33 yrs in Education 

14 yrs in the private sector across multiple industries: Defense, Telecom & Food/Beverage.

NGPF Fellow 2017

Conference presenter - 6x

JA Superhero 2018

DECA Advisor 9 yrs

5 District 204 committees

Most Influential Teacher Award 2017 (WIU)

Influential Educator Recognition #204 10x 

Dr. Sylvester makes it look easy! Ariel’s career journey has been anything but that. Her story is intriguing. Her success is impressive. Learn about how a young girl became a college instructor, author, and mentor. She even has a superhero comic book series! Ariel shares her stories about growing up with mentors who loved and encouraged her to always do her best! To live life to its fullest! Ariel has devoted herself to others, namely her students. Her passion to do more is not only compelling but motivating for all.

Lori Franke-Hopkins is a professional coach, education specialist, and motivator for Be Just Me Consulting. She is the president of Wrapped in Hearts, a company that promotes wellness, health, and happiness. The inspiration for this company came from the numerous people, both adults and children, with whom she has worked and who have experienced health-related challenges due to various ailments. She is paving the way for a more comprehensive and practical approach to wellness by promoting holistic solutions to health challenges. Her passion project aims to empower individuals to take control of their health and well-being by embracing a natural and holistic lifestyle. She hopes to inspire a movement towards a healthier and happier society through advocacy. Dr. Hopkins’ educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Speech Communication and English, a Master of Science in Secondary English Education, and an Education Specialist in School Administration. She furthered her academic pursuits by completing her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville in May 2014. Before starting her academic career, Dr. Hopkins served in the United States Marine Corps. She earned the title of Marine at MCRD, Parris Island, SC, and completed the military police academy at Lackland AFB, San Antonio, TX. She then returned to Marine Corps Air Station, Beaufort, where she served as a military police officer, an accomplishment she considers her proudest.  

Rebecca Densmore-Stoll is the founder and managing director of Blue Heron Coaching LLC, established in 2021. With a passion for education renewal, Rebecca leads coaching initiatives that focus on providing innovative solutions to K12 educators, helping them navigate and thrive in today’s evolving educational landscape. Under her leadership, Blue Heron not only empowers educators but also bridges the gap between solution providers and the K12 market through advanced SAAS and marketing strategies. 

Rebecca's extensive experience includes over a decade of executive leadership in business systems and quality management. Her work has consistently driven organizational growth, enhanced operational efficiency, and fostered a culture of continuous improvement. In addition to her role at Blue Heron Coaching, she is currently collaborating with a dynamic team to develop and launch a groundbreaking community marketplace platform, specifically designed to support and connect K12 educators. 

Rebecca holds a Master’s degree in Training and Organizational Development and a Bachelor’s in Supervision and Leadership, both achieved with distinction. She is also a Certified Professional Performance and Motivation Coach, bringing a wealth of knowledge and a results-driven approach to every project she undertakes.