Profiles in the Education Category

Talia Welsh - Associate Professor - Talia Welsh

Tamara Welsh, known to her friends, colleagues, and students as Talia, is a tenured faculty member at The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga (UTC). An Associate Professor at UTC since 2002, Talia Welsh is a member of the department of philosophy and religion; she teaches upper and lower division philosophy classes as well as courses in feminism and women’s studies. Talia Welsh holds a Ph.D. in Philosophy from Stony Brook University in Stony Brook, New York, as well as a B.A. in Philosophy and Business Administration from the University of Puget Sound in Tacoma, Washington. A celebrated academic, Talia Welsh has put her education to use in a variety of ways.

A published author, Talia Welsh regularly speaks at universities within and outside the United States, among them Boston University, Glyndwr University, Lund University in Sweden, and Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). Her research has appeared in publications such as Theory and Psychology, Human Studies, and Radical Psychology, among others. In 2010, Talia Welsh, also a scholar of French, translated a number of lectures by 20th century phenomenological philosopher Maurice Merleau-Ponty and released them as a book under the title Child Psychology & Pedagogy: The Sorbonne Lectures 1949-1952. Talia Welsh also recently authored another book, The Child as Natural Phenomenologist: Primal and Primary Experience in Merleau-Ponty’s Child Psychology, which is under review with Northwestern University Press. Besides authoring books, Talia Welsh, Ph. D, has reviewed articles for numerous journals.

In addition to her successful academic career, Talia Welsh is also active in her local community. She volunteers for Partnership for Families, Women, and Children as well as Open Arms Care’s Human Rights Committee, an intermediate care facility for adults with mental and developmental disabilities. Simultaneously, Talia Welsh plays a large role in her university’s community, serving on the IRB committee, the Petitions committee, and the Women's Studies Advisory Council. Prior to The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, she taught at Dowling College in Oakdale, New York, and her alma mater, Stony Brook University.

James Smith - Financial Educator

James Smith and the highly knowledgeable staff at the James Smith Company provide actionable financial education for both first-time and seasoned investors. The James Smith Company is considered by many as the foremost authority in the real estate investment industry, providing a wide variety of training programs. President James Smith works directly with individuals seeking to learn more about stock trading, asset protection, investment, and tax lien certificates., James Smith imparts the strategies that he also utilizes in his own life. A successful real estate investment professional, James Smith draws on nearly 40 years of experience in his role as an asset-building counselor. Recognized as one of the preeminent authorities in his industry, James Smith regularly speaks at business conferences across the United States such as the Get Motivated Seminar, a one-day event that focuses on goal achievement, finances, investment, time management, communication skills, and personal success. Working in conjunction with the Asset Foundation, James Smith discusses the connection between wealth creation, lawsuit protection, tax reduction, and estate planning. In addition to his work with the James Smith Company, James Smith maintains a leadership role at The Coaching Company, an organization he established several years ago. The Coaching Company allows James Smith to further expand his financial education outreach efforts through a combination of live appearances, personal telephone coaching, online discussions, and informative television programs. Moreover, James Smith is the proprietor of ThermaGreen LLC, a company that manufactures and distributes environmentally conscious building materials. Outside of his professional life, James Smith devotes his time and energy to charitable endeavors. James Smith has been active in charities such as Habitat for Humanity, a global charity that works to provide housing for the needy, and the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, a nonprofit, non-denominational ministry that supports young athletes. James Smith currently resides in Florida with his wife and three sons.

Lisa Ledri-Aguilar - Assistant Professor of English @ Grossmont College

Grossmont College Assistant Professor of English Lisa Ledri-Aguilar has lectured both in the United States and abroad, delivering essays and speeches at conventions at Oxford University in England, The University of Colorado at Boulder, Cal Poly Pomona, and Biola University. Holding an M.A. in Religious Studies from Westminster Theological Seminary, an M.A. in English from the University of San Diego, and a B.A. in Literature from Wheaton College, Lisa Ledri-Aguilar is a C.S. Lewis scholar and a reading and composition scholar and has written numerous essays on C.S. Lewis and the use of religion in literature. She has been a member of the faculty at three universities besides Grossmont, regularly attended academic conferences across the United States, and volunteered for organizations devoted to developing and bettering education. Lisa Ledri-Aguilar, twice named for her Outstanding Performance as a Teacher, has taught at Point Loma Nazarene University, San Diego City College, San Diego Mesa College, and Christian Heritage College. In addition to her efforts in the education of others, Lisa Ledri-Aguilar has made efforts to continue her own education, attending forums such as the College Composition and Communication Conference, National Council of Teachers of English Conference, Christian College Coalition Conference, and the Modern Language Association Annual Convention. When not teaching or frequenting academic events, Lisa Ledri-Aguilar is an active member of associations aiming to improve learning. She served on the Student Learning and Multicultural Task Forces at Christian Heritage College and helped to organize the San Diego Learning Communities Consortium at Grossmont College. Presently, Lisa Ledri-Aguilar serves as President of the Greater San Diego Council Teachers of English, in addition to being a member of the Literature, Student Success Support, and Student Services Program Review Committees at Grossmont College and a member of the statewide C.A.T.E (California Teachers of English) Board. She also chairs the Board of Trustees for Lamb's Player Theatre.

Vinod Gupta - Chairman of the World Education Foundation

A versatile executive with more than 35 years of experience in the areas of venture capital, business management, and philanthropy, Vinod Gupta commands an impressive track record at multinational corporations in America and beyond. Upon receipt of his B.Tech. in Agricultural Engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur in West Bengal, Vinod Gupta moved to Nebraska and enrolled in graduate school at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln. Over the course of his three years at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, Vinod Gupta earned both his M.S. in Engineering and M.B.A., setting the stage for a successful and multifaceted career. Following a brief period as a Marketing Research Manager for the Commodore Corporation in Omaha, Nebraska, Vinod Gupta joined forces with his former boss to launch Business Research Services & American Business Lists in 1972. Delivering unique, specialized information products and services to a vast array of clients, Vinod Gupta and his partners met an unfulfilled demand in the information marketplace. As head of Business Research Services & American Business Lists, Vinod Gupta ensured the proliferation of his company's services and appropriate growth over the years. By 1986, Vinod Gupta had managed the aggregation and categorization of every Yellow Pages phone directory in the United States, resulting in one of the most comprehensive business information databases in the world. From there, Vinod Gupta orchestrated the initial public offering of American Business Information in 1993. Vinod Gupta subsequently oversaw his company's 1998 reorganization as infoUSA, Inc. and its eventual expansion to infoGROUP, Inc. Serving as Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board at infoGROUP, Inc. until August 2008, Vinod Gupta left to concentrate his efforts on management consulting, private equity, and venture capital projects at Everest Capital Partners, Inc. Aside from his work as General Partner at Everest Capital Partners, Inc., Vinod Gupta performs as Chairman of World Education Foundation and holds a trusteeship with the William J. Clinton Foundation.

Jane Fernandes - Senior Fellow @ the Johnnetta B. Cole Global Diversity and Inclusion Institute

While working on her dissertation at the University of Iowa, Jane K. Fernandes was appointed as a Teaching Assistant in the Departments of English and Speech Pathology and Audiology, where she honed her expertise as an instructor for deaf, hard-of-hearing, and hearing students. After receiving her Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from the University of Iowa in 1986, Jane K. Fernandes embarked on a multifaceted career in education, with teaching and administrative positions at schools and universities across the United States. As Acting Director of the American Sign Language Program at Northeastern University in Boston, Massachusetts, from August 1986 through July 1987, Jane K. Fernandes developed strong proficiency as an administrator and coordinator of ASL programs working to improve academic rigor and working conditions.

Upon the completion of her term with Northeastern University, Jane K. Fernandes moved to Washington, D.C. and began a brief period as Chair of Gallaudet University’s Sign Communication Department. From Gallaudet University, Jane K. Fernandes secured a position as Coordinator and Instructor of the Sign Language Interpreter Education Program at Kapiolani Community College in Honolulu, where from February 1988 to January 1990 she built the school’s academic program from the ground up and established a two-year degree certification. At the end of this period, Jane K. Fernandes accepted a role as Director of the Hawaii Center for the Deaf and Blind, turning the organization into one of the premiere institutions for blind and deaf students in the state and throughout the Pacific Basin.

After five years with the Hawaii Center for the Deaf and Blind, Jane K. Fernandes returned to Gallaudet University and began a lengthy tenure in the K-12 Laurent Clerc National Deaf Education Center as Vice President. In May 2000, Jane K. Fernandes became Provost of Gallaudet University, followed by a Senior Fellowship at the Johnnetta B. Cole Global Diversity and Inclusion Institute. Today, Jane K. Fernandes works for the University of North Carolina at Asheville, where she holds the post of Provost and Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs as a Chief Academic Officer.

Adrian Houston - Owner of My Box

A dedicated educator with 30 years of teaching experience, Adrian Houston has studied integrating technology into teaching at Walden University in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In 1990, Adrian Houston accepted a teaching position, instructing elementary and middle-grade students in the public school system. In this capacity, Adrian Houston developed creative and engaging lesson plans based upon core curriculum requirements, utilizing innovative techniques to encourage students' capacity for abstract thought. During this time, Adrian Houston also facilitated an educational pilot program, assessing and analyzing class-wide and individual reading groups using technology and data recording methods. After eight years functioning primarily as a full-time educator, Adrian Houston was presented with the opportunity to consult for a highly regarded science-based educational program, working one-on-one to motivate and inspire fourth, fifth, and sixth grade students. Responsible for over 200 young minds, Adrian Houston delved into a variety of physical science concepts and applications, organizing educational field trips, projects, and participation-based classroom activities that accommodated a wide range of learning styles and comprehension levels. Leveraging a background in science and technology, Adrian Houston most recently employed extensive teaching skills as a Technology Resource Educator. In this role, Adrian Houston provided meaningful, stimulating instruction for students in grades K-8. Taking on additional responsibilities, Adrian Houston oversaw several after-school programs in addition to regularly scheduled classes, helming a tutoring program for third and sixth graders. Moreover, Adrian Houston sponsored glockenspiel and drum-line clubs for these students, an extracurricular activity that garnered much enthusiasm throughout the school. In conjunction with teaching, Adrian Houston collaborated with other educators on system-wide technology initiatives, working with Blackboard's Teacher Support System to create confluence between the staff and their students. Exhibiting a teaching style that is both inspirational and direct, Adrian Houston is committed to providing all students with an education of the highest caliber.

Harry Indar - Teaching Professional in the public school system.

After serving as a well-respected Accountant and Financial Consultant for nearly a decade, Harry Indar undertook a career change by becoming a Math Teacher. Transitioning into the public service sector in 1992, Harry Indar remained a committed Teacher to elementary and secondary school students for 12 years.

In 1982, Harry Indar obtained a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Marywood University in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Mr. Indar returned to school in 1992, completing all coursework for his Master's degree in math education at New Jersey City University.

Making his home in Coastal South Jersey, Harry Indar belongs to the National Education Association. In addition, Harry Indar donates to the Jersey Shore Animal Centre, The Salvation Army, the National MS Society, and the Diabetes Foundation, Inc. In his free time, Harry Indar enjoys reading and some of his favorite authors include Ernest Hemingway, J.K. Rowling,VS Naipual and David Eddings. Harry Indar also practices and pursues the study of yoga and pencak silat martial arts.

Steven Contino - Assistant Principal of Student Affairs @ Nazareth Regional High School

Former law enforcement professional Steven Contino is dedicated to serving his community. Retired from the force after two decades as an officer, Steven Contino remains active in his community as a coach and educational administrator. Steven Contino also partakes in charitable endeavors. An accomplished athlete in high school, Steven Contino was awarded a basketball scholarship to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Subsequently, Steven Contino went on to receive his Bachelor of Arts in Physical Education from Queens College. Upon earning his degree, Steven Contino later continued his schooling at Adelphi University in New York, pursuing his Master’s in Education. Steven Contino joined the New York City Police Department in 1982. Beginning as a police officer, Steven Contino gradually rose in rank to detective, sergeant, and ultimately detective sergeant. Steven Contino supervised and participated in the investigation of all major crimes, earning numerous awards recognizing his performance as an exceptional officer. Steven also worked as a 9/11 First Responder. In 2002, Steven Contino retired from the police force, transitioning to a role as security detail for Elite Group in New York City. Steven Contino subsequently became an elementary school teacher, then Assistant Principal of Student Affairs for Nazareth Regional High School in Brooklyn, New York. Steven Contino is responsible for overseeing student activities, including athletics and social events. Additionally, Steven Contino manages building operations. Thoroughly involved in his community, Steven Contino coached Little League Baseball and Softball for 20 years. Steven Contino also coached high school basketball and softball and offered free clinics for the New York City Police Athletic League. Steven Contino belongs to the Catholic High School Athletic Association, the International Association of Approved Basketball Officials, and Ozone Howard Little League. He also donates to the Boys and Girls Club of New York and the American Cancer Society. In his spare time, Steven Contino enjoys refereeing basketball games, attending his son’s college baseball games, and exercising with his daughter. Steven Contino’s favorite authors include Herman Melville and one of his favorite books is Moby Dick.

Fal Asrani - Fal Asrani

La Miranda High School has increased its graduation rate to more than 90 percent, with a large percentage of these graduates going on to attend four-year colleges and universities. Principal Fal Asrani has instituted actionable strategies aimed at restructuring program modules, thus positioning schools to provide students with an improved education. At Corona del Mar High School, 14 new courses of study have been introduced into the academic program, including many Honors and Advanced Placement classes. In addition, the Antioch Unified School District’s secondary schools have achieved numerous benchmarks.

Jonathan Ostroff - Jonathan Ostroff - Professor of Computer Science and Engineering at York University

Toronto resident and York University Professor Jonathan Ostroff earned his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of the Witwatersrand, situated in the northern section of South Africa’s largest city, Johannesburg. Upon receiving his degree in 1976, Jonathan Ostroff enrolled in the University of Toronto, where he trained for his Master’s degree in Electrical Engineering. Bestowed with his advanced degree in 1979, Jonathan Ostroff was hired shortly afterward as an engineer with Imperial Oil, one of Canada’s largest oil firms. Between 1979 and 1981, Jonathan Ostroff worked for fuel supplier Imperial Oil, a company that traces its roots back 130 years. Prior to moving on to the field of academia, Jonathan Ostroff gained a strong foundation in the technical aspects of running a natural fuel company. Over nearly two and a half decades at York University, Jonathan Ostroff has risen to prominence in the software engineering field. Jonathan Ostroff’s research interests range from building software using formal methodologies to object-oriented programming and model-driven software development. Moreover, Jonathan Ostroff was awarded his Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering in 1987 from the University of Toronto. In addition to training new graduate students in advanced software engineering concepts, Jonathan Ostroff serves as a senior member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

Ysabel Abreu - Bilingual Pupil Services Intern / NYCDOE Teacher @ The Alexander Humboldt School

Experienced educator and author Ysabel Abreu is currently working on an illustrated collection of children's poetry presented in both English and Spanish. Inspired by the beauty of nature, Ysabel Abreu celebrates the excitement inherent in life through whimsical and uplifting verses. Ysabel Abreu's accompanying illustrations are lively and vibrant interpretations of her poems, and the bilingual content ensures that her poetry will serve an educational purpose as well. Holding a Bachelor of Arts in Children's Education and English from the City College of New York, Ysabel Abreu is uniquely positioned to capture a child's interest and instill valuable lessons through playful lines that actively engage the imagination. Ysabel Abreu is concurrently working on a second degree in literacy from Alfred University, studying to become a diagnostic reading specialist. Ysabel Abreu's work as a poet is informed by years of teaching for the New York City Department of Education. At the Alexander Humboldt School, Ysabel Abreu demonstrated her skill as an educator by inspiring academic success in her students through her commitment to individualized attention. Understanding that each student has his or her own personal learning style, Ysabel Abreu worked closely with her students to determine which teaching methodologies were most effective, creating personalized assignments that addressed their strengths and weaknesses. In her spare time, Ysabel Abreu volunteers at the City University of New York's Dominican Studies Institute Archives and Library. Ysabel Abreu also teaches English as a Second Language through a free program at the City College of New York. Since 2004, Ysabel Abreu has been a member of the Golden Key International Honor Society, and she currently serves as its Social Director. Ysabel Abreu also provides support for an AFT Black Caucus Scholarship Fund and an education project in the Dominican Republic. An avid reader, Ysabel Abreu counts Annie Dillard's Pilgrim at Tinker Creek and Steinbeck's Tortilla Flat among her favorite novels

Liana Gooch - Academic Enhancement Coordinator, Teacher @ Toorak College

Teacher and Academic Enhancement Coordinator Liana Gooch joined Toorak College in 2007. Currently, Liana Gooch teaches international studies and humanities, in addition to fulfilling a wide range of duties to augment academic performance at Toorak. Among her many other accomplishments, Liana Gooch has founded study skills programs and introduced a customized wall planner to Toorak. The Academic Endeavor Awards, which motivate students to apply particular learning attitudes and skills to their studies, were created by Liana Gooch. Moreover, Liana Gooch continues to work with individual students to extend their educational experience both on the Toorak campus and beyond. Liana Gooch obtained her Bachelor of Arts degree in Geography at the University of Canterbury and her Diploma of Teaching from Christchurch College of Education. Liana Gooch has remained abreast of the latest development in educational technologies, and she belongs to the Future of Education and Classroom 2.0. In her leisure moments, Liana Gooch stays active by visiting the gym, walking, and practicing Pilates. An avid reader, Linda Gooch cites Ian McEwan and Greg Mortensen as her favorite authors.

John Littleford - Senior Partner and Founder of Littleford & Associates

Since 1994, John Littleford has served as a Consultant and Senior Partner at Littleford & Associates, where he provides all manner of management assistance to independent schools, nonprofits, corporations, and other organizations. A longtime teacher and administrator, John Littleford imbues his work at Littleford & Associates with a genuine passion for education and a thorough understanding of school infrastructures. Under John Littleford’s careful stewardship, Littleford & Associates has grown into one of the premier educational consulting firms in the world, with thousands of clients in North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, South and Central America, and elsewhere. Prior to the formation of Littleford & Associates, John Littleford worked in a dual capacity as a full-time school administrator and part-time management consultant. In 1990, John Littleford joined the staff at La Jolla Country Day School in La Jolla, California, as Headmaster, where he focused his time and energy on strategies to increase student enrollment and retention. From 1990 to 1992, John Littleford implemented a number of successful measures at La Jolla Country Day School, including an exchange program with a Japanese university, various foreign language partnerships with local Japanese and Chinese schools, and effective marketing campaigns to increase enrollment by 20 percent. John Littleford came to La Jolla Country Day School following a highly productive term as Headmaster for the University School of Milwaukee in Wisconsin. During this time, John Littleford developed lasting relationships with universities in and around the greater Milwaukee region, raised faculty salaries by 25 percent, and created a Chinese language program. In addition, John Littleford served as Headmaster at the Breck School in Minneapolis from 1974 to 1986, where he generated millions for the school’s endowment, annual fund, and capital campaigns. A graduate of Harvard University and Dickinson College, John Littleford holds an M.A. in East Asian Studies and a B.A. in History and Russian Language. John Littleford also earned a Critical Language degree from Princeton University and a Certificate of Advanced Study at Harvard.

DrLee Everett Monroe - Dr. Lee Everett Monroe has earned accolades for his results-driven approach to educational administration.

Passionate about education, Dr. Lee Everett Monroe has committed his professional life to improving the institutional core of the educational system, particularly in colleges with primarily black students. Dr. Lee Monroe played a key role in helping several colleges recover from near financial ruin. Dr. Lee Monroe is especially well known for his efforts on behalf of Paul Quinn College, a school that had been placed on academic probation and was crumbling under millions of dollars in debt. With Dr. Lee Monroe’s help, Paul Quinn College reached out to its surrounding community for support. Through the 21st Century Campaign, Dr. Lee Monroe set a fundraising goal of $21 million, the largest fundraising effort in the school’s history. In the first several months, Dr. Lee Monroe led the creation of partnerships with some of the most well known corporations in the world. Within the first three years of his tenure, Dr. Lee Monroe had turned the school around to such a degree that it earned back its accreditation. In 1994, Dr. Lee Monroe helped the school purchase its 130-acre campus, which the school had previously leased from Pro-Line Corporation. Under Dr. Lee Monroe’s capable management, Paul Quinn College raised the necessary funds to institute numerous integral improvements, including a complete revamping of the school’s academic programs. In addition to adding various arts and music courses to the school catalogue, Dr. Lee Monroe spearheaded partnerships with nearby colleges such as the University of Texas at Dallas and Eastfield College of the Dallas County Community College District to increase career opportunities in the engineering and technology fields. Dr. Lee Monroe also increased enrollment by creating programs such as ACHIEVE, which offered a unique opportunity for adults who had dropped out of school to finish their degrees. Dr. Lee Monroe was the former Senior Education Advisor to North Carolina Governor Jim Martin, whom he served for five years. Dr. Lee Monroe also held positions as the President of Florida Memorial College (currently Florida Memorial University), Director of Institutional Advancement and Executive Vice President of Shaw University, and Special Assistant to the Assistant Secretary for Management for the U.S. Department of Education.

Darien Bouzakis - Darien Bouzakis, Student @ Camden Catholic High School

A student at Camden Catholic High School, Darien Bouzakis is making waves playing for his school’s football team. Primarily playing cornerback, Darien Bouzakis has attracted the attention of recruiters from Navy, Duke University, Yale Unversity, Columbia University, Georgetown University, and The Ohio State University, among others. Darien Bouzakis has earned accolades for his speed and covering abilities and was listed in the National Underclassman Combine Ultimate 100 Selection for the 2009/2010 season. Recently he was chosen as one of the top defensive backs in the Northeast by his performance in the Northeast Regional Ulimate 100 combine for 2010. Darien Bouzakis has also earned recognition as an offensive player by being a standout running back

In addition to playing football, Darien Bouzakis is an exemplary student and maintains a 3.5 grade point average for coursework that includes various honors classes. Darien Bouzakis expects to graduate in 2012 and is gearing up to obtain a football scholarship with participation in programs such as Nike SPARQ Training and Velocity Sports Training. After he graduates from high school, Darien Bouzakis plans to attend college and major in sports medicine or physical therapy.

Outside of academics, Darien Bouzakis maintains an active role in his community through his support of organizations such as Walk for Life, the American Cancer Society, Fellowship of Christain Athletes and the American Heart Association. Additionally, Darien Bouzakis channels his athletic expertise into coaching youth basketball for his twin sisters.

When he wants to relax, Darien Bouzakis enjoys watching movies, meeting people (preferably girls!), and spending time with his family and friends.

Alaa Kababji - Alaa Kababji

An accomplished scholar, Alaa Kababji received financial backing from NASA for his dissertation on Cobalt Silica-Supported Catalysts for Use in Fischer-Tropsch Process, which explores the process of how to produce liquid hydrocarbons from carbon monoxide and hydrogen. If this theory becomes practice, it could be a possible solution to the world's current dependence on fuel. Alaa Kababji's research diverges from the traditional use of iron and cobalt catalysts into new territory in its quest for a replacement for petroleum. Furthering his research into alternative forms of fuel, Alaa Kababji received his Master of Science in Chemical Engineering in 2004 from the University of South Florida. An active student, Alaa Kababji worked as a Teaching Assistant and Research Assistant. He also managed USF Surface Science Laboratory, while simultaneously earning high marks and serving as a member of Omega Chi Epsilon, the National Honor Society for Chemical Engineering. Alaa Kababji has presented a number of papers at key conferences across the country. He co-authored Synthetic Jet Fuels Via Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis: An Experimental Study and presented the findings at the 47th AIAA Aerospace Sciences Meeting in Orlando, Florida in January 2009. In 2008, he delivered a research paper titled Fischer-Tropsch Synthesis: Effect of Support Surface Area and Calcination in Temperature on the Performance of Cobalt Silica Supported Catalysts at the American Institute of Chemical Engineers Annual Meeting held in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

JulieFellmeth ofCPIL - Julie Fellmeth of CPIL

Julie Fellmeth has served as a public interest law attorney for nearly 25 years. At present, Julie Fellmeth functions as the Administrative Director of the University of San Diego School of Law Center for Public Interest Law (CPIL). In addition to her leadership position at CPIL, Julie Fellmeth fulfills several other functions, including acting as the Editor of the CPILâ€™s academic publication, the California Regulatory Law Reporter. Julie Fellmeth also team-teaches a class at the University of San Diego on regulatory law with Professor Bob Fellmeth, and provides support and assistance to law students during projects in which they monitor agencies and write articles for the California Regulatory Law Reporter.

A graduate of the University of San Diego School of Law, Julie Fellmeth received high honors from the institution. While a student, Julie Fellmeth served as the Editor-in-Chief of the San Diego Law Review and worked as a student intern at the Center for Public Interest Law. Following completion of law school, Julie Fellmeth clerked for Chief Judge Carl A. Muecke of the U.S. District Court for the District of Arizona before working as a Trial Attorney for the Federal Programs Branch of the Civil Division of the U.S. Department of Justice.

Julie Fellmeth returned to San Diego in 1986 to work as a Supervising Attorney with the Center for Public Interest Law. In 1995, Julie Fellmeth advanced to her current position as Administrative Director. Maintaining numerous responsibilities at once, Julie Fellmeth also enhances the University of San Diego School of Lawâ€™s academics by sharing her insight and experience as a Faculty Advisor for the Public Interest Law Foundation (PILF).

Ben Wilcox Kaplan - Director of Faculty Training and Development @ MRxI Corporation and Kushan, LLC

Upon graduating from Oklahoma State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science, Ben Wilcox entered Oklahoma City University School of Law to complete his postgraduate training. Ben Wilcox obtained his Juris Doctor from Oklahoma City University School of Law in 1993. During his years as a law student, Ben Wilcox worked full time to support himself by serving variously as a paralegal, a law clerk, and a legal assistant. After finishing his education, Ben Wilcox began practicing law in Texas and Oklahoma. Ben Wilcox worked on a variety of cases involving medical malpractice, computer hacking, grand jury indictment, and financial defrauding, often working alongside the FBI and the Department of Justice. After several years in the courtroom, Ben Wilcox transferred his expertise to the classroom. Ben Wilcox began developing and instructing courses at the Texas Women's University as Director of MBA Programs. For three years, Ben Wilcox taught such classes as business law, corporate ethics, and legal environment, creating original curricula based on study guides and book selections. In addition to his time with Texas Women's University, Ben Wilcox served as Dean of Law and Legal Studies with Kaplan University in Chicago, Illinois. Ben Wilcox provided leadership in Kaplan's Paralegal and Legal Studies programs, teaching such subjects as international law, criminal law, legal research, and workers' compensation. Ben Wilcox also focused on hiring and training Kaplan faculty, including the Kaplan Assistant Dean of Curriculum, Kaplan Assistant Dean of Faculty, and Kaplan Operations Manager. After working with Kaplan, Ben Wilcox joined MRxI Corporation and Kushan, LLC, where he now acts as Director of Faculty Training and Development, assisting schools around the country in developing and improving their curricula. In his free time, Ben Wilcox stays actively involved with many charitable organizations and efforts. Ben Wilcox regularly donates his legal expertise to churches, homeless ministries, and community service groups, culminating in thousands of hours of pro bono work in his community. Ben Wilcox also supports the Salvation Army, Habitat for Humanity, and Meals on Wheels. Ben Wilcox published Corporate Ethics and Legal Environment in 2005, following the release of his first book, Global Business Essentials, in 2004.

Karl Uberla - Karl Uberla

Time in Munich University 1974 – 2004 For over 30 years, Prof. Karl Überla chaired the Medical Informatics, Biometry, and Epidemiology (IBE) in the Medical Faculty of the Ludwig-Maximilian-University of Munich. In this position, he also served as chairman of the computer center of the clinical hospital of the medical faculty. During this time, Prof. Überla performed many clinical trials as the leading methodologist and statician. He was a member of the drug commission of the German Medical Doctors for many years. From 1978 to 1979, Prof. Überla acted as President of the German Society for Medical Informatics, Biometry, and Epidemiology (GMDS). This society had about 1,500 professional members and was the leading society advising the federal government regarding Medical Informatics, Biometry, and Epidemiology. In 1979, he received the highly reputed Paul Martini Award. From October 1981 to April 1985, Dr. Karl Überla served as President of the Federal Health Office in Berlin (the corresponding institution in the US is the the FDA). Prof. Überla was responsible for drug licensing and for removing drugs from the market. Dr. Überla removed an average of 300 million Euros worth of drugs per year. During his time as President of the Federal Health Office, Prof. Überla reported directly to the Federal Minister of health. He resigned unexpectedly on the 29th of March 1985 and was dismissed from the service of the Federal Republic of Germany on the 14th of April 1985. His resignation was a public event and several accusations were made against him. He was investigated by several committees of the Federal Parliament, and a public prosecutor investigated the case. The investigation was finished according German law § 170 II STOP. Prof. Überla returned to his position in Munich and created a curriculum for Public Health and Epidemiology in the Medical Faculty in Munich. He chaired the admission committee until his retirement. Today, various graduate, postgraduate, and doctoral curricula for epidemiologists and public health professionals are provided through Pettenkofer School of Public Health. Starting in 1974, Prof. Überla also served as the Chairman of the Bavarian Public Health Research Organization. This organization was supported by the Federal Ministry (BMBF) with grants resulting in several million Euros. At the end of the year 2004, Prof. Überla retired and received the status of Prof. Emeritus.

stpatricks marin - Stpatricksmarin School

Saint Patrick School is located in the heart of Larkspur. Settled in 1908, this historic town is nestled in a scenic valley dominated by lovely views of Mt. Tamalpais. St. Patrick's was named in honor of Patrick King, who had originally owned the town land. St. Patrick Parish, which was established in 1915, quickly become an integral part of the Larkspur community. Early in 1954, Father Joseph Kenney, recognizing the spiritual and educational needs of this growing community, initiated a fundraising campaign for the construction of a parish school and a convent. St. Patrick School opened its doors to 160 students in September 1963 staffed by Dominican sisters from Adrian, Michigan. Archbishop McGucken blessed and dedicated both the new school and the convent on April 25, 1964.

In 1977, a lay staff replaced the Dominican Sisters. The Parents Club funded the construction of three rooms under the school building in 1981. These facilities housed the library and the new Kindergarten. In 1982, morning and after-school care was added to meet the needs of working families.

Over the years, St. Patrick School and Parish have been growing, changing and adapting to meet the various needs of more than 700 families. Today, Saint Patrick Parish and School continue to thrive as spiritual and educational entities, which serve parishioners throughout Marin Country. It is a community of many caring people involved in the education of its students who work together to instill a love and respect for Catholic traditions, a strong academic foundation, and a reverence for life.

Helene Kozma - Helene Kozma

With over a decade of experience as an educator and leader, Helene Kozma currently serves as an instructor at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield, Connecticut, and Housatonic Community College in Bridgeport, Connecticut. Utilizing her various strengths, talents, licenses, and certifications in numerous subjects, Helene Kozma has educated students in a variety of introductions to rhetoric, specifically in courses such as Rhetoric: The Research Paper, Effective Communications, and Business Communications. To supplement her role as an educator, Helene Kozma is an active member of the American Association of University Women and has served as a Toastmasters officer. Prior to entering the field of education, Helene Kozma acted as a Financial Analyst for an aerospace firm in Stratford, Connecticut. For five years, Kozma provided effective and well-built analysis and evaluation and recommended financial criteria on behalf of suppliers to establish the strengths and weaknesses of competing businesses within the market. Throughout her career as an education professional, Helene Kozma accepted numerous honors and recognition for her exemplary service as an educator and leader. To date, Kozma has been featured in Marquis' Who's Who in America, Who's Who in American Women, and Who's Who in American Education. Apart from her duties in the educational sector, Helene Kozma is dedicated to giving back to the community through charitable donation. Helene Kozma earned her Master of Science from Capella University, a Master of Business Administration from Sacred Heart University, and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Adelphi University. Kozma holds licenses and certifications as a Professional Educator in Business and English in the State of Connecticut for 2008-2013.

Chris Diodato - Chris Diodato on Peoplepond

Chris Diodato has held roles of increasing responsibility in the arena of Environmental Health and Safety since studying Occupational Safety and Health at the University of Connecticut. Receiving additional intensive training, certification, and licensure in a variety of related health, safety, and technical fields, Chris Diodato is well equipped to provide supervision in these areas of expertise in a variety of complex, public settings. Chris Diodato began his career as a plant maintenance specialist at Bellcore’s Navesink Research and Engineering Center, in Red Bank, New Jersey, where he was responsible for a broad range of operations and maintenance functions and was promoted to Control Center Supervisor. Chris Diodato moved on to become Environmental Health and Safety Specialist at Bellcore in Piscataway, New Jersey. In this highly challenging position, Chris Diodato was charged with ensuring compliance with all governmental regulations related to building, safety, fire, and environmental codes. Since that time, Chris Diodato has served in positions of increasing complexity, sensitivity, and responsibility, and he has developed and implemented many safety programs for large facilities and public areas. Chris Diodato possesses experience in providing supervision for health and safety matters for Bed, Bath, and Beyond; the Hertz Corporation; and Maersk-Sealand’s Bridge Terminal Transport. Currently, Chris Diodato serves as the Director of Environmental Health and Safety for Teachers College, Columbia University in New York City. In this role, Chris Diodato is responsible for the health and safety of a vast urban campus which encompasses over 1 million square feet and serves over 7,500 faculty, students, and staff. Chris Diodato coordinates and supervises all health and safety programs for every department on campus. Chris Diodato maintains the smooth functioning of school activities while adhering to the strictest government safety standards for fire, water, air, facilities, and the identification and removal of environmental and other hazards.

Stephen Pitz - Stephen Pitz

New York native Stephen Pitz has always had a passion to teach. Selecting a career path toward teaching and education was a natural direction for him to pursue. Stephen Pitz began his higher education by receiving a Bachelor of Arts in Communications / Broadcasting from Iona College in New Rochelle, New York.

Stephen Pitz continued his education by targeting an advanced Masters degree in Science (Teaching). This concentration, offered by Fordham University, Tarrytown, NY, specifically equipped him for the challenges faced by many teachers in New York State. Stephen Pitz has spent the last eleven years honing his craft. Four of these years were spent as both the supervisor of an after-school program and union representative for second and third grade teachers. His most recent teaching positions exemplify his diversity as an educator.

During the 2007 / 2008 school term Stephen Pitz taught third grade at Holy Rosary Catholic School in Bronx, New York. This location allowed him to adapt teaching styles in a large urban class environment with diverse academic backgrounds. Additionally he taught an after school program for kindergarten through second grade serving as both teacher and mentor.

During the 2008 / 2009 school term he relocated up the Hudson River Valley where he accepted a position at W.L. Morse Elementary School, Tarrytown, NY to teach third grade. Vocationally, this position allowed Stephen Pitz to greatly expand a number of responsibilities that would prepare him for a broader, less academic business environment.

Continuing on in the field of education within a diverse student population, Stephen Pitz acted as a school representative with the local teachers’ union. He expanded his influence in academics by assessing and developing new curriculum for language arts, math and science courses. He involved himself with his peers in implementing and training the integrated computerized report card formatting and involved himself with students outside the classroom; writing, directing and producing theater performances.

Stephen Pitz has proven himself an exceptional professional gifted in leadership, presentation skills, communication, written observation and feedback, parental relations and community outreach. These skills were developed in diverse urban cultures to broad cross sections of academic and socioeconomic people groups.

Stephen Pitz’s most recent vocational direction has taken him outside the academic community. He currently holds a position with Persico Contracting and Trucking. Mr. Pitz serves as an Inventory and Equipment Manager/Assistant Yard Manager. In this position Stephen Pitz is responsible for storage, maintenance, and tracking equipment and materials used daily by natural gas work crews. The position requires that he keep inventory records and maintain levels and complete monthly and annual budgets.

Stephen Pitz works to establish organization and safety in the materials yard. Much of what was learned in his previous years as a teacher has transitioned to his current work environment.

Outside of his professional vocation, Stephen Pitz enjoys writing poems, plays and short stories. Stephen Pitz has directed over 25 performances while teaching along with being involved in the marketing and promotions prior to each production.

Steven Pitz currently resides in Hartsdale, New York and can be reached at Spitz2@optimum.net.

Gena Cox - Consulting Psychologist & Executive Coach

Dr. Gena Cox is an industrial/organizational psychologist who helps C-level leaders make talent management / deployment decisions about the colleagues who help them run their businesses. These clients admire Gena for bringing a pragmatic and multidisciplinary approach to tackling the challenges of human interaction at work.

Dr. Cox’ consulting focuses in three areas: (a) helping organizations select executives who possess the competencies and temperament to succeed in specific roles (executive selection assessment), (b) helping executive teams succeed by improving their interpersonal dynamics (executive team development), and (c) developing leaders who will stand out as models of success not only for meeting their financial targets but for behaving in ways that complement the corporate brand (executive coaching).

Dr. Cox has a uniquely diverse background that includes over 20 years of consulting, corporate and academic experience. Since 2000 she has worked as a consulting psychologist with Human Capital Resource Center. She has been a vice president in the human resources department of a large financial services firm; she was an adjunct professor in strategic human resources management and industrial/psychology at the University of South Florida, and she lead the business development and delivery services in Florida for a national consulting firm.

Dr. Cox earned a Ph.D. in Industrial/Organizational Psychology at the University of South Florida. She is a Diplomate in Professional Coaching of the International Academy of Behavioral Medicine, Counseling and Psychotherapy, Inc. (IABMCP). Dr. Cox has conducted research on managing organizational change, understanding employees’ reactions to organizational downsizing, and measuring and understanding managerial decision-making during downsizing.

She is a member of various professional organizations including the Society for Industrial/Organizational Psychology (SIOP), the American Psychological Association (APA), the International Coach Federation (ICF), and the Society for Human Resources Management (SHRM).

Puneet Handa - Former Associate Professor @ University of Iowa

In April 2004, Dr. Puneet Handa published the article "The Economic Value of a Trading Floor: Evidence from the American Stock Exchange," together with Robert Schwartz and Ashish Tiwari, in the Journal of Business. Dr. Puneet Handa's article was also published by PRNewsWire, Yahoo!Finance, and Business Wire while receiving considerable attention from the Financial Times, Finextra, the John Lothian Newsletter, Active Trader Magazine, and the Wall Street Journal Online Edition. Throughout his career, Dr. Puneet Handa has published 17 other papers in addition to an abstract in The Journal of Finance and two textbooks, FinCoach: Fixed Income and FinCoach 2.0, which have been adopted by over 300 schools nationwide. Currently, Dr. Puneet Handa is again working with Robert Schwartz and looking at order imbalances in the securities market to examine their impact on trading costs and market breakdown using evidence from the London Stock Exchange. Dr. Puneet Handa's earlier work with Robert Schwartz on order imbalance established it as a determinant of trading costs and showed that it plays a key role in quote-driven market breakdowns. Dr. Puneet Handa is also continuing his work with Ashish Tiwari and looking at idiosyncratic volatility's economic value and its specific role is allocation assets. Together with Chris Neely and Hui Guo, Dr. Puneet Handa and Ashish Tiwari are examining statistical evidence on the predictive ability of idiosyncratic volatility and determining its effect on real-time asset allocation and performance. With the dataset already assembled, Dr. Puneet Handa is starting the asset allocation procedures. A graduate of the University of Iowa with a Doctor of Philosophy in Finance, Dr. Puneet Handa served as the Robert L. Jensen Fellow in Finance there for 4 years and as an Associate Professor of Finance for 14 years. Dr. Puneet Handa has also taught at New York University and the University of Pennsylvania's Wharton School of Business.

Mike Byrnes - startup adviser

I am an adviser with the New Mexico Small Business Development Center network where I provide business planning and financial forecasting assistance to my clients.

I am also an instructor at Eastern New Mexico University where I teach finance and how to buy or start a business.

Lawernce Stanley - Founder of The Cap-X Group, LLC

The Cap-X Group, LLC provides comprehensive equipment maintenance management programs for Hospitals, Hotels, Multi Unit Restaurants, Financial Institutions, Government Agencies, Colleges and Universities, Grocery Stores and Commercial Operations. We specialize in providing quality service, technical resources, innovative management systems, and financially secure solutions. We are backed by equipment maintenance insurance coverage through our "A" rated insurance partners. THE CAP-X GROUP does not repair or maintain equipment; however, we do provide our customers with the tools and support necessary to reduce the account’s maintenance budget while improving equipment performance.

Julia Benson-Slaughter - Artistic Technogeek

Lampwork glass artist, computer science professor, blogger, cat lover and rescue volunteer, technogeek, webmistress, bookbinder, beginning bellydance student, polymath, independent thinker.

Dr. Shruti Bhat - PhD MBA

For the past 14 years consistently, Dr. Shruti Bhat has been endorsed by industry experts as a specialist in Life Science R&D strategy building & leadership , a result-oriented professional and a scientist targeting path- breaking research and technologies of future.

Her mantra is "First to market" generics, innovative, OTC, herbal, biotech pharmaceuticals & veterinary formulations. She has a track history of launching more than 100 products FIRST in the market.

She has successfully led research and regulatory approvals for more than 900 conventional and specialty products, that currently being sold in over 55 countries across the globe. She is an authority on ANDA, 505 B(2) in US, ANDS in Canada and generics for Brazil, Netherlands, African & CIS countries, Middle East countries and the Indian sub continent.

Besides her scientific pursuits, she is also an architect for conceptualization and successful implementation of new infra structure set ups, ISO, PAT, 6- sigma, LIMS, document management systems, electronic notebooks and Quality-by-Design (QbD) across multi-functional teams. Her expertise also encompasses opportunity evaluations, audits, due diligence, acquisitions, identifying licensing partners and creating new alliances for co-development/ business out sourcing.

Shruti has presented over 45 oral and poster in various scientific conventions and published over 65 patents.
Shruti is a subject matter expert on numerous blogs-

Http://www.Pharm-Education.com
Http://www.QA-Expert.com
Http://www.PharmaceuticalPatentsAndIntellectualProperty.com

More details on Dr. Shruti Bhat, click http://www.drshrutibhat.com

Mark Wehrmeister - Accomplished Technology Executive; Relocated to Portland, OR area - Seeking my next Opportunity.

Summary:

Technology Executive with 24 years of experience planning and managing all aspects of web and information technology-based products, systems, and services across multiple industries. Innovative strategic and tactical change-management leader who has designed and built diverse technology development and support organizations from the ground-up. Skillful creator of agile processes and procedures that enable flexibility and provide valuable options for change in a dynamic and ever-changing environment. Gifted problem solver with rare combination of technical and business acumen. Exceptional team leader who works effectively with all facets of an organization to create cooperative solutions that align with strategic business and organizational goals. Collaborative executive who inspires loyalty and brings out the unique skills and abilities of each individual team member.

Specialties:

Strategic planning, agile software product development, product management, web development, web operations, application development, project management, change management, organizational design, information syndication and distribution, information technology infrastructure, networking, information technology operations, workflow, XML, search engine optimization, performance, reliability, security.