Dave Adney is the Executive Director of the Minnesota Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP). A former math teacher, Adney spent a decade as principal at Minnetonka High School, a major chapter in his 40+ years in education. 

Adney has presented to groups across the country about the importance of building relationships first and focusing on student achievement second. In his current role he travels across Minnesota to share best practices along with some of the wisdom he has gained when it comes to creating school environments that position all students for success.

Dr. Bernadeia Johnson served as superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools from 2010 to 2015. She led the district through many challenging situations, as she worked with urgency to improve educational outcomes for all students with a particular focus on low-income students and students of color. Dr. Johnson is now an assistant professor at Minnesota State University Mankato, inspiring emerging leaders in education.

Dr. Johnson reflects back to her childhood in Selma, Alabama where she attended segregated schools until fifth grade. "I talk about living in the segregated south to come and live in the segregated north," she said, referring to the structural racism that still exists in some areas.