Speakers

Doug Smith, MSSW

D-Degree Coaching & Training

Doug Smith, MSSW, is an award-winning author, leadership coach, facilitator, and policy strategist whose work sits at the intersection of mental health, justice reform, trauma-informed leadership, and personal transformation. He is the author of The Path of Rocks and Thorns: Leadership Lessons from a Prison Cell, a powerful memoir and leadership guide rooted in his own lived experience with mental illness, substance use disorder, and incarceration.

Doug brings more than twelve years of experience in mental health and justice policy, including service as a policy expert with the Texas House of Representatives and as Senior Policy Analyst for the Texas Criminal Justice Coalition. He also spent more than eight years as an Adjunct Professor of Social Policy at the University of Texas at Austin, where he helped prepare future social workers to understand and influence systems change.

Today, Doug specializes in designing and facilitating community action planning processes that bring together cross-sector partners to address complex systemic challenges. His work supports communities across Texas in preventing the unnecessary arrest and incarceration of people living with mental illness, while strengthening collaboration among behavioral health, criminal justice, advocacy, and community-based organizations.

A central focus of Doug’s practice is developing the leadership capacity of people whose lives have been shaped by mental illness, trauma, incarceration, and other forms of adversity. He partners with organizations to build trauma-informed leadership cultures that honor lived experience, deepen belonging, and equip people to lead with integrity, courage, and purpose.

Doug earned his master’s degree in social work from the University of Texas at Austin. He is a graduate of Erickson Coaching International and is certified in trauma-informed coaching. His personal journey through hardship, healing, and leadership fuels his commitment to helping individuals, organizations, and communities discover their fullest potential.

Doug lives in Austin, Texas, with his wife. He is a proud father and stepfather of three adult children and the devoted caretaker of three rescue pups.

Andrew Silver, LPC-S, LCDC, BC-TMH

 Mental Health Counselor 

Austin Community College

Using heart-centered mindfulness, generative states of awareness, and cognitive therapy, Andrew works collaboratively with individuals to develop a compassionate relationship with their own experience. This helps guide people on a journey of self-discovery and acceptance, alleviates suffering, and can heal relational disconnects.     

He works with people who are dealing with a wide range of issues including: relationship problems, depression/anxiety, addictions, recovery, trauma, panic attacks, obsessive thoughts, boundary issues, compulsive behaviors, and mood instability. Andrew’s professional interests include complex trauma, suicide prevention, anxiety and depression, mental health stigma in BIPOC communities, and relationship stress. 

Lisa Connors, PhD, LCPC, LPC, NCC, BCC, MAC

Clergy-Counselor-Coach-Consultant

Dr. Lisa Connors is the Associate Pastor of In His Image International Ministry in Maryland, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor (LCPC) in Maryland, and a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) in Pennsylvania. She is also a National Certified Counselor (NCC), a Board-Certified Coach (BCC), a Master Addiction Counselor (MAC), a Certified Thanatologist (CT), and a Fellow in Thanatology (FT).

Dr. Connors works tirelessly to help others reach their fullest potential in life. Because of her lived experiences, she gives back with

her greatest passion, working with individuals affected by HIV/AIDS, substance use and mental health disorders, violence/abuse/trauma, grief and loss, and racial and social injustices.

What Dr. Connors has gained and learned in her life is what she

desires to offer others. Knowing she has impacted someone's life is

her aspiration. Her motto is: "God has blessed her to be a blessing to

others." In addition to her pastoral, clinical, and coaching work, Dr. Connors serves as a college professor, trainer, and consultant, and is an active member of numerous local, state, and national professional organizations. She holds a Bachelor of Social Work, a Master of Divinity, a Master of Arts in Professional Counseling, and a PhD in Psychology.

Katherine Trevino, Ph.D., LP

Assistant Professor of Psychology, St. Edward's University

Katherine Trevino, PhD, is a Counseling Psychologist, Licensed Psychologist in Texas, and an assistant professor of Psychology at St. Edward’s University. She recently won the Center for Teaching Excellence 2026 Champion Award for Mission-Informed Teaching at St. Edwards University. She received her PhD in Counseling Psychology at Lehigh University, where she was trained by some of the national leaders in Culture, Ethnicity and Race and clinical supervision. She then completed her internship at the University of Texas at Austin’s Counseling and Mental Health Center.

Trevino completed her postdoctoral fellowship at the University of Texas at Austin’s Counseling and Mental Health Center, and was the Program Coordinator of the Substance Use Support Team before joining the St. Edward’s University faculty in 2024. Her research has focused on addressing substance use and mental health interventions of people of color and the supervision and training of future mental health clinicians.

Donald Bull

Director of Tech & Client Services

Universal Tech Movement

Donald Bull is a multifaceted technical leader and full-stack engineer with over a decade of experience bridging the gap between complex software architecture and operational excellence. Based in Austin, Texas, Donald specializes in translating high-level business requirements into scalable technical blueprints that drive real-world results.

As a seasoned architect of digital transformation, Donald possesses the rare ability to build sophisticated MERN applications and then break down that complexity for others through "instructional translation." A proven problem-solver who thrives in mission-critical environments. Whether automating processes to ensure data integrity, managing urgent production hotfixes, or implementing Agile methodologies to streamline logistics, he remains dedicated to building systems that are high-performing, compliant, and intuitive. By humanizing complex datasets through intentional UX design and accessible technical documentation, he serves as a vital link between technical precision and organizational growth.

Beyond the code, Donald is a passionate educator. Having served as an Instructor and Content Developer, he applies principles of Andragogy to every project, ensuring that technology serves as an enabler rather than a barrier. Donald has a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Central Connecticut State University, along with specialized certifications in Web Development from the University of Texas at Austin.

When not architecting systems or mentoring the next generation of developers, Donald is focused on continuous improvement, exploring new technologies, and advocating for user-centered design in every digital space.

Karen Schwing, LCSW, LCDC

Program Director

Bluebonnet Trails Community Services

ORN Consultant

Karen Schwing, LCSW, LCDC is a behavioral health leader, clinical social worker, and educator. She specializes in substance use disorder (SUD) intervention, trauma-informed care, and family preservation systems.

With over 15 years of dedicated service across Texas state agencies, healthcare institutions, and academia, she excels at bridging macro-level program administration with direct, evidence-based clinical practice. Her career is defined by her unwavering commitment to supporting pregnant, postpartum, and at-risk parenting families.

She lives in Liberty Hill, TX with her four children, 2 dogs, and too many chickens.

Alex Schwartz

Assist. Dean of Student Support

University of Michigan-Flint

Alex Schwartz (she/her) is the Assistant Dean for Student Support at UM-Flint in Flint, MI. In her work, Alex focuses on conduct, CARE, and basic needs for students across the University. Alex's career has also included work in Residence Life in California, and as the Director of Student Conduct and Community Standards at the University of Toledo. 

Alex is passionate about using an educational and restorative approach to accountability with students in college. As part of her focus, Alex has emphasized proactive measures to address substance use and harm reduction, as well as identifying and partnering with campus and local resources to support students experiencing substance use disorder. 

Stacy McColl, MSN, RN, CARN

Outreach Specialist

Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses

ORN Consultant

Stacy has had the honor of being a nurse since 1995. She holds an MSN in Leadership and Organizational Change in Healthcare Systems and is a Certified Addictions Registered Nurse.

Stacy has worked in a variety of roles in the psychiatric/mental health area of nursing practice. Some of her favorite roles include Psychiatric Liaison to Emergency Services, Educator, Case Manager, and Director of Nursing Services.  Stacy's passion, education, and experience is well utilized in  her current position as the Outreach Nurse for the Texas Peer Assistance Program for Nurses.  

In her Outreach role with TPAPN Stacy provides both accredited and individually tailored workshops to address challenges that healthcare providers face today in relation to nurse wellness; substance use disorder and mental health. With a focus on community outreach to educate and facilitate discussions in regard to health promotion, the human response to stress, early intervention, risk reduction, and harm reduction, Stacy utilizes a trauma informed and evidence-based approach. Stacy is particularly passionate about stigma reduction/elimination that continues to present as a barrier to care for nurses experiencing a mental health condition and/or unhealthy substance use.   

Stacy’s mission is to work together to humanize healthcare providers with the knowledge that we, as professional nurses, may experience a mental health condition during our career.  

Stacy is a proud member of Sigma Theta Tau, TNA/ANA, and the APNA.

Samantha Brown, CSAC, CPRS

Program Director

Thistle & Bee

Samantha Brown is the Program Director at Thistle & Bee, where she oversees the organization’s intensive residential therapeutic program and its outpatient services at the Healing Hive & Wellness Center. She supports women transitioning out of commercial sexual exploitation and addiction through trauma-informed, survivor-led care. A Certified Substance Abuse Counselor (CSAC), Certified Peer Recovery Specialist (CPRS), and trauma-informed yoga instructor, Samantha combines professional expertise with lived experience and a deep commitment to sustainable healing. She is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s degree in Social Work. 

Since 2022, Samantha has served on the clinical team, leading program development, facilitating recovery groups, and providing holistic support through sobriety consultations, trauma-informed yoga, and life skills training. She also guides long-term follow-up and post-graduation support, helping track progress and measure the lasting impact of recovery services.

From 2023 to 2025, Samantha served as a consultant for the Memphis Area Prevention Coalition, advising on commercial sexual exploitation at outreach events. She also speaks at local and international conferences on peer recovery, resilience, and healing justice. Starting December 2025, she serves as Secretary and Treasurer for the West Tennessee Association of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Counselors (WTAADAC). 

Kenneth Thompson Sr.

Consultant, Author, Podcast Host

KT Clean Energy

Kenneth D. Thompson Sr. is an ACC alumni and a distinguished advocate for children's and fathers' rights who is renowned for his extensive contributions to public service and community development. As the first ever Fatherhood Program Specialist for the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services, Kenneth brings unparalleled expertise and dedication effectively shaping policies and programs that support and strengthen families. 

Kenneth has also been a pivotal figure in advancing access and opportunity initiatives long before it became mainstream, and played a prominent role in influencing the Pflugerville Independent School District to remove barriers to Advanced Placement courses for all students. Additionally, Kenneth previously co-hosted a radio show from 2004 -2021 called "The Dad Show" which focused on empowering dads, families and communities. Kenneth is a passionate and dedicated leader whose work continues to impact and inspire communities. His extensive experience, coupled with his commitment to systemic change work, makes him a pivotal figure in public service and community advocacy.

Shannon Carr, PSS, MHPS

Executive Director

Austin Mental Health Community

Shannon Carr is an accomplished nonprofit executive, nationally recognized peer support leader, and passionate advocate for recovery-oriented systems of care. As the Executive Director of Austin Mental Health Community (AMHC), Shannon leads one of Texas' longest-standing peer-run organizations, advancing innovative, person-centered services that empower individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges, substance use, homelessness, and justice-system involvement.

With extensive experience in peer support workforce development, Shannon has dedicated her career to expanding access to high-quality peer services through leadership, training, supervision, and systems transformation. She has developed statewide training initiatives, consulted with behavioral health organizations across Texas and beyond, and has helped shape programs that strengthen recovery, resilience, and community inclusion.

Under Shannon's leadership, AMHC has expanded peer support services throughout Texas, launched a statewide continuing education platform for Peer Specialists and Peer Support Supervisors, developed innovative community partnerships, and secured significant grant funding to improve access to recovery supports in underserved communities.

Her work has been recognized for building sustainable, peer-led solutions that bridge gaps in behavioral health care while promoting hope, empowerment, and self-determination.

As both a Certified Peer Support Supervisor (PSS) and Mental Health Peer Specialist (MHPS), Shannon brings the unique perspective of lived experience together with executive leadership. She is known for her authentic storytelling, practical wisdom, and unwavering belief that recovery is possible for everyone.

Chris Gregory, PSS

SMART Recovery Facilitator, Recovery Advocate

Austin Mental Health Community

Chris Gregory is a Peer Support Specialist, SMART Recovery facilitator, and recovery advocate who is passionate about helping others find hope through connection, compassion, and lived experience. Drawing from his own recovery journey, Chris creates welcoming spaces where individuals navigating substance use and mental health challenges feel supported, encouraged, and empowered. 

He believes in meeting people where they are and walking alongside them as they discover their strength, build resilience, and create meaningful change. After nearly three decades in the technology industry, Chris chose to dedicate this chapter of his life to serving others. 

He currently works for Austin Mental Health Community, facilitates peer support groups, and enjoys developing engaging wellness experiences that foster connection, mindfulness, and practical tools for recovery. Chris believes recovery is possible for everyone and that lasting change begins when people are met with hope, dignity, and community. 

Robert T, Lilly, Peer Mentor, PMOT, RSPS

Austin Mental Health Community

Robert Tyrone Lilly is a Texas Certified Mental Health Peer Support Specialist working in the

Mental Health Division of the Travis County Public Defender’s Office. Drawing on more than twenty-one years of lived experience within the criminal legal system, Robert provides compassionate, peer-based support to individuals navigating both mental health challenges and legal barriers.

A dedicated advocate for justice, Robert serves with the Travis County Reentry Roundtable, where he focuses on strengthening collaboration between government agencies and community

organizations to improve reentry outcomes and expand diversion opportunities. Robert is a Class of 2024 Ambassador for the African American Leadership Institute (AALI) and the first recipient of AALI’s Igniting the Flame Award. He graduated from Abilene Christian

University in 2015 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Liberal Arts, Applied Studies, with a concentration in Social Work.

While in Abilene, Robert founded a nonprofit organization for youth with incarcerated parents, which inspired the documentary Da’Cipher 360°, chronicling his powerful journey from incarceration to community leadership, recovery, and redemption. Today, he is rebuilding Da’Cipher 360° as a nonprofit organization focused on developing the leadership of men directly impacted by the criminal legal system, helping them reclaim power, purpose, and voice in their communities.

Born and raised in Harlem, New York, Robert’s early life was marked by loss, instability, and

survival amid violence and poverty. After years of incarceration, addiction, and struggle, he

rebuilt his life through service, education, and storytelling. His words became his art; “a palette of colors,” as he describes them—transforming pain into purpose and the penitentiary into his

penmanship.

Now an author and self-publisher, Robert recently co-authored his first book with Lauren Oertel, titled Inside Out: A Texas Prisons Poetry Story, a powerful exploration of creativity, healing, and resilience born from lived experience behind bars.

Today, while still on parole until 2049, Robert stands as a testament resilience and self-determination. He is an active member of several community initiatives, including Communities for Recovery, the Travis County Reentry Roundtable, and the Central Texas African American Family Support Conference Planning Committee. Through his work, Robert continues to uplift others reentering society, advocating for dignity, healing, and systemic change.

A writer at heart, Robert seeks to expand his impact as an author, public speaker, and leadership development coach, using his story to inspire others to believe in the power of second chances and the beauty of transformation.