Speakers
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Addison White is a student at Harris County High School whose leadership journey has already made a meaningful impact among her peers. Passionate about resilience, teamwork, and personal growth, Addison explores what it truly means to lead — especially during challenging times. Her perspective highlights strength, compassion, and determination in the “fourth quarter” moments of life.
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Dr. Bryan Banks is a historian and professor at Columbus State University whose work explores how stories, scholarship, and the past shape our understanding of the world today. With a passion for teaching and an eye for uncovering deep human narratives, he brings curiosity and clarity to every conversation. Dr. Banks invites audiences to rethink what they know about history and discover the insights it offers for modern life.
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Dr. Susan Hrach is an educator and author whose work focuses on how humans learn, think, and grow. A professor at Columbus State University, she blends research and experience to illuminate the deep connections between embodiment, environment, and learning. Dr. Hrach’s mission is to help individuals rediscover learning as a lifelong, whole-body practice.
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Chelsea Powell is a creative professional and small business owner who thrives at the intersection of innovation, community, and entrepreneurship. As a member of the Columbus State University team and founder of her own business, she brings insight into balancing vision with practicality. Chelsea is passionate about helping others step boldly into purposeful, values-driven work.
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Sally Baker is a creative strategist and educator whose work centers on understanding the science of creativity and the ways imagination shapes human potential. With a background in coaching, teaching, and innovative problem-solving, she helps individuals unlock their creative capacity and approach challenges with fresh perspective. Sally is dedicated to inspiring others to explore the power of their own ideas.
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Pauline is a certified life coach, U.S. Army veteran, and founder of The Good Energy Squad, a community-centered movement focused on authenticity, healing, and connection. Through coaching, events, and wellness experiences, she empowers individuals to step into their truth and cultivate personal growth. Pauline’s mission is rooted in lifting others higher through compassion, purpose, and good energy.
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Natalia Naman Temesgen is a playwright, television writer/producer, and Associate Professor of Creative Writing at Columbus State University. Her television writing credits include acclaimed shows on Netflix, Hulu, and HBO Max, and her work frequently explores the intersections of race, gender, history, and justice. With a background in both theater and screenwriting, she brings a powerful narrative voice to every project she creates.
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Maria Hayes is a producer, creator, and storyteller who transforms authenticity into art. As Founder and CEO of Palette8 Productions, she has reimagined the runway as a platform for empowerment, diversity, and community, with productions spanning from Columbus to New York Fashion Week and Miami Swim Week. A writer, singer/songwriter, and advocate for women’s empowerment, Maria leads with boldness and heart, inspiring others to embrace their power and show up unapologetically.
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Adrian Locklear is a resilient musician from West Georgia whose work spans performance, public musicology, and community engagement. Specializing in bass and contrabass clarinet, he has toured nationally with the Schwob Wind Ensemble and Schwob Philharmonic Orchestra. Adrian is also a writer, researcher, and docent whose scholarship brings music history to life. His journey reflects the balance between passion, healing, and personal transformation.