speakers

I am an enthusiastic eSports leader and dedicated educator, (been with East Baton Rouge Parish School System since I graduated High school) I am passionate about guiding students to become the next generation of digital leaders. With a unique blend of competitive gaming and network security, I help create an environment where students not only excel in eSports but also develop critical leadership skills that translate into any field. My journey in eSports has shown me the incredible potential of this space to foster teamwork, strategic thinking, and resilience. I work tirelessly to build programs that nurture these qualities, helping students discover their strengths and grow both personally and professionally. Beyond the gaming arena, I am a steadfast guardian of our digital realms. My experience spans cybersecurity, network infrastructure, and server management. In a world where digital assets are as valuable as physical ones, I take pride in designing robust, secure systems that protect our eSports platforms and educational resources. This dual focus allows me to offer a truly comprehensive experience: eSports Leadership: Coaching, tournament organization, team management Student Development: Leadership workshops, skill-building sessions, mentorship Digital Security: Cybersecurity protocols, network design, server optimization My goal is to create a safe, empowering digital ecosystem where students can pursue their passions, develop their skills, and emerge as confident leaders ready to make their mark in the ever-evolving worlds of technology and competitive gaming. If you're looking to collaborate on initiatives that blend eSports, education, and digital security, or if you're a student eager to level up your skills, let's connect. Together, we can unlock potential and secure the future.

As an esports solution specialist, I have the opportunity to bring my passion for education and knowledge of technology to holistically support our partners and schools across the country. Having been a former educator, my desire for improving the education experience, equity, and inclusion has carried over into my career in technology and esports. To quote one of my favorite books on the matter, "Esports serves as an inclusive opportunity to give voice and recognition to students who may not have otherwise chosen a role within the school community." - The Esports Education Playbook In my free time, I am an avid gamer, prop and costume maker, and occasionally make appearances with the 501st to different charities as a StormTrooper. TK42287 reporting for duty! If you are ever interested in learning more about esports in education or just want to nerd out, feel free to message me - I'd love to chat!

I change people through Serious Games. I lead the technical development, design novel AI, create financial models (in-game and in real life), and even design workflows for distributed teams. Why Make Serious Games? We hire scientists to measure our results. Or our clients do so. Or, for our government clients, sometimes the National Institute of Standards and Technology does it for them. Serious Games produce significant immediate change in the players, and have better long term retention But Why Do I Make Them? The Serious Part: I've found a great job where I never stop learning new interesting things. Where experts tutor me on business one day, intelligence analysis the next, and preventative health care the day after. That Games Part: I get to create games. It's hard, but seeing people play them, appreciate them, in the end is awesome.

Immerse yourself in the impactful narrative of Jihan Johnston, a distinguished tech industry professional and educational specialist, proudly affiliated with Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Her commitment to fostering positive change through gaming and esports is a testament to her visionary leadership. Hailing from Philadelphia, Jihan earned her Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communications from Saint Augustine's University and pursued a Master of Education in Educational Leadership from Concordia University. Driven by a desire to empower adolescents, she pioneers groundbreaking work, leveraging the power of gaming to promote financial and business literacy. Recognized for her expertise, Jihan serves as an advisor member for the Onside Gaming Fund for Women Win and the Warrior GMR foundation. In her role as an educational specialist with the Network of Academic and Scholastic Esports Federation (NASEF), she champions educational opportunities for high school students through esports. As the co-curator of BeatBotics, Jihan's visionary leadership takes center stage, showcasing the transformative impact of digital technology in esports, gaming, metaverse, and AI, particularly within black and brown communities. Her trailblazing spirit and commitment to amplifying the voices of these communities are truly inspiring. Currently pursuing a Ph.D. in informatics, with a focus on the rich culture of black HBCU esports, Jihan stands as the first African American female to embark on such academic research. Her groundbreaking work becomes a beacon of inspiration, paving the way for future generations to embrace their passions and make a lasting impact. Jihan Johnston's exceptional journey and unwavering dedication remind us of our power to uplift communities, break barriers, and inspire positive change. She is a true catalyst for transformation, leaving an indelible mark on the world and inspiring others to embrace their unique paths, guiding them to leave a lasting impact on the world.

Lead with an unmatched energy and positive attitude, building working relationships that maximize potential and facilitate achievement of shared objectives. Demonstrate contagious enthusiasm and a willingness to do “whatever it takes” to surpass benchmarks, coaching employees and volunteers to share the same resolve. Leverage human resources background to establish solid, compliant organizations with strong employee relations. Possess SPHR, MBTI, DDI, & Six Sigma certifications.

Jim McKowen is a dynamic educator at Hopatcong High School in Hopatcong, NJ, teaching Math, STEAM, and Computer Science courses. During his time in Hopatcong, he has led the development of STEAM programs for grades 6-8 and is currently spearheading comprehensive Computer Science and Esports initiatives at the high school level. As Vice President of Content for Garden State Esports, Jim helps oversee the creation of curricular programs, forges partnerships, and champions opportunities for students in the esports ecosystem, both locally and in conjunction with the NASEF Scholastic Fellows program. Jim's commitment to innovative education is helping to shape the future of esports education, both in and beyond New Jersey.

John is a native of the sunset coast of Michigan. He has taught students from Kindergarten through College over his 16 year career in education. Currently, he is employed by Berrien RESA as a Technology & Innovation Consultant serving more than 27,000 students by supporting their educational technology growth and innovative projects. He is also a co-founder and leader of the Southwest Michigan Esports League. He can be found on Twitter at @bcgeek.

John Shoemaker is an Educational Strategist, Digital Learning Specialist, Futurist, Consultant, and Educational Technology Specialist for the Department of Educational Technology at the School District of Palm Beach County located in West Palm Beach, Florida. He has a passion for pedagogy and technology integration, especially surrounding emerging technology. Having progressed through multiple roles in education over the past 20 years from classroom teacher to district administrator, he has a wide-ranging skillset that aligns to his passions. His background includes expertise in creating, developing, and implementing learning programs, courses, trainings and workshops, and instructional materials to facilitate participants’ further education and learning. For the past 11 years, he has worked with teachers and administrators through professional development training and workshops, coaching, online courses, and one-on-one mentoring. He prides himself on supplying relevant, high quality professional development. He is the eSports Facilitator for the School District of Palm Beach County, and he is in charge of rolling out eSports to any of the schools that are interested in participating. He has been a gamer all his life and has been working on Scholastic eSports for over 4 years now.

Executive Producer & 30 YR Entertainment Executive with Business Interests in Apparel, Gaming, esports, Film/Content Production...

orrel Batac is the Founder and CEO of SXNGA, a global consultancy designing interconnected ecosystems across gaming, esports, sport, education, and entertainment — unlocking growth, measurable impact, and resilient culture. He currently serves as VP, International Affairs for USA Esports and as an Independent Board Member supporting Al-Ahli Esports via Red Waves, with additional contributions to ISO TC/83 WG “Esports” and advisory work in prosocial community design and advocacy with Equimundo and Project Moonlight. With 20+ years of ecosystem-building experience, he focuses on cross-border alignment — partner strategy, operating models, and standards-aligned governance frameworks that protect program integrity and make international collaboration executable. He previously served as Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Network of Academic & Scholastic Esports Federations (NASEF) and the United States Esports Federation (USEF.GG), leading global education and esports initiatives.

Jose Moreno is an athlete and Global Messenger for Special Olympics Illinois. He lives in Bensenville Illinois and has been participating in Special Olympics since 2009. Jose trains and competes in bowling, Unified Bocce .Jose has a number of gold medal accomplishments both through sports and as an ambassador for Special Olympics Illinois. He has served in a number of athlete leadership roles for Special Olympics Illinois including serving as the Windy City Ducky Derby Ambassador in 2017, Dunkin Cop on a Rooftop ambassador in 2015 and is currently the of the Athlete Input Council for Special Olympics Illinois. Jose is most proud though, of his recent appointment, as the Athlete Liaison with the LETR Statewide Committee. Jose attended training to be a Global Messenger in 2011 and has participated in ongoing leadership and speaking development opportunities through Special Olympics Illinois over the past several years. As a Global Messenger and Athlete Leader, Jose helps to promote the benefits and opportunities that Special Olympics provides. He has spoken to numerous groups such as schools, law enforcement agencies, civic and corporate groups and many more. You will find Jose volunteering at LETR Golf Outings, Plane Pulls, Truck Convoys, Tip a Cop events and other Special Olympics and LETR fundraising events. Jose aspires to be an International Global Messenger and represent athletes in Illinois on the Board of Director for Special Olympics Illinois. He is also one of three athletes to be selected to be a Special Olympics International shoutcaster for Special Olympics Esports program. He is passionate about inclusion and creating awareness for the disability community.

I’m a senior at Cannon School in Concord, North Carolina, and I’ve been part of the Business of Esports program for the past two years. During that time, I’ve helped plan, organize, and run esports events, including tournaments and gaming showcases. The program has taught me valuable skills in event management, marketing, teamwork, and communication, as well as how to create and present professional proposals. These experiences have helped me build the confidence and experience I need as I pursue a future career in business.

Joshua Hilton is the founder and operator of multiple gaming startups over the years, including League Coaching, Gamer Sensei, and TrackingThePros. Currently he’s building tools for esport coaches at his latest startup Coachify.gg.

Experienced Chief Executive Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the information technology and services industry. Skilled in Management, Video Conferencing, Internet Protocol (IP), Video, Broadcast and Esports Development.

Josh Steger became West Virginia University’s first Director of Esports in October 2021. Since joining WVU, the Mountaineers have emerged as one of the premier programs in collegiate esports. West Virginia won the 2021 LevelNext Madden National Championship and was a finalist in 2022, competed at the 2023 Collegiiate Rocket League World Championships, finished second place nationally in Rocket League at the NACE Starleague Grand Finals, had a semifinal appearance at the 2022 CECC Commissioners Cup Valorant national tournament, and won a Mid-Atlantic Regional Title in Valorant at the 2022 Red Bull Campus Clutch before a quarterfinals appearance at Red Bull Campus Clutch Nationals. Steger came to WVU after serving as the director of esports at WVU Potomac State College. Under Steger’s direction, the PSC esports program produced multiple ranked teams and won conference titles in the ECAC and the LevelNext Big 12 Conference tournament. He was named the 2021 National Association of Collegiate Esports Madden Coach of the Year and is the former League Director of Guardians for Real Life Games.

I am a 40-something creative educator with over a decade of experience as a graphic design instructor at Villa Park High School. Additionally, I have been serving as the Esports General Manager for the past six years. When I am not teaching, Drawing, managing esports, coordinating esports, or gaming. I enjoy spending time with my lovely wife and being a proud father of two awesome twins.

Leader in esports and gaming entertainment with nearly a decade of experience in building some of the industry's biggest brands.

Julie is a passionate connector who enjoys assisting in the creation of esports and innovative STEAM programs. Julie has developed a global network that connects esports professionals, technology industry partners, and colleges with school districts and organizations to create personalized esports, drone, and STEAM solutions. Julie creates esports ecosystems for class, club, and competition to prepare students for internships and their pursuit of college and career. She is an Ambassador for Minecraft Education, Women in Games, and Women in Games International. She serves as an MIE Expert, the Founder & President of the California Esports Association (CEA), and owner of Jdogmav Consulting, LLC. Julie’s accolades include: the 2022 NAECAD High School Esports Director of the Year, an EdTech Magazine 2023 IT Rising Star, the 2024 the*gameHERS Guardian of the Year, the 2024 Cynopsis Gaming, Tempest Awards Future Leader, the*gameHERs 2025 Excellence in Esports, and the District Administration DA Top 100 for 2025 recipient.

SVRN(Sovereign)-TechMan and Inu-turn VR into a stage for living boldly. With a combined 2 million followers and counting, their combat, comedy, and lifestyle adventures showcase a world without limits.

Junior Bernadin is the dean of students, director of IT, and house system expert at the highly-acclaimed Ron Clark Academy (RCA), an innovative middle school and educator training facility. Alongside his colleagues, he has helped to train over 100,000 educators from around the world to learn better ways to engage students, increase academic rigor, and create a climate and culture for success. Mr. Bernadin is the recent recipient of the nation's highest STEM mentoring award, the Presidential Award for Science, Mathematics, and Engineering Mentoring. awarded by the White House's Office of Science and Technology Policy and the National Science Foundation. In his role as the dean of students, he works with the cofounders in carrying out the RCA's culture and climate. Mr. Bernadin serves as director of IT where he provided all system support to the Academy. He maintained and managed all levels of technical support and integration within the school. As the a house system expert, he manages the global implementation of the RCA House System and RCA House Points App. In conjunction with his daily duties at RCA, Mr. Bernadin spends additional serving as a coach for the award-winning RCA FLL Robotics Team, 5-time National Champion RCA Step Team, and the 5-time National Champion MATHCounts Video Challenge Team and Jr. Tech Engineer’s Program. Outside of RCA, Mr. Bernadin continues to dedicate himself to serving youth and the Atlanta community. He serves on the board of directors for Dance Canvas, a nonprofit organization that provides opportunities and venues to increase the awareness of professional dance in Atlanta. He also serves on the board of directors for Building Future Leaders, whose purpose is to establish a set of dynamic, experiential leadership development curricula targeting a wide range of audiences, including but not limited to, high school youth, university students, and professionals. For his dedication to service and pursuit of excellence, Mr. Bernadin was recently named as one of the Top 100 Leaders in Education by the Global Forum for Education and Learning. He was also recognized as the Atlanta Business Chronicles 40 Under 40, Georgia Trend Magazine 40 Under 40, Walmart Community Playmaker, Florida State University Thirty Under Thirty, the Forbes Technology Council, and one of the People Behind the People sponsored by McDonald’s and TVOne. He is a member of the Leadership Atlanta Class of 2021-2022. Mr. Bernadin currently resides in Fayetteville, GA, with his lovely wife, Dr. Tashinea Bernadin and daughter Amira Bernadin.

Kaiserine was a 2024 recipient of the BroadcastHER Academy Fellowship Program. She currently works as a freelance emcee, technical director, and replay operator, and is the assistant director of a collegiate esports program.