William W Purkey: William Purkey, Ed.D., (Greensboro, NC) began his career as a public school teacher, rising to a fully tenured position at the University of Florida, and finally as Professor Emeritus of Counselor Education at the University of North Carolina-Greensboro. His passion has earned him various awards of excellence in his field. He is co-founder of the International Alliance for Invitational Education. A noted writer, researcher, speaker, and leader, Purkey has authored nearly 100 articles and more than a dozen books.

Betty L Siegel: Betty L. Siegel, Ph.D. (Kennesaw, GA) served as President of Kennesaw State University for 25 years, and at the time of her retirement in 2006, was believed to be the longest serving woman president of a public college in the United States. Recipient of numerous awards for teaching, service, and leadership, including the University of North Carolina's coveted Peabody Award, she has been named Georgia Woman of the Year, and co-founder of the International Alliance for Invitational Education.