Keynote Speakers

Gerry Brooks
Elementary School Principal | Education Humorist and Speaker

Gerry Brooks is an elementary school principal and education humorist. He has spent 15 of his 25 years in education as a school leader. What began as humorous videos for his staff has grown into a national platform to entertain and encourage educators. Through social media and speaking events, he has more than 1.2 million followers. Blending humor with honest insight about school culture and leadership, his book Go See the Principal shares practical strategies for creating positive workplace climate.

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Grant Hill 
Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer | Vice Chairman of the Atlanta Hawks

Grant Hill is a former NBA All-Star and two-time NCAA Champion inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2018. After a 19-year professional career, he transitioned into leadership roles across business, sports ownership, education, and broadcasting. Hill serves as Vice Chairman of the Atlanta Hawks and Managing Director of USA Basketball. He is also a prominent broadcaster with CBS, Turner Sports, and NBA TV, offering analysis on major basketball events. 

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Cal Ripken Jr. 
Baseball Hall of Famer | Former Baltimore Orioles Shortstop and “Iron Man” 

Cal Ripken Jr. is one of baseball’s most iconic players, known for his record of 2,632 consecutive games played. A two-time American League MVP, he spent his entire 21-season career with the Baltimore Orioles, earning over 3,000 hits and 400 home runs. Inducted into the National Baseball Hall of Fame in 2007, Ripken now supports youth development through Ripken Baseball and the Cal Ripken, Sr. Foundation. Cal Ripken, Jr. is also a minority owner of the Baltimore Orioles. 

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Jess Sims
Educator | Peloton Instructor | ESPN Reporter

Jess Sims is a New York City–based educator, fitness instructor, and broadcaster. She began her career with Teach For America. A former principal at Harlem Village Academies, she later joined Peloton, where she leads tread and strength classes for a global audience. She is also a reporter for ESPN’s College GameDay. Across education, fitness, and media, her work focuses on building strong, connected, and healthy lives.