Brandon p. fleming

Wednesday Opening Keynote 
 

Brandon P. Fleming is a renowned speaker, nationally acclaimed educator, and author of MISEDUCATED: A Memoir. His triumphant story of struggle, success, and service has captured the heart of national media and inspired millions of people around the world. An at-risk youth and college dropout turned award-winning educator, Fleming is a former debate coach at Harvard University and Founder & CEO of the Veritas School of Social Sciences in Atlanta, GA. In 2017, Fleming was recruited to become an assistant debate coach at Harvard University at the age of 26.  Fleming soon made history at Harvard as the founder of the first Black pipeline program called the Harvard Debate Council Diversity Project, which was designed to increase Black enrollment at Harvard’s residential debate program where hundreds of gifted young scholars from over 25 different countries study and compete in an international academic debate competition. Learn More.

MIKE SMITH

Thursday Keynote 
 

Mike Smith is not new to CADA; many of you are already familiar with his impactful work. For those who aren't, you'll get to know him well after this conference! Mike has partnered with CADA for over a decade, consistently introducing innovative programs that benefit both educators and students. Here are just a few of the exciting projects Mike has been developing: Mike Smith, a changemaker and storyteller, has dedicated over ten years to youth empowerment and education, creating real-world impacts that extend far beyond mere advocacy. Today's educational leaders aim to do more than just impart knowledge; they strive to empower their students. Moving past traditional teaching methods, they work to foster genuine engagement and meaningful personal growth. As a Stanford-certified Design Your Life Coach and StoryBrand Guide, Mike has redefined educational standards through groundbreaking initiatives like his 501(c)(3) nonprofit, The Bay, The Harbor TV, and Bay High, in partnership with Lincoln Public Schools. These projects showcase his commitment to transforming education and youth development. By combining practical experience with engaging storytelling, Mike helps educational leaders reinvent school culture and climate, fostering innovative learning environments that profoundly influence students' futures. Mike also teaches a college course at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln and leads global Design Your Future Workshops, inspiring both youth and educators to expand their vision, plan strategically, and lead with renewed creativity. With over 15 years of experience as a renowned speaker and educational catalyst, Mike Smith has brought engaging, impactful, and accessible ideas to life for thousands around the world. Learn More.