Speaker Spotlight

Keynote Speaker

KristEn ziman

ADAMH

Chief Kristen Ziman, retired Chief of Police of Aurora, Illinois, boasts a distinguished career marked by trailblazing achievements and transformative leadership. She began her journey in law enforcement in 1991 as a police cadet and rose through the ranks to become the first female chief of Aurora's Police Department in 2016. Throughout her 30-year tenure, Ziman was known for her commitment to community policing and organizational excellence, implementing significant initiatives that redefined the department's approach to public safety. Ziman holds two master’s degrees and has completed studies at the Harvard Kennedy School of Government, bringing a wealth of academic and practical knowledge to her audiences. She is also a published author of the memoir "Reimagining Blue," which provides a candid look at her experiences in law enforcement and advocates for systemic improvements and a culture of optimism and resilience within all professions and organizations.  

Her leadership was characterized by a focus on accountability and innovation, and she played a pivotal role during critical incidents, such as the tragic mass shooting at the Henry Pratt Company in 2019. Ziman's influence extended beyond her department as she became a sought-after speaker and consultant, emphasizing the importance of evolving organizational culture and empowering leaders to foster positive change. 

Kristen Ziman continues to inspire through her speaking engagements and writings, sharing insights on leadership, resilience, and the continuous pursuit of excellence for individuals and organizations.  

Session Presenters

ADAMH

ADAMH connects the community through a 15network of Care agencies, funds programs for prenatal through older adults, provides mobile crisis 24/7 and provides Awareness, Training and Education to the community.

jOHN hANSON

Across demanding industries like the Military, Healthcare, Ministry, Finance, Retail, Industrial Automation, Manufacturing and Systems Integration, John D. Hanson has established himself as an engaged leader, earning promotions and recognition. Win/Win relationships with senior leadership, managerial peers, vendors, and direct reports has been a consistent attribute.  

While working full-time for a Fortune 10 company and serving in the military reserve, John earned two simultaneous degrees from Union Institute & University, graduating with 4.0 GPA’s in both in just 2 years.  Following years of research, his first book, “WOW Your Customers! 7 Ways to World-Class Service” published in 2018, selling copies world-wide. John has interviewed leaders on every continent and addressed global summits, live conferences, and virtual events as a keynote speaker. His life-changing new book, “Winning Secrets: How a Dictionary and a Ruler Can Change Your Life, launched in November of 2023, earning endorsements from 6 continents and life-changing testimonials from grateful readers.  His 3rd book, “5th Dimensional Customer Experience: Your Win/Win Entrepreneurial Business Plan” launched in April 2024.  His 4th book, “Heroic Leadership: Anyone Can Be A Courageous Leader” will be released in the fall of 2024. 

John has been a repeat guest on the nationally-broadcast Mr. Biz B2B Radio show and has appeared on multiple podcasts and expert panels worldwide. His live, weekly radio show, The Heroic Experience, aired over 40 episodes, now available on his YouTube channel.  John honorably served as a senior leader for the Ohio Army National Guard. His 8-year commitment, including a 2010 Iraq deployment, completed in 2016. John’s family lives in Union County, Ohio.  They have 2 children with developmental disabilities, so they know firsthand the blessing of working with an active, supportive DD Board. 

GRACE BLATT

Grace Blatt has been a Good Life Ambassador for the Cuyahoga Board of Developmental Disabilities since 2016 In this role, she advocates and promotes the acceptance, inclusion and appreciation of people on the autism spectrum as well as all people with disabilities. Grace holds a Masters degree from Cleveland State University in Psychological Sciences (Experimental Psychological Research). She is currently a part-time professor at Cleveland State University teaching upper division neuroscience courses. Grace has experienced many challenges and triumphs which she has learned from and can articulate the challenges and triumphs for other people on the autism spectrum and those with disabilities. In her free time, she enjoys creating handmade jewelry, knitting, crocheting and weaving baskets.   

Lindsey Hanes, Lori Ferbrache, Sarah Thimmes, Stacy McQueary

Forest Rose School works to serve students from Pre-School up to 22years of age, encouraging and empowering students to meet their learning goals and be part of a vibrant community that recognizes the value in all.