Dr. Betty A. Rosa is the Commissioner of Education and President of the University of the State of New York, appointed in 2021. Dr. Rosa is a nationally recognized education leader and received an Ed. M. and Ed. D. in Administration, Planning and Social Policy from Harvard University. She also holds two other Master of Science in Education degrees, one in Administration and Supervision and the other in Bilingual Education and a B.A. in psychology. She has more than 30 years of instructional and administrative experience with an expertise in inclusive education, cooperative teaching models, student achievement, and policy implementation.

Dr. Jeff Matteson currently serves as the senior deputy commissioner for education policy. He was appointed to this position in 2023 and is responsible for the oversight of the Office of P-12 Education and the Office of Higher Education, while also serving as a member of the commissioner’s leadership team assisting in achieving the strategic goals of the state Education Department. Matteson has been an educator for 35 years. He started his career as a social studies teacher before working as a principal, superintendent, and finally, district superintendent of Tompkins-Seneca-Tioga BOCES.

Dwayne Matthews is an education strategist and innovation evangelist dedicated to exploring the impact of disruptive innovation on the future of education and work. As the founder of TomorrowNow Learning Labs, he pioneers future-focused learning models that emphasize metaverse experiences, personalized learning, and AI-driven student success innovations. With a rich background including leadership roles at NeuroEdX and advisory positions at XPRIZE, Matthews has addressed global leaders and influenced education strategies worldwide. His insights on AI, digital transformation, and future technologies have garnered significant attention, making him a prominent voice in shaping a future-ready workforce.

Dr. Tracey Severns is a seasoned educator and nationally recognized presenter with extensive experience in various educational roles, from paraprofessional to principal to Chief Academic Officer for the NJDOE. She is renowned for her professional development sessions on leadership, data analysis, and school improvement. Dr. Severns has received numerous accolades, including New Jersey’s Visionary Principal of the Year and National Distinguished Principal. Her engaging presentation, “How to Make Schools Places of Learning and Laughter,” has become a highlight at professional conferences. Dr. Severns is also a published author, with her book "Mistakes, Missteps, Missed Opportunities" offering valuable insights into education

Dr. Salome Thomas-EL, known as Principal EL, is an award-winning teacher, principal, and internationally recognized educator. He champions resilience in teaching and leadership, advocating for courageous decisions and challenging the status quo. As a K-8 school leader in Wilmington, Delaware, Principal EL has gained national acclaim as a teacher and chess coach, with his students winning eight national chess championships. He is a sought-after speaker and author of best-selling books, including "I Choose to Stay" and "The Immortality of Influence." Principal EL's presentations focus on building positive relationships and supportive school cultures to foster resilience in students. His impactful work has earned him numerous accolades and recognition as an inspiring American icon.