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Dr. Gregory J. Benner is the Helen and Pat O’Sullivan Professor in the College of Education at the University of Alabama. He has a knack for grassroots collective impact—getting whole communities including families, child welfare, mental health, and schools on the same page to meet the needs of the whole child. In February 2018, he received the Presidents’ Award from the Northwest Positive Behavioral Supports Network for his leadership of school improvement. He is co-founder of the Tacoma Whole Child Initiative, a comprehensive blueprint for sustainable school and community transformation.

Jimmy Gere has worked in public education since 2004, serving as a School Counselor at both the elementary and secondary level, and at the district level as an Attendance & Reengagement Specialist. Jimmy’s most recent work at the district level of Tacoma Public Schools - Whole Child Department has been focused on introducing proactive programs and building innovative systems within the schools that foster belonging, community, and data driven outcomes for students, families, and staff.

Laura Allen, a thrice-honored Teacher of the Year turned Whole Child champion, is on a mission to transform education into a flourishing oasis for students and staff. Her vision as Tacoma’s Whole Child director, is to ensure every Tacoma youth is safe, heathy, challenged, engaged, and supported- a Whole Child- because nurturing a child’s mind, body, and heart together unlocks their full potential, creating confident, compassionate, and lifelong learners.