2024 - 2025 Scholastic
Fellows and Mentors
The NASEF Scholastic Fellow Program provides a professional learning community, mentorship, tools, resources and instructional coaching for educators interested in connecting esports and learning in schools and out-of-school time / community-based organizations across the globe.
Scholastic Mentors
Scholastic Fellows
Meet the 2024 - 2025 Scholastic Mentors
Alvaro Brito
Title: STEAM Administrator / Assistant Principal
School/Organization: Compton Unified School Distirct
Location: California, United States
My educational and professional journey has always been centered around being an agent of change for the betterment of my community. All the teachers who have inspired and motivated me to excel academically drive my work today. I received my BA in Psychology and a minor in Education from the University of California, Irvine. My passion for education and teaching was ignited as I completed my courses and participated in student teaching. Shortly after I pursued my MA in Teaching from the University of Southern California with a concentration in Single Subject Social Studies. I taught high school social sciences for 5 years before I received my MS in Educational Technology from Cal State University Fullerton. This degree fueled my passion for integrating educational technology to ignite innovation and project-based learning in the classroom. This degree opened the door to serve in my current role as a STEAM Administrator and previously as a 21st Century Learning Specialist. Currently, I am culminating my final advanced degree as I am a doctorate student achieving my EdD in Educational Technology.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Mentor because I am passionate about sharing my extensive knowledge of K-12 Esports. My goal is to support and inspire the next generation of students by leveraging the educational and developmental benefits of esports. Through this mentorship, I aim to foster a community where students can develop critical skills such as teamwork, strategic thinking, and digital literacy. By guiding and nurturing young minds, I hope to create a positive impact that extends beyond the gaming arena and into their academic and personal lives."
"My favorite games are Call of Duty Franchise, Super Smash Brothers, and Racing Games."
Marc Joubert
Title: Managing Director
School/Organization: Ruckus Media Group
Location: Gauteng, South Africa
TV Show host, event planner, event host, gaming enthusiast. My mission is to highlight the issues facing young gamers and to develop the platforms to allow them to build and showcase their skills in their drive to become World Class.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Mentor so that I can continue on this wonderful journey of discovery and learning about the positive impacts of gaming and esports."
"My favorite games are Starcraft, Warcraft and COD."
Laurie Lehman
Title: Esports District Manager / Budget & Project Supervisor
School/Organization: Albuquerque Public Schools
Location: New Mexico, United States
Life has always been an awesome adventeure to me. I traveled the world in my youth, lived in the jungles of Panama and New Guinea, and still have the secret skill of how to sleep comfortably in a hammock. Both age and Covid showed me that we have no time to waste, so always be kind. I plan to continue this incredible journey with an open mind, curiosity, and with love. Six years ago, we began our esports program at APS with less than 100 students in a handful of high schools. Today we have over 1,200 students in elementary, middle, and high schools, and our goal of sustainable growth has shown scholastic esports as a valuable took to cultivate and capture community from a learning perspective.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Mentor because I believe in the many powerful benefits of esports and look forward to helping educators and administrators as they support and empower students to become engaged learners and global citizens."
"My favorite games are need for speed, tekken ,pubgM, ludo, archery,snooker racing games"
Jennifer Lim
Title: Personal Project and Service-Learning Coordinator, Design and Esports Educator
School/Organization: XCL World Academy
Location: Singapore
In the world of education and Esports, Jennifer Lim is a unique blend of passion and dedication. Her journey into Esports began when her daughter became a competitive CODm player at 13, sparking Jennifer's enthusiasm for this dynamic field despite her struggle with vertigo. Jennifer proudly holds the titles of NASEF Scholastic Fellow and NASEF Mentor, where she continues to inspire and guide young minds in the ever-evolving landscape of scholastic esports. As a dedicated MYP Design educator and a Service and Personal Project Coordinator, Jennifer instills values like open-mindedness, respect, and global citizenship in her students. Outside the classroom, she is a fearless athlete, frequently found on the softball field and in the Muay Thai gym, embracing physical challenges with unwavering spirit. At home, her cats add a delightful touch of whimsy to her life. Jennifer is a passionate networker, driven by an insatiable curiosity about the world. Her life experiences have taught her the value of savouring life's journey. Her boundless passion for Esports and education continues to inspire her as she recognizes the limitless potential within young minds.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Mentor because it perfectly aligns with my passion for both education and esports. My journey into esports began when my daughter became a competitive CODm player at a young age, which sparked my interest in the incredible potential of esports to engage and empower students. Through this experience, I saw firsthand how esports can teach valuable life skills like teamwork, strategic thinking, and leadership. This inspired me to guide the next generation of gamers, helping them excel not only in the gaming world but also in becoming well-rounded individuals."
"My favorite game is Super Smash Bros. Ultimate When I first started, I won my first game after a losing streak of 52 battles. =)"
Ariel Koepp
Title: Elementary Teacher & Elementary Esports Coach
School/Organization: Ridge Crest Elementary/ Moreno Valley Unified School District
Location: California, United States
A self-proclaimed nerdy bookworm and avid gamer, Ariel finds joy in the pages of fantasy novels and the thrill of virtual worlds. When not lost in a good book or leveling up in a game, Ariel is a dedicated elementary teacher and esports coach that combines a love for learning with a passion for gaming. With a knack for making education engaging and a flair for fostering teamwork in esports, Ariel thrives on blending creativity and strategy in every aspect of life.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Mentor as a former NASEF Scholastic Fellow I learned a lot and made amazing connections that really benefited my esports program. I want to pay it forward and do the same for others, while continuing to learn, grow, and better my esports program."
"My favorite games are Diablo III, Animal Crossing, and Over Cooked: All You Can Eat."
Kathrin McGregor
Title: DTS Systems Analyst & Scholastic Esports Lead
School/Organization: East Baton Rouge Parish Schools
Location: Louisiana, United States
I have been a teacher in East Baton Rouge Parish Schools since 2004. The past 3 years I have spent working in the technology department for our school system managing the web filter for students and helping to facilitate scholastic esports in our K-12 schools. Our esports footprint has grown tremendously now including over half of our schools and establishing a thriving esports community!
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Mentor because I am ready to grow my passion for scholastic esports by working with a larger network of passionate gamers, so our students can continue to make connections and build the regional community in our state."
"My favorite games are Oregon Trail and Dr.Mario! I love puzzle games and games that involve making decisions to advance through the adventure!"
Adrieanne Moliere
Title: Esports Coordinator
School/Organization: University View Academy
Location: Louisiana, United States
Adrieanne Moliere is a native of New Orleans, Louisiana and has been working with Diverse learners for over 8 years. Adrieanne is the Esports Coordinator for the Louisiana k-12 charter school University View Academy. She facilitates the esports club where students participate in competitive, scholastic, and inclusive esports experiences. In her pursuit to develop opportunities for students with disabilities, Adrieanne encourages students to incorporate vital executive functioning or life skills into games like Minecraft, Rocket League and League of Legends. As a NASEF fellow she developed content to support students with disabilities and their families to have fun while learning. Students learn about and practice social emotional skills, host game centered discussions, and foster community with their peers through synchronous and asynchronous learning.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Mentor in order to continue to support the growth of esports in the k-12 community. I hope to be able to support other educators the way I was helped when I was a scholastic Fellow."
"My favorite games are Animal Crossing New Horizons, Genshin Impact, League of Legends, Kingdom Hearts 2."
Lindsey Neal
Title: Teacher / General Manager and Head Coach
School/Organization: Fox Senior High School
Location: Missouri, United States
Lindsey Neal moved from being a veteran English teacher to a brand new computer science teacher in 2022. She is the head esports coach/general manager for her school's program and also serves on the school district's Educational Equity Committee. She brings her passion for esports and equity to her role as the Missouri Scholastic Esports Federation's DEI Consultant and also serves as their League of Legends TO.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Mentor because starting a program can be intimidating and growing a program can feel so lonely! I want to help others achieve their goals in scholastic esports. We do this to give our kids opportunities to grow in game and out and we need to grow, too."
"My favorite games are zombie survival games like Project Zomboid, Terminus, and 7 Days to Die. And League of Legends, which sometimes feels like a zombie survival game. I also love the Final Fantasy series and farming sims. And Resident Evil."
Akil O'Connor
Title: Executive Director
School/Organization: SEsport (Scholastic Esports Research Center)
Location: Port of Spain, Trindad and Tobago
Akil O’Connor is a Director at Scholastic Esports Research Center and a Primary School teacher. He has a bachelor’s degree in Business Management and Education. His Esports career in Trinidad and Tobago began in 2003 as a competitor and he transitioned away from the competitive scene in the early 2010s, where he remained active in the Esports community as an event planner, commentator and consultant. In 2021, Akil was selected to represent his country by the U.S. State Embassy Port of Spain at the International Visitor Leadership Program (IVLP) on Video Games for Steam and Entrepreneurship, where he was given the title of ‘Esports Expert’ for his Esports knowledge. Through the IVLP experience, Akil was introduced to Scholastic Esports, and he is now actively implementing various Scholastic Esports programs in Primary and Secondary schools across Trinidad and Tobago. . He has also been featured as a speaker at workshops and events related to esports and education.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Mentor because I want to further the globalization of Scholastic Esports. There are so many opportunities for cultural exchanges, information sharing, joy of playing and academic pursuit that can come from Scholastic Esports and I want as many people as possible to benefit from it. As a mentor, I can use my experiences to help new leaders to achieve their potential in Scholastic Esports."
"My favorite games are Guild Wars 2, Super Smash Bros Ultimate and Street Fighter (all)."
Jordan Wissinger
Title: Instructional Technology Coach
School/Organization: Hartford Public Schools
Location: Connecticut, United States
Jordan Wissinger is a dedicated educator and innovator serving as a District Instructional Technology Coach for Hartford Public Schools in Hartford, CT. With 17 years of experience in the district, she has made significant contributions to the educational landscape. Wissinger has spearheaded efforts to advance both scholastic and competitive esports programs across all grade levels, from kindergarten through 12th grade, impacting 39 schools within the district. Her pioneering work has been instrumental in integrating modern technology and gaming into the educational experience, helping to prepare students for the digital age while fostering engagement and skills development.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Mentor because I've seen firsthand the transformative power of esports in education. After 17 years in Hartford Public Schools and working to implement esports programs across our district, I've witnessed how these initiatives can engage students, develop their skills, and prepare them for the digital future. As a NASEF Mentor, I can share my experience and help other educators harness the potential of esports to enhance learning outcomes and create exciting opportunities for students. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between traditional education and innovative technology, and being a NASEF Mentor allows me to contribute to this important mission on a broader scale."
"My favorite games are Dr. Mario, Super Mario Brothers 3, Tetris, and Rocket League."
Meet the 2024 - 2025 Scholastic Fellows
Areebah Ali Butt
Title: Technical Official
School/Organization: Pakistan Esports Federation
Location: KPK, Pakistan
I am Areebah Ali Butt, a passionate Computer Science student and data analyst from Pakistan. Alongside my academic pursuits, I serve as a Reporting Officer in the Youth Climate Education Program and as a Technical Official at the Pakistan Esports Federation. I am also the President of my university's Computer Science Students Club, where I am leading various initiatives to inspire and support fellow students.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I believe this program will not only enhance my skills but also provide me with valuable learning and experience that will contribute to my growth and development."
"My favorite games are Dr. Mario, Super Mario Brothers 3, Tetris, and Rocket League."
Hamed Aljahwari
Title: General Secretary
School/Organization: Oman Gaming and Esports Committee
Location: Muscat, Oman
General Secretary of Oman Gaming and Esports Committee
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because of my deep commitment to both Esports and education underpins my belief that Esports offers a distinctive platform to engage students effectively. By integrating entertainment with educational experiences, it has the potential to cultivate vital skills such as teamwork, leadership, and strategic decision-making."
"My favorite games are Fc 25, Tekken 8, and Valorant."
Jose Alvarado
Title: Head Esports Coach
School/Organization: ASTEC Charter School
Location: Oklahoma, United States
Jose Alvarado is a dedicated educator and esports enthusiast from eastern New Mexico. A graduate of Eastern New Mexico University (ENMU) with a Bachelor of Science in music, he played an active role in the development of esports at ENMU, where he led the esports club as team captain and president. His leadership efforts helped establish ENMU's official esports team, securing scholarship opportunities for future students. Currently, Mr. Alvarado teaches at ASTEC Charter Schools, where he has developed esports-related curricula and coached competitive teams in state and national leagues. As a PlayVS Super Coach, he guides new coaches and manages outreach with collegiate institutions. Passionate about esports, he believes in its limitless potential to enhance student achievement.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I believe that connecting with other passionate individuals who have flourished in the same space I am currently growing in can give me perspective and new ideas on how to approach building the best program possible for my school."
"My favorite games are Overwatch 2, Super Smash Brothers Ultimate, and Elden Ring."
Taposhe Arefa Parvin
Title: President
School/Organization: Bangladesh Youth Development And Electronic Sports Association
Location: Dhaka, Bangladesh
Arefa Parvin Taposhe is a distinguished advocate at the Bangladesh Supreme Court, with extensive experience in the legal field. She was enrolled in the High Court on January 1, 2017, and in the Judge Court on March 17, 2008. She earned her LL.M in 2006 and LL.B (Hons) in 2004 from the University of Dhaka, both with a 2nd Class result. Her educational journey began with her H.S.C. from Bir Uttam Shahid Anwar Girls College and S.S.C. from Badda Alatunnessa High School, where she achieved 1st Division results. Arefa’s early academic success was recognized with a talent pool scholarship during her time at Little Angel’s School. In addition to her legal practice, Arefa has been actively involved in various organizations. She served as the former Joint Secretary and Organising Secretary of the Bangladesh Ain Somity at the University of Dhaka and is currently a running Executive Committee member of DULLA. She also holds the position of President at the Bangladesh Youth Development and Electronic Sports Association. Arefa Parvin Taposhe is dedicated to advancing legal practice and contributing to community development through her leadership roles and professional endeavors.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I am passionate about merging my expertise in law and esports to create innovative educational frameworks and mentorship opportunities. This role aligns with my commitment to shaping the future of both fields by developing comprehensive curricula and fostering industry connections, ultimately preparing students to excel in the evolving landscape of esports and legal professions."
Melvin Breeden
Title: Chief Executive Officer
School/Organization: Radar Live - Radar Sports
Location: Georgia, United States
Melvin Breeden, professionally known as Mel-Man and Birdman, is an American executive music producer from Norfolk, Virginia. He is the president and CEO of Big Cat Records and Radar Live, which Billboard placed at #13 on their list of Top Rap Labels.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I want to continue developing professionally in technology and Esports, while making a impact in communities around the globe, closing the gap, who don't have the access."
"My favorite game is NBA2k."
Anthony Bringetto
Title: Teacher
School/Organization: Clovis West High School
Location: California, United States
I have always been a competitive person. In 3rd grade, I had to have the most stars on my multiplication charts. My journey in competitive gaming began with Halo 2 and Xbox live. Coming from a small town, I had no knowledge of the competitive scene besides online matchmaking. All of high school consisted of athletics. Four years varsity cross country, three years varsity Soccer and Track & Field taught me competitiveness, determination, and leadership. I was captain of every sport my senior year. In College, my friends introduced me to League of Legends at the beginning of season 2. I finished my first season in Silver, but a year later I ended in the top 1% of North America. I got married, became a full time teacher, and coached three varsity sports. My time competing at the highest level came to an end, but I continued in the scene by shoutcasting collegiate LoL tournaments and amateur leagues such as Risen Esports. During the pandemic, I started the Esports program at Clovis West to give students something to look forward to outside of zoom classes. Our Rocket League team has finished top 4 in California twice and our Smash Bros team has finished top 8 twice as well.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I want to grow as an Esports educator and bring the best possible experience to my students."
"My favorite games are League of Legends, Halo 2, and The Legend of Zelda: Majoras Mask and Ocarina of Time."
Patricia Dennis
Title: Library Media Specialist
School/Organization: Forest Street Community School
Location: New Jersey, United States
Patricia "Patt" Dennis has been dedicated to education and innovative learning since 2018. Beginning her career as an extracurricular instructor at the MLC STEM Center, she provided STEAM programs and specialized in chess instruction for K-8 students. She served as an AmeriCorps reading coach in East Orange and Patterson. She later worked as the Learning and Technology Coordinator for the WELL Grant Program at The New Brunswick Theology Seminary. Patt is returning to the library as a School Library Media Specialist after serving as the District Technology Director, Technology Teacher, and Instructional Technology Specialist at an East Orange, NJ, charter middle school. Holding a B.A. in English, an M.A. in English Writing Studies, and an M.A. in Educational Technology, she is pursuing her Ed.D. in Educational Technology Leadership at New Jersey City University. Her doctoral work focuses on game-based innovative learning as an emerging educational technology tool. Patt has presented her research at numerous conferences, including OTESSA and ISTE.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I want to explore all realms of what games can do to impact learning spaces!"
"My favorite games are any adventure fighting games like Naruto Storm series and currently Demon SLayer!"
Elmer Flores
Title: Special Ed Teacher/ Esports Coach
School/Organization: Uniondale High School
Location: New York, United States
Elmer Flores: Special Education/Social Studies Teacher/ Esports Coach/ Father/ Husband/ Gamer!
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I want to provide STEM education and pathways to all my students!"
"My favorite games are Kingdom Hearts, Fortnite, and FC Soccer!"
Damien Fuchs
Title: Youth Development Professional
School/Organization: Boys & Girls Club of Camden County
Location: New Jersey, United States
Damien Fuchs is a Youth Development Professional at the Boys & Girls Club Of Camden County. Damien was born in Camden, NJ and is also a alumni club member at the Boys & Girls Club of Camden County. He holds a Bachelors of Science in Information Technology from Montclair State University. He is also a member of the Theta Chi Phi chapter of the Alpha Chi Rho Fraternity.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I wanted to expand my knowledge of the esports scene and be able to give back to my community."
"My favorite games are Persona 5, Zelda BOTW TOTK, Final Fantasy, and Pokémon."
Chris Garcia
Title: EdTech Coordinator
School/Organization: San Diego County Office of Education - LVIC
Location: California, United States
Chris Garcia, an educator passionate about tailoring instruction to student's unique needs, seamlessly integrates captivating narratives from pop culture and technology into his lessons, enriching minds beyond required standards. Believing in the power of technology to enhance learning, he leverages a variety of digital tools, including Esports, to engage students and instill 21st-century skills. With a commitment to sharing his expertise, Chris has spoken at esteemed conferences and institutions worldwide, advocating for technology integration in education. Currently serving as an EdTech Coordinator with the San Diego County of Education and a professor at the University of San Diego, he continues to shape the future of education through STEAM experiences and the integration of Esports throughout San Diego County, inspiring educators to embrace innovation in the classroom.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I believe every lesson should connect to the real world of students—a principle that has guided me throughout my teaching career. Today’s students are digital natives, with gaming woven into their lives. To align core standards with their interests, I believe we should integrate competitive video games, or Esports, into education. I’ve seen how Esports can not only enhance social-emotional skills but also align with academic standards like the Common Core and NGSS. As an EdTech Coordinator and professor, I’m dedicated to using STEAM and Esports to inspire innovation in the classroom, helping students achieve both academic success and real-world readiness."
"My favorite games are MLB The Show, Rocket League, Super Smash Bros Unite, Street Fighter Alpha 2, MLB's Triple Play, and the classic Super Mario on Gameboy."
Jeffery Harrison
Title: Director of Network Operation and Esports / Executive Director
School/Organization: East Baton Rouge Parish School System / LASEF
Location: Louisiana, United States
With 26 years of experience in Technology for EBR schools, Jeffery Harrison currently serves as the director of network operations and esports, overseeing critical areas such as network security, infrastructure, security cameras, and servers. His innovative spirit led him to spearhead the esports movement in the district, resulting in 57% of schools adopting esports programs within just three years. Jeffery's passion for esports extends beyond his district; he founded the rapidly growing Capital Area Esports League and was recently appointed as the Executive Director of the Louisiana Scholastic Esports Federation in 2024, where he aims to promote esports across the state.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I'm passionate about using esports as a tool to unlock our students' full potential. By fostering creativity, collaboration, and critical thinking skills, I believe we can create a more engaging and meaningful learning environment."
"My favorite games are Civilization, company of heroes, and saints row."
Tomoaki Hatayama
Title: Japanese Teacher / Advisor of esports club
School/Organization: Rissho Shonan High School
Location: Shimane, Japan
I am currently a Japanese language teacher at Rissho University SHONAN High School in Matsue City, Shimane Prefecture, Japan. In 2021, I founded the first e-sports club in Shimane Prefecture. At the same time, I joined NASEF JAPAN, and from 2023, I have been a fellow teacher with NASEF JAPAN. In 2024, we plan to establish a sister school relationship with Forsyth High School, with whom we have developed a connection through e-sports. Through this exchange between Japan and the U.S., we are working every day to explore the use of e-sports as an educational tool.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I wanted to learn about scholastic esports from a global perspective by interacting with the fellows in the United States and to contribute to the development of scholastic esports in Japan. At the same time, I also wanted to promote Japanese scholastic esports to the world."
"My favorite games are Rocket League, Street Fighter 6, Minecraft, Fortnite, and VALORANT."
Mingxin HU
Title: NASEF China Director Assistant
School/Organization: NASEF China
Location: Zhejiang, China
My name is Mingxin, and I’m from China! I’m thrilled to be selected as a 2024 NASEF Scholastic Fellow. I’m eager to collaborate with fellow educators and innovators worldwide. My passion lies in creating impactful learning experiences through esports and fostering cross-cultural connections. I look forward to working together to inspire and empower students across the globe.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I love using esports as a powerful tool for education and cultural exchange. I’m excited to work with educators around the world and make a difference together."
Lasya Kanekal
Title: Math Teacher & Esports Coach
School/Organization: North County Trade Tech High School
Location: California, United States
I teach math and game design at North County Trade Tech High School in Vista, CA. Two years ago, I started an Esports team.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow to learn more about integrating gaming with education."
"My favorite games are Chrono Trigger, Legend of Zelda, and Ace Attorney."
Ricardo Knight
Title: Founder / President
School/Organization: The Barbados Esports Initiative
Location: Saint Michael, Barbados
Hey! I'm Ricardo Knight, a multi time champion in Super Smash Bros. in my home region of the Caribbean and the founder of the Barbados Esports Initiative. My goal is to develop a strong esports industry in Barbados, providing opportunities for local talent to have the kind of experiences I had in my "career" and give Barbados a place on the global Esports stage in a way we never could before. I'm also passionate about educating people on the many benefits of Esports and helping to revese the stigma that often surrounds gaming.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I believe NASEFs mission aligns with my goals to provide meaningful opportunities for the youth of Barbados in a way that could combat the stigma faced by my organization."
"My favorite games are Super Smash Bros. (All versions) Hades 1 & 2 Mario Party (most of them can't wait for Jamboree)."
Milan Lalic
Title: Tournament Administrator, Gaming Coordinator, Director of "Gaming Centar"
School/Organization: Alliance of eletronic sports of Montenegro, "Gaming Centar", "Gamers Life"
Location: Montenegro
My name is Milan Lalić, and I am from Montenegro. I have been involved in the esports scene since 2013 as a member of the Alliance of Electronic Sports of Montenegro. Over the years, I've played a key role in organizing and administrating various esports events, including tournaments, festivals, and discussion panels. In addition to my hands-on involvement in the gaming industry, I am also a journalist, writing insightful articles and contributing to podcasts that focus on the gaming world.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I am passionate about empowering young minds through esports education. I believe that by sharing my knowledge, experience, and unwavering dedication, I can inspire the next generation to pursue their goals with the same passion and commitment that have driven me throughout my life."
"My favorite games are WarCraft3, Dota2, CS2, League of Legends, PUBG, Lineage2, Throne & Liberty, World of Warcraft, Lost Ark, long list as I played many hours each one of them :)"
Liesbeth Last
Title: Esports teacher and edtech specialist
School/Organization: KTA Brugge
Location: Oost-Vlaanderen, Belgium
Liesbeth Last is a dedicated gamer/entrepreneur, researcher at KU Leuven, educational technologist and teacher of esports. She is well-known for her monthly teaching impulses at the university in Leuven, where she explores the educational potential of video games by working thematically with popular titles. In her role as an esports teacher at KTA Bruges, Liesbeth emphasizes business, event management, well-being, and talent development through gameplay. She also serves as the facilitator of the high school esports teams, nurturing the next generation of esports talent. In addition to her teaching roles, Liesbeth is a member of the Board of Directors at Gamehive.be, where she focuses on motivating and developing young talent through video games. Next to this inspiring role is she the educational strategist of the Belgian Esports federation. She is the primary point of contact for educators and schools seeking to incorporate esports into their curricula.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I want to connect myself with other teachers or esports specialists in an educational context."
"My favorite games are Yakuza like a dragon and infinite wealth."
Ryan May
Title: Esports Liaison
School/Organization: New Mexico State University
Location: New Mexico, United States
Ryan May has been a dedicated and influential figure in the esports community since 2013. He began his journey as a tournament organizer and recruiter, where he quickly developed a reputation for his organizational skills and passion for the industry, both of which have supplemented his role at New Mexico State University. His leadership skills, teamwork, and "go-getter" spirit align perfectly with NASEF's mission to promote esports, incorporate academic curricula, and offer work-related opportunities for all students.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because of my incandescent passion and unyielding dedication towards developing educational and competitive esports."
"My favorite games are Pokémon Emerald and League of Legends."
Mario Mendez
Title: Instructional Technology Teacher on Special Assignment (IT TOSA)
School/Organization: Palm Springs Unified School District
Location: California, United States
Mario Mendez is an Instructional Technology Teacher on Special Assignment (IT TOSA) for Palm Springs Unified School District. A lifelong gamer passionate about technology, mathematics, music, and the arts — Mario brings a unique perspective to esports education. As part of the Educational Technology Information Services (ETIS) team for PSUSD, Mario supports esports for his district at the high school level, ensuring they have the training, support, resources, and necessary equipment across the esports season. He also helps coordinate district-wide esports tournaments and is committed to fostering friendly competition among students. Beyond gaming, Mario was a self-taught web developer and has experience with programming, video editing, and music production. Mario believes in the power of video games and esports to build community and positively influence students. Drawing from his own experiences, he sees esports as a way for students to develop friendships, gain mentorship, and find a supportive community. Through the NASEF Scholastic Fellowship, Mario aims to expand esports programs to make them more accessible to all students, enhance STEM education, and encourage inclusion across PSUSD and beyond.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because it provides me with resources and mentorship that I can directly use to support eSports at PSUSD."
"My favorite games are Metroidvania style games such as Dead Cells and Ori, fighting games like Street Fighter, Tekken, and Marvel vs Capcom 2. I also enjoy some classic IPs like Super Mario and Sonic the Hedgehog."
Nyssa Mendoza
Title: Counselling Psychologist
School/Organization: Caribbean Life Management Solutions Ltd
Location: Trinidad and Tobago
Nyssa Mendoza, Counselling Psychologist, has over 12 years of experience assessing and treating clients facing various emotional, mental, and behavioural challenges. As a compassionate, solutions-oriented Marriage and Family Therapist she has a passion for working with children, adolescents, and young adults assisting them in building healthy and sustainable family systems, and addressing various issues related to social and emotional functioning. She is committed to building trusting relationships and creating effective treatment plans to facilitate awareness, growth and change. Her overall aim as a counsellor is to aid persons navigate and transform personal challenges into life-enhancing opportunities and integrate the emotional, physical, social, and spiritual well-being of the individual, couple, family, and community.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I would like to assist with therapeutic interventions for young children and teens by creating their own Quality Worlds. My intention is to solidify their world with the eSports Scholastic style of educational and interactive learning, in the hope of increasing their self-awareness, personal motivation, and empathy so that they are equipped to function efficiently in the real world. I envisage the complementary purpose of Scholastic Esports inclusivity, communication, and problem-solving with parallel tenets of psychology – empathy, healthy communication, and conflict resolution."
"My favorite games are DuoLingo :D ... Ratchet & Clank, Prince of Persia, Zuma, Cradle of Empire, and Gardenscapes."
Chris Meza
Title: Program Coordinator
School/Organization: Napa County Office of Education
Location: California, United States
Chris has been serving students and families within the work of Expanded Learning (before and after school programs) in California for 10 years. He has served the expanded learning field as an AmeriCorps member, After-school Classroom Leader, high school football coach, and as Site Coordinator. Chris is currently the Program Coordinator of the Napa Expanded Learning (EXL) Program, supporting his community's youth in Napa County (CA). In his position, Chris supervises multiple K-8 after-school programs, coordinates the "Junior Classroom Leader" youth leadership program, and is the league director of the Napa Valley Expanded Learning E-Sports League in Napa County (with over 15 K-8 Esports teams). In the statewide field of expanded learning, Chris serves as a Leadership Team Member on the Site Coordinator Network (SCN) and is a governor-appointed member of Before and After School Advisory committee of California. To this day, Chris has always found importance in improving the quality of life for all families through youth empowerment, community service, volunteerism, and educational programming. At home, Chris has an amazing wife named Samantha and is a father of three beautiful children. Together, his family finds joy through visiting new restaurants and taking short weekend trips.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I would like to maximize our county's opportunity to expand esports to un-reached and un-engaged students.
"My favorite games are Halo 2, NCAA football, and Tiger Woods Golf.
Daniel Mooney
Title: Teacher
School/Organization: Spanish River High School
Location: Florida, United States
With a life long passion for competitive gaming, Daniel Mooney has had his hands in Esports since he organized tournaments for a local convention. Now focusing on his education career, he has supported students in creating a community of competition, cooperation, and celebration.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I wanted to join the group of academics who have the shared goal of letting students passion for gaming give them opportunities to succeed in the modern digital world."
"My favorite games are Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, League of Legends, The Legend of Zelda franchise, and Halo 3."
Rachel Murray
Title: Scholastic Esports Program Manager
School/Organization: PlayVS
Location: Nebraska, United States
Rachel Murray is a Scholastic Esports Manager at PlayVS. A native of Lincoln, Nebraska, Rachel earned her degree in economics from the University of Nebraska. Throughout her career journey, Rachel has been dedicated to bridging the gap between the business and education communities. With experience spanning non-profits to edtech companies, Rachel is excited to leverage her experience to support schools in expanding their esports programs. She's passionate about promoting career readiness through esports, making a tangible impact in both education and the professional world.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I want to help schools build successful and sustainable esports programs that promote mental wellness, career readiness, and academic success."
"My favorite game is Mario Kart."
Nicole Naditz
Title: Program Specialist, Instructional Technology and World Languages
School/Organization: San Juan Unified School District
Location: California, United States
Nicole Naditz is currently a Program Specialist in Instructional Technology and World Languages for San Juan Unified School District, where she supports more than 3,000 teachers through her work. Prior to 2018, she taught French to grades 3 through 12, including AP French Language for almost 25 years. Nicole is very active in the education community and she has presented on a variety of topics at local, state and national workshops and conferences since 1999. Her most recent work emphasizes supporting generative AI in education and building and expanding her district's esports program. Nicole is an Apple Learning Academy Specialist, and Google Certified Innovator. In 2012, she was named San Juan USD Teacher of the Year, Sacramento County Teacher of the Year and was one of 12 finalists for California State Teacher of the Year. She was selected as the Southwest Conference on Language Teaching Language Teacher of the Year in 2014 and named the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages’ National Language Teacher of the Year in 2015. Most recently, she was named the 2021 and 2024 ACSA Region 3 Curriculum Administrator of the Year. She also served a four-year term on the California Department of Education's Instructional Quality Commission, where she was on the Executive Board and was the chair of the World Language Subject Matter Committee.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because of the opportunity to deepen my own expertise and do so in a network of amazing colleagues, both other Fellows and Mentors. The students in my district deserve nothing less than the most robust, inclusive, and engaging esports programs, with opportunities from elementary to high school. I am particularly excited to get support to launch our first high school esports programs (which we don't have yet). I think the combined resources and expertise of this network will be mutually supportive to all of us."
"I grew up on Atari, so I still love those. In college, I played a lot of Super Mario Brothers, and then some Sega games. Sadly, I personally haven't had time for games since then, so I have little experience after that."
Simon O'Brien
Title: University Tutor / Unit Coordinator
School/Organization: Queensland University of Technology
Location: Queensland, Australia
Simon O'Brien began his career as an English and Humanities teacher in Brisbane, Australia, where he thrived on inspiring students and helping them achieve their goals. In 2022, Simon decided to follow a long-held passion for esports, making a bold career shift. This passion, sparked in his youth with his family's first SNES and Sega consoles, led him to enroll in the inaugural cohort of the Diploma of Esports at Queensland University of Technology (QUT). Leveraging his teaching experience, Simon quickly transitioned to working as a sessional educator in 2023 within the same diploma program. Now serving as a unit coordinator, Simon is dedicated to mentoring students and preparing them for careers in the rapidly evolving esports industry.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I am passionate about esports as a scholastic endeavour as I have witnessed it's power to help students, through engagement and future-focussed skills."
"My favorite games are anything by Blizzard, having been a Warcraft gamer for near 30 years, playing co-op with my brother and father is a fond memory of mine."
Pamela Parks
Title: Teacher
School/Organization: Cedarcrest High School
Location: Washington, United States
Pamela Parks uses game-based learning in her high school Spanish, French, Japanese, English, and Health classes. (Whew! It's a busy but fuflilling life.) A former professional translator, now a proud high school teacher, Pamela especially likes to use Minecraft Education and other games to engage her students, and get them to apply their skills in authentic ways.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I have a dream of bringing esports to my high school, and I am looking forward to connecting with colleagues who will help me navigate that path. Think of all the 21st-Century Skills our students will learn through creating, building, and maintaining an esports team!"
"Since I am a poor teacher who does not get paid enough, my summer vacations are taken traveling to places like Hyrule or Minecraft."
Bradley Smrstick
Title: IT: Customer Success
School/Organization: Hillsborough County Public Schools
Location: Florida, United States
Bradley is currently a Senior Systems Analyst for Customer Success in Information and Technology Services for the Hillsborough County School District in Tampa Florida. Prior to this position he was a District Resource Teacher and Team Lead for Technology Training in Professional Development. He has 32 years of experience in the field of education including twenty years in the high school physics classroom as a National Board-Certified teacher. Bradley is also a long time Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert (MIEE) having joined the organization in the second year of IT implementation. Since beginning that journey he has been one of its most active members participating in many MIEE events around the country. Bradley has since presented in countless local, state, and national conferences as well as delivering Technology Training around the country in person and virtually. He is also a Minecraft Certified Trainer, a Minecraft Mentor and Global Ambassador and has maintained a very close relationship with the Minecraft Team for nearly 10 years. Bradley has recently added Code.org certification to his credentials by becoming a Computer Science Discoveries (CSD) Facilitator and has since also delivered Code.org training to teachers in his district in support of a Federal Computer Science Grant.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I have never been a Gamer, I grew up during the birth of gaming but my interest took me in the direction of understanding how the computer worked instead of how to play the games. I was the kid who ordered the Apple 2+ kit from mail order and the assembled it myself in my bedroom, only to take it apart almost immediately and experiment with various upgrades and enhancements, sometimes with undesired consequences. The idea of Esports encompassing the entire industry around gaming really resonates with my inquisitive nature and I suspect that there are a lot of other kids out there with similar interests. In my current district role I support the use of Minecraft, including implementation, teacher training and classroom support. People across the district know me and recognize me as an implementer of new ideas. Sometimes I am too far ahead of the curve for the ideas to catch on but in time I believe that Esports will catch on in my district and I want to be ready to support it."
"I'm not much of a gamer myself but I enjoy playing and teaching other educators how to use Minecraft Education in their classrooms."
Lizzie Squires
Title: Lecturer in Esports
School/Organization: HSDC
Location: Hampshire, United Kingdom
Hi my name is Lizzie and I'm an esports lecturer and grassroots organisation owner from the UK. My passion for esports in education is helping young people realise their dreams and ambitions in the industry, while helping to foster and grow esports in an inclusive and non toxic way. I have had the pleasure of being able to speak at many conferences and panels over the 5 years I have been in the ecosystem about my experiences, and both I and my organisation Vulpine Esports have won and been nominated for multiple awards. Out of esports I am a mum to a gamer, married to a gamer, and our dog is named after a game character, so games are a huge part of my life and hope to be for many years to come.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I truly believe that growth and development is never ending, and the chance to be a part of such an incredible network of people who share values and passions for esports in education is both a humbling and an exciting opportunity to share practice and learn."
"My favorite games are League of Legends, Northgard, Zombie survival games and anything strategy based."
Nicholas Stahl
Title: Science Teacher / Esports GM
School/Organization: Hermon High School
Location: Maine, United States
I am a 20-year Army veteran with experience as a paratrooper and flight medic. Following my service, I worked for Capital Ambulance in Bangor, Maine. Since 2016, I have been a dedicated science teacher at Hermon High School, where I teach courses such as Anatomy & Physiology, Earth in Action, Dynamic Ecosystems, and STEAM classes focused on gaming and technology. As the Esports GM at Hermon High, I manage our school teams during HSEL and PlayVs tournaments, fostering a competitive and collaborative environment for our students.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I want to secure as many resources and opportunities for my kids as humanly possible. As a well-respected global organization, I'm confident that NASEF will open doors for my students and Esports athletes that would have otherwise been nearly impossible to access in a remote community like Hermon, Maine."
"My favorite games are anything couch co-op I can play with my son or a friend. All time favorites: Mario Kart (NES), Final Fantasy IV, Contra. Current: Super Mario Kart 8, Baldur's Gate 3, Helldiver's 2 (soon to be replaced by Space Marine 2)."
Luka Trbović
Title: Game Developer
School/Organization: SESCG
Location: Montenegro
Hello! I'm Luka, a 20-year-old game enthusiast from the tiny but vibrant Montenegro. My passion lies in creating immersive gaming experiences and capturing the world through photography and film. I've been programming since the age of 10, which has fueled my love for technology and creativity. Moreover, I completed my Computer Science studies in Denmark and spent a year in Belgium participating in a voluntary program focused on creative arts and human rights .I'm driven by the power of change and constantly seek opportunities to innovate and make a difference.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I want to have connections that will help me connect my students to opportunities that will allow them to achieve their utmost potential in whatever they are attempting."
"My favorite games are Pokemon Emerald, Dead by Daylight, Valorant, and Baldur's Gate 3."
Michael Trumbauer
Title: Esports CTE Teacher
School/Organization: Plainfield High School
Location: New Jersey, United States
Michael is an educator that has had an intense passion for finding alternative and nontraditional ways for students to learn. He graduated from the Rutgers Graduate School of Education with a Masters in English Education and focused on utilizing pop culture, anime, movies, and other mediums students related to in order to engage them with traditional ELA concepts. After attending the Educator Accelerator program run by Epic Games, he was introduced to the world of scholastic esports. Being a life long gamer himself, he immediately understood the benefits that students could get. Continuing to pursue this new interest, he started by creating an esports team at Plainfield High School. This continued with him starting to work on the leadership team of Garden State Esports and developing a Video Game Literature elective for his school. Michael is currently working on building out his esports team and is excited to continue to learn more about the world of scholastic esports.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I wish to create a network of like-minded people in my own community and to learn & grow with other people."
"My favorite games are Valorant, BF, Life is Strange series."
Sebastian Vasquez
Title: English Teacher
School/Organization: Colegio San Fernando
Location: Region Metropolitana, Chile
I've been an English teacher for the past 9 years, working with kids, teens, and adults in both public and private schools, as well as language institutes. In 2015, I was a SUSI alumni (US Embassy), and in 2022, I served as a Youth Ambassador mentor. Over the past year, I’ve won two grants, which I’ve used to create academic competitions like Spelling Bees, Quiz Bowls, and Scavenger Hunts—including ""Englishmania Chile,"" the first academic triathlon in English in Chile. During the pandemic, I started a Twitch account that gained about 3,000 followers and a TikTok that reached over 30,000, but had to step back due to the challenge of balancing teaching and gaming. I’m a passionate gamer, and I’ve played a variety of games—from MMORPGs, MOBAs, RTS to FPS. Although I've been a PC gamer all my life, I’m also a huge Nintendo fan, making the Nintendo Switch my go-to gaming device.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I’m passionate about combining education and gaming to create meaningful learning experiences for students. With my background in teaching and my love for games, I see the potential of esports and gaming as powerful tools to engage students, develop critical skills, and foster a sense of community."
"My favorite games depends whether I'm playing on PC or console, alone or with friends, but the firsts that come up to mind are: Super Smash Bros., Mario Kart, Super Mario World, Unreal Tournament, Starcraft, Hollow Knigh, Cuphead, Portal, Rocket League and Reamnant from the Ashes."
Marco Viteri
Title: Teacher
School/Organization: Cutler Bay Middle School
Location: Florida, United States
My name is Marco Viteri and I am a passionate educator and proud recipient of the NASEF Fellowship who is dedicated to advancing eSports in education. As a first-generation American and proudly raised in Miami, FL, I am committed to bringing innovative and inclusive opportunities to his students at Cutler Bay Middle School. With a background in technology and a deep understanding of the power of gaming, I'm excited to launch the school’s first esports team, believing that it’s more than just games—it’s a platform for teaching teamwork, strategic thinking, and real-world skills that prepare students for future success. My vision is to create a space where all students can thrive, find community, and explore new pathways through eSports, making a meaningful impact in the lives of young gamers.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I am passionate about leveraging esports to create engaging, inclusive learning environments where students can develop critical skills like teamwork, communication, and strategic thinking. I see esports as a unique opportunity to connect with students from diverse backgrounds, inspire them to excel both on and off the screen, and provide them with pathways to future careers in tech and gaming."
"My favorite game/genre is Street Fighter and fighting games. Fighting games resonate with me because they emphasize strategy, quick thinking, and resilience—qualities that mirror my personal journey and cultural values. They’re more than just games; they teach you to adapt, read your opponent, and constantly improve, which are skills I strive to instill in my students both in the classroom and through our esports program."
Jordan Whitaker
Title: Adjunct Professor & Course Developer; Program Coordinator & Head Coach
School/Organization: Syracuse University; George Mason University; and Northern Virginia Community College
Location: Virginia, United States
Jordan Whitaker grew up throughout Africa and Europe, raised by his diplomat parents who instilled in him a deep appreciation for multiculturalism and global community. Following his political science and public policy-focused education, Jordan discovered his passion for esports during his first career in national security consulting. The intense competitive nature of esports, the diverse forms of expressing one's identity, and the exciting growth of the industry led Jordan to pursue building a career in esports. Now, Jordan works primarily in the college space, coordinating competitive programs, developing curriculum, and instructing courses for Syracuse University, George Mason University, and Northern Virginia Community College. He is an avid fitness enthusiast, a lover of cats and anime, and is expecting twins in early 2025.
"I chose to become a NASEF Scholastic Fellow because I want to grow so I may be better equipped to positively impact the culture and community that is esports. I deeply believe in holistic wellbeing for gamers, I strongly desire to learn and gain experience, and I wish to expand my network. Through these dimensions, I will become better prepared to be an effective guardian and steward of this young industry."
"My favorite game is League of Legends - I have played it religiously for 12 years. However, when I am only playing for fun, I enjoy older RTS games like the Command & Conquer series, historical war games, and the Yakuza game series."