Merlyna Valentine

In 2007, Ms. Valentine was faced with a medical tragedy that changed her life forever. She survived and lives life now as a quad amputee. Ms. Valentine embraced this tragedy with an extremely positive attitude, and she truly believes that this tragedy has allowed her to serve as an inspiration to all to never give up.

As an educator for the past 30 years, she has dedicated her life to making a difference in the lives of others. Ms. Valentine has been a teacher, assistant principal, principal and Executive Director of Elementary Schools for a high-performing school district. She has been recognized with numerous awards and commendations such as Teacher of the Year, Principal of the Year, and Louisiana Regional Principal of the Year. She has been featured in several articles and news stories at the local and national level including an article by the world famous Dr. Harry K. Wong. In honor of her story of survival, courage, and hope, Ms. Valentine was featured in a segment on the Today Show and in an article in Ebony Magazine.

Tami West

Stress and Mental Health Expert Dr. Tami West uses her entertaining and compelling style to shine a new light on how to transform your life and discover solutions to life’s challenges.

Dr. West has worked in a variety of industries including healthcare, school nutrition, corporate sales, and 10 years as a public-school teacher. In 2013 she received her PhD in Human Development, studying the connections among stress, emotions, and identity. She is the author of several successful publications including three books: The Stress Club, Life Without the Monsters and Thrive. When she's not speaking or writing, you might find her traveling with her husband and family, reading historical fiction, or watching Big Bang Theory.
 
Dr. West connects with audiences through real experience, cutting edge research, and transparent stories – all sprinkled with humor! She will make you laugh, cry, and shine a refreshingly new light on life's challenges.