Malcolm Mitchell is the founder of Read with Malcolm, a nonprofit whose mission is to introduce book ownership to students and improve literacy in schools where students are at risk of academic failure.  Despite his many successes on the field, Malcolm considers discovering a love of reading to be his greatest accomplishment.  As a child, Malcolm struggled with reading – but through perseverance, books became an avenue for expanding his curiosity, creativity, and learning.  Malcolm has written two children’s books: The Magician’s Hat and My Very Favorite Book in the Whole Wide World.

Ruth Ryder is one of the most senior and well-connected leaders at the U.S. Department of Education, overseeing a broad range of functions related to formula and discretionary grant programs.  Ms. Ryder is the Deputy Assistant Secretary in the Office of Policy and Programs – Formula Grants, which is in the Office of Elementary and Secondary Education (OESE) at the U.S. Department of Education.  Ms. Ryder’s work at the Department has resulted in an improved ability to meet grantee needs and an increased return on investment.