Keynote Speaker Dr. James Harden

Dr. James Carter Harden III is a self-proclaimed “life-changer!” He is on a mission to use the power of education to increase life opportunities for all children. Dr. Harden has accomplished this mission as a teacher, a principal, a professor, an academic director and as a consultant. His commitment and passion for education has yielded him national, regional and statewide notoriety. Dr. Harden has authored two books:

• Think Like a Teacher, Act Like a Parent!
• Enrolled, Enlisted, Employed!

Dr. Harden holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences and a Master’s degree in Education Leadership, both from Eastern Illinois University. He earned a PhD in Education & Organizational Leadership from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Dr. Harden is the happy husband of Lashonna Nicole Harden and the hardworking father of Shaun Carter & Nina Olivia Harden. More important than any accolades and recognitions, he is blessed to be able to serve others. Dr. Harden’s personal motto, “The POWER of education makes you UNSTOPPABLE!” reflects his unwavering belief in education as the cornerstone of empowerment and success.