Theme: The Well-Rounded Child - Innovative Experiences in K-12 Education

Three exceptional educators that produce well rounded children through STEM, Recreation and Business innovations.

Heinen Theater
3517 Austin Street
Houston, Texas, 77004
United States

Amber Newman

Chief Executive Officer, Boys & Girls Club of Brazoria County

Amber Newman, the CEO of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Brazoria County, is a dedicated professional with nearly two decades of experience in the nonprofit sector. Amber holds a Bachelor's degree from Dillard University, fundraising Certification from Rice University, and a Master's degree in Public Administration from Texas Southern University. Amber's awards include the 2022 Houston Humanitarian Award, the 2022 CEO of the Year from Boys & Girls Club of America, and the 2022 Presidential Award. Amber and her family contributed to relief efforts for Hurricane Harvey and Katrina, volunteered at the Salvation Army to feed the homeless, supported the Houston Holocaust Museum, and involved in initiatives such as NFL youth. Amber's dedication includes supporting the military in the Middle East. Amber has addressed the Women's Leadership Conference, various events, and conferences. She also shares her knowledge as a professor. Amber is married to LeMarcus Newman and mother of three children.

Crystal Lister

Mommy and Me: The Listers - Dedicated STEM Educator and CEO

Crystal Lister, a visionary in STEM education, has dedicated her life to inspiring young minds, transcending from inner-city Houston to a formidable STEM advocate. Her commitment to universal STEM accessibility propels her work, evident in the creation of Mommy and Me: The Listers—an organization reshaping STEM engagement. Recognized with the Community Impact Award and the Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility award from NASA's Johnson Space Center, Crystal's advocacy is far reaching. Congressional and Mayoral Proclamations affirm her profound contributions to STEM education. Currently, is integral in addressing astronauts' psychological challenges, enhancing their mental resilience, and ensuring space mission success. Drawing on a foundation in community engagement and education, Crystal, along with Mommy and Me, reaches thousands through their annual STEM Carnival. Crystal's innovative approach to hands-on learning has inspired those championing transformative education.

Patrice Allen

Director - G-Unity Business Lab

Patrice Lanette Allen was born to Clothild and Lawrence Allen Jr. on November 13, 1986. She is the proud granddaughter of Dr. Alma Allen, Texas State Representative. She is the proud mother of her son Jaedis, 13, her daughter Jaelauryn, 9 and her son Jaeson, 4. She attended Baylor University where she received her Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology. She received her Master’s in Counseling Education from the University of Houston – Victoria, her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Prairie View A&M University, and her Master’s in Business Administration from Lamar University. Dr. Allen’s professional journey consists of teaching the English Curriculum at the historic Phillis Wheatley High school for 7 years and Instructional Specialist for 3 years. Her experience led her to become an Assistant Principal at Deady Middle School. She now serves as the Director of the HISD G-Unity Business Lab Project and NES Dyad. She is a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.