Empath Speakers
Francesca Cademartori
A former Special Education student, Francesca will be a senior at Chapman University and is majoring in Integrated Educational Studies with a focus in performing arts and has a double minor in Disability Studies and Entrepreneurship. She is a disability advocate and has conducted professional development events, presented at numerous regional, state and international conferences, has been a HigherEd guest lecturer and has presented on disability and accessibility to the film and television industry in Los Angeles, CA.
Brie Moore, PhD
A Clinical Child Psychologist specializing in the cognitiveÂbehaviora I treatment of psychological and behavioral health concerns, including childhood anxiety, depression, ADHD, and noncompliance. Dr. Moore is also the founder of the Courage Project, which through mindful engagement in outdoor experiences, aims to enhance the lives of children who experience anxiety and depression and their families, raise awareness and destigmatize mental health concerns-one adventure at a time.
Dr. Christa S. Bialka
An Associate Professor of Special Education in the Department of Education and Counseling at Villanova University, Dr. Bialka directs the Undergraduate Teacher Education Program and is the Director and Program Creator of the Disability and Deaf Studies Program. Her research interests include understanding the development of teacher dispositions, preparation of teachers for inclusive classrooms, and disability.
Eddie Pietrzak, M.S.Ed
Eddie is a STEM teacher and Professional Magician who has a passion for teaching, and instructional coaching. His expertise on integrating joy into learning environments earned Eddie the title of Teacher of the Year in his school district in 2016 and 2024. His engaging teaching and presentation style pushes the boundaries in both education and magic. Eddie holds a Master’s in Education Entrepreneurship from University of Pennsylvania.
Amy Laff M.S.Ed
Specializing in working with students facing specific learning disabilities, emotional support needs, and intensive learning requirements, Amy Laff has become synonymous with transformative education. One of her proudest achievements is the development of the BRIDGE program, a pioneering initiative tailored to meet the unique needs of her district’s 18-21 population. Amy holds a Master’s degree in Special Education and a Special Education Supervisor Certificate.
Michelle Reynolds, M.S.Ed
Michelle Reynolds has dedicated the last 20 years to Special Education. She taught in both Autistic Support and Life Skills, and over the past decade, she has focused on co-teaching and emotional regulation. Michelle holds a Special Education Supervisor Certificate and a graduate certificate in Applied Educational Neuroscience from Butler University.