TLS Breakout Session

April Hawkins “Dance As If No One Is Watching!” April Hawkins, a native of Phoenix, Arizona is a Faith Based Dance Instructor for inner city children and youth in South Phoenix. April founded David Dance Troupe, a Community Faith Youth Dance Troupe, in 2013 to give back to the youth in her community and provide […]

Jonathan Levingston Jonathan Levingston is a violinist with an uncanny ability to entrance his audience with a single draw of his bow. Jonathan began classical violin training at the age of seven. His dedication to his craft developed his extraordinary ability and has excelled him as a captivating composer and performer. Jonathan has received memorable

Shamirrah Hill Shamirrah Hill, co-founder of DG Self-Publishing, holds a B.F.A. from Howard University and an M.A. from NYU. As a former K–12 theatre teacher and bestselling author of The Shy Monster, she empowers aspiring authors to share their stories and supports parents and educators in helping children overcome social-emotional challenges. With a background as

Anyah Jordan My name is Anyah Jordan, an academically dedicated graduate of Desert Edge High School. It is my biggest aspiration to become apart of and grow the 3% of African Americans in the Dermatology field within the United States. I chose to participate in this panel to shine light and advocate on what it feels

Dr. Terry Leyba Ruiz Dr. Terry Leyba Ruiz is a career educator, executive leader, and passionate advocate for public education. Her journey began as a student in the Roosevelt Elementary School District and continued through Northern Arizona University before concluding with a doctoral degree in Higher & Postsecondary Education from Arizona State University. Terry has

Berdetta Hodge Berdetta Hodge has been a resident of the city of Tempe for over 40 years. She was raised in Tempe and graduated from Tempe public schools. From a young age, Berdetta sought to become a transformative leader in our city. She wanted to make a difference in the lives of others. She has

Dr. Stephen Neal Jr. Dr. Stephen Neal Jr. is a native of Arizona and a proud education professional with 35 years of experience. Dr. Neal emphasizes compassion, integrity, accountability, open dialogue, and trust as a devoted Christian, husband, father, son, and community servant. He is a candidate for Arizona State Superintendent of Public Instruction for