Dr. Dionne Nichols-Condoll is an educator with over 20 years of experience in early childhood, elementary, secondary, and higher education. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education, a Master of Arts degree in Teaching in Urban Schools both from Southern University at New Orleans and a Master of Arts degree in Administration and Supervision from Nicholls State University, Thibodaux, LA. In addition, she has earned her doctorate degree in Educational Leadership and Administration from Capella University, Minneapolis, MN.  

Denise Walter McConduit, children's book author, and weekly columnist lives in New Orleans, Louisiana the birthplace of jazz and a city that enjoys unique traditions like Mardi Gras, Jazz Festivals, and Debutante balls. Her first book, "D.J. and the Zulu Parade" is about the adventures of her son, "D.J" when he rode in a Mardi Gras Parade. That book led to two other stories about the intrepid boy: D.J. and the Jazz Fest and D.J. and the Debutante Ball.Her upcoming book is titled, "The Boy Who Wouldn't Read".

For Tayla M. Young, storytelling is more than words on a page; it's a journey of empowerment and understanding. This passion is deeply rooted in her Louisiana origins, laying the foundation for Tayla's enduring commitment to elevating diverse voices, championing representation, and contributing to a more equitable world.

Tanisia Moore views writing as her avenue for giving hope, sharing life's lessons, and sparking imaginations. Her companion picture books I Am My Ancestors' Wildest Dreams and When Black Girls Dream Big (October 2024) empower young readers to dream and live big and remind them of their strength and potential. She lives in Birmingham, Alabama, with her husband and three young children. Learn more at tanisiamoore.com.

Derek Roberts is the award-winning watercolor illustrator of the 

Leanne Boucher Gill, PhD, is a professor of psychology and neuroscience at Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. She is fascinated with all things brain related and often ropes her students into library, museum, and classroom programs to teach kids about the brain. She maintains an active research program at NSU studying how exercise affects the way we think. She is the author of two books about the brain, released in 2021.