ForCollegeForLife Podcast: Recent Episodes
ForCollegeForLife
Qy'Darrius Z. McEachern is a Black, able-bodied, cisgender man from a low-income background who has committed himself to researching & educating people on the systemic oppressions impacting us every single day through an antiracist lens.
He earned his Bachelors’ degree in Psychology with minors in Social and Economic Justice and Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and attended Texas State University to earn his Master’s degree in Higher Education. He is also a PROUD member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated.
Qy’Darrius is a national speaker + consultant who strives to support offices, organizations, workplaces, schools, and more in an effort to create equitable spaces and innovate justice for individuals of color.
He aims to move people from “listening & learning” to ACTION & CHANGE.
Website: https://forcollegeforlife.com/qydarrius/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/qzm/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mceachernspeaks/
Connect with JasmineWebsite: https://forcollegeforlife.com/jasmine/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msjasminecwilliams/
This episode explores the question of what Dr. King and Malcolm X would teach today's leaders. Odell Bizzell and Casey J. Cornelius explore the dynamic between the two iconic figures, challenging the common perception that Dr. King was the safe, peaceful leader while Malcolm X sought confrontation. He argues that both leaders embodied elements of each other, emphasizing the importance of understanding the system, effective communication, and collaboration toward a common goal.
Odell draws on his personal experiences and encounters with stereotypes, encouraging listeners to move beyond performative actions, such as sharing quotes, and to delve deeper into the context of the messages they share. The conversation navigates through the complexities of leadership, diversity, and inclusion, offering valuable insights for individuals and organizations seeking to make a positive impact in their communities.
Casey and Odell discuss the significance of getting to know individuals beyond the surface, urging listeners to seek context before sharing content. They also touch on the misuse of quotes by organizations and the importance of genuine understanding.
Tune in to this insightful episode as Casey and Odell engage in a thought-provoking conversation that goes beyond the surface, encouraging listeners to embrace the complexities of leadership and social change.
Leo is the University of Oregon's Assistant Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life. He is on a personal and professional mission to end Hazing in Greek-lettered organizations. Leo has been working in Higher Education with Fraternities and Sororities for the past eight years to help accomplish his mission. As a speaker, he has been sharing his personal experience with Hazing to ensure no member ever experiences the trauma involved with Hazing in FSL communities across the country.
Learn more about Leo's programs at https://forcollegeforlife.com/leo/
Leo's Introduction Episode: https://forcollegeforlife.com/forcollegeforlife-podcast-leo-serrato-introduction/
Connect with Leo:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonardserrato/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leonard_serrato/
Mindy Sopher has been a professional advisor and mentor to students in Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia and at NC State University in Raleigh. Currently, she teaches Nonprofit Leadership and Development and advises undecided new students
Program Information: https://forcollegeforlife.com/mindy/
Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindy-sopher-2681b62/
As we observe Suicide Prevention Month, it's crucial to amplify conversations that can make a real difference. The latest episode of The ForCollegeForLife Podcast is dedicated to this very mission.
Join us for a "Fast 15" deep dive with Jessi Beyer, as we navigate the complex and poignant subject of suicide and its ideation. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a resource-packed guide for anyone who might be seeking ways to support and understand individuals grappling with such feelings.
Suicide prevention is not just about awareness; it's about understanding, empathy, and providing tangible resources. Jessi sheds light on signs to watch for, the nuances of approaching someone in distress, and most importantly, the proactive steps we can take to make a difference.
In this pivotal month, and every month thereafter, let's commit to being allies, listeners, and advocates. For resources, insights, and a compassionate discourse, tune into this episode. Your engagement might just provide the lifeline someone needs.
Connect with JessiLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessierinbeyer/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjessibeyer/
Caitlin Roberts has worked in higher education for over 20 years, primarily with fraternities and sororities. Her work has taken her all over the country working with students on recruitment, leadership development and community building. But when she woke up in the hospital after an attack by the father of her son, she knew she had a different message to share. Caitlin speaks for those who can’t and wants to help others avoid a situation like hers.
Caitlin was born and raised in Orange County, California and has always found the Wedge in Newport Beach to be her zen location. She received a BA in Psychology from California State University, San Bernardino and an MA in Psychology from Pepperdine University. She is a proud member of Kappa Delta Sorority.
Now serving as the Director of Fraternity & Sorority Life at the University of Oregon, Caitlin loves exploring the beautiful wonders of nature in Oregon with her son, AJ and their dog, McKenzie.
Connect with Caitlin:
Speaking Topics: https://forcollegeforlife.com/caitlin/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlincroberts/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fslmamaduck/
Dr. Mari Ann Callais serves as the Sr. Director of Strategic Initiatives for Delta Delta Delta Fraternity. She has been a keynote and featured speaker at many local, regional, national, and international conferences and conventions. She has been a member of AFA since 1991 and wrote her dissertation on Sorority Rituals and Behavior.
Links:
Learn more about Dr. MAC and her programs
Connect with Dr. MAC on LinkedIn
Follow Dr. MAC on Instagram
Chris Molina is the recipient of the 2020 NAMCA College Speaker of the Year Award (National Association for Masterminds & Co-curricular Advancement), an Amazon Best-Selling Author of his book I’m in a Leadership Role, Now What? The Student Edition, a Podcaster on the Professional by Choice Podcast and the How’d You Meet Podcast, a Personal Development Coach, a United States Marine Corps Veteran (serving 7 years on Active Duty), a Purdue University Alum, and a Leadership Literacy Expert.
More than anything, Chris is a Father (#GirlDad), a Husband, a Son, a Brother, and an East Chicago, Indiana native.
Chris's Programs and Speaking Information
Connect with Chris on LinkedIn
Follow Chris on Instagram
Listen to Chris' Introduction Podcast Episode
More than just an educator, Dr. Dar Mayweather is a catalyst for critical conversations. This episode is packed with insights on how he has evolved in his professional career to get to a place that encourages authentic dialogue across diverse backgrounds without the weight of shame, blame, or guilt. Whether you’re an educator, student, or someone simply passionate about meaningful leadership and diversity conversations, this episode with Dr. Dar Mayweather is not to be missed.
Catch Dar's first episode on the ForCollegeForLife Podcast to learn more about his journey: https://forcollegeforlife.com/podcast-dar/
Learn about Dar's programs at https://forcollegeforlife.com/dar/
Connect with Dar on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/doingthegoodwork/
Mindy Sopher has been a professional advisor and mentor to students in Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia and at NC State University in Raleigh. Currently, she teaches Nonprofit Leadership and Development and advises undecided new students
Program Information: https://forcollegeforlife.com/mindy/
K.D. Wilson is a nationally recognized Leadership Development and Student Success Educator. He is an author and advocate in the areas of Leadership Influence, Greek Life Enhancement, D.E.I., Educator Compassion Fatigue, Social Justice, and Program/Workplace Culture Transformation across the nation. As one of the nation’s leading empowerment educators, K.D. provides developmental training, seminars, breakout sessions, workshops, and keynote speeches to help programs reach their desired goals.
He is a husband and father of three, 8x Published Author, Former Public-School Teacher, 2x USA Masters Track & Field National Champion, Former First Responder of 7 years, and active member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Incorporated. K.D. is an honors graduate of North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University , and Duke University. He not only shows students “HOW” to achieve fulfillment in school and life, but also “WHY” education is a critical component too.
When he isn’t inspiring students, K.D. can be found empowering educators by helping them overcome burnout, build better student/teacher relationships, and re-igniting their passions. K.D. is the host of his very own leadership podcast titled, “I Lead the Way,” found on all podcast platforms. He believes that everyone was born on purpose, with purpose, and for a purpose.
Connect with K.D.Website: https://forcollegeforlife.com/kd
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamkdwilson/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkdwilson/
After an unexpected loss her freshman year of college, Jasmine Williams hit rock bottom. Now as an Adversity + Resilience Speaker, she teaches audiences how failure and adversity can help them grow. Using her firsthand experiences, Jasmine helps audiences support classmates and colleagues through grief, anxiety, and other difficult experiences.
After 6 years as a speaker, Jasmine became a public speaking coach to teach others how to deliver a polished message with confidence. She graduated from High Point University with her B.A. in Communication and a minor in Psychology. In addition to her work as a speaker, Jasmine is a communications consultant for federal agencies.
Connect with JessiWebsite: https://forcollegeforlife.com/jasmine/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasminecwilliams/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/msjasminecwilliams/
Jessi Beyer, MA, is an award-nominated international speaker and the #1 best-selling author of How To Heal: A Practical Guide To Nine Integrative Therapies That Can Help Release Trauma.
Named a 2020 “Young Entrepreneur to Watch” by IdeaMensch, Jessi has been featured in over 160 media outlets, including Thrive Global, Refinery29, and Elite Daily, and has spoken to thousands of people around the world through groups like Penn State University, Leadercast NOW, and the Institute on Violence, Abuse, and Trauma’s international summit. Jessi holds a Master’s degree in Critical Psychology and Human Services from Prescott College and, outside of her professional life, she is a K9 search and rescue handler with her dog, Phoebe.
Connect with JessiLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessierinbeyer/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjessibeyer/
Dr. Sara Jahansouz Wray is the ultimate recovering perfectionist! She has spent over half of her life on college campuses, which provides a keen insight and unique perspective on the challenges facing today’s college students. Her social media presence went viral when she transitioned from blogging about fashion to sharing her recovery journey from alcohol and prescription pills. Dr. Wray has shared her experience, strength, and hope with countless audiences seeking guidance on ways to cope with life that don’t involve a handful of pills or bottles of wine.
Dr. Wray earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Lifesciences from Kansas State University, a Master’s Degree in Higher Education Administration from Indiana University, a Master’s Degree in Emergency and Crisis Management from University of North Carolina at Pembroke, and a Doctorate in Learning and Leadership from University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Dr. Wray’s dissertation, Female Undergraduate Student Perceptions of Their Engagement in an Experiential Learning Activity, has been utilized as a leading resource in understanding undergraduate engagement in the panhellenic sorority recruitment process. Dr. Wray’s research interests include emotional intelligence, recovery, and college student persistence.
Dr. Wray’s proudest role in life is that of wife and mother. Her husband, Mike, and children, Rory Rose and Shepherd reside in Sugar Land, TX. Her family enjoys making memories through travel and time spent with friends.
Learn about Sara's programs at https://forcollegeforlife.com/sara/
Follow Sara on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/dr.wray/
Connect on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-jahansouz-wray-ed-d-92518a56/
Leo is the University of Oregon's Assistant Director of Fraternity and Sorority Life. He is on a personal and professional mission to end Hazing in Greek-lettered organizations. Leo has been working in Higher Education with Fraternities and Sororities for the past eight years to help accomplish his mission. As a speaker, he has been sharing his personal experience with Hazing to ensure no member ever experiences the trauma involved with Hazing in FSL communities across the country.
Learn more about Leo's programs at https://forcollegeforlife.com/leo/
Connect with Leo:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/leonardserrato/
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/leonard_serrato/
In his more than 30 years as a journalist, Jay Harris has learned what it takes to be a leader, and a leader in his field.
The word “leadership” may be simple to define, but Jay had learned true leadership has no easy definition. And in a play off the fantastic Top Ten franchise that ESPN has cultivated, Jay presents in his new program: The Top Ten Things I Know About Leadership.
For this Fast 15 episode, we dive into just one of the Top Ten: Lazy Leadership. Hear Jay's view about this and also a personal story how he used feedback to save his job.
Learn More about Jay Harris and his speaking programs: https://forcollegeforlife.com/jay/
KJ McNamara has spent over 15 years working on developing confidence and relationship skills with college students, and equipping communities to grow and flourish.
As a trusted and requested speaker, with campus/organizational partners asking her to return time and time again, KJ delivers an honest and curated curriculum designed to cut to the heart of the topic. A successful entrepreneur, she owns Pure Barre studios and works with her clients and teams on positivity, progress, and whole health. Confidence and mental health are a focal point of her everyday career as well as driving results in her client’s lives.
KJ graduated with her B.S in Psychology and B.A. in Communications from Washington State University and her M.P.A. from the University of Missouri.
Learn about K.J. McNamara's Programs at: https://forcollegeforlife.com/kj/
Connect with K.J. on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kjmcnamara/
Dr. Kevin Reynolds is the Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Thomas More University in Kentucky. Kevin has worked in higher education in student affairs and university advancement for 10+ years at a variety of institution sizes and types. Kevin holds a doctorate in leadership and is passionate about working with teams and organizations on improving culture, combatting toxicity, and fostering accountability.
Learn more about Kevin's signature program a https://forcollegeforlife.com/kevin/
Season 2 of the ForCollegeForLife Podcast will start on April 3, 2023!
Stay tuned for new interviews with our speakers, more Fast 15 episodes on topics that truly matter, and introductions to our newest speakers!
Donovan Nichols is a passionate educator, optimistic innovator, servant leader, caring speaker, husband, father, and fun seeker! Since 2008, he has inspired thousands of people across the country as an inspirational speaker on topics such as servant leadership, leadership development, organizational development, overcoming obstacles, and goal achievement.
In this Fast 15 episode, Donovan discusses work-life balance and how he has seen organizations successfully address this issue. From the obstacles we face when creating boundaries to touching on a 4-day workweek, this episode is interesting and insightful from start to finish.
Donovan's Programs and Speaking Information
Connect with Donovan on LinkedIn
Follow Donovan on Instagram
November is Men's Health Awareness Month and a relevant time to talk about masculinity. Carlos J. Malave, Jay Harris, Bryce Harris, and Casey J. Cornelius sit down to talk about masculinity and dive deep into how their upbringing has molded their definition of the word. With four different perspectives, the conversation unveils how men can be influenced by not only family, but coaches, mentors, and even television.
Dr. Mari Ann Callais serves as the Sr. Director of Strategic Initiatives for Delta Delta Delta Fraternity. She has been a keynote and featured speaker at many local, regional, national, and international conferences and conventions. She has been a member of AFA since 1991 and wrote her dissertation on Sorority Rituals and Behavior.
Links:
Learn more about Dr. MAC and her programs
Connect with Dr. MAC on LinkedIn
Follow Dr. MAC on Instagram
Jessica Lundy is an award-winning TV host turned transformational life coach, speaker and author, that has a proven record of unlocking student potential by increasing clarity and confidence, which results in better grades, higher graduation rates, and improved behavior.
As a personal development coach for over a decade, she has taught students winning strategies to be successful in every area of their lives. From winning her dream job after competing with over 1200 people to be a television host in a significant market to winning her honeymoon in beautiful Cancun, Mexico; Jessica is ready to teach your students how to gain more clarity, supportive relationships, achievements, overall happiness, and success.
Links:
Learn more about Jessica and her programs
Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn
Follow Jessica on Instagram
Carlos J. Malave is the author of "Translating Your Success" and developer of the Restorative Power Program, who quickly established himself as a dynamic and passionate speaker. His efforts establishing the Restorative Power Program in classrooms across the country has harnessed a genuine passion into a unique message of perseverance, compassion, and inspiration. His work within KIPP and the Houston community has been featured on ABC 13 News and in 2018, he worked with Texas legislators to help draft and pass a bill to implement Restorative Practices within public schools.
Links:
Learn more about Carlos and his programs
Connect with Carlos on LinkedIn
Follow Carlos on Instagram
Listen to Carlos' Full Introduction Episode
Chris's Programs and Speaking Information
Connect with Chris on LinkedIn
Follow Chris on Instagram
Listen to Chris' Introduction Podcast Episode
With over 15 years of experience working in leadership development and coaching, human resource consulting, business leadership, and fraternities/sororities, Jessica Gendron Williams is a respected and sought out speaker for campus communities and national organizations.
Jessica Gendron Williams is the President of The Center for Leadership Excellence. She has spent most of her career coaching women and individuals to grow and thrive professionally, but more than anything, she is a fierce advocate for advancing women in the workplace and in leadership. She is an award-winning curriculum designer and in 2018 was honored for her contributions to the Fraternity and Sorority Community with the Jack L. Anson Award from the Association of Fraternity and Sorority Advisors.
She received a B.A. from Eastern Illinois University and a M.S. in Education from Indiana University – Bloomington.
Listen to Jessica's episode about her path and programs: https://forcollegeforlife.com/podcast-jessica-2/
Learn more about Jessica to book her for your next event: https://forcollegeforlife.com/jessica/
His charming personality lights up your television screen, his tidy and poised presence demands the attention of a room, and his witty delivery is the perfect compliment to fantastic highlights put together for the millions of viewers who tune in to ESPN’s Sportscenter. During his tenure at ESPN, Jay Harris has hosted a variety of shows and special broadcasts, including the new Sportscenter AM, Sportscenter Los Angeles, Outside The Lines, NFL Live, Baseball Tonight, Cold Pizza, First Take, Friday Night Fights, and ESPN Sports Saturday on ABC.
Jay’s knowledge and longevity in the industry has earned him several honors including: a Silver World Medal from the New York Festivals, a Robert L. Vann Award from the Pittsburgh Black Media Federation, an EXCEL Award from the Hampton Roads Black Media Professionals. He was also part of two Emmy Award-winning Sportscenter shows.
Harris is a 1983 graduate of Chapel Hill High School in Chapel Hill, NC. A 1987 graduate of Old Dominion University, he received a Distinguished Alumni Award in 2003, and served as the keynote speaker for ODU’s 100th commencement ceremony in 2004. He currently serves on ODU’s Board of Visitors.
Listen to Jay's episode about his path and programs: https://forcollegeforlife.com/podcast-jay/
Learn more about Jay to book him for your next event: https://forcollegeforlife.com/jay/
T.J. Sullivan possesses the experience one might expect from a seasoned executive and entrepreneur, developing extensive expertise in business operations, marketing, program development, branding, employee recruitment and training, and strategic partnerships. In the '90s, he was one of the nation's most prolific and impactful educators on HIV prevention, promoting sexual health and safety to a generation of American college students. Later, from a plastic folding table and a one-window office, T.J. founded and grew what became the nation's largest college speakers agency – enabling the public speaking careers of hundreds of consultants and setting the awareness agenda in Student Affairs for almost two decades.
Along the way, he collected top national awards from the College Student Educators International, the North-American Interfraternity Conference, the Association of Fraternity and Sorority Advisors, the Ryan White Foundation, the Colorado Women's Chamber of Commerce, and more.
T.J. is a gifted communicator and leadership consultant. HIs 2012 book – "Motivating the Middle: Fighting Apathy in College Student Organizations" – remains one of the most successful leadership books in the higher education market. He has made more than 3,000 campus visits and has spoken to more than 2-million students in all 50 states.
Connect with T.J. at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tjdenver/
With over 15 years of experience working in leadership development and coaching, human resource consulting, business leadership, and fraternities/sororities, Jessica is a respected and sought out speaker for campus communities and national organizations.
Jessica Gendron Williams is the President of The Center for Leadership Excellence. She has spent most of her career coaching women and individuals to grow and thrive professionally, but more than anything, she is a fierce advocate for advancing women in the workplace and in leadership. She is an award-winning curriculum designer and in 2018 was honored for her contributions to the Fraternity and Sorority Community with the Jack L. Anson Award from the Association of Fraternity and Sorority Advisors.
She received a B.A. from Eastern Illinois University and a M.S. in Education from Indiana University – Bloomington.
Learn about Jessica's programs at https://forcollegeforlife.com/jessica/
Dr. Marlon L. Gibson currently serves as the director of Community Engagement for Kappa Alpha Order. In his inaugural role at KA, Marlon develops and facilitates the curriculum for educational initiatives related to fraternal values alignment, diversity, and inclusion. For over 20 years, he has worked extensively with headquarters staff, collegians, and alumni across the country in the area of sorority and fraternity life.
Previously, he was the director of Sorority and Fraternity Life at Emory University. He holds a bachelor’s degree in English – creative writing, and a master’s degree in higher education administration from the University of Toledo. He most recently completed his doctorate from the University of Georgia in College Student Affairs Administration. He is married to Dr. Sheree Williams Gibson and they have a son, Adam Patrick. He is a proud life member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc.
As we start to welcome back students to campus, we need to ensure we're preparing our leaders and organizations for success. Join leadership speakers Dar Mayweather and Dan Faill as they discuss two specific areas we're not doing enough education or engagement around.
Cesar Cervantes currently serves as Director of Student Life at St. John's College. He is also the former assistant dean at Colorado College and former dean at United World College USA. He received his BA at St. Mary's University and his graduate degree at Southern Methodist University. He was a college athlete and is still a proud Kappa Sigma. Cesar is trained in stand-up and improv comedy, and travels the country helping colleges and individuals, maximize their full potential. You can watch two of his TED talks featured on the TED website, catch him on comedy central’s open mic fight or see him in the movie Line of Duty. In his off time, you'll find him on a tennis court or relaxing at home in Houston, Texas with his wife, daughter and their Australian Shepard, Mia.
Mindy Sopher has been a professional advisor and mentor to students in Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia and at NC State University in Raleigh. Currently, she teaches Nonprofit Leadership and Development and advises undecided new students here. Mindy notes that she has received some amazing honors but muses and still dreams of having an Elementary School Girls Basketball Team named the Sopher Gophers some day.
Among other things, she has:
- Twice been named as Outstanding Faculty in the Communication Department.
- Received the Association of Fraternity Advisors Distinguished Service Award and the Robert H. Shaffer Award (lifetime achievement) Award
- Had a Graduate Scholarship created in her name by her own Kappa Delta Sorority and given to women entering the field of Higher Education
- Been named National Greek Advisor of the Year by the Sigma Nu Fraternity
- Had a “little crystal cup” named for her and given to the Outstanding NC State sorority every year at Homecoming
- Celebrated November 20, now known as Mindy Sopher Day in Raleigh as proclaimed by Mayor Charles Meeker
- Received “The Order of the Long Leaf Pine” from Governor Beverly Purdue
On a more personal note, in her free time, Mindy raises English Bulldogs, enjoys gardening and therapeutic coloring, and learning something new every day. Most important, though, says Mindy, is that she is blessed to have survived cancer four times and is still going strong!
She is hoping to finish her doctorate in Ag. Extension and Leadership Education concentrating on Youth Leadership at NC State before the university decides to give it to her posthumously!
Learn more about Mindy and her programs at https://forcollegeforlife.com/mindy/
Dar Mayweather, serves as the founder of doingthegoodwork.com, and also a leadership studies faculty member at the University of North Carolina Wilmington. He helps his students confidently engage in critical conversations around leadership, diversity, and college success. Dar is a first generation college student, he earned a Bachelors of Science in Criminal Justice, a Masters of Science in Education and is pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership.
Learn about Dar's programs at https://forcollegeforlife.com/dar/
Qy'Darrius Z. McEachern is a Black, able-bodied, cisgender man from a low-income background who has committed himself to researching & educating people on the systemic oppressions impacting us every single day through an antiracist lens.
He earned his Bachelors’ degree in Psychology with minors in Social and Economic Justice and Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and attended Texas State University to earn his Master’s degree in Higher Education. He is also a PROUD member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Incorporated.
Qy’Darrius is a national speaker + consultant who strives to support offices, organizations, workplaces, schools, and more in an effort to create equitable spaces and innovate justice for individuals of color.
He aims to move people from “listening & learning” to ACTION & CHANGE.
Dr. Kevin Reynolds is the Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Thomas More University in Kentucky. Kevin has worked in higher education in student affairs and university advancement for 10+ years at a variety of institution sizes and types. Kevin holds a doctorate in leadership and is passionate about working with teams and organizations on improving culture, combatting toxicity, and fostering accountability.
Learn more about Kevin's signature program a https://forcollegeforlife.com/kevin/
Odell Bizzell is a nationally known blogger, speaker, author, and entrepreneur. While in high school Odell started a small candy retail distribution center that earned him over $75,000 while earning an academic scholarship to college
As a successful keynote speaker Odell has been featured in the USA Today, Yahoo Finance, CNBC.com, and over 200 media outlets. Odell has partnered with over 200 colleges, youth organizations, and the military to reach tens of thousands of students.
Learn more about Odell's programs at https://forcollegeforlife.com/odell/
Billy Boulden is fueled by caffeine. With a dabble in corporate America and more than ten years experience in higher education, Billy brings a fun, energetic, positive spin to every encounter. He believes that leadership works best when the heart and the mind are on the same team. When not developing a new idea or program, you can find him playing with his two labs, coaching Crossfit classes, or volunteering for his fraternity, Pi Kappa Phi.
Learn about Billy's programs at: https://forcollegeforlife.com/billy/
His charming personality lights up your television screen, his tidy and poised presence demands the attention of a room, and his witty delivery is the perfect compliment to fantastic highlights put together for the millions of viewers who tune in to ESPN's Sportscenter. During his tenure at ESPN, Jay Harris has hosted a variety of shows and special broadcasts, including the new Sportscenter AM, Sportscenter Los Angeles, Outside The Lines, NFL Live, Baseball Tonight, Cold Pizza, First Take, Friday Night Fights, and ESPN Sports Saturday on ABC.
Learn more: https://forcollegeforlife.com/jay/
Carlos has 10 years of teaching experience in K-12 along with 10 years of speaking and consulting experience in Higher Education. As a Restorative Practitioner his work consists of helping youth find the power in their vulnerability. Carlos was born and raised in New York but now resides in Houston Texas with his beautiful wife and daughter.
As a personal development coach for over a decade, she has taught students winning strategies to be successful in every area of their lives. From winning her dream job after competing with over 1200 people to be a television host in a significant market to winning her honeymoon in beautiful Cancun, Mexico; Jessica is ready to teach your students how to gain more clarity, supportive relationships, achievements, overall happiness, and success.
Dan likes to make the uncomfortable more relatable. Using his humor and stories to create a deeper connection with audiences, he believes it’s time for us to be brave enough to have the conversations that matter.
Over-involved student leader. Fraternity member. Orientation Leader. Chapter President. Tour Guide. Impostor. Sexual Assault Survivor. These are just a few of the titles Dan had during his time in college.
As an accomplished storyteller and international speaker, Dan incorporates his own lived experiences, in addition to industry-proven research, to craft engaging and relatable experiences for student audiences.
Having worked for 15 years on college campuses advocating for safe and positive student experiences, Dan now travels the country as a full-time speaker and consultant, engaging audiences in hard but needed conversations. Dan shares personal stories that engage and inspire us to be our authentic selves, and be brave enough to have the conversations that matter.
Abby brings experience in leadership development, curriculum writing and design, and facilitation. Throughout her career thus far, she has delivered individualized content to clients through programming, overseen the development and implementation of continuous training for a team, and designed curriculum to enhance organizational experiences through blog writing and workshop curriculum. Abby currently serves as the Director of Learning for the Center for Leadership Excellence in Indianapolis, where she spends her days immersed in curriculum and training design.
Abby received a B.S. in Education from Florida State University and a M.S. in Education from Indiana University–Bloomington.
Abby Conway is an avid Orangetheory goer, enjoys traveling to spend time with friends & family, and spending time with her sweet golden retriever puppy, Joy.
Her ForCollegeForLife programs include:- Shine: Multiplying Women’s Empowerment, Friendship, and Collaboration
- Women’s Empowerment and Recruitment consulting
Donovan Nichols is a passionate educator, optimistic innovator, servant leader, caring speaker, husband, father, and fun seeker! Since 2008, he has inspired thousands of people across the country as an inspirational speaker on topics such as Pay It Forward (servant leadership), leadership development, organizational development, overcoming obstacles, and goal achievement. Donovan received the prestigious 20 Under 40 award which recognizes 20 leaders who have distinguished themselves in the community and serve as a role model for other young leaders. Donovan loves sharing wisdom with new, emerging, and experienced leaders of all ages. This doctoral student utilizes his education and 15+ years of work experience in higher education to help individuals see the world from a different perspective, discover solutions to their challenges, and unlock their potential.
Dr. Mari Ann Callais serves as the Sr. Director of Strategic Initiatives for Delta Delta Delta Fraternity. She has been a keynote and featured speaker at many local, regional, national and international conferences and conventions. She has been a member of AFA since 1991 and wrote her dissertation on Sorority Rituals and Behavior.
Chris Molina is the recipient of the 2020 NAMCA College Speaker of the Year Award (National Association for Masterminds & Co-curricular Advancement), an Amazon Best-Selling Author of his book I’m in a Leadership Role, Now What? The Student Edition, a Podcaster on the Professional by Choice Podcast and the How’d You Meet Podcast, a Personal Development Coach, a United States Marine Corps Veteran (serving 7 years on Active Duty), a Purdue University Alum, and a Leadership Literacy Expert.
More than anything, Chris is a Father, a Husband, a Son, a Brother, and an East Chicago, Indiana native.
Evan connects with audiences by discussing the struggles he faced growing up with a physical impairment and the resilience he had to have to become a Paralympic Gold medalist. His keynote is constructed to show audiences that there are many roadblocks and deterrents on one’s path to success. Evan leads listeners on an emotional roller coaster as he illustrates, through his own personal experiences, some of the toughest failures and greatest successes a human can go through in a lifetime.
After an unexpected loss her freshman year of college, Jasmine Williams hit rock bottom. Now as an Adversity + Resilience Speaker, she teaches audiences how failure and adversity can help them grow. Using her firsthand experiences, Jasmine helps audiences support classmates and colleagues through grief, anxiety, and other difficult experiences.
After 6 years as a speaker, Jasmine became a public speaking coach to teach others how to deliver a polished message with confidence. She graduated from High Point University with her B.A. in Communication and a minor in Psychology. In addition to her work as a speaker, Jasmine is a Communications Specialist for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.