Our Keynote Speaker for Fall 2024

Keynote Speaker: Nury Castillo Crawford

Keynote Presentation: Empowering English Learners: Our Call to Action

Join us for an inspiring and heartfelt keynote by Nury Castillo Crawford, a passionate advocate for English learners. Nury’s message goes beyond education—it's about the profound responsibility we hold in shaping the lives of students who come to us with hope, dreams, and limitless potential. This keynote will remind us of the power we have to not only teach but to believe in these learners and unlock their brightest futures. Don't miss this powerful session that will leave you energized and ready to make a lasting impact!

BIO:
        Nury Castillo Crawford is a transformational leader with over 25 years of experience in the public education sector. Originally from Peru, she immigrated to the USA as a young girl and has since dedicated her career to advocating for students and families. Nury has served as a teacher, school administrator, and district-level leader, collaborating closely with community stakeholders to maximize resources and support. Her commitment to education stems from a deep belief in its pivotal role in youth success.
        As an entrepreneur and bilingual Latina, Nury is the proud owner of 1010 Publishing, a Georgia-based small press that publishes about five bilingual books. She recently founded THE little BOOK SPOT, a non-profit focused on increasing literacy access to all communities. Both initiatives aim to enhance access to literacy and related resources, with a focus on bilingual and biliterate books celebrating cultural pride and ancestry.
        Nury's impactful leadership has earned national recognition, including the prestigious TUMI Award in 2022, which honors Peruvian Americans making significant contributions in the USA. She has been named among the "50 Most Influential Latinos" for three consecutive years (2019-2021) and was recognized as National Educator of the Year by Mundo Hispanico. Nury is a sought-after national speaker on topics such as parent involvement, education equity, mentoring, and bilingualism, highlighting the vital role of Latinos in American culture.
        She has authored numerous books and is regularly featured in national media outlets, including ABC, NBC, NPR, Atlanta Journal Constitution, and Mundo Hispanico, among others. Nury is also a first-generation immigrant with extensive experience as a keynote speaker at conferences like GATESOL, having presented at hundreds of educational spaces nationwide. Her advocacy focuses on representation and empowerment, particularly for marginalized communities.