Matthew is the Senior Policy Advisor for Education Funding at ExcelinEd. He previously worked as a senior program officer at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, spearheading a national initiative to improve strategic use of resources in public education. He also served as Executive Director of Advocates for Children and Youth, where he led successful efforts to improve education and other services in Maryland. He also previously worked as a senior associate at the Annie E. Casey Foundation. Matthew received his bachelor’s from Harvard University and a JD from the University of Maryland School of Law.

Nanette Merrill is a lifelong educator with a deep commitment to student success and instructional excellence. She was the Founding Principal of Gem Prep Meridian in 2018 and served most recently as the Founding Principal of Gem Prep Meridian North. Nanette holds an Education Specialist degree in Teacher Leadership and Administration, a Master’s in Education with a Math emphasis, and a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education—all earned with high honors. Throughout her career, Nanette has received significant recognition, most notably being named the 2013 Oregon State Teacher of the Year. She is also a recipient of the 2014 National Education Association Global Fellowship Award, along with several honors for math excellence and leadership. Her contributions to education have extended beyond the classroom, through her service on the Governor’s Council for Educator Advancement and the Deputy Superintendent Advisory Council for the Oregon Department of Education. Nanette’s professional influence includes participation in Teach Like a Champion training to improve teaching and learning. She has also served as an evaluator and writer for the Smarter Balanced Digital Library. Her insights have been featured in several national publications, including Parent & Child Magazine, The NEA Foundation, Today’s OEA, and Conversations with America’s Best Teachers. She is an active member of professional organizations such as the Oregon State and Regional Teachers of the Year Network and the National Network of State Teachers of the Year, reflecting her ongoing commitment to the professional learning community.

Terry Ryan is CEO of the Boise-based education nonprofit Bluum, and is responsible for leading Idaho’s effort to double the number of students in high-performing public charter schools. Ryan oversees day-to-day operations ($3 million operating budget) and coordinates closely all activities with the J.A. & Kathryn Albertson Family Foundation. He leads Idaho’s federal Charter School Program (CSP) grant of $25 million. Ryan was Vice-President for Ohio Programs and Policy at the Thomas B. Fordham Institute/Foundation from 2001 to 2013. He began his education career as a teacher in Poland and worked with the Polish Ministry of Education on civic education. Ryan served on Idaho Governor Brad Little’s “Our Kids, Idaho’s Future” education task force.

Monica White serves as the Co-Founder and Chief Visionary Officer at Elevate Academy Network of Schools, where she brings a passion for sparking educational opportunity and ensuring students are prepared for the workforce. Monica is an experienced administrator, consultant, and educator – prior to her time at Elevate Academy, Monica served as an Assistant Superintendent with the Caldwell School District in Caldwell, Idaho.