Speakers

Ahava Silkey-Jones is a passionate arts leader and seasoned administrator who believes deeply in the power of connection, creativity and community. She prides herself on bringing joy and creating meaningful opportunities for students that have the potential to change the trajectory of their lives.

Amber Bonasso is a dynamic leader with a lifelong passion for the arts. From feature films and theatrical productions to parades and live performances, Bonasso has always delighted in bringing people together through meaningful, immersive experiences. 

Dr. Jasmine Parker is a thoughtful and dynamic leader who never stops learning and growing. Her career in higher education began as a college sophomore and has spanned multiple areas, including academic affairs, student success and operations — giving her a holistic view of the student and employee experience. 

Dr. Bradford Williams is a motivated leader whose passion for making a difference fuels his everyday efforts. The field of higher education offers the unique opportunity to observe how education changes lives — and this is Dr. William’s favorite part about his work.

Dr. Carlos Cruz is a people-first leader who believes education has the power to transform socioeconomic mobility — and he makes it his mission to open doors for students to experience this impact. As a first-generation college student himself, Dr. Cruz is passionate about advocating for the importance of higher education in underserved communities.

Dr. Stephanie Hill is an authentic leader who strives to create, refine and adjust spaces for people to feel welcomed and supported. As a true follower to the mantra “love what you do,” Dr. Hill has led with a strong passion for education for three decades.

Qu’Wanua Robinson is a purpose-driven leader passionate about helping individuals unlock their full potential. For her, coaching is more than a profession — it’s a calling. 

Dr. Joe Seabrooks Jr. is a supportive leader with a deep commitment to student success and community engagement. With over 30 years of experience in higher education, he believes workforce development is key to transforming lives and communities.

Dr. Jeffrey Miller is a humble and committed educational leader who believes in the power of service, continuous learning and leading with integrity. His leadership philosophy centers on empowering others and creating meaningful impact for students and communities. 

Katherine Beaumont Doss is a compassionate leader who anchors her leadership in three core pillars: service, encouraging the heart and communication. She deeply enjoys guiding others, serving alongside her team and watching each person grow.