Ben Shuldiner has over 25 years of experience transforming education as a teacher, principal, professor, school board member, and superintendent. As Superintendent of the Lansing School District, he led a major turnaround, raising graduation rates by 26%, boosting attendance by 13%, and reversing decades of enrollment decline. Under his leadership, Lansing achieved Michigan’s highest reading growth scores (2022–2024) and launched initiatives such as Universal Pre-K, Lansing Technical High School, and the Newcomer Center.

Previously, Shuldiner was a Distinguished Lecturer at Hunter College, where he oversaw education leadership programs, and served on the New York City Board of Education. He was twice elected President of ASCD. Earlier, he founded the High School for Public Service in Brooklyn, which was named New York State’s top Title I school.

Ben graduated magna cum laude from Harvard University and earned his MSEd from Baruch College.

Dr. Brian Yearwood’s journey is one of perseverance, talent, and dedication. Born in the picturesque town of Scarborough, Trinidad and Tobago, to parents who were both educators, Dr. Yearwood was raised in an environment that championed the transformative power of education. His early life was defined by academic curiosity and athletic prowess, as he rose to become a tennis champion on his island, eventually earning the opportunity to compete in junior Wimbledon—a testament to his extraordinary skill and determination.

At the age of 17,  Dr. Yearwood immigrated to the United States, driven by a dream and the promise of a brighter future. Recruited to play tennis at the prestigious New Mexico Military Institute, he balanced his athletic talents with academic rigor, earning an associate degree. His journey continued at Texas Tech University, where his passion for both sport and scholarship flourished. At Texas Tech, Dr. Yearwood not only competed as a member of the university’s tennis team but also served as a student coach, demonstrating his natural leadership abilities. He earned a bachelor’s degree in geology, followed by a master’s degree in educational administration, and ultimately, a doctorate in educational leadership and statistics.

Dr. Yearwood’s professional career is as impressive as his academic and athletic achievements. Beginning as a middle school physical science teacher and tennis coach, he quickly became known for his ability to inspire and elevate those around him. After just three years in the classroom, he transitioned into administration, serving as an assistant principal, principal at both the elementary and middle school levels, and later as an assistant superintendent overseeing curriculum, instruction, human resources, and academics. His journey culminated in the role of Chief Operations Officer, where he demonstrated an exceptional ability to manage complex systems and drive organizational success.

Dr. Yearwood served as the superintendent for the fourth-largest school district in Missouri, Columbia Public Schools. Under his visionary leadership, the district has achieved remarkable milestones, including a groundbreaking 16-point increase in its Annual Performance Report (APR) score, reaching an impressive 86.5%.

Dr. Yearwood’s life is a testament to the power of hard work, resilience, and a commitment to service. Married to his wife, Tina, a registered nurse, and father to two children, he continues to inspire others with his story of triumph and his dedication to the success of every scholar, educator, and community he serves. Dr. Yearwood exemplifies the transformative impact of leadership, education, and an unwavering belief in the potential of all.