20 to Watch
Recent Recipients

McKenna Akane leads K–8 STEM at Alberton School in Montana. A University of Montana graduate, she’s been nationally recognized for innovative tech use, earning Discovery Education’s 2024 National Educator of the Year, SHAPE Montana Rookie Educator of the Year, and Project Lead The Way’s 2025 National Outstanding Teacher awards.

Hanan Attiyah is an educational leader committed to advancing technology integration, STEM innovation, and equitable learning opportunities for elementary students. She specializes in designing developmentally appropriate digital ecosystems, creating STEM pathways for K–4 learners, and leading initiatives that transform early classrooms into vibrant hubs of creativity and discovery. She has collaborated with leaders across the state to expand early access to STEM education.
Khalifa Affnan teaches English at Keningau Vocational College in Malaysia. He leads tech-integrated, game-based projects like KVC Nexus and The Good Games Project. Active in global networks, he promotes digital literacy and creativity through UNESCO, SEAMEO, and Australia Awards initiatives.

Lisa Blank leads STEM initiatives in Watertown, NY, and advocates for national equity in education. A DoD STEM Ambassador and award-winning leader, she serves on multiple advisory boards and councils focused on STEAM, computer science, and curriculum innovation.

Jeff Bradbury is a Digital Learning Teacher and creator of TeacherCast. A TEDx speaker, author, and ISTE leader, he supports educators through tech integration, media, and professional learning. He’s also a proud father of the EduTriplets.

Dr. Chernosky coordinates graduate programs in educational leadership and instructional tech. A strong advocate for AI and culturally responsive teaching, he prepares future educators at Texas A&M–Kingsville while promoting ethical innovation in higher education.

Rebecca Colangelo leads the Learning Lab at South Fayette Elementary, inspiring students through hands-on STEAM experiences. A Carnegie Science Award recipient, she designs active, meaningful learning and is a proud mom and advocate for creativity in education.

Dr. Constance DeMore Savine has 29 years in education and currently supports teachers and designs professional learning in Trinity Area School District. A former teacher, gifted coordinator, and university instructor, she is committed to student success and college and career readiness.

Sean Gaillard is a principal, author, and professor who champions creativity and student-centered learning. Known for blending pop culture with leadership, he promotes STEAM and joyful school culture through his book The Pepper Effect and his Beatles-inspired university course.

David Garringer leads Chatsworth Park Urban Planning Magnet in LA, with 24+ years of experience. He promotes STEM/STEAM, robotics, and project-based learning, helping students thrive through exploration, productive struggle, and hands-on engagement.

Maegan Gayle is in her 12th year of teaching for Mobile County Public Schools, where she is the STEM Lab teacher at Eichold-Mertz Magnet School of Math, Science, and Technology. Ms. Gayle attended Auburn University, earning her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education in 2012. She achieved National Board Certification in 2020 and is a 2024 finalist for the Presidential Award for Excellence in Math and Science Teaching.

Evo Hannan is a global design educator and founder of Innovation X. Evo has over 20 years of experience teaching Design and serving as Head of Innovation at several schools in Dubai. A two-time TEDx speaker, Evo is a globally recognized keynote speaker, has been featured in international publications and is widely recognised for his passion for driving innovation and meaningful change in education.

Jeffrey Kilner, M.Ed., supports tech integration for Delaware’s Indian River Schools. A former STEM Educator of the Year and Stanford Hollyhock Fellow, he empowers teachers to use technology equitably and effectively. Off-duty, he enjoys beach life with his family.

Kyung Kim, Ph.D., is an associate professor at the Korea Institute of Energy Technology (KENTECH), Republic of Korea. Dr. Kim leads research on AI-enhanced learning and developed the Active Learning Classroom. He’s also CEO of EdTech startup No One Behind, promoting equity in personalized education.

Dr. Taniya Mishra is the founder and CEO of SureStart, a NYC-based AI education startup that offers mentoring-focused AI learning programs for middle-school, high-school and undergraduate students. Working with AI for over 15 years, Taniya’s AI expertise and deep commitment to technical mentorship of students across the globe has garnered multiple global awards and Taniya is a recognized advocate for inclusive, impactful AI education.

Zahra Razi is a leader in the fields of educational technology and K–12 computer science education, dedicated to empowering teachers and students to explore and apply the transformative potential of technology. An Amazon Future Engineer Ambassador and 2025 ASU+GSV AI Innovator, Zahra designs hands-on, interdisciplinary projects that inspire and empower students.

Lauren Richardson is the Experienceships Coordinator at Indian Hill Exempted Village School District, focusing on strategically employing innovative, research-backed approaches to empower educators and cultivate thriving learning environments. Holding a Master's in Curriculum, Instruction, & Technology and a Bachelor's in Spanish Education, Lauren has designed and delivered professional learning opportunities for Indian Hill staff.

Kirsten Salonga teaches Environmental Science and chairs the science department at Justice High. A Fulbright Scholar and project-based learning advocate, she brings global and local perspectives to science education through inclusive, hands-on initiatives.

Samantha Shane is an innovative career and technical education (CTE) instructor teaching high school students who want to pursue a career in education. Samantha is shaping relevant and engaging CTE experiences that empower students to take charge of their learning. Her focus is on empowering student choice in learning, ensuring each lesson equips students with meaningful, real-world skills that prepare them for their chosen career paths.

Alana Winnick is a visionary leader who is actively shaping the future of education. Author of The Generative Age, Alana currently serves as the Educational Technology Director and Data Protection Officer for Pocantico Hills CSD in Sleepy Hollow, NY, and as a Director for the New York State Association for Computers and Technology in Education. She also founded Students for Innovation to amplify student voices in education reform.