2010 Keynote Speakers
Tuesday, October 19th, 1:30pm
Anthony Salcito
Vice President, Worldwide Education, Microsoft
As vice president of education for Microsoft Corp.’s Worldwide Public Sector organization, Anthony Salcito works with education institutions and partners globally to embrace technology to optimize learning environments and student achievement. In this role, Salcito oversees the worldwide execution of Microsoft’s vision for education and its partnership and technology outreach efforts via the Worldwide Partners in Learning, Partners for Technology Access, and Public and Private Alliances programs. Previously, as general manager of education in the United States, Salcito had responsibility for supporting K-12 and higher education institutions across the U.S. and leading Microsoft’s efforts to support and increase the role technology plays to enhance learning. He developed education partnerships and innovative programs to better support education customers nationally.Anthony helped launch the U.S. Partners in Learning program in 2003, which was recognized in 2009 with the Public-Private Partnership Award from the U.S. National Governors Association. He was the catalyst for Microsoft’s involvement in the creation of the School of the Future — Microsoft’s participation with School District of Philadelphia to build an innovative high school in the city of Philadelphia, which has served as a blueprint for Microsoft’s worldwide Innovative Schools program. Anthony has created several programs that have been leveraged broadly to support the company’s giving efforts and Microsoft’s Connected Learning Community initiative. He created the Microsoft Technology Friends Network, which links IT professionals and developers to schools and nonprofits to donate their technical expertise to aid with technology support.
Anthony joined Microsoft in 1992, helping to architect Microsoft’s marketing outreach plan in the early 1990s. During his initial years with Microsoft, Salcito had the opportunity to influence marketing and one-to-many programs including the product launches for Windows NT and Windows 95.Anthony is involved with a variety of outreach projects; he has served on the board of directors for Stevens Institute of Technology WebCampus and Western Governors University, and currently serves on the board of the National Foundation for Teaching Entrepreneurship and the National Community Education Association.
Wednesday, October 20th, 10:50am
Dan Thurmon
Author, Entertainer
Dan Thurmon began his entrepreneurial career when he was eleven years old after learning to juggle at a Renaissance Festival. That one event uncovered a passion for inspiring audiences that has only grown over time. As an entertainer, Dan has appeared at thousands of events across the country and overseas. His performing credits include national television appearances and collaborations with major musical artists. He has also traveled to the front lines of Iraq and Afghanistan to entertain and encourage US Armed Forces.
Dan’s performing experience taught him the essentials to consistently deliver superior performances on and off the stage. Those lessons, combined with a business education and thirst for motivational influences, led him to develop an original communication style as he built a successful company. Dan is author of the book Success in Action and President of Motivation Works, Inc., an international speaking and entertainment firm. He teaches audiences how to manage the demands of their busy lives with increased focus and decisive action. His unique programs always blend meaningful content with emotionally charged performances. Dan is a graduate of the University of Georgia with a degree in Marketing. He has also studied business management, music, theater, acting, dance, gymnastics, and aviation. Dan has achieved the highest earned award of the National Speakers Association, receiving the elite designation of “Certified Speaking Professional.” He currently lives in the Atlanta area with his wife, Sheilia, and their children, Eddie and Maggie.
