Diana Herrera, a school counselor at Sumner High School, grew up in Southwest Texas as the daughter of Mexican immigrants and is a first-generation college graduate. With degrees in Sociology and School and Community Counseling, she’s passionate about creating supportive spaces for students to grow. She believes every student’s background is a strength, not a barrier.

Cynthia Cuellar, a first-generation college graduate and school counselor at Sumner High School, is passionate about supporting students’ academic and personal growth. Her own journey fuels her commitment to equity, believing every student deserves to dream big and ask, “Why not me?”

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At 18, Michael vowed never to speak on a stage again after a humiliating college speech class experience, yet today he is a bestselling author and motivational speaker who inspires millions. After years of feeling stuck in a draining career and struggling with depression, everything shifted when he discovered a $1 personal development book that sparked a complete life change. Since then, he has spoken to large audiences, written bestselling books, and built a career centered on helping others break through fear, unlock their potential, and live with purpose. Born in Soviet Russia and shaped by a family history of survival and resilience, his story reflects transformation, perseverance, and the belief that it’s never too late to become who you’re meant to be.

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Brett McDaniel is a leadership educator, coach, and school administrator with over 25 years of experience helping students and athletes develop strong leadership skills on and off the court. He has worked as a teacher, dean of students, assistant principal, and a 20+ year head basketball coach focused on building culture and team success. He has also served as a mental performance coach at the University of Puget Sound, supporting college athletes in strengthening their mindset and performance. Currently, he is the Director of School Supports for Character Strong, where he travels nationwide helping schools and educators build stronger leadership, character, and community. His core belief is that leadership isn’t about a title, but about how you show up every day and the impact you choose to make.

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