kids
charged as adults in district court. Michael regularly presents legal trainings on various topics, including effective advocacy in juvenile
court, the application of the 4th Amendment to juvenile cases, and how to effectively represent juveniles in adult court. Michael is
also published as a contributing author to the Juvenile Defense Manual.
Carolyn Kalaskie is Outreach Coordinator for Penrose Cancer Center and the Health Chair for the NAACP State Conference CT, MT
WY. Since 2007 she has worked extensively with underserved populations in El Paso County, Colorado to provide access to screen-
ing, cancer awareness education, and other health/cancer care recourses. As the ANGEL (African American Women Nurturing and
Giving Each Other Life) Network Liaison, she has coordinated activities for the only volunteer cancer outreach organization targeting
African Americans in Southern Colorado. Carolyn is a member of various local non-profit advisory councils and networking coalitions
to promote the education and welfare of target populations.
Brianna Kutauskas began with College in Colorado in December of 2013 as a Project Coordinator for Corrections Outreach. Her
main job duties include: training corrections professionals on the Own Your Future Website, advocating for students with convictions,
and assisting offenders with creating a plan for their future. Brianna has her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Criminal
Justice from Colorado State University. As a first-generation college student herself, she enjoys persuading nontraditional students to
think about attending college. She has worked in higher education for the past three years, but has been involved in criminal justice
for the past four years.
Elton Kirkwood Jr. is the Online Management Instructor (OMI) for Career Readiness Academy. He grew up in the San Francisco
bay area, where he excelled in sports and academics. After High School he attended Loma Linda University. He worked at I.B.M for
over twenty eight years as a facilities manager and IT professional. He holds an Executive M.B.A from Keller School of Management.
He is the co-creator of two nonprofit organizations that benefit the mental and physical wealth of the community.
Loretta Koehler has an extensive background in juvenile cases prior to receiving her J.D. and ADR Certificate from Hamline Univer-
sity School of Law in St. Paul, Minnesota. She practiced in truancy and delinquency (Anoka County Public Defender’s Office), and in
child welfare (CHIPs cases) representing tribes (interveners), relatives (specials respondents) and parents at the Indian Child Welfare
Law Center in Minneapolis. Upon returning to her native Colorado, she has been a Senate Bill 94 Coordinator and established child
support in Administrative hearings with DHS. For more than 14 years, Loretta has served as a domestic and juvenile Family Court
Facilitator in the First Judicial District.
Doug Larkey taught technology to kindergarten through 8th grade students for six years in Michigan and Colorado Springs. For the
last seven years, he has been an instructional technology coordinator and a social studies instructional coordinator serving secondary
schools for Harrison School District Two. Doug has a Master's degree in Educational Leadership and a K-12 instructional technology
endorsement. He conducts regular trainings designed to help teachers and administrators make better use of existing technology and
create more meaningful technology-enriched experiences for students.
26
PRESENTER BIOGRAPHIES
Dr. Heidi Lewis earned a PhD in American Studies from Purdue University where she also earned a Graduate Certification in Wom-
en’s Studies. Her research and teaching interests include feminist, gender, and sexuality studies, critical media studies and popular
culture, critical race theory, critical whiteness studies, and African American culture.
Talila Lewis founded and directs Helping Educate to Advance the Rights of the Deaf (HEARD), an all-volunteer nonprofit organiza-
tion that works to correct and prevent wrongful convictions; end abuse of incarcerated people with disabilities. Talila is an activist-
attorney whose focus is on creating equal access to the legal system for people with disabilities and individuals who are Deaf, Deaf-
Blind, DeafDisabled and Hard of Hearing (DDBDDHH). As the creator of the only national DDBDDHH prisoner database, Talila ad-
vocates for hundreds of deaf defendants, prisoners & returned citizens. As one of the only people in the world working on DDBDDHH
wrongful convictions, Talila regularly presents at universities; testifies before legislative & regulatory bodies; and trains members of
congress, attorneys, and law enforcement about this and other disability-related topics.
Dr. Regina Lewis has 15 years of experience in leadership development and has served diverse clientele, from executives to schol-
ars, government agencies, educational institutions, and non-profits. Dr. Lewis holds a PhD in Educational Leadership, Research and
Policy, an MA in Communication, a BA in Communication, and a BA in Psychology all from UCCS. She is the Chair of the Communi-
cation Department at Pikes Peak Community College.
Trisha Litz holds an MS in Management Information Systems from CU Boulder and has decades of experience in the industry as
well as in higher education. She has recently been working with colleagues at Regis and other front range Colorado universities to
create and implement week long summer camps for middle school students to increase students' knowledge of computers, computer
programming and to help inspire and motivate young people to choose a degree related to Computer Science/Information Systems.
Kervin Mack is currently the Chief of the Complaints and Investigations Division, Inspector General, Headquarters NORAD US-
NORTHCOM, Peterson AFB, Colorado. Kervin earned his Bachelor's Degree in Political Science from North Carolina A&T State Uni-
versity and was commissioned through the AFROTC program. He received a Master's Degree in Business Administration and Man-
agement from Webster's University. He served 25 years in the USAF and retired as a Lt Colonel.
Mary G. Malia is the founder of the Gay Girl Dating Coach and the Live Your Best Lesbian Life Tele-Summit, a global event featuring
16 amazing lesbians who live their lives out loud and successfully. Her business, Gay Girl Dating, LLC, was founded on the belief
that lesbian, gay, queer, bi and transgendered women can live extraordinary lives when they understand the principles and practices
that make life great and put these practices into action in their own lives. She is the executive director of Inside Out Youth Services.
Christopher Marro joined the United States Army in 2004 in order to serve his country in the Global War on Terror. While serving in
Florida, he completed his Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Science specializing in Software Development with Post Uni-
versity. He joined Teach for America in April of 2014. He is currently teaching Biology and Robotics at Sierra High School and is the
Coach of the Sierra Robotics Team. He is completing his Master’s Degree in Education specializing in Curriculum, Instruction, and
Assessment with Regis University.
April Matulovich is a Licensed Professional Counselor currently serving as a school counselor at Fountain-Fort Carson High School.
She has previously served as a school counselor in Harrison District 2 and Widefield District 3 as well. April operates her own private
counseling practice and is a mentor for the Sachs Foundation College Prep Academy.
CJ McCampbell was born in Tuscaloosa, Alabama and his 20-year career experience includes the United Parcel Service, Mobility
Transit General Manager for Chatham County, Georgia, City Transit Supervisor for the City of Colorado Springs and he is a restau-
rant owner. CJ is currently working as a driver for School District 11 Transportation. He holds a BS with a minor in Business from
CSU Pueblo.
Andrea McCorquodale is a Social Studies teacher at Vista Ridge High School and The Patriot Learning Center in Falcon School
District 49. A passion for diversity and taking purposeful risk has been a driving factor in her educational career. Ms. McCorquodale
uses technology to engage and differentiate for all learners and to guide children and teens into the jobs of the future--jobs that have-
n't even been imagined yet--where they will be using technology regularly.
27
PRESENTER BIOGRAPHIES
Dr. Diana Mitchell, has proudly served in the field of Public Education for the past 23 years. She currently serves as the Chief Information Officer/
Assistant Superintendent for Harrison School District 2, Colorado Springs, Colorado. She is primarily responsible for the Infrastructure, Programs,
Training and Technology Support for the District’s 25 schools. She was previously employed with the Prince George’s County Public Schools in
Maryland as an Area Instructional Director, Principal, Assistant Principal, and Teacher. Dr. Mitchell has a B.S. in Business Education from St. Au-
gustine’s University, Raleigh, North Carolina, a M.S. in Educational Administration from Iowa State University, Ames, Iowa and an Ed.D. in Educa-
tional Leadership with a Minor in Technology from Bowie State University, Bowie, Maryland. Dr. Mitchell holds Principal Certification in the State of
Colorado and Superintendent, Administrator, and Teacher Certification in the State of Maryland.
Kiara Mitchell is a junior at Sierra High School in Colorado Springs. She participates in the National Honors Society, Drama Club, and plays on the
softball, tennis, and track teams. While participating in these activities she takes part in the GT Pathways program allowing her to earn an associ-
ate’s degree while still in high school.
Markus Moeder-Chandler is currently the College and Career Counselor at Fountain-Fort Carson High School. He holds a BS in Psychology from
Colorado State University, an MA in Counseling and Human Services from UCCS, an MA in Education Leadership from Argosy University in Den-
ver, and is a PhD student in Counselor Education and Supervision from Adam State University.
Roberto Montoya, MA, UC Denver, is from Albuquerque, New Mexico, and a product of the gang-infested streets and gangsta-rap he grew up
with. A spoken word poet, he is more than gangsta rap; he is an advocate for youth, equity and education.
Dr. Eddie Moore, Jr. is recognized as one of the nation’s top motivational speakers and educators, in particular for his work with students K-12.
Dr. Moore is the Founder and Program Director for the White Privilege Conference (WPC). In 1996, he started America & MOORE, LLC to provide
comprehensive diversity, privilege and leadership training and workshops. Dr. Moore has served as Director of Diversity at Brooklyn Friends School
in Brooklyn, New York and at the Bush School in Seattle, Washington. He received his PhD in Education Leadership from the University of Iowa.
Michelle Mras employs her vivacity, passion, and personal anecdotes to empower those in her audience to improve their productivity both at home
and in business. Michelle has a decade of success in the corporate and non-profit worlds raising nearly $1 million through international fundraising.
Her Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing Management and Master’s Degree in Quality Systems Management as well as her enthusiasm and organiza-
tional skills directly translate to higher yields in both non-profit and for-profit organizations.
Steven Mulholland is a student at Sierra High School.
Jennifer Mwangi holds an MS in Environmental Engineering from Michigan Technological University. Her research on greenhouse gas over Lake
Superior was honored with the Best Original Research award at the 2010 World Water Day conference. In addition to her engineering expertise,
Jennifer was a Red Cross Disaster Action Team Member as Case Worker (FEMA certified) and has volunteered for causes such as Habitat for
Humanity. She became a lead researcher and one of the primary architects of the AWARE(SM) program. Jennifer is now the Program Manager for
SeaTrust Institute and will be directing the 2016 in-country launch of AWARE(SM) - Kenya.
Rebecca Myers is recently retired from teaching Art History and Humanities at PPCC and teaching studio world art classes to gifted and talented
elementary students at the Bemis Art School. Becky holds a BFA cum laude from the University of Utah in Studio Art, an MA in Native American
Art History from Arizona State University, and an EdS in Rehabilitation Teaching and Counseling of the Blind and Visually Impaired from the Uni-
versity of Northern Colorado, as well as an MAT in Elementary Education from Colorado College and a Professional License in School Counseling
K-12 from UCCS. She served as the executive director of two non-profit organizations, Ski for Light and ViBES (both skiing organizations for the
blind), and served on the executive board of One Nation in Colorado Springs. She now devotes her time to volunteering with CASA as a court ad-
vocate, holding lectures and workshops on Native American Art and Archaeology as well as Using Art to Develop Creativity, Motivation and Prob-
lem-Solving.
Kobi Nelson has an MA in English and an MA in Curriculum and Instruction. She is currently working on her Ph.D. in Education and Human Devel-
opment and has experience teaching middle school Language Arts and elementary ESL.
Connor O'Brien-Hatfield started at Toastmasters and has loved public speaking ever since. Even though his high school years haven't been easy,
he has found a way to power through and make the most of every opportunity he can get. He hopes to be able to help people as a firefighter and
as a speaker in the future.
Katlyn Pedone is an Elementary Education major at the University of Colorado Denver. She attended Rampart High School in Colorado Springs
from 2010-2014. She decided to become an educator because she wanted to help other dyslexic children see the potential in themselves as her
teachers helped her to see it in herself.
28
PRESENTER BIOGRAPHIES
Anthony Perez is the CEO and a founding member of Success is a Language Inc. and also the Education Chair of the Colorado
Springs chapter of the NAACP.
Jamie Periquet is a student at Sierra High School.
Hannah Seigel Proff is the staff attorney for juvenile defense and policy at the Colorado Juvenile Defender Center. Prior to joining
CJDC, Ms. Proff was a Senior Deputy at the Colorado State Public Defender. Ms. Proff is the co-founder of Learn Your Rights in Colo-
rado (LYRIC) a non-profit that teaches students about their constitutional rights. Upon graduation from law school, Ms. Proff was
awarded the Pursuit of Justice Award, an award given to the graduating student who has demonstrated a commitment to public ser-
vice. Ms. Proff was recently awarded the 2014 University of Denver Alumni Community Engagement Award for her commitment to
community service.
Katie M. Puryear is a 2004 graduate of Mitchell High School. She began her teaching career in higher education as a Graduate
Teaching Assistant at the University of Colorado at Colorado Springs. After majoring in Applied Communication in her undergraduate,
Katie continued her studies in the discipline and graduated with a Master of Arts in Communication at the University of Colorado at
Colorado Springs. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Higher Education Leadership at Colorado State University in Fort Collins, Colo-
rado. She is an instructor at Pikes Peak Community College in the Communication department.
LaTisha Quintana, MSW has been an advocate of social justice since she was in middle school. She is a 2014 graduate of Colorado
State University where she earned a master’s degree in Social Work. She is the new Problem Solving Court Coordinator for the 4th
Judicial District.
Dr. Daniel Reed grew up in the Great Smoky Mountains in East Tennessee, received his Master of Public Administration at Texas
State University in San Marcos, and his PhD in Natural Resources and Environmental Policy from University of Tennessee. For the
past three years he worked as a conservation planner/scientist for a habitat conservation plan in middle Tennessee for the protection of
23 rare and endangered species. He now works as an environmental protection scientist/specialist for the state of Tennessee.
Rick Reese is a Military Veteran, motivational speaker & professional trainer. He is also a fundraising specialist in the areas of commu-
nity building & civic engagement, and a “Travelpreneur.” Rick is active in the Colorado Springs community. He is a 2003 graduate of
Leadership Pikes Peak and an appointed community trustee.
Junior Reina, MA, UC Denver, is Guatemalan, learning to fit in into a world that is Black and White, yet he is neither.
Lynn Riemer is President of ACT on Drugs, Inc., a non-profit organization with a mission to educate parents, teens, and professionals
about addictive and psychoactive substances, both legal and illegal, which are available in their community. With her extensive chem-
istry knowledge of drugs, her experience with the DEA and on the North Metro Drug Task Force, and her engaging style, she brings a
real, personal, and vivid face to the issues confronted by illicit drug use. She is also a co-author of the book “The Methamphetamine
Crisis: Strategies to Save Addicts, Families, and Communities” (Greenwood Publishing, November 2006).
Isaac Ring, CVA, is passionate about serving and inspiring others to live better, fuller and richer lives. Isaac is a student of life, a fellow
traveler, dreamer, human being. His childhood spent living between Africa and the USA has given him a unique perspective on what it
takes to succeed in life. His management and training work has spanned the non-profit, education, sales and retail markets. Culturally
a hybrid, his roots are much more connected to the people and relationships he has built throughout his life than to any one geograph-
ical location.
Dr. Dena Samuels is a sociologist specializing in race, gender, sexuality and social justice curriculum development and training. She
teaches in Women's and Ethnic Studies at the University of Colorado - Colorado Springs, and received the university's Outstanding
Instructor Award. Among her many publications, Samuels is author of The Culturally Inclusive Educator: Preparing for a Multicultural
World (Columbia University's Teachers College Press, 2014).
Lisa Silverstein is a currently a second year doctoral student in the Urban Ecologies program in the School of Education and Human
Development at the University of Colorado Denver. She has over 15 years of experience in education in a variety of contexts: adven-
ture learning with youth and teens in day camps, teaching language arts and reading in an urban middle school, and teaching and co-
ordinating accelerated/ learning community programming for developmental education students at the Community College of Denver.
29
PRESENTER BIOGRAPHIES
Ryan Smith is a Colorado Springs native. He attended Academy School District 20 schools and graduated from Air Academy High
School. He then went on to start a degree in Computer Science at the University of Colorado at Boulder. While at CU, he transferred
from the engineering school to the music school and graduated with a Bachelor's Degree in Music Education with an emphasis in
percussion. He has taught in St. Vrain Valley School District, Boulder Valley School District, and Jefferson County School District as a
percussion instructor and band and orchestra teacher. After his teaching career, he got back into the technical field working for
a retailer, a cellular phone company, and then Harrison School District 2 where he is currently the District Technology Coordinator.
Dr. Stephany Rose Spaulding is a spoken word poet who performs as Stiletto Rose. She received her PhD in American Studies
from Purdue University where she also studied the construction of whiteness in the work of Mark Twain. She is a pastor and a profes-
sor in the WES department at University of Colorado Colorado Springs.
Raven Stovall is a student at Sierra High School.
Suavé is the Director and Founder of the HipHopConnXion (HHC) which is globally known and respected as one of the top hip hop
dance companies in the USA. HHC was formed in March 1999 by Suavé, a former choreographer and dancer for Culture Shock-
Chicago. It is a professional dance troupe of all ages, gender and color striving towards one common goal ... to inspire others to be
the best they can be and educate youth to make positive choices by being positive role models within the community.
Clifton L. Taulbert, a former Oklahoma banker, is president and founder of the Building Community Institute, a consulting company
focused on human capital development and organizational effectiveness. Chosen by CNN at the turn of the millennium to represent
one of the many voices of community, Taulbert, who has served as a guest professor at Harvard University, the Darden School of
Business, and the United States Air Force Academy said he could have failed had it not been for the community of unselfish people
who surrounded his life. He has authored thirteen books, several of which are foundational to his consulting philosophy. He is also a
content professor for PDI-Ninth House A Korn/Ferry Company. As a trustee of the University of Tulsa he has been recognized inter-
nationally by the Sales and Marketing Academy of Achievement, the Library of Congress, the NAACP, Rotary International as a Paul
Harris Fellow and has been a recipient of the Jewish Humanitarian of the Year Award and the Richard Wright Literary Award. Taulbert
is also the President of African Bean Company, an African-American/Veteran owned national coffee company and provider of Roots
Java.
Jamilah Taylor is a senior and an AP student at Sierra High School. He intends to pursue a career with the FBI.
Dawn-Antoinette Thomas is an educator reared in Colorado Springs, and a graduate of Colorado State University, Fort Collins. She
obtained her bachelor’s degree in Speech Communication and later earned a master’s in Secondary Education from the University of
Phoenix. Dawn is a Secondary Instructional Coordinator at Harrison School District 2 where she is responsible for providing research
based strategies, facilitating Professional Learning Communities, accessing and analyzing data to make instructional decisions, and
coaching middle school Language Arts Instructors to strengthen instructional practices in order to increase student achievement.
Jymil Thompson is an Asst. Principal at Sierra High School in Harrison School District 2.
Dr. Jill Tiefenthaler is the president of Colorado College and a leading scholar in the field of the economics of higher education. Her
essay on economic challenges for liberal arts colleges appears in "Remaking College: Innovation and the Liberal Arts" (Johns Hop-
kins University Press, October 2013). After receiving her PhD in economics from Duke University she joined the faculty of Colgate
University in 1991 while also serving as department chair, associate dean of the faculty, and senior adviser to the president. Prior to
becoming president of Colorado College she served as provost and professor of economics at Wake Forest University.
David Verdu is the Founder and Creator of Way Beyond Measure, a program that impacts the lives of students and communities.
David is a charismatic and energetic speaker, author, singer, and has a knack for engaging his audience with a range of styles includ-
ing comedy, dramatic storytelling, and occasionally a little sleight of hand.
Aleah Vigil is a student in the NxtGen Program at University of Colorado Denver. She dreams of making an awesome change in the
world by impacting her future students the way her teachers impacted her. She currently works at Cole Elementary.
30
PRESENTER BIOGRAPHIES
Regina Walter is a 4th Judicial District County Court Judge and has been a judicial officer since 1987. She is passionate about is-
sues that contribute to minority overrepresentation in the criminal justice and child welfare system. Judge Walter is a graduate of
Coronado High School in Colorado Springs, Colorado College, and the University of Tulsa School of Law. She is also the Colorado
College Mock Trial Coach and co-chair of the Summit.
Tommy Wells is a Colorado Springs native and has been a resident of the city for most of his life. He holds a BS in Computer Infor-
mation Systems from Regis University, a BS in Computer Networking from Regis and an MS in Software Engineering and Database
Technologies also from Regis University. Tommy earned Magna Cum Ladue honors for both of his Bachelor of Science degrees, and
graduated with honors for his Master of Science degree. After over 13 years in the restaurant business Tommy now works for Insur-
ance Technologies.
Tory Lynn White holds a Master’s Degree in Counseling with an emphasis in Marriage, Family & Child Therapy from the University
of Phoenix. She is a Registered Psychotherapist and a Candidate for Licensure in Marriage and Family Therapy (MFT). She contin-
ues her education at the Colorado School for Family Therapy, working on her Certification in Addiction Counseling (CAC III). Tory
has been working with single and married women for over 11 years and as a PREP facilitator she has been helping couples with con-
flict resolution and communication skills since 2007. In 2012 she opened her own practice, Creative Pathways Counseling & Consult-
ing.
Dr. Dorothy Williams has been involved in higher education for 26 years teaching adult students. She has served on the steering
committee for the Southern Colorado Girls’ STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) Initiative and is the current Chair of
their advisory board, worked with STEM, organized Cybergirlz events, served on the School Accountability Committee in Colorado
Springs, participated in Colorado Springs Community Leadership programs (Center for Creative Leadership and Leadership Pikes
Peak), is recipient of the Colorado Springs Business Journal’s 2011 Women of Influence, received the Regis University 2005 Com-
munication Faculty of the Year, and is former Chair of the ACHE (Association for Continuing Higher Education) West region and is
now a Director-at-Large for ACHE.
Dr. Lynn Wilson is co-editor and contributing author of the new book, Promoting Climate Change Awareness through Environmental
Education (2015). She has helped SeaTrust Institute develop the educational programs AWARE (SM) and AWARE Academy, serves
on numerous advisory and review boards for policy, education, science and the environment including acting as an IPCC
(Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) AR5 reviewer. She is also a graduate faculty member and Chair for Public Administra-
tion at Kaplan University and Senior Analyst and founder of OSSIA.
Keenan Wright is a freshman at Colorado College. His exceptional dedication to learning, focus on his life goals, and community
activism has landed him the Denver-based Daniels Fund Scholarship, the Gates Scholarship, a Sachs Foundation Scholarship and
an Educating Children of Color Scholarship.
Elizabeth Zambrana is a 2015 graduate of Rutgers School of Law in Newark, New Jersey, and a recipient of the Equal Justice
Works Emerson Fellowship. During law school, Elizabeth served as co-chair of the Women's Law Forum, Pro-Bono Chair of Students
Opposed to Violence against Women, and Coordinator of the Courtroom Advocate's Project. Through her service in these organiza-
tions, she advocated and raised awareness for survivors of gender-based violence. During the summer of 2014, Elizabeth interned at
Her Justice in New York, working with immigrant survivors of gender-based violence and discovered her passion for working with
immigrant populations. Her time working as a student clinical representative at the Immigrant Rights Clinic and a legal intern at the
Executive Office of Immigration Review reaffirmed her commitment to working with indigent immigrant populations
31
PLATINUM SPONSOR: $10,000+
32
GOLD SPONSOR: $5,000 - $9,999
The Leon Young Youth Anonymous
Leader Scholarship
Denise Young Smith
SILVER SPONSOR: $1,000 - $4,999
33
SILVER SPONSOR: $1,000 TO $4,999
Castaways Foundation Don Stevens
GENERAL CONTRIBUTION: $999 OR LESS
Bobbi Ashley Vicki Brown Colorado Springs Utilities
Emmanuel Missionary Baptist
Colorado Springs Teens Court Attorney Bradley D. Crown Church
Rosemary Lytle, NAACP
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Robert & Peggy Jacobs
Manuel & Mittie Pedraza
Amy Markwell Omega Uplift Foundation Evelyn D. Taylor
Joe Shelton Ted Stevens Joe Woodford
Harry Yamamura Edna Williams
34
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35
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5 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT Bobbi Ashley and Regina Walter, Co-Chairs of the 2016 Educating Children of Color Summit express gratitude to the individuals that
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