REGISTER | SIGN IN DONATE MENU CFI Speakers Bureau The Center for Inquiry (CFI) Speakers Bureau is a tool for campus groups, community groups, and conference organizers to find quality speakers on topics related to CFI’s mission of fostering a secular society based on reason, science, freedom of inquiry, and humanist values. If you would like to book a speaker, you may email them at the address provided on their profile. Unless indicated otherwise, CFI does not typically act as an intermediary between speakers and groups. “CFI Speakers” are staff, board members, and volunteer representatives. If you have questions about the CFI Speakers Bureau, please contact the CFI Outreach Department at outreach@centerforinquiry.net. Viewpoints and information presented by speakers do not necessarily reflect the viewpoints of, nor should they be attributed to, CFI or its affiliates, or any of their directors or officers. 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His first children’s book, Aching and Praying, was published in 2011 and he has spoken at the Reason Rally, the American Atheist Convention, and for secular college groups. He has also contributed to an upcoming narratives book, Atheists In America, by Columbia University professor … Learn more about Ronnelle Adams > FAISAL SAEED AL-MUTAR Ideas Beyond Borders · Washington, DC Topics: Activism & Organizing, Education, Politics, Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Critical thinking, Free expression issues, Islam, Leaving religion, Religious criticism, Religious extremism, Separation of church and state, Social media Faisal is an Iraqi-born award-winning counter extremism advocate, satirist, and speaker. He is an advocate for Universal Human Rights, enlightenment values and the free market of ideas, and is enthusiastic about the intersection of technology and advocacy. He is also the founder of multiple online platforms that together have more than 400,000 subscribers and millions … Learn more about Faisal Saeed Al-Mutar > DONALD B. ARDELL Publisher of the Ardell Wellness Report · St. Petersburg, Florida Topics: Psychology, Skepticism, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Alternative medicine, History of atheism/secularism, Meaning of life, Sex & sexuality Donald B. Ardell is an outspoken freethinker who promotes a philosophy of REAL wellness, “REAL” being an acronym for Reason, Exuberance, Athleticism and Liberty – the four dimensions of a lifestyle conducive to well being and happiness. Don is a devotee of Robert Green Ingersoll and often performs a variety of speeches, poems and quotations … Learn more about Donald B. Ardell > RONALD ARONSON Wayne State University · Detroit, Michigan Topics: History, Media, Politics Subtopics: Coming out atheist, Journalism, Lobbying Ronald Aronson grew up in Detroit and was educated at Wayne State University, U.C.L.A., the University of Michigan, and Brandeis University, where he earned a Ph.D. in the History of Ideas. He studied with William Barrett, Page Smith, and Herbert Marcuse. Swept up in the political activism of the 1960s, he became a community organizer … Learn more about Ronald Aronson > JULIAN BAGGINI Philosopher, Writer, Consultant · Bristol, England Topics: Philosophy, Religion Subtopics: Critical thinking, Ethics & morality, Separation of church and state Julian Baggini is the author, co-author or editor of over 20 books including How The World Thinks, A Short History of Truth, The Edge of Reason, The Virtues of the Table, The Ego Trick, and Freedom Regained. He has written for numerous newspapers and magazines, as well as for the think tanks The Institute of Public Policy … Learn more about Julian Baggini > ANTHONY BARNHART Carthage College · Kenosha, Wisconsin Topics: Cognitive Science Subtopics: Art & science, Evolutionary psychology, Paranormal & fringe-science claims Anthony Barnhart is an Assistant Professor of Psychological Science at Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin. He received his Ph.D. in Cognitive Science from Arizona State University, where he began his graduate career with the intention of being a language researcher. To this end, he has published research examining the processes underlying handwritten word perception, a … Learn more about Anthony Barnhart > JOE E. BARNHART Independent · Knoxville, Tennessee Topics: Philosophy, Politics, Psychology Subtopics: Ethics & morality, Evolutionary psychology, Meaning of life, Separation of church and state Joe E. Barnhart, Ph.D., recently retired to write his novels, became Professor of Philosophy and Religion Studies at the University of North Texas in 1974. He became a contributing member of the American Academy of Religion, the Association for the Scientific Study of Religion, the Society for Biblical Literature, the Southern Society for Philosophy and … Learn more about Joe E. Barnhart > ELIZABETH BARRE Wake Forest University · Winston-Salem, North Carolina Topics: Atheism & Secularism, History, Philosophy, Religion, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: History of atheism/secularism, Separation of church and state Elizabeth Barre is a comparative ethicist who works on questions that lie at the intersection of moral philosophy and the history of religion, with a specific focus on Muslim, Christian, and secular political ethics. She has written about the ways recent Muslim debates about liberalism, democracy, and the separation of religion and politics are similar … Learn more about Elizabeth Barre > GARY BAUSLAUGH Independent · Victoria, British Columbia Topics: Subtopics: Gary Bauslaugh has a PhD in chemistry from McGill University, and has held many teaching and administrative positions in postsecondary institutions in Canada. He was VP of Instruction and Planning at what is now Vancouver Island University, and served for four years as CEO of a Provincial post-secondary educational planning and development agency in British Columbia. … Learn more about Gary Bauslaugh > JENNIFER BEAHAN Center for Inquiry · Grand Rapids, Michigan Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Humanism, Religion, Skepticism, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Community group organizing, Event planning, Women & gender Jennifer Beahan is the Executive Director for CFI Michigan. She is responsible for the day-to-day operations of CFI Michigan and is working to build a secular community throughout Michigan. Her interests include volunteer management, program development and evaluation, secular activism, and women’s rights. She holds a Bachelor’s of Music Education (K-12), and in addition to … Learn more about Jennifer Beahan > JEREMY BEAHAN Reasonable Doubts · Grand Rapids, Michigan Topics: Debates, Philosophy, Religion Subtopics: Critical thinking, Leaving religion, Naturalism, Religious criticism Fundamentalist raised and educated, Jeremy graduated from Grace Bible College and Cornerstone University with a dual degree in social studies and religious education. While training for ministry Jeremy underwent a dramatic de-conversion as a culmination to many years of questioning. Today Jeremy works to promote critical thinking and skeptical inquiry in his local community. When … Learn more about Jeremy Beahan > RYAN BELL National Organizing Manager at the Secular Student Alliance · Los Angeles, California Topics: Humanism, Politics, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Campus group organizing, Coming out atheist, Community group organizing, Event planning, Leaving religion, Religious criticism, Starting a group, Women & gender After nearly 20 years in congregational pastoral ministry Ryan left his church in 2013 and shortly thereafter began an exploration of atheism and humanism and wrote about his experience at the Year Without God blog. His experience and writing became an international phenomenon and was covered by CNN, BBC, NPR, Los Angeles Times, and dozens … Learn more about Ryan Bell > OPHELIA BENSON Independent · Seattle, Washington Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Media, Politics, Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Journalism, Religious criticism, Sex & sexuality Ophelia Benson is the joint-author (with Jeremy Stangroom) of The Dictionary of Fashionable Nonsense, Why Truth Matters, and Does God Hate Women? She blogs at Butterflies and Wheels and is a columnist for Free Inquiry and The Freethinker. ShareTweet Learn more about Ophelia Benson > AUGUST BERKSHIRE Minnesota Atheists · Minneapolis, Minnesota Topics: Activism & Organizing, Debates, Politics, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Campus group organizing, Community group organizing, Separation of church and state August Berkshire is the president of Minnesota Atheists (MNA) and is a past vice president of Atheist Alliance International (AAI). He serves on the boards of directors of Camp Quest of Minnesota (CQMN) and Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF), and is on the speaker’s bureau for the Secular Student Alliance (SSA) and the Center for … Learn more about August Berkshire > HEATHER BERLIN Cognitive Neuroscientist · New York, New York Topics: Cognitive Science, Debates, Psychology Subtopics: Art & science, Mental illness Dr. Heather Berlin is a cognitive neuroscientist and Professor of Psychiatry at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She practices clinical neuropsychology at Weill Cornell Medicine/New York Presbyterian Hospital in the Department of Neurological Surgery, and is a Visiting Scholar at the New York Psychoanalytic Society and Institute. She explores the neural basis … Learn more about Heather Berlin > MARWA BERRO Between a Veil and a Dark Place · Bloomington, Indiana Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Politics, Psychology, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Coming out atheist, Free expression issues, Islam, Sex & sexuality, Women & gender Marwa Berro is a writer and professional translator from Beirut. An apostate from Islam, she grew up between an international expatriate community in Saudi Arabia and Hezbollah guerrilla warfare culture in Lebanon. She runs the popular blog Between a Veil and a Dark Place, where she explores womanhood and politics post-Islam, with a recurring focus on … Learn more about Marwa Berro > RUSSELL BLACKFORD University of Newcastle · Newcastle, New South Wales Topics: Media, Philosophy Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Ethics & morality, History of atheism/secularism, Journalism, Leaving religion, Meaning of life Russell Blackford is a philosopher, literary critic, and freelance writer (his professional fiction credits include The New John Connor Chronicles, a trilogy of novels written for the Terminator franchise). His formal qualifications include First Class Honours degrees in Arts and Law, and separate PhDs in philosophy and English literature. Dr Blackford is editor-in-chief of The Journal … Learn more about Russell Blackford > BEN BLANCHARD Activist · St. Paul, Minnesota Topics: Humanism, Philosophy, Science (General), Social Issues & Movements, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: Alternative medicine, Atheist/secular movement, Campus group organizing, Coming out atheist, Community group organizing, Conspiracy theories, Ethics & morality, Event planning, Evolution, LGBTQ issues, Meaning of life, Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Philosophy of science, Pseudoscience, Science denial, Science education, Sex & sexuality, Skeptic movement Ben is an organizer and activist best known for his service work through the Pathfinders Project, a yearlong international service trip sponsored by Foundation Beyond Belief. The Pathfinders supported clean water, education, human rights, and environmental conservation work around in eight countries the globe, as well as providing the framework for the Humanist Service Corps. … Learn more about Ben Blanchard > BOB BLASKIEWICZ Stockton University · Atlanta, Georgia Topics: Education, Skepticism Subtopics: Alternative medicine, Conspiracy theories, Critical thinking, Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Pseudoscience, Science denial, Science education, Skeptic movement Bob Blaskiewicz is Assistant Professor of Critical Thinking and First-Year Studies at Stockton University, where he teaches courses on critical thinking, science and pseudoscience, science and business writing, and the literature of WWII combat veterans. He’s the Conspiracy Guy blogger at the CSI website, a former TAM presenter, a podcaster at Skepticality, an occasional contributor … Learn more about Bob Blaskiewicz > MARK BLUMBERG University of Iowa · Iowa City, Iowa Topics: Biology, Cognitive Science, Education, Psychology Subtopics: Evolution, Evolutionary psychology, Science education Mark Blumberg is a behavioral neuroscientist and the F. Wendell Miller Professor at the University of Iowa. He received his bachelor’s degree from Brandeis University in 1983, majoring in Physics and Philosophy. That year, he began graduate school at the University of Chicago, where he received his doctorate in Biopsychology in 1988. After leaving Chicago, … Learn more about Mark Blumberg > ROB BOSTON Americans United for Separation of Church and State · Washington, DC Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Politics, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Community group organizing, Lobbying, Separation of church and state Rob Boston is director of communications for Americans United for Separation of Church and State and also serves as assistant editor of AU’s monthly magazine Church & State. Boston is the author of four books: Taking Liberties: Why Religious Freedom Doesn’t Give You The Right To Tell Other People What To Do (Prometheus Books, 2014), Why the Religious … Learn more about Rob Boston > GLENN BRANCH National Center for Science Education · Seattle, Washington Topics: Biology, Education, Philosophy, Skepticism Subtopics: Critical thinking, Evolution, Pseudoscience, Science denial, Science education Glenn Branch is deputy director of the National Center for Science Education, a nonprofit organization that defends the integrity of science education against ideological interference. He was the co-editor, with Eugenie C. Scott, of Not in Our Classrooms: Why Intelligent Design is Wrong for Our Schools, and author or coauthor of numerous articles on climate education and … Learn more about Glenn Branch > ED BRAYTON Freethought Blogs · Grand Rapids, Michigan Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Atheism & Secularism, Biology, Religion Subtopics: Comedy, Evolution, Separation of church and state After spending several years touring the country as a stand up comedian, Ed Brayton tired of explaining his jokes to small groups of dazed illiterates and turned to writing as the most common outlet for the voices in his head. He is now the owner of the popular blog, Dispatches from the Culture Wars. He has appeared … Learn more about Ed Brayton > BABA BRINKMAN Rapper/Comedian · New York, New York Topics: Astronomy & Earth Science, Cognitive Science, Psychology, Religion Subtopics: Art & science, Comedy, Evolution, Music Baba Brinkman is a Canadian rapper, science communicator, and award-winning hip-hop playwright based in New York, NY. Best known for his “Rap Guide” series of science-themed plays and albums, Baba has toured the world and enjoyed successful runs at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival and off-Broadway. The series so far includes rap guides to Evolution, Human Nature, Business, Wilderness, Religion, … Learn more about Baba Brinkman > ED BUCKNER American Atheists · Atlanta, Georgia Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Politics, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Separation of church and state Ed Buckner received his B.A. from Rice University in 1967 and his M. Ed. and Ph.D. from Georgia State University. He has edited Freethought Press books by Massimo Pigliucci, Keith Parsons, Carol Faulkenberry, and Edwin Kagin. With his wife Diane, he co-edited freethinker and retired FBI agent Oliver G. Halle’s Taking the Harder Right. With his … Learn more about Ed Buckner > DIANE BURKHOLDER One-Struggle KC · Kansas City, Missouri Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Cognitive Science, Humanism, Social Issues & Movements, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: African American humanism, Atheist/secular movement, Community group organizing, Event planning, LGBTQ issues, Mental illness, Sex & sexuality, Starting a group Diane Burkholder is a cisgender, queer, mixed race, Black feminist community organizer who has lived in Kansas City since 2011, via South Dakota and California. Her education is in sociology (CSU-Long Beach) and Ethnic Studies (San Francisco State University). She’s a co-founder of One-Struggle KC, a coalition of Kansas City activists seeking to connect the struggles … Learn more about Diane Burkholder > CHRISTOPHER CAMERON University of North Carolina at Charlotte · Charlotte, North Carolina Topics: Education, Humanism, Social Issues & Movements, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: African American humanism, Atheist/secular movement Christopher Cameron is Associate Professor of History at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. He received his M.A. and Ph.D. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and is the author of To Plead Our Own Cause: African Americans in Massachusetts and the Making of the Antislavery Movement (Kent State University Press, … Learn more about Christopher Cameron > BART CAMPOLO Humanist Chaplain at the University of Cincinnati · Cincinnati, Ohio Topics: Activism & Organizing, Debates, Humanism Subtopics: Leaving religion Over three decades of Christian ministry, Bart Campolo became increasingly committed to building loving relationships, working for a better world and cultivating a sense of gratitude for the wonders of life. Now, as a community builder, counselor, podcaster, and humanist chaplain at the University of Cincinnati, Bart aims to inspire and assist people around the world who are … Learn more about Bart Campolo > GRETA CHRISTINA Writer · San Francisco, California Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Coming out atheist, LGBTQ issues Greta Christina has been writing professionally since 1989, on topics including atheism, sexuality and sex-positivity, LGBT issues, politics, culture, and whatever crosses her mind. She is author of The Way of the Heathen: Practicing Atheism in Everyday Life; of Comforting Thoughts About Death That Have Nothing to Do with God; of Coming Out Atheist: How to Do It, How … Learn more about Greta Christina > TOM CLARK Center for Naturalism · Cambridge, Massachusetts Topics: Cognitive Science, Humanism, Philosophy, Psychology Subtopics: Ethics & morality, Meaning of life, Naturalism Tom Clark is founder and director of the Center for Naturalism and developer of Naturalism.org, a leading web resource on worldview naturalism, its implications and applications. He is also author of Encountering Naturalism: A Worldview and its Uses and many articles on naturalism, science, free will, consciousness, addiction, and criminal and social justice. He even wrote … Learn more about Tom Clark > DOUG COWAN Renison University College · Waterloo, Ontario Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Education, Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Filmmaking, History of religion Doug Cowan is a professor of Religious Studies at Renison University College at the University of Waterloo, and specializes in religion and film, television, and popular culture. Lately, he has become particularly interested in the spiritual relationship we have with things, with the objects around us and with which we fill our lives. He has … Learn more about Doug Cowan > RYAN CRAGUN Author, The University of Tampa · Tampa, Florida Topics: Religion, Social Issues & Movements, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, History of atheism/secularism, Leaving religion Born and raised in rural Utah, Ryan Cragun was raised Mormon. He was a devout Mormon – including serving as a Mormon missionary in Costa Rica – until 25 when his graduate training helped him turn a critical eye to his religion. He became a secular humanist shortly after leaving Mormonism. He completed his PhD … Learn more about Ryan Cragun > JAMES CROFT Temple of the Future · Boston, Massachusetts Topics: Education, Humanism, Philosophy, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Ethics & morality James Croft is the Research and Education Fellow at the Humanist Community at Harvard, where he works on the Humanist Community Project, helping build communities for nonreligious people. He is a graduate of the Universities of Cambridge and Harvard, and is currently studying for his Doctorate in the philosophy of education at the Harvard Graduate … Learn more about James Croft > AUSTIN DACEY Mercy College · New York, New York Topics: Education, Philosophy Subtopics: Critical thinking, Ethics & morality, Meaning of life, Naturalism, Philosophy of science Austin Dacey is a philosopher and author of The Secular Conscience and The Future of Blasphemy as well as articles in numerous publications including the New York Times, USA Today, and Dissent. As a former NGO representative to the United Nations, he has worked on issues at the intersection of secularism, religion, and human rights. He is … Learn more about Austin Dacey > HEINA DADABHOY Skepchick and Heinous Dealings · Orange County, California Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Coming out atheist, Islam, Leaving religion Heina spent her childhood as a practicing Muslim who never in her right mind would have believed that she would grow up to be an atheist. She has been an active participant in atheist organizations and events in and around Orange County, CA since 2007. Her forthcoming book, A Skeptic’s Guide to Islam, represents her aim … Learn more about Heina Dadabhoy > KEVIN DAVIS SecularVoices · Rochester, New York Topics: Education, Skepticism, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Critical thinking, Science education, Skeptic movement Kevin Davis is a secular activist focused mainly on fighting back against the harms that aggressive indoctrination can cause, especially in public school settings. He’s the head writer and editor for SecularVoices, a Patheos blog, and is the co-founder and Executive Director of Young Skeptics, an elementary-level after school program for kids, focused on critical … Learn more about Kevin Davis > CHRISTOPHER DICARLO Critical Thinking Solutions · Toronto, Ontario Topics: Education, Philosophy, Psychology, Religion Subtopics: Critical thinking, Ethics & morality, Evolutionary psychology, History of religion, Psychology of religion, Science education Dr. Christopher DiCarlo is a philosopher, educator, and author. He often teaches in the Faculty of Philosophy at the University of Toronto (in Scarborough). He is also a lifetime member of Humanist Canada and an Expert Advisor for the Centre for Inquiry Canada. He has been invited to speak at numerous national and international conferences … Learn more about Christopher DiCarlo > MARGARET DOWNEY The Freethought Society · West Chester, Pennsylvania Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Humanism, Politics, Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Community group organizing, Separation of church and state, Women & gender Margaret Downey has had a prolific career in secular activism. Downey is the founder of the Freethought Society, Anti-Discrimination Support Network, Mentor Connection, Tree of Knowledge, Helping Hands Committee, and the Thomas Paine Memorial Committee. She is a past board member of the American Humanist Association, Scouting For All, The Humanist Institute, and the Thomas … Learn more about Margaret Downey > CATHERINE DUNPHY University of Toronto · Toronto, Ontario Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Philosophy, Religion Subtopics: Coming out atheist, Ethics & morality, Leaving religion, Meaning of life Catherine Dunphy is the Associate Humanist Chaplain at the University of Toronto, a founding member of the Clergy Project, and its former acting Executive Director. She was trained as a Roman Catholic Chaplain and is currently writing a book, Apostle to Apostate, about the founding of the Clergy Project and her experience of losing her … Learn more about Catherine Dunphy > JT EBERHARD Independent · Columbus, Ohio Topics: Activism & Organizing, Psychology, Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Campus group organizing, Event planning, LGBTQ issues, Mental illness As a student, JT Eberhard co-founded the Missouri State University Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster, which became one of the nation’s largest and most active college skeptic groups within a year. He would go on to lead the group for five years. He previously served as the High School Specialist with the Secular Student … Learn more about JT Eberhard > TANER EDIS Truman State University · Kirksville, Missouri Topics: Biology, Philosophy, Religion, Skepticism Subtopics: Evolution, Islam, Naturalism, Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Philosophy of science, Religious criticism Taner Edis was born in Istanbul, 1967, to Turkish and American parents. After completing his undergraduate work at Boğaziçi University, he received his Ph.D. from Johns Hopkins University in theoretical physics. Taner is currently a professor of physics at Truman State University, his present research interests focus on the philosophy and history of science. Fascinated … Learn more about Taner Edis > DAN EVERETT Bentley University · Waltham, Massachusetts Topics: Biology, Education, Religion, Science (General) Subtopics: Art & science, Leaving religion, Science education Dan Everett is Dean of Arts and Sciences at Bentley University in Waltham, Massachusetts. Prior to Bentley he served Professor of Linguistics, Anthropology, and Biological Sciences and Chairman of the Department of Languages, Literatures, and Cultures at Illinois State University in Normal, IL, where he was the first and only faculty member to hold the … Learn more about Dan Everett > TIM FARLEY What's the Harm? · Atlanta, Georgia Topics: Skepticism Subtopics: Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Pseudoscience Tim Farley is a computer security analyst for a major technology company in Atlanta, Georgia as well as a writer, podcaster and lecturer. He is known among skeptics for his website What’s the Harm?, which catalogs the real-world consequences of irrational beliefs via documented cases. Since building What’s the Harm?, he has written on technology issues … Learn more about Tim Farley > PAUL FIDALGO Center for Inquiry · Portland, Maine Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Media, Politics, Religion Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Journalism, Music, Separation of church and state, Social media Paul Fidalgo has been communications director of the Center for Inquiry since 2012. He holds a master’s degree in political management from George Washington University, and has worked previously for FairVote: The Center for Voting and Democracy and the Secular Coalition for America. Paul is also an actor and musician whose work includes five years … Learn more about Paul Fidalgo > NICK FISH National Program Director at American Atheists · Cranford, New Jersey Topics: Politics Subtopics: LGBTQ issues, Lobbying, Separation of church and state Nick is a civil rights and civil liberties activist who has spent his career in nonprofit advocacy, organizing, and fundraising. Since running an office that knocked on 25,000 doors and registered 5,000 voters in North Carolina during the 2008 election, Nick has worked with some of the nation’s most prominent political organizations and progressive nonprofits. … Learn more about Nick Fish > DAVID FITZGERALD Writer, Public Speaker, Historical Researcher · San Francisco, California Topics: History, Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, History of religion, Religious criticism David Fitzgerald has been called “one of the busiest atheist activists in the Bay Area.” In addition to serving on the board of San Francisco Atheists and CFI-SF, he has also been the Director/Co-Founder of both the world’s first Atheist Film Festival and Evolutionpalooza!, San Francisco’s oldest annual Darwin Day celebration. In addition, he is … Learn more about David Fitzgerald > SCOTT FORSCHLER Independent Scholar · St. Cloud, Minnesota Topics: Philosophy Subtopics: Ethics & morality, Naturalism Scott Forschler is an independent scholar with a PhD in philosophy from the University of Minnesota, and a specialization in the foundations of morality. He is the author of a book in progress called The Logic of Morality, and many articles on related topics, whose fundamental thesis is that moral facts derive from practical reasoning, … Learn more about Scott Forschler > ANDREW FRAKNOI University of San Francisco, Fromm Program · San Francisco, California Topics: Education, Science (General) Subtopics: Pseudoscience, Science denial, Science education Andrew Fraknoi is an astronomer and educator, known for his skill in interpreting scientific discoveries and ideas in everyday language. Fraknoi retired in 2017 as the Chair of the Astronomy Department at Foothill College and now teaches introductory astronomy at the Fromm Program of the University of San Francisco and through the OLLI Program at San Francisco State University. … Learn more about Andrew Fraknoi > LUKE GALEN Reasonable Doubts Podcast · Grand Rapids, Michigan Topics: Cognitive Science, History, Politics, Psychology, Religion, Science (General) Subtopics: Critical thinking, Ethics & morality, Evolution, Evolutionary psychology, Leaving religion, Meaning of life, Mental illness, Metaphysics, Naturalism, Philosophy of science, Pseudoscience, Psychology of religion, Religious criticism, Religious extremism, Science denial, Sex & sexuality Luke Galen is currently a professor of psychology at Grand Valley State University. He received his Ph.D. in clinical psychology from Wayne State University. His main area of research and teaching focuses on the psychology of religion. He is currently researching the psychology of secularity and nonreligious individuals especially in regards to moral behavior. He … Learn more about Luke Galen > VYCKIE GARRISON No Longer Quivering · Springfield, Oregon Topics: Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Leaving religion, Religious criticism, Religious extremism, Women & gender Vyckie Garrison was once a prominent member of the Quiverfull community, a rapidly growing Christian fundamentalist movement that bans birth control and encourages huge, “Biblical families” such as the Duggar Family of TLC’s 19 and Counting fame. Garrison edited and published a Christian “pro-life, pro-family” newspaper for 16+ years in northeast Nebraska while home-churching, home birthing, … Learn more about Vyckie Garrison > NOELLE GEORGE Foundation Beyond Belief · Houston, Texas Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Chemistry, Humanism, Psychology, Science (General), Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Coming out atheist, Community group organizing, Event planning, LGBTQ issues, Mental illness, Starting a group, Women & gender Noelle George is a secular activist who grew up in Seattle and studied chemical engineering at the University of Washington. She didn’t become passionate about secular activism until she moved to Houston, TX in 2004 and was often asked, “Where do you go to church?” Noelle moved to Houston to work for a Fortune 500 … Learn more about Noelle George > WILL GERVAIS Associate Professor at the University of Kentucky · Lexington, Kentucky Topics: Cognitive Science Subtopics: Evolutionary psychology, Psychology of religion Dr. Will M. Gervais teaches courses on the psychology of religion and morality, social psychology, and research methods. He directs Kentucky’s Beliefs and Morality (BAM!!!) Lab, which investigates the psychological intersection of atheism, religion, and morality. Dr. Gervais’s research has focused broadly on the psychology of atheism for over a decade. His work has appeared … Learn more about Will Gervais > THOMAS GILOVICH Cornell University · Ithaca, New York Topics: Cognitive Science, Psychology Subtopics: Critical thinking, Science education Thomas Gilovich is the Irene Blecker Rosenfeld Professor of Psychology at Cornell University and codirector of the Cornell Center for Behavioral Economics and Decision Research. He received his B.A. in Psychology from the University of California and his PhD in Psychology from Stanford University. His research focuses on how people evaluate information in their everyday … Learn more about Thomas Gilovich > DEBBIE GODDARD Center for Inquiry · Buffalo, New York Topics: Activism & Organizing, Humanism Subtopics: African American humanism, Campus group organizing, Community group organizing, Event planning, Starting a group Debbie Goddard is the outreach director at the Center for Inquiry in Amherst, NY. She is also the director of African Americans for Humanism. Before working for CFI, she participated in local freethought groups in the greater Philadelphia region and helped organize and support campus groups internationally as a student volunteer. She has also been involved … Learn more about Debbie Goddard > CANDACE GORHAM Author, Therapist · Durham, North Carolina Topics: Humanism, Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: African American humanism, Atheist/secular movement, Leaving religion Candace received her Bachelor’s degree in Secondary English Education from North Carolina Central University. She received her Master’s degree in mental health counseling from Wake Forest University. Candace’s religious background is varied, including Jehovah’s Witnesses and Methodist. At 18, she joined a very charismatic ministry during which time she was ordained as an evangelist, prophetess, … Learn more about Candace Gorham > TAWFIK HAMID Potomac Institute for Policy Studies · Arlington, Virginia Topics: Religion Subtopics: History of religion, Islam, Religious extremism Dr. Tawfik Hamid is an Islamic thinker and reformer, and one time Islamic extremist from Egypt. He was a member of a terrorist Islamic organization JI with Dr. Ayman Al-Zawaherri who became later on the second in command of Al-Qaeda. Some twenty-five years ago, he recognized the threat of Radical Islam and the need for … Learn more about Tawfik Hamid > MARCI A. HAMILTON University of Pennsylvania · Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Topics: Politics, Religion Subtopics: Separation of church and state Marci A. Hamilton is the Robert A. Fox Leadership Program Professor of Practice, and Fox Family Pavilion Resident Senior Fellow in the Program for Research on Religion at the University of Pennsylvania. She is also the founder, CEO, and Academic Director of CHILD USA, www.childusa.org, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit academic think tank at the University of … Learn more about Marci A. Hamilton > JEN HANCOCK Writer, Speaker, Humanist · Tampa Bay, Florida Topics: Activism & Organizing, Humanism, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Community group organizing, Ethics & morality, Starting a group Jennifer Hancock is the former executive director for the Humanists of Florida, author of several books about Humanism and the founder of Humanist Learning Systems. Jennifer is unique in that was raised as a freethinker and is considered one of the top speakers and writers in the world of Humanism today. Her professional background is … Learn more about Jen Hancock > VICTOR HARRIS Poet · Bay Area, California Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Art & science, Atheist/secular movement, Poetry Victor Harris has been a staple on the Bay Area poetry scene for the past twelve years, featuring at various venues in Oakland and Berkeley, he was on the finals stage in Oakland in 2003. He is the recipient of the 2001 Frederic C Fallon Award for poetry from Chabot College, and a 2006 graduate … Learn more about Victor Harris > MARK D. HATCHER Black Atheists of America · Washington, DC Topics: Activism & Organizing, Humanism, Religion Subtopics: African American humanism, Atheist/secular movement, Campus group organizing, Starting a group Mark D. Hatcher is a PhD candidate of Neurophysiology at Howard University and CFO of Black Atheists of America. He started Secular Students of Howard University (SSHU). SSHU is the first officially recognized secular organization to be held at a historically black college or university. Mark has given talks for the Center for Inquiry, The … Learn more about Mark D. Hatcher > JENNIFER MICHAEL HECHT Philosopher, Historian, Poet · New York, New York Topics: Arts & Entertainment, History, Philosophy, Skepticism Subtopics: Meaning of life, Poetry, Skeptic movement Jennifer Michael Hecht is a philosopher, historian, and poet. Her Doubt: A History demonstrates a long, strong history of religious doubt. Hecht’s The End of the Soul won the Phi Beta Kappa Society’s 2004 Ralph Waldo Emerson Award “for scholarly studies that contribute significantly to interpretations of the intellectual and cultural condition of humanity.” Her book The Happiness Myth (HarperCollins, 2007) … Learn more about Jennifer Michael Hecht > SHELDON HELMS Ohlone College · San Francisco, California Topics: Education, Psychology Subtopics: LGBTQ issues, Sex & sexuality Sheldon W. Helms is a professor of experimental psychology at Ohlone College in Fremont, CA, where he runs The Ohlone Psychology Speaker Series, hosting top-name skeptics, scientists, and authors who contribute to the teaching of critical thinking. A longtime skeptic, Sheldon has spoken for dozens of secular and skeptical groups across the country about a variety … Learn more about Sheldon Helms > JIM HELTON National Field Organizer at American Atheists · Northern Kentucky, Cincinnati, Ohio Topics: Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Community group organizing, Separation of church and state, Starting a group After attending the 2012 Reason Rally, Jim G. Helton co-founded the Tri-State Freethinkers and was appointed American Atheists’ Kentucky State Director. Under his leadership, Tri-State Freethinkers adopted the highway in front of the Creation Museum and Ark Encounter and led a protest that received international attention. He played a key role in eliminating Gideon’s bible … Learn more about Jim Helton > PENNY HIGGINS University of Rochester · Rochester, New York Topics: Biology, Chemistry, Science (General) Subtopics: Evolution, Science education Dr. Pennilyn (Penny) Higgins is a Research Associate in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences at the University of Rochester. She earned bachelor’s degrees in Geology and General Biology from Fort Lewis College in Durango, (southwestern) Colorado, in 1995. She completed a Master’s degree in Chemistry in 1999, and a Ph.D. in Geology in … Learn more about Penny Higgins > BRUCE HOOD University of Bristol · Bristol, England Topics: Cognitive Science, Science (General), Skepticism Subtopics: Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Pseudoscience, Science education Bruce Hood is Director of the Bristol Cognitive Development Centre in the University of Bristol in England where he has held a chair in developmental psychology since 1999. He took his first degree in psychology at Dundee University in 1984 and a Ph.D. on the development of visual attention in the human infant at Cambridge … Learn more about Bruce Hood > GEORGE HRAB The Geologic Podcast · Bethlehem, Pennsylvania Topics: Arts & Entertainment Subtopics: Art & science, Atheist/secular movement, Comedy, Critical thinking, Music, Pseudoscience, Science denial, Science education, Skeptic movement Multi-instrumentalist, singer, songwriter, producer, composer, and heliocentrist George Hrab has written and produced six independent CDs; published one book; recorded hundreds of episodes of an award winning podcast; and even performed for President Clinton- all in a personal quest to improve his audience’s cognitive skills by reaching them through their funny bones and dance shoes. … Learn more about George Hrab > PAUL W. HUMPHREYS University of Virginia · Charlottesville, Virginia Topics: Philosophy, Science (General) Subtopics: Naturalism Paul Humphreys is a philosopher of science with interests ranging from the foundations of probability theory through the nature of science to the prospects for a post-human world. He did his undergraduate degree in logic and physics before earning his graduate degrees in statistics and philosophy at Stanford University. Paul is currently a professor of … Learn more about Paul W. Humphreys > GARY HURD Independent · Dana Point, California Topics: Biology, Education Subtopics: Critical thinking, Evolution, Science education Gary S. Hurd received a doctorate in Social Science from the University of California, Irvine in 1976 (emphasis in Anthropology). He subsequently served on the faculties of the California College of Medicine (UCIMC), the Medical College of Georgia (Psychiatry), and held numerous adjunct appointments. In 1985, he returned to archaeology, the original focus of his … Learn more about Gary Hurd > MAGGIE JACKSON Independent · New York, New York Topics: Cognitive Science Subtopics: Critical thinking, Journalism Maggie Jackson is an award-winning journalist and author most recently of Distracted: Reclaiming Our Focus in a World of Lost Attention (Second Edition, Prometheus, 2018). Compared to Silent Spring (Fast Company) for its prescient warning of a looming crisis of inattention, Distracted explores the steep costs to fragmenting our focus in a digital age and the groundbreaking discoveries … Learn more about Maggie Jackson > ROGER SCOTT JACKSON Lecturer · New York, New York Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Atheism & Secularism Subtopics: Comedy, Coming out atheist, History of atheism/secularism Roger Scott Jackson is a lecturer and orator in the classic tradition (but with profanity). A former reporter and editor, he has worked at dozens of jobs, including stints teaching speech, debate, and English. A longtime amateur historian, he combines his passion and skill in a series of lectures on two historic orators of particular … Learn more about Roger Scott Jackson > SUSAN JACOBY Author · New York, New York Topics: Education, Humanism, Media, Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Critical thinking, Journalism, Leaving religion, Separation of church and state, Women & gender Susan Jacoby is an author, most recently of the New York Times best seller The Age of American Unreason, about American anti-intellectualism. She lives in New York City and is program director of the New York City branch of the Center for Inquiry. Jacoby, who began her career as a reporter for the Washington Post, has … Learn more about Susan Jacoby > DOUGLAS JESSEPH University of South Florida · Tampa, Florida Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Philosophy, Science (General) Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement Douglas M. Jesseph holds a Ph.D. in philosophy from Princeton University. Previously a professor of philosophy at North Carolina State University, Dr. Jesseph currently teaches at the University of South Florida in Tampa. His research and publication are concerned with issues in the history and philosophy of mathematics, but he also has a keen interest … Learn more about Douglas Jesseph > CHRIS JOHNSON Photographer & Filmmaker · New York, New York Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Atheism & Secularism Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Coming out atheist, Filmmaking, Meaning of life, Naturalism Chris Johnson is a New York-based photographer and filmmaker. He received his undergraduate degree in film production (along with a minor in religious studies) from Concordia University in Montreal, Quebec. His photography has been seen in various outlets, including The New York Times. He is the author of the coffee table photography book, A Better Life: 100 … Learn more about Chris Johnson > JUDY JOHNSON Mount Royal University · Calgary, Alberta Topics: Psychology, Religion Subtopics: Psychology of religion, Religious criticism, Religious extremism Judy J. Johnson, PhD, is a psychology professor at Mount Royal University, Calgary, Alberta. Her ongoing research is on the nature, development, and measurement of dogmatism. She is the author of What’s So Wrong with Being Absolutely Right: The Dangerous Nature of Dogmatic Belief, published by Prometheus Books, Amherst, NY, 2009. Dr. Johnson completed a Fellowship … Learn more about Judy Johnson > ALIX JULES Activist · Dallas–Forth Worth, Texas Topics: Activism & Organizing, Humanism, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: African American humanism, Atheist/secular movement, Community group organizing Alix Jules is a secular activist in the Dallas–Ft. Worth area who is commonly involved in issues and topics regarding the role of diversity in the atheist community as well as atheism in diverse communities. He chairs the Dallas–Fort Worth Coalition of Reason’s Diversity Council and is a founding member and presiding Historian for the … Learn more about Alix Jules > DACHER KELTNER University of California – Berkeley · San Francisco, California Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Biology, Cognitive Science, Psychology Subtopics: Evolution, Evolutionary psychology, Filmmaking Dacher Keltner was born in Jalisco, Mexico, the offspring of two early members of the counterculture. His mother, a literature professor, and father, an artist, raised him and his brother in Laurel Canyon in the late 60s, where those North Hollywood hills were filled with revolution. When his mother secured her first job as a … Learn more about Dacher Keltner > WILL KINNEY University at Buffalo · Buffalo, New York Topics: Education, Physics & Mathematics Subtopics: Astrophysics, Science education Will Kinney is a professor in the Department of Physics at the University at Buffalo, SUNY, where he has been on faculty since 2003. Dr. Kinney received his Bachelor of Arts from Princeton University, and PhD from the University of Colorado, Boulder. He has worked as a research associate at Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, the … Learn more about Will Kinney > MARTY KLEIN Therapist/educator · Palo Alto, California Topics: Humanism, Psychology, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Ethics & morality, Free expression issues, Sex & sexuality Dr. Marty Klein is a California psychotherapist, sex therapist, and international lecturer in sexuality and public policy. He has been an expert witness or invited plaintiff in many important state and federal obscenity and anti-censorship cases. His landmark book America’s War On Sex, with a foreword by the ACLU’s Nadine Strossen, was honored as Book of … Learn more about Marty Klein > DAVID KOEPSELL Universidad Autonoma Metropolitan · Xochimilco, Mexico Topics: Education, Philosophy Subtopics: Critical thinking, Ethics & morality, Meaning of life, Science education Dr. Koepsell earned his Law degree and Doctorate in Philosophy at the State University of New York at Buffalo. In addition to practicing law for eight years, he is Adjunct Associate Professor at SUNY at Buffalo Graduate School of Education, specializing in Ethics and Scientific Integrity. He is also the Education Director for CFI. Dr. … Learn more about David Koepsell > MARVIN KOHL SUNY Fredonia · Fredonia, New York Topics: Humanism, Philosophy Subtopics: Ethics & morality, Meaning of life Marvin Kohl is Emeritus Professor of Philosophy, State University of New York, College at Fredonia. He is the author of The Morality of Killing, the editor of Beneficient Euthanasia and Infanticide and the Value of Life, and Contributing Editor to The Humanist and Free Inquiry. He is a spokesperson for “Promethean Altruistic Humanism,” a pdf … Learn more about Marvin Kohl > BARRY KOSMIN Center for Inquiry · Hartford, Connecticut Topics: Politics, Religion Subtopics: Separation of church and state Dr. Barry A. Kosmin is Research Professor in Public Policy & Law and Founding Director of the Institute for the Study of Secularism in Society and Culture (ISSSC) at Trinity College, Hartford, Connecticut. He is a joint editor of the on-line international journal Secularism & Nonreligion. Dr. Kosmin has been a principal investigator of the American Religious … Learn more about Barry Kosmin > CALEB LACK Psychologist, Author · Oklahoma City, Oklahoma Topics: Education, Psychology, Skepticism Subtopics: Critical thinking, Evolutionary psychology, Mental illness, Pseudoscience, Science education, Skeptic movement Caleb W. Lack, Ph.D. is a clinical psychologist, professor, and scientific skeptic operating out of Oklahoma. Dr. Lack is the author or editor of six books, most recently Critical Thinking, Science, & Pseudoscience: Why You Can’t Trust Your Brain (co-authored with University of Cape Town philosopher Jacques Rousseau). He has also authored or co-authored more than 45 scientific publications relating … Learn more about Caleb Lack > STEPHEN LAW Center for Inquiry · Oxford, England Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Humanism, Philosophy, Religion, Science (General), Skepticism Subtopics: Ethics & morality, Metaphysics, Paranormal & fringe-science claims Stephen Law is Reader in Philosophy at Heythrop College and Head of the Center for Inquiry in the UK. He has published many introductory philosophy books, including books for children. His popular books include The Philosophy Gym: 25 Short Adventures in Thinking and The Complete Philosophy Files (for children). Stephen is a well-known humanist and atheist. He wrote the … Learn more about Stephen Law > SETH LEPORE Writer/Performer · Westhampton, Massachusetts Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Skepticism Subtopics: Alternative medicine, Comedy, Conspiracy theories, Pseudoscience Seth Lepore (writer/performer) holds a BA in Interdisciplinary Studies, focus: Creativity in Education from Naropa University in Boulder, CO. Since 1996 he has created over six self-produced one-man shows. Lepore’s latest venture is a trilogy of one-man shows on the underbelly of the self-help and new age movement. Losing My Religion: Confessions of a New … Learn more about Seth Lepore > SCOTT LILIENFELD Emory University · Atlanta, Georgia Topics: Education, Philosophy, Psychology, Skepticism Subtopics: Mental illness, Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Philosophy of science, Pseudoscience, Science education Scott O. Lilienfeld is Samuel Candler Dobbs Professor of Psychology at Emory University in Atlanta. He received his A.B. from Cornell University in 1982 and his Ph.D. in Psychology (Clinical) from the University of Minnesota in 1990. He is founder and past editor of the Scientific Review of Mental Health Practice, most recent past President … Learn more about Scott Lilienfeld > RONALD A. LINDSAY Center for Inquiry · Washington, DC Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Philosophy, Politics Subtopics: Ethics & morality, Free expression issues, Separation of church and state Ronald A. Lindsay, J.D., Ph.D. is by training and experience both a lawyer and a philosopher. An honors graduate of the University of Virginia School of Law, he practiced for twenty-six years with the national law firm of Seyfarth Shaw LLP prior to joining the Center for Inquiry, where he served as president & CEO … Learn more about Ronald A. Lindsay > NICK LITTLE Center for Inquiry · Washington, DC Topics: Debates, Politics Subtopics: Free expression issues, Separation of church and state Nick Little is the Vice President and General Counsel of the Center for Inquiry. In this role, he oversees both the Center’s in-house legal work, and its outside litigation. Nick graduated from the University of Oxford with an honors degree in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics, and the University of Warwick with a Master’s degree in … Learn more about Nick Little > WILLIAM LOBDELL Independent · Orange County, California Topics: Media, Religion Subtopics: Journalism, Leaving religion William Lobdell, 47, is an award-winning journalist, author, blogger, speaker, college lecturer and media consultant. He is owner of Four Boys New Media, an online publishing company that operates Greer’s OC, williamlobdell.com, Lobdell’s OC, and two digital magazines that will debut in the fall. His company also offers corporate media consulting. He worked for 18 … Learn more about William Lobdell > JOHN W. LOFTUS Debunking Christianity · Angola, Indiana Topics: Religion Subtopics: Leaving religion John W. Loftus is a former Christian minister and apologist with M.A., M.Div., and Th.M. degrees in Philosophy, Theology, and the Philosophy of Religion, the last of which was earned under William Lane Craig. He is the author of Why I Became an Atheist: A Former Preacher Rejects Christianity and The Outsider Test for Faith. He … Learn more about John W. Loftus > CHRIS LOMBARDI Secular Coalition for America · Washington, DC Topics: Politics, Religion Subtopics: Lobbying, Separation of church and state Chris Lombardi joined the Secular Coalition in May of 2012. Chris moved to Washington D.C. in 2007 where he worked in the U.S. House of Representatives on a diverse portfolio of issues. Hailing from the midwest and a proud Hoosier, Chris graduated from Indiana University in 2002. Chris can confidently claim to be one of … Learn more about Chris Lombardi > WILLIAM LONDON Consumer Advocate · Los Angeles, California Topics: Skepticism Subtopics: Alternative medicine, Critical thinking, Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Pseudoscience William M. London, Ed.D., M.P.H. is a professor in the Department of Public Health at California State University, Los Angeles. He’s the editor of the newsletter Consumer Health Digest, co-author of the sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth (2013) editions of the college textbook Consumer Health: A Guide to Intelligent Decisions, and co-host of the Credential Watch website. London is also a fellow … Learn more about William London > LEIGHANN LORD Comedian · New York, New York Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Humanism Subtopics: African American humanism, Comedy Want funny? Want smart? Leighann Lord blends grace, charm, humor and intellect to become one of the hottest public speakers working today. You’ve seen her as an actress in movies (Radioland Murders), as a stand-up comedian on TV (HBO, Comedy Central, AspireTV), as a radio and TV co-host (StarTalk with Neil de Grasse Tyson), and … Learn more about Leighann Lord > ERIC MAISEL Walnut Creek, California Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Philosophy, Psychology Subtopics: Coming out atheist, Meaning of life, Mental illness Eric Maisel, Ph.D., is the author of more than fifty books. His books include The Future of Mental Health, Humane Helping, and 60 Innovative Cognitive Strategies for the Smart, the Sensitive and the Creative with Routledge, Rethinking Depression, Life Purpose Boot Camp, Overcoming Your Difficult Family, Coaching the Artist Within, The Van Gogh Blues, Mastering … Learn more about Eric Maisel > TRAV MAMONE Writer & Podcaster · Easton, Maryland Topics: Humanism, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: LGBTQ issues Trav Mamone is a bisexual genderqueer atheist writer and podcaster who focuses on the intersections of social justice and secular humanism. They’ve written for Ravishly, Everyday Feminism, The Humanist, Paste, and The Establishment, among others. They also host the Bi Any Means Podcast, co-host the Biskeptical Podcast, and regularly write for HuffPost. Watch Trav speak at the American Humanist conference: Listen to … Learn more about Trav Mamone > AMANDA MARCOTTE Writter · New York, New York Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Education, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Comedy, Science education, Sex & sexuality, Women & gender Feminist author, blogger, and gadfly Amanda Marcotte has been described as “funny. Really funny,” with a “wit is as sharp as the survival knife.” (Sacramento News & Review) Her “writing zings, it crackles, it leaves a mark, and never sugarcoats.” (Markos Moulitsas Zuniga of Daily Kos) And she tends to frantic ire from anti-feminists such … Learn more about Amanda Marcotte > ALLAN MAZUR Syracuse University · Syracuse, New York Topics: Religion, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: Paranormal & fringe-science claims Allan Mazur, a sociologist, and engineer. Allan is professor of public affairs in the Maxwell School at Syracuse University, and a Fellow of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. He is author or coauthor of over 150 academic articles and eight books, most recently Implausible Beliefs in the Bible, Astrology, and UFOs. Mazur … Learn more about Allan Mazur > MARISSA ALEXA MCCOOL St Paul, Minnesota Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Debates, History, Media, Philosophy, Politics, Social Issues & Movements, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: Art & science, Atheist/secular movement, Comedy, Critical thinking, Ethics & morality, Filmmaking, Free expression issues, Journalism, LGBTQ issues, Music, Poetry, Sex & sexuality, Social media, Women & gender Marissa Alexa McCool, 32, is a podcaster, author, performer, speaker, and an LGBT rights/atheist activist. She’s a trans woman, married, partnered, and a parent. Born in Akron, Ohio and currently residing in Saint Paul, Minnesota with her family, she graduated the University of Pennsylvania in 2017 with degrees in English, Cinema and Media Studies, and … Learn more about Marissa Alexa McCool > JAMES MCGAHA Grasslands Observatory · Tucson, Arizona Topics: Astronomy & Earth Science, Biology, Debates, Education, Philosophy, Skepticism Subtopics: Astrophysics, Critical thinking, Evolution, Pseudoscience, Science education James McGaha is a retired USAF pilot, an instructor/examiner in parachuting who has completed over 5000 sport parachute jumps, an astronomer, and director of the Grasslands Observatory. He held a TOP SECRET compartmented security clearance and was involved in numerous classified operations including operations in the so-called “Area 51.” His current work includes astrometry and photometry … Learn more about James McGaha > DALE MCGOWAN Parenting Beyond Belief · Atlanta, Georgia Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Humanism Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Critical thinking, Evolution, Evolutionary psychology, History of atheism/secularism, Music Dale McGowan double-majored in music and evolutionary anthropology at UC Berkeley and taught interdisciplinary courses centered on writing and critical thinking at the college level, as well as music theory and music history. As a writer, Dale has variously focused on science, parenting, and the interface between religious belief and unbelief. His books include Sharing Reality: How … Learn more about Dale McGowan > MONICA MILLER Lehigh University · New York, New York Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Humanism, Religion Subtopics: African American humanism, History of religion, Music Monica R. Miller is Assistant Professor of Religion and Africana Studies at Lehigh University and among other publications, author of Religion and Hip Hop (Routledge, 2012). Miller currently serves as a Senior Research Fellow with The Institute for Humanist Studies (Washington, DC), Co-Chair and founder of Critical Approaches to the Study of Hip Hop and … Learn more about Monica Miller > SETH MNOOKIN Director of MIT's Graduate Program in Science Writing · Boston, Massachusetts Topics: Media, Science (General), Skepticism Subtopics: Alternative medicine, Comedy, Conspiracy theories, Journalism, Mental illness, Music, Pseudoscience, Science denial, Social media Seth Mnookin is Director of the Graduate Program in Science Writing and a Professor of Comparative Media Studies/Writing at M.I.T. His most recent book, The Panic Virus: The True Story Behind the Vaccine-Autism Controversy, won the National Association of Science Writers “Science in Society” Award and was a finalist for the Los Angeles Times book prize. … Learn more about Seth Mnookin > YASMINE MOHAMMED Confessions of an Ex-Muslim · Vancouver, British Columbia Topics: Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Islam, Leaving religion, Religious criticism, Religious extremism, Women & gender Yasmine is an Arab-Canadian university educator, activist, and author who has a blog called Confessions of an ExMuslim. She is currently working on writing her memoir. In it, she describes how, even though she was born and raised in North America, she endured the same traumas that are familiar to Muslims across the planet. As a child, … Learn more about Yasmine Mohammed > MARYAM NAMAZIE One Law For All · London, England Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Politics, Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Campus group organizing, Coming out atheist, Community group organizing, Event planning, Free expression issues, History of atheism/secularism, Islam, Leaving religion, LGBTQ issues, Lobbying, Religious criticism, Religious extremism, Separation of church and state, Starting a group Maryam Namazie is an Iranian-born writer and activist. She is the Spokesperson for Fitnah – Movement for Women’s Liberation, One Law for All and the Council of Ex-Muslims of Britain. She hosts a weekly television programme in Persian and English called Bread and Roses. She is on the International Advisory Board of the Raif Badawi … Learn more about Maryam Namazie > JOE NICKELL Center for Inquiry · Amherst, New York Topics: Science (General), Skepticism Subtopics: Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Pseudoscience, Skeptic movement Joe Nickell, Ph.D. (University of Kentucky, 1987), is senior research fellow of the international Committee for Skeptical Inquiry (CSI), formerly the Committee for Scientific Investigation of Claims of the Paranormal (CSICOP), and an investigative columnist for Skeptical Inquirer science magazine. He has been profiled in The New Yorker magazine and on the Today show. A … Learn more about Joe Nickell > ANDY NORMAN Carnegie Mellon University · Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Humanism Subtopics: Critical thinking, Ethics & morality, Evolution, History of atheism/secularism, Meaning of life, Science education Andy Norman teaches philosophy and directs the Humanism Initiative at Carnegie Mellon University. He’s a dynamic presenter who likes to challenge audiences to think hard about reason and faith, science and spirituality, and the natural foundations of ethics. Andy authored the popular “Brainstormin’” column for the Humanist Network News, and works at understanding how ideologies corrupt … Learn more about Andy Norman > BARBARA OAKLEY Oakland University · Rochester, Michigan Topics: Cognitive Science, Psychology, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: Evolutionary psychology Barbara Oakley, PhD, PE is a Professor of Engineering at Oakland University in Rochester, Michigan; a Visiting Scholar at the University of California, San Diego; and Coursera’s inaugural “Innovation Instructor.” Her work focuses on the complex relationship between neuroscience and social behavior. Dr. Oakley’s research has been described as “revolutionary” in the Wall Street Journal—she … Learn more about Barbara Oakley > SHAWN OTTO Author, Filmmaker · Marine on St Croix, Minnesota Topics: Debates, Education Subtopics: Science education Shawn Otto is an award-winning science advocate, writer, teacher, and speaker. He is the cofounder and producer of the first US Presidential Science Debates, for which he received the IEEE-USA’s National Distinguished Public Service Award. He was a featured speaker at the inaugural March for Science and a behind the scenes organizer, and he speaks around … Learn more about Shawn Otto > KEITH PARSONS University of Houston · Houston, Texas Topics: Debates, Philosophy Subtopics: Keith Parsons is Professor of Philosophy at the University of Houston at Clear Lake and the former editor of the philosophy journal Philo. He has debated William Lane Craig on the topics “Is Christianity True?” and “Does God Exist?” Dr. Parsons is the author of God and the Burden of Proof (1989), Drawing Out Leviathan: Dinosaurs … Learn more about Keith Parsons > TAMAS PATAKI University of Melbourne · Melbourne, Victoria Topics: Philosophy, Psychology Subtopics: Meaning of life, Psychology of religion, Religious criticism Dr. Tamas Pataki is an honorary senior fellow at the University of Melbourne and an honorary fellow of Deakin University. He studied philosophy at the University of Melbourne and psychoanalysis at University College, London University. He has been a lecturer in philosophy at the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology, University of Tasmania and University of … Learn more about Tamas Pataki > JOHN A. PAULOS Temple University · Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Topics: Media, Philosophy, Physics & Mathematics Subtopics: Journalism John Allen Paulos is an extensively kudized author, popular public speaker, and monthly columnist for ABCNews.com and formerly for The Guardian. Professor of math at Temple, a state university in Philadelphia, he earned his Ph.D. in the subject from the University of Wisconsin. His latest book, A Numerate Life explores some of the mathematical aspects … Learn more about John A. Paulos > JOHN PERKINS National Institute of Economic and Industry Research · Melbourne, Victoria Topics: Religion Subtopics: Islam, Leaving religion, Religious criticism, Religious extremism Dr. John L Perkins is an economist, atheist activist and a regular contributor to Freethought magazines. He has qualifications from universities in Melbourne and London. Outside of his econometric activities he has a keen interest in the effects of religion on societies including economic, social and human costs. He has taken a particular interest in … Learn more about John Perkins > JEFFREY B. PERRY Independent Working-Class Scholar · New York, New York Topics: Education, Humanism, Social Issues & Movements, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: African American humanism, Critical thinking Dr. Jeffrey B. Perry is a critical-thinking, working-class scholar formally educated at Princeton, Harvard, Rutgers, and Columbia. His work focuses on Hubert Harrison, Theodore W. Allen, and the centrality of the struggle against white supremacy to progressive social change. St. Croix-Virgin Islands-born and Harlem-based Hubert Harrison (1883-1927) was a pioneering Black activist in the Freethought … Learn more about Jeffrey B. Perry > NATE PHELPS Centre for Inquiry Calgary · Cranbook, British Columbia Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Religion Subtopics: Coming out atheist, Community group organizing, Leaving religion, Religious extremism Nate Phelps is the son of Pastor Fred Phelps of the Westboro Baptist Church, which gained infamy from their protests at soldiers’ funerals around the United States. He is the sixth of thirteen children, and was taught his father’s extreme version of Calvinism from an early age. This was accompanied by extreme physical punishments and … Learn more about Nate Phelps > ANTHONY PINN Rice University · Houston, Texas Topics: Humanism, Religion Subtopics: African American humanism, History of religion Anthony B. Pinn is the Director of Research at the Institute for Humanist Studies and the Agnes Cullen Arnold Professor of Humanities and Professor of Religious Studies at Rice University. Pinn is also the founding director of the Rice University Center for Engaged Research and Collaborative Learning (CERCL). CERCL seeks to explore and enhance in … Learn more about Anthony Pinn > ARON RA Regional Director at American Atheists · Dallas, Texas Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Education, Religion Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Leaving religion, Religious criticism, Science education Aron Ra is the author of Foundational Falsehoods of Creationism, the host of the Ra-Men podcast, director of the Phylogeny Explorer Project, and a regional director for American Atheists. Aron is one of the “YouTube atheists” and an advocate for rationalism in science classrooms. His videos promoting secular science education have been mirrored, featured, referenced, and recommended by … Learn more about Aron Ra > BENJAMIN RADFORD Center for Inquiry · Albuquerque, New Mexico Topics: Science (General), Skepticism Subtopics: Journalism, Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Pseudoscience Benjamin Radford, M.Ed, is the deputy editor of Skeptical Inquirer science magazine and a Research Fellow with the non-profit educational organization the Committee for Skeptical Inquiry. He has written over a thousand articles on a wide variety of topics, including urban legends, the paranormal, critical thinking, and science literacy. He holds degrees in psychology and … Learn more about Benjamin Radford > DARREL RAY Recovering from Religion · Kansas City, Kansas Topics: Psychology, Religion Subtopics: Leaving religion, Psychology of religion, Religious criticism, Sex & sexuality Darrel Ray, Ed.D. is an organizational psychologist and student of religion for over forty years. Raised in a fundamentalist Christian home, he knows religion from the inside out. He has a BA in sociology, an MA in religion and an Ed.D. in counseling psychology from Peabody College of Vanderbilt University. For thirty years, Dr. Ray … Learn more about Darrel Ray > MONETTE RICHARDS Center for Inquiry · Cleveland, Ohio Topics: Activism & Organizing, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Community group organizing, Lobbying, Starting a group, Women & gender Monette Richards is currently the president of CFI Northeast Ohio. Monette has organized their Secular Summit since 2013, and planned and run successful workshop tracks at Skepticon. She is a co-founder of Akron Women in Tech, and a founder of Secular Women Work. She is currently the president of Secular Woman. Ms. Richards’ parents’ own distancing from their religious … Learn more about Monette Richards > IAN ROBINSON Rationalist Society of Australia · Melbourne, Victoria Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Philosophy, Skepticism Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Community group organizing, Free expression issues, History of atheism/secularism, Meaning of life, Metaphysics, Naturalism, Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Separation of church and state Ian Robinson is President Emeritus of the Rationalist Society of Australia. He has been active in the Australian rationalist movement for more than forty years since as a student he became President of the University of Melbourne Rationalist Society back in 1967. He studied philosophy and history and philosophy of science at the University of … Learn more about Ian Robinson > SUSAN SACKETT American Humanist Association · Phoenix, Arizona Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Humanism Subtopics: Art & science, Filmmaking Susan Sackett grew up in Connecticut and Florida and received both her Bachelor of Arts and Master of Education degrees from the University of Florida in Gainesville. In August 1974, she began an association with Gene Roddenberry, creator of the television legend Star Trek, serving as his personal executive assistant for over 17 years, until his … Learn more about Susan Sackett > DESIREE SCHELL Skeptically Speaking · Edmonton, Alberta Topics: Education, Skepticism, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Critical thinking, Science education, Sex & sexuality, Skeptic movement Desiree Schell is the host of Science for the People, a syndicated live radio show and podcast that broadcasts across North America. The program explores the connections between popular culture, history and science, and promotes critical thinking beyond the ranks of current skeptics. Desiree interviews researchers, authors and experts to help listeners understand the evidence and … Learn more about Desiree Schell > BRAHM SEGAL University at Buffalo · Buffalo, New York Topics: Biology, Science (General), Skepticism Subtopics: Science education Born in Montreal, Canada, Brahm H. Segal, MD completed his undergraduate education at McGill University followed by medical school at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, a residency in Internal Medicine at Tufts New England Medical Center and a fellowship in Infectious Diseases at the National Institutes of Health. Dr. Segal is a physician-scientist engaged in patient care, education, and research. His research interests are in … Learn more about Brahm Segal > ANDREW SEIDEL Constitutional Attorney · Madison, Wisconsin Topics: History, Religion Subtopics: History of atheism/secularism, Separation of church and state Andrew Seidel is the Director of Strategic Response at the Freedom From Religion Foundation, where he fights to keep state and church separate. He regularly writes for Freethought Now!, and other popular outlets such as Friendly Atheist, Religion News Service, and ThinkProgress, and in more scholarly venues like Constitutional Studies and the Education Law & Policy Review. … Learn more about Andrew Seidel > AZIM SHARIFF University of British Columbia · Vancouver, British Columbia Topics: Psychology, Religion, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: Psychology of religion Azim Shariff is an Associate Professor and Canada 150 Research Chair of Moral Psychology at the University of British Columbia, where he is director of the Centre for Applied Moral Psychology. His research on morality, religion, and technology regularly receives global media coverage, and has appeared in top academic journals such as Science, Trends in … Learn more about Azim Shariff > CHRISTINE M. SHELLSKA University of Calgary · Calgary, Alberta Topics: Debates Subtopics: Free expression issues, Philosophy of science, Pseudoscience, Science denial, Separation of church and state Christine Shellska is a Ph.D. Candidate (ABD) in the Department of Communication, Media and Film, Faculty of Arts, at the University of Calgary, Canada. Her research involves studying the rhetorical strategies employed by the Intelligent Design Creationism movement. She is the first Canadian to be elected to the Board of Directors of the American Humanist … Learn more about Christine M. Shellska > DAVID SMALLEY Dogma Debate · Dallas, Texas Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Atheism & Secularism, Debates, Humanism, Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Coming out atheist, Leaving religion, Separation of church and state David Smalley grew up Christian, but started to question his beliefs as a teenager. His questioning and seeking after the truth led to his atheism and now he is the host of the podcast and radio show Dogma Debate and the founder of Secular Media Group, LLC. David is a secular humanist activist and works toward the goals … Learn more about David Smalley > KEITH E. STANOVICH University of Toronto · Toronto, Ontario Topics: Education, Psychology Subtopics: Critical thinking, Evolutionary psychology, Psychology of religion Keith E. Stanovich is Professor of Human Development and Applied Psychology at the University of Toronto. He is the author of over 200 scientific articles. Stanovich is a Fellow of the American Psychological Association, and of the American Psychological Society. From 1986-2000 Stanovich was the Associate Editor of Merrill-Palmer Quarterly, a leading journal of human … Learn more about Keith E. Stanovich > CHRIS STEDMAN Humanist Chaplaincy at Harvard University · Boston, Massachusetts Topics: Activism & Organizing, Humanism, Philosophy, Religion, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Campus group organizing, Ethics & morality, LGBTQ issues Chris Stedman is the Interfaith and Community Service Fellow for the Humanist Chaplaincy at Harvard University and the Managing Director of State of Formation, a new initiative at the Journal of Inter-Religious Dialogue. Chris received an MA in Religion from Meadville Lombard Theological School at the University of Chicago, for which he was awarded the … Learn more about Chris Stedman > NIKKI STERN Writer · Princeton, New Jersey Topics: Humanism, Philosophy, Psychology Subtopics: Ethics & morality Nikki Stern writes political, social and cultural commentary with what NPR host Kurt Andersen describes as “even-keeled grace, tolerance and common sense.” She is the author of three books and a contributor to three anthologies that deal with aspects of peaceful resistance Her first book, Because I Say So: Moral Authority’s Dangerous Appeal, reviewed her … Learn more about Nikki Stern > KAREN STOLLZNOW University of New England · Denver, Colorado Topics: Skepticism Subtopics: Alternative medicine, Conspiracy theories, Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Pseudoscience, Skeptic movement Dr. Karen Stollznow is a lecturer in linguistics at the University of New England, Australia. She has a PhD in linguistics from the School of Behavioral, Cognitive and Social Sciences, University of New England (2007). Her PhD dissertation is: Key Words in the Discourse of Discrimination: A Semantic Analysis. Karen has worked at a number … Learn more about Karen Stollznow > TROY STOOPS Author · Orlando, Florida Topics: Humanism, Religion Subtopics: Ethics & morality, Leaving religion, Religious criticism Troy Stoops was born into a radically fundamentalist family, the foundations of which were explicitly theological. His father was a homosexual, his mother mentally ill. Their preacher approved their union as a way of suppressing these satanic influences. Glossolallia, the handling of poisonous snakes as a test of faith, liberal doses of hellfire, and a … Learn more about Troy Stoops > KYLIE STURGESS JREF · Perth, Western Australia Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Education, Philosophy, Religion, Science (General), Skepticism, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Critical thinking, Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Pseudoscience, Psychology of religion, Religious criticism, Science denial, Science education, Skeptic movement, Social media, Women & gender Kylie Sturgess is the President of the Atheist Foundation of Australia and an award-winning Philosophy teacher with over ten years experience in education. She has lectured on teaching critical thinking, feminism, new media and anomalistic beliefs worldwide, and regularly writes editorial for numerous publications. In 2011, she was the winner of the Best Individual Activist … Learn more about Kylie Sturgess > JOHN SUAREZ Americans United for the Separation of Church and State · Los Angeles, California Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Education, Politics, Religion Subtopics: Critical thinking, Free expression issues, Religious extremism, Separation of church and state Dr. John M. Suarez is a retired Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA, and the founder and director of the Section on Law and Psychiatry. He is a lifelong social activist, concerned with Civil Rights, Social and Economic Justice, the Environment, Public Education and the First Amendment. He is on the Board of Trustees of Americans … Learn more about John Suarez > EDWARD TABASH Center for Inquiry · Los Angeles, California Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Humanism, Philosophy Subtopics: Ethics & morality, Separation of church and state Edward Tabash is a Constitutional Lawyer in Los Angeles and Chair of the Board of Directors of the Center for Inquiry. He has filed amicus briefs arguing for the preservation of the separation of church and state with the United States Supreme Court and the California Supreme Court. Mr. Tabash graduated Magna Cum Laude with … Learn more about Edward Tabash > ROBERT TALISSE Vanderbilt University · Nashville, Tennessee Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Education, Philosophy, Politics, Religion Subtopics: Critical thinking, Ethics & morality, Religious extremism, Separation of church and state Robert Talisse is W. Alton Jones Professor of Philosophy, Professor of Political Science, and Chair of the Philosophy Department at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tennessee. He holds a Ph.D. in philosophy from City University of New York Graduate School. Professor Talisse has published widely on political philosophy, ethics, and American pragmatism. His current research focuses on … Learn more about Robert Talisse > VALERIE TARICO Author · Seattle, Washington Topics: Psychology, Religion Subtopics: Leaving religion, Psychology of religion, Sex & sexuality Valerie Tarico is the author of Trusting Doubt: A Former Evangelical Looks at Old Beliefs in a New Light and Deas and Other Imaginings. Raised in a staunch fundamentalist family, Valerie attended Wheaton College, where the Billy Graham Center features a museum about the history of Evangelism in North America. She obtained a Ph.D. in Counseling Psychology from … Learn more about Valerie Tarico > JILL TARTER SETI (Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence) · Mountain View, California Topics: Astronomy & Earth Science, Science (General), Skepticism Subtopics: Astrophysics, Critical thinking, Pseudoscience Jill Tarter is the Emeritus Chair for SETI Research at the SETI Institute in Mountain View, California and serves as a member of the Board of Trustees for that institution. Tarter received her Bachelor of Engineering Physics Degree with Distinction from Cornell University and her Master’s Degree and a Ph.D. in Astronomy from the University … Learn more about Jill Tarter > MANDISA THOMAS President, Black Nonbelievers, Inc. · Atlanta, Georgia Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Humanism Subtopics: African American humanism, Atheist/secular movement, Coming out atheist, Community group organizing, Starting a group Mandisa Thomas is a founder and President of Black Nonbelievers, Inc. Although never formally indoctrinated into belief, Mandisa was heavily exposed to Christianity, Black Nationalism and a bit of Islam. As a child she loved reading, and enjoyed various tales of Gods from different cultures, including Greek and Ghanaian. “Through reading these stories and being … Learn more about Mandisa Thomas > J. ANDERSON THOMSON Psychiatrist, Speaker · Charlottesville, Virginia Topics: Psychology, Religion Subtopics: Mental illness, Psychology of religion J. Anderson Thomson, Jr., M.D. (Andy) is a psychiatrist in private practice in Charlottesville, Virginia. He is also a staff psychiatrist at Counseling and Psychological Services at the University of Virginia Student Health Services, as well as theInstitute of Law, Psychiatry and Public Policy. He is the forensic psychiatrist for Region Ten Community Services. Andy … Learn more about J. Anderson Thomson > LIONEL TIGER Rutgers University · New Brunswick, New Jersey Topics: Biology, History, Philosophy, Psychology, Religion Subtopics: Evolution, History of religion, Naturalism, Psychology of religion, Sex & sexuality, Women & gender Lionel Tiger is the Charles Darwin Professor Emeritus of Anthropology at Rutgers University. His title reflects his pioneering role in introducing biosocial data into the social sciences. Since the mid-1960’s he has been deeply involved in bridging the gap between the natural and social sciences. He has asserted that the words used appear to imply … Learn more about Lionel Tiger > LAWRENCE TORCELLO Rochester Institute of Technology · Rochester, New York Topics: Education, Philosophy, Politics, Skepticism Subtopics: Critical thinking, Ethics & morality, Naturalism, Science denial, Science education Lawrence Torcello received his Ph.D. in Philosophy from the University at Buffalo. He is Associate Professor of Philosophy at Rochester Institute of Technology. He regularly teaches and publishes on issues related to critical thinking, social and political philosophy, moral theory, and bioethics broadly construed (i.e. ethical issues in biology, ecology, and medicine). His current research … Learn more about Lawrence Torcello > J.D. TROUT Loyola University · Chicago, Illinois Topics: Cognitive Science, Education, Philosophy, Psychology Subtopics: Critical thinking, Ethics & morality, Meaning of life, Naturalism J.D. Trout earned his bachelor’s degree in Philosophy and History in 1982 at Bucknell University, and his doctorate in Philosophy in 1988 at Cornell University, where he was a National Science Foundation Predoctoral Fellow in history and philosophy of science. While there, he also did graduate work in Psychology. He then spent a year as … Learn more about J.D. Trout > GLEB TSIPURSKY Intentional Insights · Columbus, Ohio Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Education, Humanism, Philosophy, Religion, Science (General), Skepticism Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Critical thinking, Ethics & morality, Pseudoscience, Science denial, Science education, Social media Dr. Gleb Tsipursky is passionate about promoting truth-oriented behavior, rational thinking, and wise decision-making. He serves as the President of Intentional Insights, a nonprofit devoted to popularizing these topics. Its main current focus is the Pro-Truth Pledge, a project that aims to reverse the tide of lies and promote truth in public discourse through combining … Learn more about Gleb Tsipursky > JAMES UNDERDOWN Center for Inquiry · Los Angeles, California Topics: Humanism, Science (General), Skepticism Subtopics: Alternative medicine, Comedy, Conspiracy theories, Critical thinking, Filmmaking, Paranormal & fringe-science claims, Pseudoscience, Science denial, Skeptic movement James Underdown has been the Executive Director of the Center for Inquiry-Los Angeles since 1999. He has written for both Skeptical Inquirer and Free Inquiry magazines. He is also the founder and chairman of the Independent Investigations Group in Hollywood, CA, one of the U.S.’s premiere paranormal investigation teams. The IIG, with the Committee for … Learn more about James Underdown > BERTHA VAZQUEZ TIES, Center for Inquiry · Miami, Florida Topics: Biology, Education Subtopics: Evolution, Science education Bertha Vazquez is the Director of the Teacher Institute for Evolutionary Science (TIES), a project of the Richard Dawkins Foundation for Reason & Science. Since its inception in April of 2015, TIES has presented over 94 professional development opportunities for middle school science teachers across the country, providing these middle school teachers with free resources … Learn more about Bertha Vazquez > INDRE VISKONTAS Host/Neuroscientist/Opera Singer/Speaker · San Francisco, California Topics: Arts & Entertainment, Psychology, Science (General), Skepticism Subtopics: Art & science, Music, Pseudoscience Indre Viskontas is a sought-after science communicator across all mediums. She co-hosted the 6-episode docuseries Miracle Detectives on the Oprah Winfrey Network and has appeared on The Oprah Winfrey Show, major radio stations across the US, including several appearances on the NPR program City Arts & Lectures and The Sunday Edition on the CBC in … Learn more about Indre Viskontas > GRETTA VOSPER Canadian Centre for Progressive Christianity · Toronto, Ontario Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Philosophy, Religion Subtopics: Ethics & morality, Meaning of life Named one of 2009’s Most Compelling Women in Canada by More Magazine, Gretta Vosper has been in the spotlight since founding the Canadian Centre for Progressive Christianity in 2004. Her national bestselling book, With or Without God: Why the Way We Live is More Important that What We Believe, quickly became a national bestseller and attracted media … Learn more about Gretta Vosper > JUDITH B. WALKER Independent · Denver, Colorado Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Education, Humanism, Philosophy, Religion, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Naturalism Judith Walker is a graduate of Wellesley College with a degree in sociology and anthropology. She earned her JD from the University of Colorado School of Law and served as an Assistant Colorado Attorney General in the Higher Education Unit representing Colorado state institutions of higher education. She joined the University of Colorado Foundation in … Learn more about Judith B. Walker > KAYLEY WHALEN National LGBTQ Task Force · Washington, DC Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Humanism, Politics, Psychology, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Ethics & morality, LGBTQ issues, Sex & sexuality, Women & gender Kayley Whalen is an activist who works at the intersections of humanism, racial justice, transgender and queer issues, immigration, disability advocacy and drug policy reform. She is the Digital Strategies and Social Media Manager at the National LGBTQ Task Force and the Digital Strategy Co-Director at Trans United Fund. She is multi-racial Latina/white. She skated with the DC … Learn more about Kayley Whalen > BENJAMIN WOLOZIN Boston University · Boston, Massachusetts Topics: Biology, Chemistry, Cognitive Science, Education, Science (General) Subtopics: Critical thinking, Evolution, Mental illness, Science education Benjamin Wolozin received his B.A. in Chemistry from Wesleyan University and his Ph.D. and M.D. from the Albert Einstein College of Medicine, with a focus in neuroscience. Dr. Wolozin is currently a professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Neurology at the Boston University School of Medicine. ShareTweet Learn more about Benjamin Wolozin > REBA BOYD WOODEN Center for Inquiry · Indianapolis, Indiana Topics: Activism & Organizing, Humanism, Politics Subtopics: Community group organizing, Event planning, Lobbying, Separation of church and state, Starting a group Reba Boyd Wooden is Executive Director of Center for Inquiry Indiana. She started The Humanist Friendship Group of Central Indiana in 1999 which became the Center for Inquiry Community of Indiana in 2005. On April 1, 2007, Center for Inquiry Indiana opened on the Indianapolis downtown canal walk at 350 Canal Walk, Suite A. Reba … Learn more about Reba Boyd Wooden > CHARLES WYNN Professor of Chemistry, Author · Willimantic, Connecticut Topics: Education, Religion, Science (General), Skepticism Subtopics: Pseudoscience, Religious criticism, Science denial, Science education Dr. Wynn has lectured about science and science education in Puerto Rico, Canada, Malaysia, China, Australia, England, and Russia. His critically acclaimed science trilogy, The Five Biggest Ideas in Science (John Wiley & Sons), Quantum Leaps in the Wrong Direction: Where Real Science Ends and Pseudoscience Begins (Joseph Henry Press), and The Five Biggest Unsolved Problems in Science (John Wiley & … Learn more about Charles Wynn > ROMAN YAMPOLSKIY University of Louisville · Louisville, Kentucky Topics: Physics & Mathematics, Science (General) Subtopics: Dr. Roman V. Yampolskiy is a Tenured Associate Professor in the Department of Computer Engineering and Computer Science at the Speed School of Engineering, University of Louisville. He is the founding and current director of the Cyber Security Lab and an author of many books including Artificial Superintelligence: a Futuristic Approach. During his tenure at UofL, Dr. Yampolskiy has been recognized as: Distinguished … Learn more about Roman Yampolskiy > PHIL ZUCKERMAN Author, Pitzer College · Claremont, California Topics: Atheism & Secularism, Religion, Social Issues & Movements, Sociology & Anthropology Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Ethics & morality, Leaving religion Phil Zuckerman is a professor of sociology and the founder of the secular studies program at Pitzer College, in Claremont, California. He is the author of several books on secularity, including The Nonreligious (Oxford, 2016), Living the Secular Life (Penguin, 2015), Faith No More: Why People Reject Religion (Oxford, 2011), and Society Without God (NYU, 2008). He has also edited several books, … Learn more about Phil Zuckerman > STEPHANIE ZVAN American Humanist Association · Minneapolis, Minnesota Topics: Activism & Organizing, Atheism & Secularism, Humanism, Science (General), Skepticism, Social Issues & Movements Subtopics: Atheist/secular movement, Skeptic movement Stephanie Zvan is the producer of the American Humanist Association’s podcast, The Humanist Hour, and a host and interviewer for Minnesota Atheists’ radio show, Atheists Talk. She is one of the founders of Secular Women Work, which provides activist training (for all genders) through conferences and workshops. She’s been educating audiences in science and skepticism … Learn more about Stephanie Zvan > Related Links Our Mission Annual Reports The History of CFI Branch Locations Board Staff Contact Us CFI Speakers Bureau REASON. SCIENCE. SECULAR VALUES. 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