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Tom Vander Ark is an advocate for innovations in learning. As CEO of Getting Smart, he advises schools, districts, networks, foundations and learning organizations on the path forward. A prolific writer and speaker, Tom is author of Getting Smart, Smart Cities That Work for Everyone, Smart Parents, Better Together and The Power of Place. He has published thousands of articles, co-authored and contributed to more than 50 books and white papers. He writes regularly on GettingSmart.com, LinkedIn, and contributes to Forbes.

Previously, Tom served as the first Executive Director of Education for the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. He also served as a public school superintendent in Washington state and has extensive private sector experience. Tom is a board member for Education Board Partners, Director for 4.0 Schools, Digital Learning Institute, Latinx Education Collaborative, and eduInnovation and an advisor for schools around the world.

Tom has presented at a variety of national conferences, including SXSWEdu, Aurora Institute Symposium, ASU+GSV Summit, ISTE, ASCD, National Charter Schools Conference and AACN Annual Meeting. He has also presented at international conferences including The World Bank, The Digital Education Show Middle East, and Bett Show.

Tom received the Distinguished Achievement Medal and graduated from the Colorado School of Mines. He earned an M.B.A. in finance from the University of Denver, and continues his education online.

Emily Liebtag works with educators and organizations interested in changing the way we approach K-12 teaching and learning. She believes every young person deserves experiences that help unleash their greatest potential.

Emily has a Bachelor’s Degree and Master’s Degree in elementary education and her Ed.D. in Curriculum, Teaching, & Learning. She has taught elementary school, instructed courses at the university level, and led professional learning for districts across the country. She has designed innovative learning experiences, both online and in-person. Emily wants everyone to discover their purpose and realize they have the power to make a difference in their community.