• Monday, April 7  Morning Keynote Speaker

    Crista Samaras

    Brave Your Fear

    Fear is personal. It commandeers our spirit and handcuffs our will. In striving to be “fearless,” we reinforce the idea that life is best lived without fear. But is it?  Fear is real. What we truly mean when we commend someone for their fearlessness is that we value their bravery. The point isn’t to fear less—it’s to brave more.

    Drawing from data on thousands of women, including NJASA participants, Brave Enterprises presents a powerful case for fear as both an alarm and an engine for courageous action, and a case for bravery as a vital lever to confidence.  This potent keynote will ignite your joy in concert with your fear, guiding you to unlock your bravery and build your BOOM.

     

    Monday April 7 Lunch Keynote Speaker

    Liza Suarez

    Opening Doors for the Next Generation for Women In Leadership

    Join us in empowering the next generation of women leaders.  We will share our experiences, knowledge, and networks.  With your voice, we will inspire, mentor, and uplift aspiring leaders. During our session you will learn the keys to professional success, including self-care, self-determination, and the importance of building strong relationships.  Together, we can create a lasting impact and foster a community of supportive women who are dedicated to each other's growth and advancement. 


    Monday April 7 End of Day Keynote Speaker

    Patty McGee

    Holding Difficult Conversations With Those We Lead and Those Who Lead Us

    Leadership requires conversations that can feel challenging and uncomfortable. However, we know that strong, open communication with those we work with benefits the district culture and, therefore, student learning. Yet, addressing challenging topics remains one of the most difficult aspects of professional life. Leave this session with practical tools and renewed confidence to handle difficult conversations in a way that promotes growth, enhances teamwork, and strengthens school culture.

     

     

    Tuesday April 8 Morning Keynote Speaker

    Adrienne Hill

    Dr. Adrienne Hill

    Underestimating the Class Clown: The Hidden Power of Arts Integration, SEL and Humor in Education

    A former class clown turned doctor and school principal redefines how we see our most unconventional students. Drawing from personal experience, Dr. Hill will share how her journey from being the “class clown” to a transformative leader was shaped by humor, creativity, and connection. This session explores how Arts Integration, Social and Emotional Learning (SEL), and the healing power of humor can turn classrooms into spaces of growth, belonging, and engagement for all students, especially those who challenge traditional norms. 

    Dr. Hill will reveal how the traits that make class clowns stand out—quick wit, emotional intelligence, and an innate ability to connect with peers—are the same strengths that can be nurtured into leadership, resilience, and academic success. With practical strategies and heartfelt storytelling, she’ll guide educational leaders in seeing beyond the laughter to unlock the hidden potential in every student and all school stakeholders.


    Tuesday April 8 Lunch Keynote Speaker

    Amy Kennedy

    Fireside Chat with Amy Kennedy

    Join us as we chat with Amy Kennedy, a former educator, mother of five, and nationally recognized advocate for youth mental health, for an engaging and thought-provoking keynote. With deep expertise in social-emotional learning, trauma-informed care, and school-based treatment solutions, Amy offers a powerful perspective on fostering mental wellness in young people. Drawing from her work with the Kennedy Forum and her groundbreaking mental health-focused Congressional campaign, she will explore actionable strategies to create supportive environments for children and teens.

    As a respected thought leader and board member of several national organizations, Amy will share her insights on the role of schools, families, and communities in addressing mental health challenges. This intimate conversation promises to inspire, educate, and spark meaningful dialogue on building a brighter future for youth mental health.