Meet Our Team
Dr. Edward Lazzara
Ed is a charismatic and dynamic educational leader with a proven record of successfully leading schools while focusing on building relationships, improving organizational structure and empowering students and staff. He mentors new principals in NJ. Ed also teaches at the graduate level at Centenary University.
Lee Rouson
Lee brings years of motivational speaking, professional business accumen, and nearly a decade of professional football experience. Special teams Player of the Year and a two time super bowl champion, he knows what it means to lead, to cultivate teamwork, and to win. Lee has been speaking throughout the country impacted people, schools and communities for over 20 years
James Kramer
After several years in the coaching ranks and being named the Nike Coach of the Year in NJ, Jimm retired from the sidelines. He has been an administrator at the middle and high school level for several years. Jimm has been instrumental in elevating academic achievement in his school district. In addition, Jimm has traveled and spoken internationally.
Jamie Baker
Jamie is an accomplished Vice Principal, Humanities supervisor, English teacher and head girls soccer coach with an extensive background in effective leadership. She collectively utilizes strong interpersonal skills, motivation, and content knowledge to enhance achievement and catalyze progress. Jamie possesses the knowledge and capability to promote change, lead by example and foster an effective culture with high expectations for growth and progress.
Jeff Salazar
Jeff is the Outfield/Base Running Coordinator for the Los Angeles Dodgers, previously serving as their Hitting Coordinator and as Assistant Hitting Coach for the Colorado Rockies. Before coaching, he spent 11 years as a Major League Baseball outfielder with the Colorado Rockies, Arizona Diamondbacks, and Pittsburgh Pirates, earning two MiLB All-Star selections. Jeff will share professional strategies and tools used at the highest level of the game.
Dr. Jessica McKinney
A lifelong learner, Jessica earned her doctorate from Centenary University in 2022. Recognized as Counselor of the County, she also received the Educational Leadership Award for her impact on students and the community. Jessica actively serves on educational committees, shaping future leaders. Jessica will share strategies to overcome challenges and foster a culture of excellence in schools.
Stephen Baker
Stephen was drafted by the NY Giants in the 3rd round of the 1987 NFL Draft and played his entire six-year career with the team. Known as “The Touchdown Maker,” he helped secure a Super Bowl XXV victory by catching a touchdown in the Giants’ 20-19 win over Buffalo. Over his NFL career, he scored 21 touchdowns and proved that determination beats the odds. Inducted into the Fresno State Hall of Fame in 2008, he tallied 62 catches, 16 touchdowns, and a 26.3-yard average in two seasons. Today, Stephen mentors youth across New York and New Jersey, inspiring students to reach their full potential.
Tony Sorrentino
Tony is the Wide Receivers Coach for the Minnesota Vikings, rising through the ranks from high school to the NFL. In 2022, he played a key role in Justin Jefferson’s historic season, leading the league in receptions (128) and receiving yards (1,809) while winning NFL Offensive MVP. Before Minnesota, Tony coached at NIU, helping secure a MAC Championship in 2021. His career includes stops at FAU, Tennessee, Miami, and The College of New Jersey. Tony will share insights on the determination and resilience needed to climb to the highest level in coaching.
Dr. Juan Garcia
Juan is a consummate speaker and an internationally recognized leadership development expert. He has been able to bring show stopping performances at conferences worldwide delivering evidence-based strategies that have an immediate impact. Juan has earned a Doctorate in Clinical Counseling and is Licensed in Brain Health. Juan also works with NBA, NFL and MLB athletes through mental toughness and peak performance.
Liam Murphy
Liam is a standout distance runner at Villanova University, holding school records in the 3000m (7:42.51), mile (3:53.85), and 5000m (13:21.20). A former All-American and Gatorade New Jersey Cross Country Athlete of the Year, he helped Villanova win BIG EAST and NCAA Mid-Atlantic Regional titles in 2022. Recognized as Villanova’s Senior Student-Athlete of the Year, he is also a two-time BIG EAST All-Academic Team selection. Liam will share insights on leadership, teamwork, and balancing high expectations in competitive sports.
CJ Lazzara
CJ has just completed his sophomore year at the University of Hartford in Connecticut. He was the team captain at Roxbury HS in NJ, where they were conference champions, played for the state championship, and won the most games in school history. He was elected NJAC All-Conference his junior and senior years, as well as All Morris County, and an honor roll student. CJ will share his experience competing at the Division 1 level and the expectations of a student-athlete. He is majoring in sports management.
Samantha Lazzara
Samantha has just completed her sophomore year at James Madison University in Virginia. Sam was chosen as an alternate her freshman year. However, she quickly worked to earn a full–time spot on the game–day cheer squad All-Girl Team and was on the sidelines for the first game of the season. She was the team captain at Roxbury HS in NJ, a four-year letter winner, and an honor roll student. Sam will share her experience competing at the Division 1 level and the expectations of a student-athlete. She is majoring in communications.
Taylor Langan
Taylor is a standout basketball player from Rider University, where she was Team Captain, Rider Player of the Year (2023–24), and an All-MAAC selection. Known for her natural leadership and ability to elevate those around her, she recently signed to play professionally in Europe. Taylor will share insights on competing at the highest level, holding teammates accountable, and leading with authenticity.
Vikki Szabo
Vikki is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Clinical Supervisor who has worked with teens, young adults, and families for over 20 years. She currently serves as the Student Assistance Counselor at Sparta High School and is the co-founder of Girls on the Run NJ North, a nonprofit empowering young girls through running. A passionate mentor and advocate, Vikki will share insights on resilience, empowerment, and supporting youth in reaching their potential.
Sabrina Flores
Sabrina was a four-year starter and team captain at the University of Notre Dame, earning all ACC honors three times before being drafted in 2019 by Sky Blue FC. She went on to spend four seasons with NJ/NY Gotham FC in the National Women’s Soccer League and represented the United States in the FIFA Women’s World Cup. Recently retired, she now mentors, coaches, and trains aspiring players. Sabrina will share her experiences competing at the highest level and giving back to the game.
Vanessa Benfatti
Vanessa made history as the first African American female athlete to play soccer at the University of Michigan. A standout at Morris Catholic, she was both a National and New Jersey State Champion in the 400m. She now teaches Physical Education at Mount Olive High School, where she has coached soccer, track, and cheer. A dedicated educator and mentor, Vanessa will share lessons on breaking barriers, balancing roles, and inspiring the next generation.