Ambassador David H. Shinn’s story begins long before the diplomatic titles and foreign service honors. Before the famines he helped respond to in Sudan, the peacekeeping efforts he supported across Africa, or his decades-long role as a professor of international affairs at George Washington University, he was a community college student walking the halls of […]
Ambassador David H. Shinn Reflects on PTK Journey Read More »
Raymond served on the executive board of the Oregon Battle of the Books, where he became the program’s first high school question writer and helped preserve its high school division. As a rural student, he advocates for expanded access to literacy and academic opportunity, bringing student perspectives to a statewide program. He began taking college courses at age 14 and will graduate high school with an associate degree, while continuing to mentor peers through tutoring and student leadership.
Dr. George R. Boggs is a nationally recognized leader in community college education. He served as President and CEO of the American Association of Community Colleges (AACC) and previously as President of Palomar College in California. A champion for access, excellence, and innovation, Dr. Boggs has authored numerous publications on leadership and student success. He continues to work as a faculty member, training the next generation of community college leaders; and to advise colleges and educational organizations across the country. Dr. Boggs is a frequent speaker on the future of community colleges.
Amanda Karpinski Gorman serves as Executive Director of the Phi Theta Kappa Foundation, where she leads efforts to expand scholarships and resources for community college students nationwide. A former International President of Phi Theta Kappa, Gorman brings deep personal connection and passion to her work advancing student success. She holds degrees from Bergen Community College and Rutgers University and has dedicated her career to educational opportunity, leadership development, and philanthropy.
Dr. Lynn Tincher-Ladner is President and CEO of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Under her leadership, PTK has expanded its reach to support millions of students through scholarships, leadership development, and community college completion initiatives. A passionate advocate for equity and student success, Dr. Tincher-Ladner has been recognized nationally for her research and innovation in higher education. She continues to champion the transformative power of community colleges to change lives and strengthen communities.
Lou Oberndorf is a pioneering innovator and entrepreneur in the medical simulation field. He founded Medical Education Technologies, Inc. (METI), which revolutionized healthcare training through the development of high-fidelity patient simulators now used in hospitals and universities worldwide. A leader in advancing technology to improve patient safety and medical education, Oberndorf has also been a generous supporter of higher education and healthcare innovation. He serves on multiple boards and has established endowed programs to promote leadership, research, and excellence in health sciences education.
Justin Oberndorf is a philanthropist and educator with a strong commitment to leadership and community development. Based in Colorado, he supports initiatives that advance access to learning, innovation, and opportunity. Building on his family’s legacy of leadership and service, Oberndorf continues to engage in efforts that strengthen education and empower students to achieve their goals.
Jane Hale Paulsen is President of the Coca-Cola Scholars Foundation, where she leads the organization’s mission to develop and celebrate exceptional high school and community college students who exemplify leadership, service, and academic excellence. With extensive experience in philanthropy and program management, Paulsen oversees scholarship initiatives that empower young leaders to create positive change in their communities. Her leadership reflects a deep commitment to education, equity, and the next generation of changemakers.
Dr. Monica Denis is a higher education advancement professional with extensive experience in philanthropy and nonprofit leadership. Based in Louisville, Kentucky, she serves in advancement at Bellarmine University, where she works to strengthen engagement and support for institutional priorities. Throughout her career, Denis has led fundraising and strategic initiatives that expand educational access and student success. She previously served as Chief Advancement Officer of William Carey University and Executive Director of the PTK Foundation. Monica is deeply committed to creating opportunities for students through education and philanthropy.
Dr. Blake Ellis serves in executive leadership for Harris County, Texas, where he oversees programs focused on education, workforce development, and community impact. A Houston-based civic leader and educator, Ellis has dedicated his career to creating pathways for student achievement and public service. With a background spanning higher education, policy, and administration, he continues to champion innovative approaches to improving educational outcomes and community well-being.
Kevin Byrne is a nonprofit executive with a career dedicated to expanding opportunity for children, students, and families. Formerly with the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, he now leads strategic grantmaking and social impact initiatives through his current foundation work. Byrne’s background spans finance, philanthropy, and program innovation, and he has served on numerous nonprofit and advisory boards supporting education, foster care, and community development.
