Jay Asher, author of the New York Times bestseller, Thirteen Reasons Why will be presenting our Wednesday Keynote address.  Jay knows how powerful and profound words can be.  The reader reaction he receives to his first novel is remarkable.

Jay spent a year traveling the United Sates discussing bullying and suicide prevention during the 50 States Against Bullying Campaign.

Bracelets with the phrase, “ReasonsWhyYouMatter” were distributed and worn proudly.  Students and teachers completed “ReasonsWhyYouMatter” cards for themselves and others in order to promote positivity and empathy.  This is a message that we can all benefit from, because after all, we are all in this together. 

Laura Leonard and the 2016 Conference Committee