Let There Be Light

In this episode, Dana Andrews and Laura Bowen from USTA Florida join Tiffany Taylor to discuss their inaugural partnership with the ASU+GSV Summit to support HBCUs. Learn how the two organizations began collaborating, rooted in shared values around access, opportunity, and elevating the next generation of innovators of color. Laura and Dana discuss USTA’s commitment to supporting student athletes holistically, as well as the importance of sports in developing leadership skills. They also delve into future goals, such as involving students in AI projects within the tennis ecosystem—and their vision for the HBCU Partnership going forward.

Tiffany Taylor, President of GSV Summit, sits down with Dr. Gregory Fowler, President of the University of Maryland Global Campus and a 2025 Innovator of Color honoree. They explore Dr. Fowler's inspiring journey, from his family roots to his dedication to expanding educational access for historically underserved populations. Learn more about his comprehensive transformation initiatives at UMGC, the meaning of innovation, challenges and opportunities in modern education, and the importance of maximizing human potential. Dr. Fowler emphasizes the need for educational institutions to adapt rapidly and inclusively to the evolving landscape, ensuring everyone has the chance to contribute to the global tapestry of knowledge.

Leadership Academy President & Lead Executive Officer Nancy Gutiérrez joins GSV’s Tiffany Taylor to reflect on building transformational school leadership, redefining the role of the principal, and her journey from East San Jose to Harvard and national impact. A 2025 Innovator of Color honoree, Nancy shares how “SHINE” leadership and community-rooted vision can spark systems change—illuminating pathways for every student and every leader to thrive.

Google has unleashed a new era of AI-first learning, unveiling 30+ free Gemini-powered tools for educators and students. GSV’s Jennifer Lee breaks down the massive launch with Shantanu Sinha—former founding President & COO of Khan Academy and current VP & GM of Google for Education. From Gems to Vids and so much more, learn how the new Gemini for Education tools enable personalized approaches, multimodal learning, and security-enhancing measures, all with the aim of empowering teachers.

In this episode of Let There Be Light, Partner & Co-president of the ASU+GSV Summit Tiffany Taylor sits down with Matthew Mugo Fields — General Manager at HMH, President of Heinemann, and a 2025 Innovator of Color Award honoree. From attending school as a low-income immigrant student to leading cutting-edge EdTech initiatives, Matthew shares how his own experience has rooted his career in purpose, access, and a deep commitment to transforming education through technology and innovation. Plus, hear his poignant perspective on why elevating innovators of color is so important for the education ecosystem.

How do you create a product-driven culture and an outcomes-driven product? GSV’s Jennifer Lee speaks with Joe Philleo, Co-founder & CEO of Edia, about building education technology that delivers real results. From product without product managers to guaranteed outcomes for K-12 customers, Joe shares how Edia’s small, AI-augmented teams craft solutions that measurably improve student success in math and absenteeism. Tune in to explore how AI, intentional design, and bold thinking are lighting the path forward in K-12 EdTech.

Garrett Lord, Co-founder and CEO of Handshake, leads the charge in democratizing job opportunities for college students. Christine Cruzvergara, Chief Education Strategy Officer, highlights partnerships with universities adapting to AI needs. Sahil Bhaiwala, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer for Handshake AI, discusses the importance of expert data and foundational skills. Together, they explore AI's influence on the talent market, the role of fellowships in shaping careers, and how innovative job matching is redefining entry-level roles in a fast-evolving workforce.

Scott Watkins, Senior Director of Business Strategy at Michigan Virtual, joins GSV’s Tiffany Taylor to discuss the new Conquer EdTech Accelerator, launched in collaboration with the Michigan State University Research Foundation to support early-stage EdTech startups — part of Michigan Virtual’s larger EdTech Catalyst initiative that includes pitch contests and bootcamps to foster meaningful, mission-driven advancements. They share a bold vision for making Michigan a national leader in education innovation by harnessing local talent and deep expertise. Discover how they’re helping founders scale their ideas, engage in professional development, and bring new learning opportunities to K-12 students.

In this episode, GSV's Mujtaba Wani explores Arnav Kumar's fascinating journey in the EdTech sector. Arnav shares his family's roots in Bihar, India, as well as his own journey from IT to Deutsche Bank to the startup world. Learn how he founded and scaled companies — including co-founding Leap, a platform empowering students with global education opportunities — and hear his perspective on resilience, self-belief, and an obsession with becoming the best.--------------"Let There Be Light" is a podcast from ASU+GSV, shining a spotlight on the ideas and innovators from PreK to Gray shaping the future of learning and work. With conversations recorded live at the 2025 ASU+GSV Summit, the show features bold, enlightening conversations with visionary leaders across education, technology, and impact. Tune in for fresh perspectives, powerful insights, and a front-row seat to the global learning revolution.

GSV’s Tiffany Taylor sits down with Dr. Christina Grant, Executive Director of the Center for Education Policy Research at Harvard University, and Dr. Tequilla Brownie, CEO of TNTP, to discuss what’s needed to move students’ futures forward. From policy interventions to high-impact tutoring, they explore the surgical precision and all-hands-on-deck energy needed to scale impact and change generational outcomes.