Education 2.0 Conference USA 2025 – Day 1 Recap

The Education 2.0 Conference USA 2025 opened its doors on March 4 at the Luxor Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, bringing together educators, policymakers, ed-tech innovators, and industry leaders from around the world. From the very first session at the education summit, it was evident that the focus was more than just on education—it was about transformation, empowerment, and preparing the next generation for a rapidly evolving world.

Breaking New Ground In EdTech

The day began with a deep dive into the evolving landscape of educational technology with the panel discussion “Innovations In EdTech: Leveraging Technology To Enhance Learning Experiences.” Moderated by Frank Sahlein, CEO & Chief Visionary Officer of 3rd Level Consulting, the discussion featured industry experts Jeannette Eastin, Founder of Refound Education Inc., Paul Kern, Senior Director of Learning Innovation at Wisconsin School Of Business Center For Professional And Executive Development, and Lisa Polk, Founder & CEO of Pollyanna’s Place, Inc. The panelists explored how AI-powered tools, immersive learning experiences, and personalized platforms are reshaping how students learn and teachers teach. A key question raised was whether these innovations are making education more inclusive or inadvertently creating new digital divides.

Following this, Dr. Tandria Callins, CEO & Principal of Language & Literacy Academy For Learning, Inc., took the stage for her keynote “Empowering Special Education: How Women Of Color In The C-Suite Leverage AI.” With a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt in education and extensive experience running a charter school for students with disabilities, Dr. Callins shared how AI is being harnessed to create adaptive learning environments that personalize education for every learner. Her insights highlighted the intersection of AI, leadership, and diversity in shaping inclusive educational practices.

Conversations That Challenge The Status Quo

One of the most engaging discussions on the first day of the education conference in the USA came from the panel “Why Women In STEM Is A Question Of Innovation, Not Just Equity.” Rev. Dr. Lisa Nezneski, CEO of Healthy Mindful Self, moderated the session, which brought together leaders who have broken barriers in STEM fields. The panelists included Shivani Narayanan, Strategic Financial Partner at AccSource Inc.; Dr. Kimberlee Wyche Etheridge, Chief Excellence Officer at The WycheEffect LLC; and Elizabeth Tweedale, CEO of Coco Coders. They discussed how diversity fuels innovation and the systemic changes needed to ensure that more women not only enter STEM fields but also thrive in leadership roles within them.

Following this discussion, the conference shifted gears to celebrate pioneers in education with a Recognition Session. Elizabeth Connolly, Founder & President of Thin Line Peer Support Team, Inc., took the stage to honor industry leaders making an impact. Among those recognized were Frank Sahlein, Chief Visionary Officer of 3rd Level Consulting, and Dr. Tandria Callins, CEO & Principal of Language & Literacy Academy For Learning, Inc. Their contributions to education and leadership were acknowledged, reinforcing the importance of collaboration and innovation in the sector.

From Thought Leadership To Practical Application

After a networking lunch that encouraged attendees to connect and exchange ideas, the afternoon sessions resumed with a thought-provoking keynote, “The Power Of Seven: 7 Questions To Transform The Way You Lead, Work, And Live.” Delivered by Rev. Dr. Lisa Nezneski, CEO of Healthy Mindful Self, the session encouraged educators and leaders to reflect on the essential questions that drive decision-making, purpose, and career growth.

Building on the momentum, the next panel, “Sustainability Education: Fostering Environmental Awareness And Responsibility,” tackled how educational institutions can integrate sustainability into curriculums. Kim Pickett, Project Geoscientist & Professor at GEI Canada Ltd., Seneca & Mohawk, led the discussion with Dr. CA Tse, Founder of Social Entrepreneurship School Education, Daniel Pompile, Vice President of Expansion at CHP Charter Schools, Dana J. Walker, Chief Executive Officer of Walker Consulting, and Prof. Ved, CEO of VEDX Inc. The conversation highlighted real-world strategies for cultivating environmental consciousness among students, from hands-on learning experiences to digital resources that inspire action.

Preparing For The Future Of Work

A particularly relevant discussion, given the changing employment landscape, was “The Gig Economy And Freelancing: Preparing Students For Flexible Career Paths.” Beth Masterman, President of Masterman Executive Coaching Inc., guided a compelling conversation with Ameer Washington, Chief Executive Officer of Boys & Girls Club Of Newark, Inc., Sima Shah, Owner of Primrose School Of Willow Glen, Cupertino, Milpitas & Almaden, Fern Chan, CEO of Fern Chan Ventures, Nina Packer, Impact Executive at Nina Packer Management, and Brian Winter, President & Co-founder of SOAR Learning, Inc. The panelists examined how educators can equip students with financial literacy, entrepreneurial thinking, and adaptability—skills becoming increasingly critical in a world where traditional career paths are no longer the norm.

Finding Balance In The Teaching Profession

As the day neared its conclusion at the education conference, the focus shifted toward educator well-being with the panel “Balancing Zeal And Zen In Teaching.” Dr. Doug Luffborough, III, President & CEO of Higher Level Leadership, led an insightful discussion with Daniel J. Kramarsky, President, Dr. Virginia L. Rhodes, CEO & Chief Education Consultant at Renegade Learning, Dr. Dawn Menge, CEO of Land Of Quails House, and Dr. Alex Schuh, Director at School Frontiers LLC. The panel explored strategies for sustaining passion in teaching while maintaining mental well-being, setting boundaries, and adopting mindfulness practices to prevent burnout.

A Day Of Networking And Celebration

Before wrapping up, the education conference took a moment to recognize outstanding contributions in the field of education. Heather Ogburn Stokes, CEO & Founder of Serenity Light Recovery, LLC, led the final Recognition Session, honoring professionals who have driven meaningful change in the sector. Their dedication to improving learning experiences and outcomes was celebrated, emphasizing the role of visionary leadership in education.

The day wrapped up with an engaging Networking Hour, allowing attendees to build new connections, share insights, and discuss potential collaborations in a relaxed setting. As conversations extended into the evening, the pervasive themes of innovation, leadership, and sustainability were evident, promising to inspire continued dialogue in future events. Participants were also encouraged to visit The 2.0 Conferences' exhibit booth to explore upcoming editions in Dubai and the USA, apart from the innovative exhibits from leading names in the industry.

Looking Ahead

With Day 1 setting a powerful precedent, attendees eagerly anticipated the sessions ahead. The next two days at our education conference in the USA promise even deeper discussions on AI in education, student-centered learning, and preparing institutions for the next wave of digital transformation. If the first day was any indication, the Education 2.0 Conference USA 2025 was not just a forum for ideas but a launchpad for action!