Dr. Laura Rizo
An innovative way to showcase multiple speakers with a variety of messages so Activity Directors can find one that will fit the culture of their school.
Chris Collins: Chris is a speaker, author, and consultant with a message that is inspiring students across the country. His unique blend of humor, knowledge, and energy provide high impact moments with results that last long after the presentation. Chris has delivered talks to all types of crowds, including two of the largest High School districts in the country, national conferences, Fortune 500 companies, and colleges and universities of every shape, size, and hue. He doesn’t always give speeches but when he does they’re your favorite speeches favorite speech! As a former student leader and current college speaker, Chris gets it! Chris’ take on student leadership is one of the most interesting in the country because he blends his knowledge of leadership strategies, love of music, authentic desire to help students, to create a message that reaches students of every level. During the Speaker Showcase he spoke to the impact student leaders have on their peers and encouraged leaders to “Do it from your heart or don’t do it at all.”
Fabian Ramirez: Fabian Ramirez is a highly regarded speaker and trainer for student leaders, known for his engaging, humorous approach to critical topics. With over a decade of experience as a leading anti-bullying speaker and having presented in all 50 states, Fabian continues to captivate student audiences through impactful presentations that seamlessly blend social-emotional learning techniques with practical strategies for building positive relationships. His workshops and keynotes are celebrated for turning complex ideas into memorable, laughter-filled experiences, making every session feel like both a comedy show and a motivational seminar. Fabian’s high-impact presentations will resonate long after his session ends. At the Speaker Showcase he encouraged students to take back their emotions and have ownership of that. Warns students to be careful what they look for because it will find them. That is why Ramirez looks for kindness.
Dr. Laura Rizzo: Born and raised in the projects, Laura Rizo’s passions and research focus on overcoming poverty, mental illness, an identity crisis, and a lack of self-love has reached the hearts of youth and adults. As a classroom teacher, her philosophy of education was always to teach life before content. As a school counselor, she aims to develop connections with students that go beyond academics. She has been a youth mentor for over 20 years for various organizations including and AVID Coordinator for a National Demonstration School. Rizo is currently a doctoral candidate at National University’s School of Education, focusing on social-emotional learning, and looking forward to becoming Dr. Rizo this fall 2024! (By 2025, DR RIZO!) At the Speaker Showcase she spoke to being the best version of yourself and defeating your villains so you can become boundless.
Lucca Petrucci: Lucca Petrucci is a Motivational Speaker and the voice behind the podcast Free to Be. His mission is to help people embrace their authentic selves—so they can unlock the freedom to be who they are, reach their highest potential, and make the impact they were born to make. Known for his heart-opening storytelling and vibrant energy, Lucca has inspired tens of thousands of students, educators, and leaders. He’s delivered transformative talks at organizations such as lululemon, California Association of Student Leaders, Oregon Association of Student Councils, and PFLAG National. When not on stage, you’ll find him frolicking through Disneyland or long boarding by the beach — living life with the same joy and freedom he encourages others to find. During the Speaker showcase he takes you on a personal journey of how he found his authenticity and through being authentic finding acceptance for you. Everyone was created on purpose for a purpose.
Duncan Kirkwood: Duncan Kirkwood is a highly regarded global resilience speaker, author, and educator dedicated to inspiring individuals and communities worldwide. Born and raised in Buffalo, New York, Duncan attended Alabama State University, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Communications before completing his Master’s degree in Public Administration. While in his last year of undergrad, Duncan enlisted in the Alabama Army National Guard and went on to become a Master Resilience Trainer, where he discovered his passion for helping others build resilience and overcome adversity. This experience inspired him to pursue motivational speaking and personal development. During the Speaker Showcase he spoke about how to reach for your goals and what you reach for you will receive. Is a resilience coach and will teach students how to become better through facing adversity.