PRESENTER BIO:

Caroll Vick, Arts in Education Program Manager, Hillsborough County Public Schools
Kimberly DeFusco, Supervisor Library Media, Secondary, Hillsborough County Public Schools
Pamela R. Smith, Library Media Specialist, Riverview High School

Caroll Vick is the Arts in Education Program Manager for Hillsborough County Public Schools, ensuring they are receiving a well-rounded education that includes the arts. Ms. Vick has over 28 years of experience in developing, implementing, and improving programs and organizational performance in a variety of non-profit settings, including education, social services, and cultural institutions. Ms. Vick has previously held the positions of Director of Education for the Hillsborough Arts Council and Executive Director of the Florida Alliance for Arts Education. In addition, she volunteers with organizations dedicated to improving the lives of children. She graduated from the University of South Florida with a B.A. in Art History. Ms. Vick is committed to developing programs, resources, and initiatives that support arts education in the state of Florida.

—
Kimberly DeFusco loves connecting great books with the readers who will love them. She's one of the lucky ones who gets to do what she loves for work, too. She graduated from the University of Tampa with a B.A. in Spanish and from the University of South Florida with an M.A. in Library and Information Science.  She is currently a glutton for punishment as a Ph.D. student in Instructional Technology at the University of South Florida. At work, she is the Supervisor of Library Media Services for Hillsborough County Public Schools, the 7th largest school district in the nation, supporting middle and high school librarians and organizing district poetry, literacy, and author events.  At home, she is bossed around by 3 sassy cats.

—

Pamela R. Smith is a dedicated Library Media Specialist who has made a significant impact in the academic community. With over a decade of experience, she has earned a reputation for her innovative ideas and unwavering commitment to excellence. In addition to her role as a Library Media Specialist, Pamela is actively involved in several organizations that promote literacy and education. She currently serves as a member of the FAME Intellectual Freedom Committee, FAME Diversity Committee, Instructional Leadership Team, H.Y.P.E. Club Sponsor (Heritage Yields Pride & Excellence) and former Florida Teens Read Committee member.

As a Library Media Specialist, Pamela is passionate about creating an environment that encourages academic exploration and growth. She has implemented several initiatives that have helped students develop a love for reading, literacy, and creativity. Her efforts have not gone unnoticed, as she has received numerous accolades for her work, including winning Riverview High School’s Teacher of the year (twice), Ida S. Baker Educator of the year(twice), and District Teacher of the year for Clayton County Public Schools in Georgia.

In addition to her professional accomplishments, Pamela is also a devoted wife and mother of two. She enjoys spending time with her family, van life, reading, and crafting.