DON'T MISS OUR FEATURED SPEAKERS
Robert Martellacci
Founder & Conference Chair
Robert Martellacci
Founder & Conference Chair
Robert Martellacci (MA EdTech) is president of MindShare Learning Technology, Canada’s leading EdTech strategy, news & events company he founded in 2001. Mr. Martellacci is also president & co-founder of C21 Canada—Canadians for 21st Century Learning & Innovation.
Mr. Martellacci is a lifelong learner who is committed to connecting business and education to transform learning in the 21st century to support student success. He completed a transformational learning journey as a mature student earning a master’s in educational technology from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California which inspired the creation of the MindShare Learning Report—Canada’s Learning & Technology eMagazine.
Mr. Martellacci has over 25 years of expertise and thought leadership in education as a former university administrator at York University; he also launched The Learning Company School Division for Kevin O’Leary which was the catalyst to forming his start-up MindShare Learning following the Mattel acquisition.
One of Martellacci’s signature slogans, “until next time, keep the learning curve steep.”
OPENING KEYNOTE
Dr. Chris Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools / CEO at West Vancouver School District
Dr. Chris Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools / CEO at West Vancouver School District
Chris Kennedy is the Superintendent of Schools & CEO, West Vancouver School District, BC
Dr. Chris Kennedy is a renowned educator and leader in the field of educational technology, currently serving as the Superintendent of West Vancouver Schools. With over 25 years of experience in K-12 education, Dr. Kennedy is dedicated to fostering innovative learning environments that leverage technology to enhance student engagement and achievement.
He has been at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence into educational practices, advocating for the ethical and effective use of AI tools to support personalized learning and improve educational outcomes. Dr. Kennedy is a sought-after speaker and consultant, sharing his insights on the transformative potential of AI in schools and emphasizing the importance of equipping educators and students with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
His commitment to collaborative leadership and continuous improvement has made him a key figure in shaping the future of education in Canada.
SPOTLIGHT KEYNOTE
Alana Winnick
Author • Podcaster (The Generative Age) • Ed Tech Director • NYSCATE Board of Directors
Alana Winnick
Author • Podcaster (The Generative Age) • Ed Tech Director • NYSCATE Board of Directors
Author: The Generative Age: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Education
Podcaster: The Generative Age
Keynote Speaker: Education and Educational Technology
Leader:
- Educational Technology Director @ Pocantico Hills CSD
- NYSCATE Hudson Valley Director
CLOSING KEYNOTE
Steve Brown
President & Chief Executive Officer, NELSON
Steve Brown
President & Chief Executive Officer, NELSON
Steve Brown has made his mark in Canada and Internationally by leading organizations through digital transformation. His career spans a diverse mix of industry and technology experience from multi-media entertainment, logistics services, automotive, and now to learning solutions.
Since joining NELSON in September 2016, Steve has transformed the vision for this 104-year-old company by reimagining the role and purpose of a publisher in 2017 and beyond. Introducing a matrix driven view to the management culture, and unifying a K20 student-centric business division is at the core of this shift to a cohesive customer focused structure. He has reframed the organization’s digital competency by instituting a technology department comprised of some the world’s best and brightest talent based in Silicon Beach California. Additionally, over the past 12 months the company has engaged in various M&A activities, including the acquisition of one of its largest competitors, as well as signing numerous agency and partnership deals to ensure NELSON offers a world class portfolio of learning solution and for all its markets.
Steve’s passion and commitment to transforming education, and the student learning experience, continues to fuel the innovation pipeline at NELSON.
SUMMIT CO-CHAIR
Dr. Steve Joordens
Summit Co-Chair, Full Professor at University of Toronto Scarborough
Dr. Steve Joordens
Summit Co-Chair, Full Professor at University of Toronto Scarborough
Steve was initially trained as a Cognitive Psychologist who performed research related to human memory and the distinction between conscious and unconscious influences. More recently though, his research has shifted to focus on the effective use of educational technologies in general, and especially to support the develop or core “Skills of Success” like critical and creative thought, effective two way communication and collaboration, and metacognitive awareness. Some of the research is laboratory based, but a lot of it occurs in the context of real classes. The Advanced Learning Technologies Lab that he directs also does research on third party technologies, assessing their efficacy and usability.
Saturday STEAM AI Teacher Symposium CO-CHAIR
Dr. Bonnie Schmidt
Founder and President of Let’s Talk Science
Dr. Bonnie Schmidt
Founder and President of Let’s Talk Science
- I am the founder and President of Let’s Talk Science, an award-winning, national charitable organization that I started while completing my PhD in Physiology at Western University. Let’s Talk Science helps children and youth fulfill their potential and prepare for their future careers and citizenship roles by supporting their learning and engagement through science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Let's Talk Science has achieved well over 15 million interactions with children, youth and educators since its inception.
- I am very interested in supporting education systems change and led the development of a series of reports that underscore the importance of engaging youth in STEM education. During 2016-18, I also spearheaded Canada 2067, an ambitious, collaborative initiative to shape the future of STEM education. That project led to international opportunities to support STEM learning, including a project with the Inter-American Network of Academies of Science and ongoing work supporting initiatives in Nepal. Canada 2067 findings, and subsequent reports such as the Climate Action Lab, inform Let's Talk Science's work and showcased the critical importance of youth voice.
- An active contributor to the scientific and education communities, I currently serve on the Genome Canada Board of Directors and am a member of the Federal Government’s AI Public Awareness Working Group. In 2020 I was a member of the PISA Expert Strategic Visioning Group to the OECD, which set about developing a new vision for the international science test that is administered in 80+ countries.
- Notable prior volunteer contributions include Chairing the National Leadership Taskforce on Education & Skills for the Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC); MItacs Science Policy Fellowship Committee; Ontario Tech University Board of Governors; Ontario Genomics Board of Directors; Founding Co-Chair of the Science and Technology Awareness Network (STAN) and more.
- Committed to governance excellence, I completed the Directors' Education Program at the Rotman School of Business at the University of Toronto and acquired ICD.D designation.
Saturday STEAM AI Teacher Symposium CO-CHAIR
Ramy Ghattas
Co-Founder & Director, Operations & Business Development, Logics Academy
Ramy Ghattas
Co-Founder & Director, Operations & Business Development, Logics Academy
With a strong passion for education and relevant skill development in children, Ramy has assembled a team of experts to research, design, develop and deliver a curriculum that will prepare today’s children paint their future.
Ramy holds a Hons. B.A.Sc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Toronto. Ramy has been a member of the Professional Engineers of Ontario Education Committee and University of Toronto Skule Society Committee. He has served as a board member of his community church and is a leader in the community youth association. Prior to his work with Logics Academy, Ramy founded and operated a tutoring organization in the GTA that provided academic excellence, mentorship and career guidance to students.
Ramy’s passion for education and engineering and the identification of the necessity for engaging students in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) through experiential learning was the foundation for Logics Academy!
JOIN US FOR THE FIRESIDE CHAT PANEL
"Charting the Course: Education in the Age of AI"
Moderator: Dr. Steve Joordens
Maxim Jean-Louis
Chief Executive Officer of Contact North | Contact Nord
Maxim Jean-Louis
Chief Executive Officer of Contact North | Contact Nord
Maxim Jean-Louis is President – Chief Executive Officer of Contact North | Contact Nord, Ontario’s Distance Education and Training Network, headquartered in Thunder Bay, Ontario.
Maxim worked in senior management roles for over 15 years at Athabasca University in Alberta, Canada’s open university.
He is also a member of the Comité consultatif en matière d’éducation postsecondaire en langue française dans les régions du Centre et du Sud-ouest.
Maxim is a former Chair of the Board of Directors of the World University Service of Canada and of the Optical Regional Advanced Network of Ontario, as well as a past member of Ontario’s Postsecondary Education Quality Assessment Board, and he served as a member of the Canadian Advisory Mission to support the implementation of the South African National Qualifications Framework (NQF) by the South African Qualifications Authority. He also served as President of Collège des Grands Lacs, one of Ontario’s three French-language community colleges.
In 2011, Maxim was appointed Special Advisor to Ontario’s Minister of Training, Colleges and Universities for an Ontario Online Institute, producing a 125-page report and recommendations to the Minister on opportunities for online learning in the province.
Dr. Lesley Wilton, OCT
AIED Cluster Leader Digitallife.org; Instructor AIED and AI Ethics (OISE/University of Toronto), Assistant Professor (R), York University
Dr. Lesley Wilton, OCT
AIED Cluster Leader Digitallife.org; Instructor AIED and AI Ethics (OISE/University of Toronto), Assistant Professor (R), York University
Dr. Lesley Wilton, OCT, is an Assistant Professor (CLT), Teaching Stream in the Faculty of Education at York University and serves on the Tenure Stream Appointment Committee (TSAC).
Her research and teaching interests include issues and practices of integrating technology into teaching, issues in literacy, constructivist and CMC perspectives on the design of online learning environments, blended learning, foundational pre-service and research courses, and artificial intelligence in education. Her MEd research (York University) examined pre-service students’ perceptions of the concepts of digital literacy. She completed her PhD research at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education (OISE)/University of Toronto, where she studied social practices and new literacies in online learning. She co-chaired the Best Paper Awards Committee of the Online Teaching and Learning Special Interest Group (OTL SIG) at AERA for many years. She recently contributed to and co-edited the Handbook of Research on Online Discussion-Based Teaching Methods (2020) and has authored a number of peer-reviewed papers such as “Quiet Participation: Investigating non-posting activities in online learning” in the Online Learning Journal (2019). She has served as an invited reviewer for many publications such as a Communication Studies special issue on Understanding Each Other when Communicating in Emerging Technology. She is currently writing a chapter for a multi-institutional eCampus book on online teaching and learning to be published in 2022. She is a long-time member of the Pepper research group and the Encore Lab. She has often presented at AERA, CSSE, Saltise and the Literacy Research Association (LRA). She is a member of the International Artificial Intelligence in Education Society and is interested in this area of research. She developed and teaches one of the few courses in this important area. She joins the call for more educators to publish research on issues of AIED.
Katina Papulkas
Senior Education Strategist, Dell Technologies
Katina Papulkas
Senior Education Strategist, Dell Technologies
Katina Papulkas is an Education Strategist at Dell Technologies and is committed to serving students from K-20 across Canada. Katina is an experienced educator with a background in teaching, online learning, educational leadership, assessment, and educational technology. In her two-decade tenure in education she has been an elementary teacher and a central instructional leader where she designed and implemented system-wide initiatives around the effective integration of technology into the curriculum. Additionally, Katina served as an administrator of a middle school at the Toronto District School Board. Most recently, she was the Director of Educational Partnerships at Television Ontario (TVO) where she focused on the design and development of digital learning resources in a cross functional and agile environment. Katina holds a Master’s Degree in Education and Technology from the University of Ontario Institute of Technology.
Dean Shareski
Senior Partnerships Consultant, Advanced Learning Partnerships, Inc.
Dean Shareski
Senior Partnerships Consultant, Advanced Learning Partnerships, Inc.
Dean Shareski is an author, speaker, consultant and teacher. He is a Senior Partnership Consultant for Advanced Learning Partnerships supporting communities across Canada and the US. He is also a sessional lecturer at the University of Regina. Over the past year, Dean has supported over 20 communities in both K12 and higher education in exploring the risks and possibilities of Generative AI.
Dean believes learning is a natural part of being human and that education often gets in the way of that. He also believes learning should be a joyful act and seeks to support leaders and educators in ensuring this experience for all.
Christopher Usih
Superintendent of Schools, Richmond School District No. 38
Christopher Usih
Superintendent of Schools, Richmond School District No. 38
From a very early age, Christopher recognized the value of public education and its power to transform lives. He now has 30 years of experience as an educator. Before joining the CBE, he spent 28 years with the Toronto District School Board (TDSB), holding several positions including teacher, principal, Superintendent of Student Success, Associate Director and Executive Superintendent. Before joining the TDSB, Christopher taught in an Indigenous community in northern Manitoba. At every level, he actively engaged and collaborated with educators and partners to support student success.
Christopher Usih is the new Chief Superintendent of Schools at the Calgary Board of Education (CBE). He officially started his work with the CBE, Alberta’s largest school board, in December 2018
CROSS CANADA CHECKUP PANEL: The State of EdTech
"Empowering Every Learner: Technology as a Catalyst for Equitable Education Across Canada"
Gain Valuable Insights From Canadian and Global Experts on The State of EdTech in Canada
Moderator: Robert Martellacci
Randy Osei
Sports EdTech Founder Upskilling Athletes & Underserved Communities for the Future of Work
Randy Osei
Sports EdTech Founder Upskilling Athletes & Underserved Communities for the Future of Work
Randy Osei is a passionate social entrepreneur with a strong focus on creating impact and outcomes for athletes and the BIPOC community. With over 12 years of experience as a Brand and Business Manager for pro athletes, Randy has leveraged his expertise at the intersection of sport, entertainment, and marketing to create impact.
Randy's latest venture, the Athlete Technology Group, is a digital marketplace that centralizes events, education, and entrepreneurship, specifically designed to connect and build athlete and tech entrepreneurs. Through ATG's latest launch, the Training Ground app, Randy aims to prepare athletes for life after sport with on-demand skill development programs that increase their readiness for the future of work.
With Training Ground's personalized and career-focused microlearning approach, Randy is committed to providing athletes with access to personal and career development opportunities that help them succeed both on and off the field. By leveraging technology to empower athletes and the BIPOC community, Randy's value creation model is centered on creating economic mobility and positive social impact, by fostering authentic experiences.
Christina Raso
Principal of St Albert Adult Learning Centre at Sudbury Catholic District School Board
Christina Raso
Principal of St Albert Adult Learning Centre at Sudbury Catholic District School Board
Peter Singh
Executive Officer – IT Services, TDSB
Peter Singh
Executive Officer – IT Services, TDSB
Peter brings 23+ years of K-12 sector technology know-how to his CTO portfolio. He has been at the forefront of bringing innovative technologies to the Toronto District School Board. He’s a practitioner of emotional intelligence who is spearheading the TDSB “Information Technology Services” team from a digital era to Quantum Age of Information Technology.
Dr. Tiffany Bastin
Assistant Deputy Minister, EECD,Government of New Brunswick
Dr. Tiffany Bastin
Assistant Deputy Minister, EECD,Government of New Brunswick
Tiffany is the Assistant Deputy Minister for Education Services at the Department of Education and Early Childhood Development. In 2016 she was awarded the Dr. William S. Lewis doctoral fellowship and earned her Ph.D. in Education Studies at the University of New Brunswick in 2020. Her dissertation, Change Theory and the Implementation of the 10-Year Education Plan: Impacts on Educators in the New Brunswick School System was awarded the Thomas B. Greenfield Dissertation Award for the best Doctoral thesis in the area of Educational Administration and Leadership in Canada. As a teacher, Tiffany received the New Brunswick Teachers Association Excellence in Teaching Award. In her 30-year career in education, she has served in roles such as school counsellor, resource teacher, literacy specialist, school administrator, and change leader.
Tom D’Amico
Director of Education, Ottawa Catholic School Board
Tom D’Amico
Director of Education, Ottawa Catholic School Board
Thomas D’Amico was appointed Director of Education and Secretary-Treasurer of the Ottawa Catholic School Board in August 2020. Previous to that, he served as the Associate Director of Education from 2015 to 2020. Mr. D’Amico has over 30 years of experience in education, including as a teacher, school administrator, and Superintendent of Human Resources and Superintendent of Learning Technologies. He is an award-winning educator recognized with the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence and Canada’s Outstanding Principal award. As a Superintendent, he received the EXL award to recognize excellence among members of the superintendency.
Mr. D’Amico holds a Bachelor of Education and a Masters in Physical Education from the University of Ottawa. He obtained his Honours in Physical Education from McMaster University. Tom also holds an Executive Certificate in Conflict Management from the University of Windsor Law Department. On a personal level, Tom is involved with his local parish, St. John the Evangelist. He is also an off-ice official with the NHL. Tom and his wife Michelle have two daughters, Laura and Christina, both graduates of the Ottawa Catholic School Board.
Keith Krueger
CEO at Consortium for School Networking (CoSN)
Keith Krueger
CEO at Consortium for School Networking (CoSN)
Keith R. Krueger is CEO of CoSN - The Consortium
for School Networking, the premier nonprofit
professional association organization that serves
as the voice of K-12 Ed Tech leaders in North
America. CoSN’s mission is enabling inclusive and
nimble technology leadership to drive innovation.
He was selected by Ed Tech magazine for it’s 2021
K-12 IT influencers. In 2016 Technology &
Learning selected him as one of the “big 10” most
influential people in Ed Tech, and the Center for
Digital Education identified him as a Top 30
Technologist/Transformer/Trailblazer. In 2008 he
was selected by eSchool News as one of ten
people who have had a profound impact on
educational technology over the last decade. In
2016 he received a Special Recognition award
from the Council of Great City Schools.
He is the Past Chair of the Learning First Alliance
and has served on the Executive Committee of the
National Coalition on Technology in Education &
Training (NCTET). He serves on many Advisory
Boards including the Friday Institute at NC State
University, the Public Policy Advisory Council for
the American Library Association, Ed Tech Digest,
as well as previously the Education Committee of
the National Park System. He is principal
investigator of the Driving K-12 Innovation series.
Keith has a global reputation as a key thought
leader and has led senior level U.S. delegations to
visit Australia, Asia, Europe and South America to
examine best practices in Ed Tech.
In fall of 2015, Keith conducted a Work Study on
Digital Equity as an Associate in Practice at
Harvard’s Graduate School of Education. As a
Certified Association Executive, he has extensive
background in nonprofit management and has a
Masters from the Humphrey School of Public
Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
EXPERT PANEL PRESENTATIONS
Option1: Canadian IT Leader Summit Track presented by CoSN and ECNO, 'An Interactive Forum on Key Trends and Strategies' AI and Beyond in K-12 Moderator: Keith Krueger
Keith Krueger
CEO at Consortium for School Networking (CoSN)
Keith Krueger
CEO at Consortium for School Networking (CoSN)
Keith R. Krueger is CEO of CoSN - The Consortium
for School Networking, the premier nonprofit
professional association organization that serves
as the voice of K-12 Ed Tech leaders in North
America. CoSN’s mission is enabling inclusive and
nimble technology leadership to drive innovation.
He was selected by Ed Tech magazine for it’s 2021
K-12 IT influencers. In 2016 Technology &
Learning selected him as one of the “big 10” most
influential people in Ed Tech, and the Center for
Digital Education identified him as a Top 30
Technologist/Transformer/Trailblazer. In 2008 he
was selected by eSchool News as one of ten
people who have had a profound impact on
educational technology over the last decade. In
2016 he received a Special Recognition award
from the Council of Great City Schools.
He is the Past Chair of the Learning First Alliance
and has served on the Executive Committee of the
National Coalition on Technology in Education &
Training (NCTET). He serves on many Advisory
Boards including the Friday Institute at NC State
University, the Public Policy Advisory Council for
the American Library Association, Ed Tech Digest,
as well as previously the Education Committee of
the National Park System. He is principal
investigator of the Driving K-12 Innovation series.
Keith has a global reputation as a key thought
leader and has led senior level U.S. delegations to
visit Australia, Asia, Europe and South America to
examine best practices in Ed Tech.
In fall of 2015, Keith conducted a Work Study on
Digital Equity as an Associate in Practice at
Harvard’s Graduate School of Education. As a
Certified Association Executive, he has extensive
background in nonprofit management and has a
Masters from the Humphrey School of Public
Affairs at the University of Minnesota.
Chris Dale
Director of Security Services, ECNO
Chris Dale
Director of Security Services, ECNO
Chris Dale is an Educational Technology Strategy and Leadership, Cyber Security & Privacy, Strategic Planning, Mentor & Coach
A seasoned professional with experience that includes over 3 decades servicing the K-12
education sector, Chris has and continues to navigate the intersection of technology,
cybersecurity, and education. His journey has been marked by strategic vision and leadership,
innovative thinking, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.
It goes without saying that technology is part of Chris’s DNA, and his passion is sharing his
enthusiasm around its potential to shape the future of education and secure our digital world.
Chris is the Director of Security Services at ECNO, where he works to further technology that
protects privacy, and securely empower the K-12 community in Ontario and beyond, through
partnerships, best-practices, cost-efficient solutions, and agile responses to emerging needs.
Geoff Edwards
Superintendent of Learning Technologies Ottawa Catholic School Board
Geoff Edwards
Superintendent of Learning Technologies Ottawa Catholic School Board
Geoff Edwards was appointed as the Superintendent of Learning Technologies since 2019. Previously, he served as a teacher at St. Mark and St. Mother Teresa, as a Vice-Principal at St. Paul and Sacred Heart and as a Principal at St. Paul and at St. Mother Teresa.
Geoff has been a facilitator for the Eastern Ontario Staff Development Network (EOSDN) Leadership Academy and he has taught the Principal Qualification Program (PQP) with the Catholic Principals Council of Ontario. (CPCO) Through CPCO, Geoff has also written a curriculum for the Technology Enabled Leading Learning Mentorship component of the PQP. He is currently on the board of the Education Collaborative Network of Ontario, known as ECNO.
Geoff has been the recipient of the Director’s Commendation award for his work in improving numeracy practice and for enhancing his schools’ protocols for tracking and planning for at-risk students. Geoff has his Master’s in Educational Leadership from Memorial University.
Geoff is married to Rebecca; a gifted Contemporary Studies teacher at Holy Trinity High School, and he has two wonderful daughters, Sophie and Hillary.
Geoff has been coaching various sports for over 30 years which has made him passionate about the role of extracurriculars in adolescent development. He is equally passionate about the role of technology to accelerate academic growth and to increase engagement. For students with learning challenges, learning technologies can be the vehicle through which these students can equitably access the curriculum and thus thrive as students.
He is also passionate about his work in leading and coordinating support for students in low socio-economic status situations. This work has been a cornerstone of his career and shapes his education worldview.
Evelyn Giannopoulos
Associate Director of Education, Upper Grand District School Board
Evelyn Giannopoulos
Associate Director of Education, Upper Grand District School Board
As an experienced school Vice Principal, Principal, Superintendent of Education and current Associate Director of Education, I have a demonstrated history of serving in Ontario's Public Education sector through my leadership. Skilled in Strategic Planning, Strategic Implementation and Monitoring, Evidence Informed School Learning and Improvement, Negotiation and Problem Resolution, K-12 Education and Threat-Risk Assessment and with a recent focus on GenerativeAI and its integration in teaching, learning, assessment and evaluation. I hold a Master of Education (M.Ed.) focused in International Leadership, with a focus on continuous system and school Improvement, staff learning and leadership development.
Additionally, I am honoured to serve beyond the boarders of my District School Board as a Board Member for OPSOA (Ontario Public Supervisory Officers Association) and ECNO (Educational Computing Network of Ontario) to further the learning and well-being needs of each child, each day and support the educators serve them!
Francis Mailloux
Vice President ECNO Board of Directors Information and Communications Technology Services CSC Providence
Francis Mailloux
Vice President ECNO Board of Directors Information and Communications Technology Services CSC Providence
Option 2: C21 Canada and Dell Technologies’ AI Use Case National Project Panel Presentation & Update from the C21 Task Force on AI
Moderator
Karen Yamada
Chief Learning Office & CFO, C21 Canada
Karen Yamada
Chief Learning Office & CFO, C21 Canada
Karen has enjoyed a 37-year career in leadership and collaboration with an ongoing focus on learning innovations in technology and assessment. Karen has been privileged to serve leader roles of influence in classrooms, schools, professional networks, district, government and post-secondary organizations, with continued service nationally and internationally.
Katina Papulkas
Senior Education Strategist, Dell Technologies
Katina Papulkas
Senior Education Strategist, Dell Technologies
Katina Papulkas is an Education Strategist at Dell Technologies and is committed to serving students from K-20 across Canada. Katina is an experienced educator with a background in teaching, online learning, educational leadership, assessment, and educational technology. In her two-decade tenure in education she has been an elementary teacher and a central instructional leader where she designed and implemented system-wide initiatives around the effective integration of technology into the curriculum. Additionally, Katina served as an administrator of a middle school at the Toronto District School Board. Most recently, she was the Director of Educational Partnerships at Television Ontario (TVO) where she focused on the design and development of digital learning resources in a cross functional and agile environment. Katina holds a Master’s Degree in Education and Technology from the University of Ontario Institute of Technology.
Dr. Ron Owston
Professor Emeritus, York University
Dr. Ron Owston
Professor Emeritus, York University
Dr. Ron Owston is University Professor Emeritus and Senior Scholar at York University, as well as former Dean of the Faculty of Education, and founding Director of the Institute for Research in Learning Technologies.
A pioneer in teaching and learning with the web since its early days, Dr. Owston specializes in the evaluation of technology-based educational programs in K12, government, higher education, and continuing professional education. He has spoken at numerous national and international conferences about blended and online learning, authored/co-authored some 50 commissioned studies, and published over 60 articles in top-tier journals, including Educational Researcher, Teachers College Record, Research in the Teaching of English, Journal of Computer-Based Instruction, Journal of Information Technology in Teacher Education, Journal of Computer Assisted Learning, Internet & Higher Education, and Journal of Research on Computing in Education.
Dr. Owston published one of the first academic examinations of the role of the Web for teaching and learning in Educational Researcher in 1997. His work has been funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, Health Canada, the Government of Ontario, the Andrew Mellon Foundation, the Canadian Fund for Innovation, and a variety of school districts and industry partners. Over the last several years his publications have addressed blended learning in higher education courses.
Currently, Dr. Owston ranks among the most cited blended learning researchers in the world in Google Scholar. Having retired from York in 2018, he is now actively engaged in research, consulting, and public speaking, and is a research associate at Contact North|Contact Nord, where he leads a successful series of webinars on the use of Zoom for teaching which over 10,000 educators around the world have registered for or downloaded.
Zelia Capitao-Tavares
Elementary Teacher at TDSB
Zelia Capitao-Tavares
Elementary Teacher at TDSB
Zélia Capitão-Tavares has been teaching for 25 years and currently is a teacher at McMurrich Junior Public School and a Hybrid-Teacher Digital Lead Learner, Toronto District School Board. There she empowers students to become entrepreneurs through the McMurrich “Business Day” program. She holds a Master of Education from the University of Toronto; was nominated for the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence; and is the recipient of the BMO Financial Group National Student Innovation Award. She is currently collaborating with the Board Members of MindShareLearning with Technology. With more than 20 years of experience innovating in education, Zélia believes that we need to find the ‘spark’ in each student & step aside to let them shine!
Randolph MacLEAN
Randolph MacLEAN is the CEO and Superintendent at the Anglophone East School District.
Randolph MacLEAN
Randolph MacLEAN is the CEO and Superintendent at the Anglophone East School District.
Dr. Chris Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools / CEO at West Vancouver School District
Dr. Chris Kennedy
Superintendent of Schools / CEO at West Vancouver School District
Chris Kennedy is the Superintendent of Schools & CEO, West Vancouver School District, BC
Dr. Chris Kennedy is a renowned educator and leader in the field of educational technology, currently serving as the Superintendent of West Vancouver Schools. With over 25 years of experience in K-12 education, Dr. Kennedy is dedicated to fostering innovative learning environments that leverage technology to enhance student engagement and achievement.
He has been at the forefront of integrating artificial intelligence into educational practices, advocating for the ethical and effective use of AI tools to support personalized learning and improve educational outcomes. Dr. Kennedy is a sought-after speaker and consultant, sharing his insights on the transformative potential of AI in schools and emphasizing the importance of equipping educators and students with the skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly digital world.
His commitment to collaborative leadership and continuous improvement has made him a key figure in shaping the future of education in Canada.
Annie Slater
Principal, Toronto District School Board
Annie Slater
Principal, Toronto District School Board
Experienced school administrator with a demonstrated history of working in elementary education. Skilled in Literacy, Classrooms Management, Lesson Planning, Educational Technology, and Differentiated Instruction. Strong education professional with a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) with a focus on Integrated Technology and Environmental Education from Queen's University. Currently UOIT MEd candidate focused on Digital Technologies.
Embracing AI and HI: A CanAm Perspective on Empowering Leadership for Sustainable & Equitable Digital Transformation in Education
Moderator
Kathy Hurley
President, Kathy Hurley Consulting LLC, Co-Founder, Girls Thinking Global & Former EVP Pearson Foundation and Industry Consultant
Kathy Hurley
President, Kathy Hurley Consulting LLC, Co-Founder, Girls Thinking Global & Former EVP Pearson Foundation and Industry Consultant
Kathy has over forty years of experience in the education industry in both traditional publishing and the ed tech sectors. Kathy began her career as a special education teacher before moving to the private sector side of the industry. She has worked in sales, marketing and business development for DLM, IBM, The Learning Company, Grolier, Mindscape, Skillsbank, NetSchool, PLATO Learning and Pearson and the Pearson Foundation.
In addition to her work as an executive, Kathy has served on numerous education and industry boards including ISTE 100, CoSN, NSBF, SIIA, AEP/AAP, NCEA, AASA Advisory Board. She currently serves on the boards of NCTET People to People, Asia Society, Spark 101, Women s Education Project, and in 2009-2010, Kathy served as the Chair for the Partnership for 21st Century Skills (P21).
In 2014, Kathy retired from Pearson after being with the company for ten years. Kathy, along with her colleague, Deb deVries, founded a new global non-profit, Girls Thinking Global, which seeks to connect changemakers to girls empowerment organizations across the world. She is also serving as an industry consultant and working with several companies in the ed tech sector. She is a co-editor with Priscilla Shumway of a book called "Real Women Real Leaders" which is being published in April by Wiley Publishing. Kathy completed the Harvard Advanced Leadership Program in 2014.
Jennifer Ferrari
CEO & President of Education Research & Development Institute
Jennifer Ferrari
CEO & President of Education Research & Development Institute
Learning leader with an entrepreneurial mindset focused on ensuring bright futures for all students. Advocating for and leading research and development efforts to promote and enhance high quality public education opportunities for all. Supporting professional growth and development through rich dialogue and discourse, collaborative learning, and meaningful feedback. Expertise in PK-12 education, strategic planning, leadership development, curriculum & instruction, and the PK-12 education market. Striving for deep impact through thought leadership and collaboration between district and industry leaders.
Lisa Schmucki
Founder & CEO, edWeb.net
Lisa Schmucki
Founder & CEO, edWeb.net
Lisa Schmucki is the founder and CEO of edWeb.net, an award-winning professional learning network that serves the global education community. edWeb helps educators share their best ideas and practices to improve teaching and learning, and prepare students to be successful in life. Previously, Lisa held senior marketing and product development positions in education, publishing and media with Time, Macmillan, Peterson's, Films Media Group, and Achieve3000. She is a graduate of Princeton University and works with the university on issues of undergraduate social life and community service. Lisa has a Masters Degree from the Stern School of Business at NYU. Lisa has served on the board of the SIIA Education Technology Industry Network and is on the Advisory Council for the ERDI Education Impact Alliance.
Dr. Kari Stubbs
Senior Vice President, Business Development, Stages Learning | Brand Strategy
Dr. Kari Stubbs
Senior Vice President, Business Development, Stages Learning | Brand Strategy
Dr. Kari Stubbs is a renowned leader in education, with significant contributions across educational technology, PreK-12 education, and special education. As the Senior Vice President of Business Development at Stages Learning, she advances education and dismantles learning barriers for all students, focusing on support for students with autism. #allmeansall
Dr. Stubbs transitioned from classroom teaching to educational technology and special education, demonstrating her diverse expertise in brand amplification, public speaking, revenue generation, and business leadership. She has delivered numerous presentations and authored articles highlighting themes such as neurodiversity, edtech, teacher shortages, educational games, and computational thinking.
With a Ph.D. and a history of educational innovation, Dr. Stubbs served 14 years as Vice President at BrainPOP. She has contributed significantly to the educational community through her roles on the boards of ISTE, EdCamp, BreakoutEdu, and the SXSWedu Advisory Board.
Recognized with numerous accolades, including the Make It Happen award and Top 100 Influencers in EdTech, Dr. Stubbs continues to inspire inclusive educational practices. She is a sought-after speaker at international conferences such as UNESCO's Mobile Learning Week and WISE in Qatar.
Julia Fallon
Executive Director, SETDA
Julia Fallon
Executive Director, SETDA
Julia Fallon is the Executive Director of SETDA, where she works with U.S. state and territorial digital learning leaders to empower the education community to leverage technology for learning, teaching, and school operations.
Involved with learning technologies since 1989, her professional interest lies in making the case for public school systems wherein educators are able to optimize technology-rich learning environments to equitably engage the learners who fill their classrooms.
Prior to joining SETDA as the executive director in 2021, Julia worked for Washington’s K-12 education agency, the Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction (OSPI) as the Title II, Part A Program Lead, where she provided operational leadership and oversight of the federal program designed to improve the quality of instruction and administration. In her previous role as the state’s Technology Integration Program Manager, she streamlined strategic planning for districts, championed robust professional learning programming for educators, and advocated for smart, flexible network policies. Representing Washington, she was a longtime SETDA state member and had been instrumental in the leadership of the organization as a member of the Board of Directors serving in various board positions including board chairman.
Julia holds a master’s degree in educational technology from Pepperdine University and a bachelor’s degree in business education from New York University. She was the 2019 recipient of the SETDA State Leader of the Year award, and was also a recipient of the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Making IT Happen and the Northwest Council for Computer Education (NCCE) President’s awards.
Jennifer Womble
Education Leader. Catalyst @Future of Education Technology Conference (#FETC); Editorial Staff @District Administration, @ETC
Jennifer Womble
Education Leader. Catalyst @Future of Education Technology Conference (#FETC); Editorial Staff @District Administration, @ETC
With a focus on spearheading dynamic educational technology initiatives at the Future of Education Technology Conference, Jennifer's role as Conference Chair involves curating content that empowers educators and administrators. Leading a vast array of events, from keynote sessions to interactive workshops, her efforts are centered on enhancing professional development within the tech-education landscape. The pivotal aspect of her position is fostering a collaborative community that thrives on innovation and knowledge exchange.
As part of the editorial team at District Administration, I contribute to shaping the discourse on key education issues. My expertise in curriculum design and staff development, gleaned from extensive experience in education, informs my approach to content strategy. Together with my team, we deliver insightful perspectives that support educators in creating secure, successful, and technology-integrated learning environments.With a focus on spearheading dynamic educational technology initiatives at the Future of Education Technology Conference, my role as Conference Chair involves curating content that empowers educators and administrators. Leading a vast array of events, from keynote sessions to interactive workshops, my efforts are centered on enhancing professional development within the tech-education landscape. The pivotal aspect of my position is fostering a collaborative community that thrives on innovation and knowledge exchange. As part of the editorial team at District Administration, I contribute to shaping the discourse on key education issues. My expertise in curriculum design and staff development, gleaned from extensive experience in education, informs my approach to content strategy. Together with my team, we deliver insightful perspectives that support educators in creating secure, successful, and technology-integrated learning environments.
Harry Zarek
President + CEO of Compugen, Inc.
Harry Zarek
President + CEO of Compugen, Inc.
Harry Zarek is the Founder, President, and visionary leader of Compugen, Inc., Canada’s largest privately-owned and operated
Technology Ally. In 1981, Harry created a small business building computers in the garage of his Toronto home. That business, Compugen, Inc., is now on track to reach one billion dollars in revenue by the year 2025.
Under Harry’s stewardship, Compugen has grown and evolved alongside a rapidly changing industry, adopting a world view which recognizes and celebrates the profound influence technology has on both business and society. The company partners with mid-tolarge private and public sector customers to dream, design, and deliver Connected + Secured experiences around Modern Workspace and Hybrid IT with a keen
focus on Service + Delivery.
Harry holds an undergraduate degree in Engineering Science and a PhD in Physics from the University of Toronto. He is an active investor and member of the Board of Directors for a number of early-stage technology companies across North America. Harry is also a key advisory board member for several industry leaders, including HP Inc., Hewlett Packard Enterprise, Cisco Systems, Intel, and Microsoft.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Harry is also deeply committed to making positive change within both the community and the global arena. He is passionately involved in social responsibility initiatives, particularly those that advance Indigenous engagement alongside an Indigenous owned IT business, FoxWise Technologies Inc. and promote environmental sustainability through Compugen’s Green4Good program (Green4Good.ca) About Compugen Inc.
As Canada's largest privately-owned and operated Technology Ally, we help organizations realize new possibilities. To innovate industries, transform businesses, connect communities, and drive
meaningful change, we must think bigger, reach broader, and act bolder. Through knowledge,
curiosity, and collaboration, Compugen helps organizations deliver experience by design. This is
what it means to be human-centered and technology-enabled. Get an ally in your technology journey. Visit www.compugen.com to start now.
STEM Classroom of the Future Learning Environment Panel
Dr. Anju Bajaj
STEM Educator/STEM Advisor K-12 at Archdiocese of Winnipeg
Dr. Anju Bajaj
STEM Educator/STEM Advisor K-12 at Archdiocese of Winnipeg
Accolade for The Prime Minister's Awards for Teaching Excellence , MB Teaching Excellence, STEM Educator, Global Citizenship Awardee for Educators, K-12 Canadian EdTech Award, STEM Teacher Leader, Experienced Research Scientist with a demonstrated history of working in the research industry. Skilled in STEM, SPSS,SAS statistical tools, Life Sciences, Data Analysis, and Microscopy.
Benjamin Kelly
Fortunate Educator & Entrepreneur
Benjamin Kelly
Fortunate Educator & Entrepreneur
As an educator and entrepreneur, Benjamin's work has received international recognition and national acclaim, all while he remain a dedicated full-time K-12 classroom teacher at a small, yet impactful, rural school.
Benjamin's students and school have benefitted from his prolific grant writing and innovative ideas, leading them to seize every opportunity imaginable in recent years.
As an entrepreneur, he create internationally awarded educational content for the world’s most popular video games. He is a passionate advocate for video games in education and game-based learning.
When both careers allow, he speak at conferences, sharing real classroom applications of popular video games, STEM, AI, and EdTech.
He has career aspirations beyond the classroom, but he is currently thriving in two dream careers, relishing every moment.
Dr. Chris Kim
Digital Media Instructor, Web Developer, and Research Engineer
Dr. Chris Kim
Digital Media Instructor, Web Developer, and Research Engineer
As a user focused software engineer, Chris Kim is in pursuit of using technology to facilitate interdisciplinary collaborations and address today’s talent gap in digital media. Trained in media production and information visualization, Chris works with institutional stakeholders, including University of Toronto, DARPA, and MIT, to build platforms that democratize AI and promote human-in-the-loop automation. Chris also operates a software studio Fresco Industries (https://frescoindustries.com), where he works with emerging talents in promoting underserved communities and facilitating youth entrepreneurship.
Rahmatullah Arman
Founder & President, Teach For Afghanistan
Rahmatullah Arman
Founder & President, Teach For Afghanistan
Rahmatullah Arman is the Founder and President of
both Teach For Afghanistan, Afghanistan’s largest
youth-led educational organization, and Friends of
Teach For Afghanistan (FTFA), a 501(c)(3) non-profit
organization registered in Delaware, USA.
Born and raised in Afghanistan, he has worked in
various senior leadership roles within both the
government and non-profit sectors in Afghanistan.
Arman has traveled to 34 provinces within Afghanistan,
gaining extensive experience in grassroots advocacy and
implementing local and global models in one of the
world's most challenging environments. He is also
globally connected, having traveled to over 25 countries
around the globe, where he has spoken at international
conferences, has led events, sessions and is active part of
various global movements and networks.
He has taught at Afghan universities, remaining closely connected to the youth, and has led
Teach For Afghanistan for over a decade, maintaining a regular presence in classrooms and
staying engaged with Afghan children. Arman holds an MBA degree and bachelor’s degree
in International Relations.
A globally recognized women's rights, education rights, and Afghan rights activist,
Rahmatullah Arman is also an analyst on Afghan issues, especially education. He is the
author of "There is a Tomorrow," and his articles have appeared in renowned publications
both within and outside Afghanistan.
Under his leadership, Teach For Afghanistan has supported over 120,000 Afghan children,
with more than 75% of them being girls. He has also overseen support to more than 100
schools and successfully graduated over 500 highly talented Afghan men and women, who
are now playing crucial roles in their local communities.
Arman advocates for equal educational opportunities for Afghan youth, women, and men,
regardless of age, gender, or background. He also leads the "AfghanCast" podcast and the
"Afghan Talk" initiative, which serves as a platform for Afghan youth, women, and men to
share their experiences, ideas, and insights, akin to TED talks but focused on Afghanistan.
Learn more about Rahmatullah Arman:
1. Educating Afghanistan’s young people is the only true solution to the scourge of
terrorism (Quartz)
2. Inspiring a new generation of leaders with Teach for Afghanistan (Newsroom)
3. In rural Afghanistan, this chemistry teacher is the solution to her school’s closed
lab (Assembly)
4. BBC on Mr.Armans work: http://www.bbc.com/news/business-40250219
1- USAID https://www.usaid.gov/afghanistan/news-information/press-
releases/international-fellowship-selects-participants-usaid
2- https://alliance.learnlife.com/members/rahmatullah-arman
5. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tjtR4j-N1Jk Afghanistan’s first lady speech on
appreciating my work and Teach For Afghanistan.
6. Mr.Arman Speech in Global Education and Skills Conference, Dubai, UAE.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8AvQLJiDqZg
7. Mr.Arman Speech in Global Conference, Armenia https://vimeo.com/369823020
8. Mr.Arman Speech in UNESCO Global Conference:
9. Re-Learn Global Conference Speech - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h-
DJ0ThW-iQ
10. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2lt_uDGM90 Mr.Arman Speech in Voices
from Afghanistan with International Delegates
11. Wendy kopp https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gkdul6FBZAc
Bridging Innovation: Design Thinking with Architect Insights and U of T’s Sam Ibrahim Building
Moderator
Dr. Steve Joordens
Summit Co-Chair, Full Professor at University of Toronto Scarborough
Dr. Steve Joordens
Summit Co-Chair, Full Professor at University of Toronto Scarborough
Steve was initially trained as a Cognitive Psychologist who performed research related to human memory and the distinction between conscious and unconscious influences. More recently though, his research has shifted to focus on the effective use of educational technologies in general, and especially to support the develop or core “Skills of Success” like critical and creative thought, effective two way communication and collaboration, and metacognitive awareness. Some of the research is laboratory based, but a lot of it occurs in the context of real classes. The Advanced Learning Technologies Lab that he directs also does research on third party technologies, assessing their efficacy and usability.
Andrew Arifuzzaman
Chief Administrative Officer at University of Toronto Scarborough
Andrew Arifuzzaman
Chief Administrative Officer at University of Toronto Scarborough
Experienced Chief Administrative Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry. Skilled in Coaching, Team Building, Healthcare Management, Healthcare, and Clinical Research. Strong administrative professional graduated from University of Toronto - Rotman School of Management.
Dr. Karen McCrindle
Associate Dean, Teaching and Learning; Director, Centre for Teaching and Learning; Associate Professor, Teaching Stream, Department of Language Studies
Dr. Karen McCrindle
Associate Dean, Teaching and Learning; Director, Centre for Teaching and Learning; Associate Professor, Teaching Stream, Department of Language Studies
Dr. Karen McCrindle is an Associate Professor, Teaching Stream; Associate Dean, Teaching and Learning; and Director, Centre for Teaching and Learning. She holds a PhD in French linguistics from the University of Toronto. She has also studied at York University and Carleton University and has taught in Canada and in France. She teaches a variety of courses, such as Semantics, Sociolinguistics of French, French Phonetics and Phonology, and Pidgin and Creole Languages. She is committed to experiential education and her current research interests include the implications and impact of multilingualism in Canada and the influence of media on language change.
Sam Ibrahim
President @ Arrow Group Companies, Entrepreneur, Innovator, and Community Champion
Sam Ibrahim
President @ Arrow Group Companies, Entrepreneur, Innovator, and Community Champion
Sam Ibrahim: President @ Arrow Group Companies, Entrepreneur, Innovator, and Community Champion
Sam Ibrahim, a proud native of Scarborough, Ontario, embodies the spirit of entrepreneurship, innovation, and community upliftment. After immigrating from Egypt to Canada with his family in the 1980s, Sam graduated from the University of Toronto Scarborough. At just 26, he founded the Arrow Group of Companies—a diverse conglomerate of over 20 businesses spanning scientific research, finance, staffing, health and wellness, sports, and professional basketball. Today, Arrow Group is one of Canada’s largest private enterprises, with operations across four continents and more than 10,000 employees.
Sam’s professional expertise extends across multiple fields. A seasoned leader in professional services, he has hands-on experience with over 50 Fortune 500 companies, overseeing multi-million-dollar projects. His background includes expertise in recruitment, HR policies and procedures, data collection, and both qualitative and quantitative research. As Sam puts it, he is passionate about "new economy projects that will propel our firm to the next level."
In alignment with his vision for empowering local entrepreneurs, Sam recently donated $25 million to the University of Toronto’s Scarborough campus to establish the Sam Ibrahim Centre of Inclusive Excellence in Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Leadership. The center is designed to help individuals build businesses and foster community growth.
Beyond his corporate endeavors, Sam shares a passion for sports. He founded The Playground, the world’s largest private network of basketball facilities and the leading basketball employer in Canada, rivaling even the Toronto Raptors. His love for the arts also led him to revitalize the East York Masonic Temple into a vibrant live performance venue and instructional space for aspiring performers.
Sam’s philosophy of success is rooted in unconventional thinking: "See where the crowd is moving and go the other way." This bold mindset has driven his achievements, fostering innovation and forward-thinking strategies that define his leadership style.
A devoted father of two, Sam continues to balance his entrepreneurial ventures with community engagement, arts, and philanthropy. His legacy serves as a testament to the power of entrepreneurship, showing how business can be a force for transformation and social impact.
Option 3: Education Reimagined: Harnessing AI and Visual Tools to Shape the Future of Learning. Hosted by Canva
Scott Nunes
EdTech influencer and District Engagement Advocate, Canva
Scott Nunes
EdTech influencer and District Engagement Advocate, Canva
Scott Nunes is an EdTech influencer and District Engagement Advocate with Canva, known for his dynamic presentations and passion for digital creativity. With a focus on empowering educators, Scott bridges technology and engagement strategies to enhance learning experiences and collaboration. As a seasoned speaker and thought leader, he inspires educators to harness the power of visual storytelling and innovative teaching practices.
Saturday Nov 2, Opening and Kickoff with a Special Students Panel
Shaping Tomorrow: Student Perspectives on AI and the Future of Education
Moderator
Ramy Ghattas
Co-Founder & Director, Operations & Business Development, Logics Academy
Ramy Ghattas
Co-Founder & Director, Operations & Business Development, Logics Academy
With a strong passion for education and relevant skill development in children, Ramy has assembled a team of experts to research, design, develop and deliver a curriculum that will prepare today’s children paint their future.
Ramy holds a Hons. B.A.Sc in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Toronto. Ramy has been a member of the Professional Engineers of Ontario Education Committee and University of Toronto Skule Society Committee. He has served as a board member of his community church and is a leader in the community youth association. Prior to his work with Logics Academy, Ramy founded and operated a tutoring organization in the GTA that provided academic excellence, mentorship and career guidance to students.
Ramy’s passion for education and engineering and the identification of the necessity for engaging students in Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math (STEAM) through experiential learning was the foundation for Logics Academy!
Siddhanth Nittala
Mechanical Engineering student, University of Waterloo
Siddhanth Nittala
Mechanical Engineering student, University of Waterloo
Siddhanth Nittala is a Mechanical Engineering student at the University of Waterloo who is passionate about leveraging fluid mechanics for aerodynamics and propulsion applications, as well as applying microcontrollers and firmware tools for robotics applications. With a passion for design and Innovation, he also seeks to spark change in his society by educating youth about these STEM skills through Innovire, a non-profit organization of which he was co-president. He was also the captain of FIRST Robotics team 4015, and is now a mentor for the team. Currently studying mechanical engineering, he is now on the Waterloo Rocketry team and loves creating his own personal projects such as an automated plant watering system.
Simran Iqtidar
AP, SHSM Arts and Culture high school student, John Fraser Secondary School
Simran Iqtidar
AP, SHSM Arts and Culture high school student, John Fraser Secondary School
Simran is an Advanced Placement and SHSM Arts and Culture high school student with a passion for leadership, business, sports, and the arts. As the Vice President of her school's Business Society and President of Target Alpha John Fraser, she is actively involved in shaping innovative financial strategies and guiding future business leaders. In addition to her business pursuits, Simran is the Co-President of the Dance Crew, showcasing her creativity and commitment to artistic expression. Her athletic talents shine as the captain of both her soccer and basketball teams, and she is a proud member of the Fraser Athletic Council, where she contributes to fostering school spirit. Simran is also an actor with Studio 119, further demonstrating her versatility. With a strong academic record and a clear focus on excelling in business management and finance, Simran is dedicated to making an impact in multiple fields, blending creativity, leadership, and strategic thinking.
Elle Thompson
DECA & Vex IQ team @ Cardinal Leger Secondary School
Elle Thompson
DECA & Vex IQ team @ Cardinal Leger Secondary School
My name is Elle Thompson and I am the Driver for FRC Team 1325. Besides that, I mentor a Vex IQ team, and I’m an active member of the DECA team at my school, Cardinal Leger Secondary School. In my free time, you can catch me creating models on CAD or working on the development of my video game!
Adila Liu
Systems Design Engineering Student, University of Waterloo | SHAD UPEI 2022 Alumna
Adila Liu
Systems Design Engineering Student, University of Waterloo | SHAD UPEI 2022 Alumna
Adila Liu is a Systems Design Engineering student at the University of Waterloo. As an aspiring digital designer with a love for the arts and a knack for marketing, graphic design, and illustration, she has been diving into the world of product design and UI/UX. She is currently the Design Lead for the University of Waterloo's Product Management club, and has formally held the position of co-president of the Debate Society, Director of Promotions for the Mississauga Youth Action Committee, and Social Convenor of her high school's student council. Driven by a passion for crafting user-centered experiences, Adila is always seeking to connect with others and continuously push the boundaries of innovation.
Ethan Luong
SciTech Student @ Port Credit Secondary School
Ethan Luong
SciTech Student @ Port Credit Secondary School
My name is Ethan, and I am the co-captain of FRC 1325 Inverse Paradox! Asides from that, I serve as the co-President of the SciTech Student Council at Port Credit Secondary School, and the Vice Chairman of the Mississauga Youth Action Committee. In my free time, I like to swim and I work as a lifeguard/ instructor for the City of Mississauga
Making AI “Better than Average” in Schools and Classrooms. Hosted by Canva for Education
Andy Shaw
K-12 North America Sales & Success Lead , Canva for Education
Andy Shaw
K-12 North America Sales & Success Lead , Canva for Education
Andy Shaw is the K-12 North America Sales & Success Lead for the Canva for Education team, leading the team at Canva that helps schools and districts across the US and Canada empower their students, teachers, and staff to create and design. Andy is a former high school mathematics teacher, school administrator, professional developer, and strategic consultant to school districts, and has worked on the education team at Canva since 2021. Andy lives in Maine with his wife and two daughters, and makes a stellar grilled-cheese sandwich.