Barbara Faye DuFrain

DuFrain, Barbara  2080980Title: Associate Professor of Computer Science
Company: Del Mar College
Location: Corpus Christi, TX United States

After spending some time in a research lab working with mathematical programs, Barbara DuFrain’s boss suggested that computer programming would be a great fit. She took his advice, and is now an associate professor of computer science at Del Mar College. Ms. DuFrain specializes in geographic information programs, and computer science programs working in the area of programming and specializing in gaming. She would love to start a gaming technology class at the college.

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Cindy Riemenschneider, Ph.D.

Riemenschneider, Cindy 2077666Title: Associate Dean for Research and Faculty Development, Professor of Information Systems, Holder of Helen Ligon Professorship in Information Systems

Company: Baylor University
Location: Waco, TX United States

Cindy Riemenschneider has dedicated the past 25 years to her academic career, and is a strong believer in life-long learning. She currently serves Baylor University, where she plays a number of different roles. Dr. Riemenschneider is a professor of information systems, and was asked to become the associate dean for research and faculty development a few years ago.  The title, holder of Helen Ligon professorship in information systems, was bestowed upon her in 2015 by the Hankamer School of Business at Baylor University. Dr. Helen Ligon was a beloved professor at the school, so the designation is a huge honor.

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Linda Wuelling

Wuelling, Linda 2074922Title: Office Manager
Company: Dennis Fuller & Associates
Location: Venice, FL United States

Upon joining the insurance industry, Linda Wuelling worked her way up the ranks and established herself in the field with a stellar reputation. She spent more than two decades with the Mutual of Omaha, but joined Dennis Fuller & Associates after moving to Florida. As the office manager of the insurance agency, Ms. Wuelling is in charge of payroll, employee services, and outreach in community events. She credits her ability to run the office to wearing many different hats.

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Marie Thomas Foster

Title: Artistic Director
Company: The Peppermint Players
Location: Newark, NJ United States

As a little girl, Marie Thomas Foster always wanted to be on stage and perform. She made her dream a reality, and has worked on both daytime television and in the theater. Ms. Thomas Foster even appeared on Broadway in New York City. She considers one of her greatest accomplishments to be her acting work on “The Doctors,” however. Eventually, Ms. Thomas Foster decided to turn her focus to working with kids, and began teaching in 1978. She now has more than three decade of experience as the artistic director of The Peppermint Players, a fine arts institute she created. In her role, Ms. Thomas Foster teaches acting, dancing, creative writing, and gives voice lessons. She is inspired by the joy she gets from seeing the end product, nurturing talent, and watching the students succeed.

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Janis L. Sparks

Sparks, Janis 645854Title: Principal (Retired)
Company: Donaldson Way Elementary School,
Napa Valley Unified School District
Location: El Verano, CA United States

Janis Sparks decided to become a teacher while she was still in elementary school. She was inspired by the words of Albert Schweitzer; his reverence for life as the foundation of ethics became embedded in her, along with the desire to serve people through education. Ms. Sparks views every day as a great gift and an opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others. She retired from her position as the principal of Donaldson Way Elementary School, which is part of the Napa Valley Unified School District, with 42 yeas of experience. In that role, Ms. Sparks was responsible for managing all functions of the school, writing grants,  and overseeing curriculum and instruction. Despite her retirement, however, Ms. Sparks has remained involved, and currently tutors children after school.

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