
Jack Horner
Jack Horner is a severely dyslexic, dinosaur paleontologist! He attended the University of Montana for 14 semesters without receiving a degree. He has since received four honorary doctorates, and a plethora of awards including a MacArthur Fellowship and the Romer-Simpson Medal, the highest honor granted by the Society of Vertebrate Paleontology. Jack was Curator and Regent’s Professor of Paleontology at Montana State University in Bozeman, Montana for 34 years. He has more than 300 publications including 11 books. He was the technical advisor for the first 6 Jurassic Park/ Jurassic World movies. Jack currently teaches in the Honors Program at Chapman University in Orange, California.
2025 Keynote
Jack Horner’s Jurassic Journey
Join Jack Horner, a world-renowned paleontologist, as he shares his journey of navigating severe dyslexia and academic challenges while transforming our understanding of dinosaurs. Despite lifelong struggles with reading, Jack pursued his passion, earning honorary doctorates and serving as the scientific advisor for the Jurassic Park and Jurassic World films, as well as the inspiration for Dr. Alan Grant. His story is a powerful testament to resilience, creativity, and embracing one’s strengths. This captivating talk will inspire everyone to forge their own unique paths and persist in pursuing their passions, no matter the obstacles.

Shavana Clarke
A distinguished professor of animal science at Colorado State University, Temple has designed facilities for handling livestock used by companies around the world and been instrumental in implementing animal welfare auditing programs used by McDonalds, Wendy’s, Whole Foods, and other corporations. She will be discussing the ways people think and how they bring different approaches to problem solving.
2025 Keynote
Igniting Resilience: Overcoming Stigma and Embracing Possibilities
Shavana Clarke shares her inspiring journey as a Jamaican American, LGBTQ+ leader, and mental health advocate, reflecting on the power of resilience, passion, and self-acceptance. Aligned with the WISH to Ignite: Passion, Resilience, and Boundless Possibilities theme, she highlights how breaking barriers in mental health and identity fosters empowerment, growth, and limitless potential. Through her story, she encourages individuals to embrace their unique paths and ignite change.



