Meet our 2025 Keynote Speaker!

Tamara Gardner is a dedicated math teacher at Oak Park and River Forest High School in Oak Park, IL, and the founder of S.T.T.E.A.M.ed, an organization empowering underrepresented youth through Science, Technology, Trades, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics. With nearly two decades of experience, she is committed to fostering academic success and strengthening her community through education.

Currently pursuing a doctorate in Curriculum, Advocacy, and Policy, Tamara’s research explores the impact of early STEAM education and vocational training through a culturally responsive teaching lens. She earned a B.A. in Mathematics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign (2003) and an M.A. in Teaching from National Louis University (2006).

Tamara began her teaching career at Proviso East High School in Maywood, IL (2005), where she enhanced student engagement through leadership and mentorship. As the driving force behind S.T.T.E.A.M.ed, she equips students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills to thrive in a rapidly evolving world. Her passion for education and community service continues to inspire and uplift the next generation.

Keynote - Breaking Barriers, Building Legacies: The Power of Getting Out of Your Own Way

We are thrilled to welcome Taylor Johnson back as our 2025 conference Emcee!

Taylor Johnson is an award-winning veteran journalist with nearly a decade’s worth of experience in TV news. She has worked in markets including Kansas City, Omaha, Terre Haute, Indiana and Lynchburg Virginia.

Taylor has also served on boards for the Midlands African Chamber, the Nebraska Arthritis Foundation and the Urban League of Nebraska Young Professionals. In addition to her professional pursuits, Taylor has a passion for mentoring the next generation of young journalists.

Originally from Prince George’s County in Maryland, Taylor is a proud Terp with a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Maryland in College Park 

Lisa Tavizon is a proud mother of three, the daughter of resilient immigrant parents, and owner of Unity Title Group. With 24 years in the title industry, Lisa has built a career rooted in education, empowerment, and community connection. Her journey took a pivotal turn when she became a Bilingual Escrow Closer, realizing her true purpose—helping clients fully understand their title insurance protection and the documents they sign. Many have expressed that, thanks to Lisa, their closing was the first time they truly comprehended the process. Three years ago, Lisa took a bold leap, opening her own title office in South Omaha to serve her community with a deeper, more personal touch—beyond the corporate setting. With her dedicated team, she provides expert guidance with transparency, professionalism, and care, making the homebuying process smoother and more accessible. Through every challenge, Lisa’s resilience shines. The struggles have been inevitable, but the comeback continues to be greater. She remains committed to educating, uniting, and uplifting those around her—one closing at a time.

Breakout Session - Thriving Through Authenticity: A Journey of Growth, Grit, and Gratitude

A passionate advocate for education and empowerment, Candice has dedicated her life to helping others rise above their circumstances. Having overcome significant personal challenges, she understands firsthand the power of resilience, education, and self-discovery. These experiences have shaped her unwavering commitment to fostering personal and professional growth, especially for women who feel bound by societal limitations.

As an educator and doctoral candidate in Educational Leadershiop, Candice believes learning extends beyond the textbooks and is a transformative tool for building confidence, courage, and self-worth. She creates inclusive spaces where individuals are encouraged to challenge the status quo and step into their full potential. Through mentorship, community initiatives, and empowerment workshops, she equips women what the strategies and support they need to thrive.

Breakout Session - Breaking Barriers: Personal transformation through perseverance 

Shamatra "Shay" Barlowe is a passionate speaker and workshop facilitator dedicated to empowering others. Residing in Frisco, Texas, she is a devoted wife, mother, and, above all, a daughter of God. Professionally, Shamatra thrives as a Human Resources professional, where she uses her expertise to guide and support others in the corporate world. Outside of her career, she volunteers at One Community Church, serving on the New Membership Assimilation Team. In this role, she connects new members to ministries where they can serve and build relationships. Over the years, Shamatra has had the privilege of speaking and facilitating workshops for diverse groups, sharing her experiences and wisdom to positively impact individuals of all ages. She is excited to speak at this women’s conference, with a passion for encouraging others to live with purpose, faith, and passion.

Michelle Wilson is an educator, advocate, IBCCES-certified cognitive behavior specialist, and founder of LIFE Educational Coaching. and is dedicated to supporting families with students who have diverse learning needs by empowering them to be advocates and aiding them in devising strategies and implementing supports that enable their learners to achieve their fullest potential. She also educates learners on their learning diversities, Individual Education Plans, educational rights, needs, and how to communicate their needs so they are able to be self-advocates. Her passion stems from the learning challenges she faced during childhood and the lack of understanding and support available. She conducts workshops and professional development opportunities for educators, focusing on differentiated practices and creating equitable learning environments and outcomes. With her passion, Michelle is committed to bridging the gap between families and educational institutions, ensuring that every learner receives the support they need to succeed. 

Patique Collins brings over 30 years of experience in Human Resources, with deep expertise in recruiting, training & development, and leadership. Since 2010, she has been a passionate trainer and coach, committed to helping others unlock their full potential. That same year, she founded Right Fit—also known as Patique Physiques Fitcamp—empowering individuals to grow mentally, spiritually, and physically.
 

While still in college, Patique launched a nonprofit organization in 2000 focused on providing life skills, leadership development, and community guidance for at-risk youth—an early testament to her lifelong commitment to service and empowerment.
 

She holds an MBA and a Master’s in Leadership from the College of Saint Mary. Patique is passionate about making a meaningful impact both locally and globally. Above all, she is a proud mother to Triston (18) and Kendall (16), and continues to lead with purpose, heart, and vision.