IACET Board of Directors

Kristopher Newbauer Chair
October 1, 2021 – December 31, 2025

Rotary International
Evanston, IL

Kristopher Newbauer, EdM, MHRM, SPHR, CPLP, CPT is Chief People Officer/Head of Global People & Talent at Rotary International, the world's oldest—and one of the largest—humanitarian service club organization in the world. Mr. Newbauer holds a Masters of Education (EdM) in Global Human Resource Development from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Masters of Human Resource Management (MHRM). He holds certificates in human resources from Cornell University, DePaul University, and the American Management Association. Newbauer serves on the adjunct faculty in the Department of Education Policy, Organization and Leadership in the College of Education at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.

Mr. Newbauer has a long history of service with IACET.  He was first elected as an IACET Board Member in 2009 and served as IACET President in 2013-2014.  He has served on the ByLaws Committee, the Personnel Committee, and currently chairs the Nominations and Elections Committee and sits on the Executive Committee. In 2018 IACET recognized his valuable contributions, exceptional service, and major leadership to the association by awarding him the Distinguished Service Award.

Laura Foxx Treasurer/Finance Committee Chair
October 1, 2022 – December 31, 2026

Advocate Health
Charlotte, NC

Laura is Innovation Manager at Atrium Health (formerly Carolinas Healthcare System), headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina.  Laura served as the IACET primary contact for Atrium Health from 2016 - 2020 and is currently an individual member of IACET (2020 – Present). 

Laura was recently named a 2021 Fellow of the University of Oxford (UK) Saïd School of Business Social Impact Investment Measurement Programme. She earned the Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership from University of Phoenix, Master of Arts degree in Higher Education from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and the Bachelor of Arts Degree in English from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte.  Laura holds a Six Sigma Green Belt, is research certified by the Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI), and is certified as an executive and organization leadership coach from Columbia University/Teachers College.

Committed to life-long learning, Laura initiated and led the processes to gain workplace education and training

Paula Horwitz Secretary/Governance Chair
October 1, 2022 – December 31, 2026

Individual
Centennial, CO

Paula currently serves as the Executive Director with the Climbing Wall Association (CWA), partnering with the board of directors to strategically meet the needs of the indoor climbing industry. With over 15 years in management and executive leadership, Paula has built and led diverse teams on the grounding principles of building strong relationships, respect, and individualized support.

Paula is the former executive director of education and events for the National Association of RV Park and Campgrounds where she led the development and implementation of online and blended learning opportunities for members of the outdoor hospitality industry. She also served as the executive director of the ARVC Foundation, a 501c3 non-profit organization. The Foundation offers educational scholarships to promote growth and learning in the outdoor hospitality industry and Disaster Relief grants to those in the industry impacted by natural disasters.

Passionate about providing opportunity for others to find success, Paula's work over the past 20 years has focused on providing accessible learning that is immediately applicable and leaves a lasting impact. Paula earned an M.Ed in Curriculum and Instructional Design from the University of Colorado, Colorado Springs, as well as an M.A. in Liberal Studies from the University of Denver. Paula will begin her Doctoral studies in 2020.

Paula has served on the IACET Board of Directors since 2019; has served as the Nominations and Elections Committee Chair for three years; is a member of the Strategic Planning Committee 2022; and has served as Board Secretary substitute when needed.

Maria Diaz Member
October 1, 2020 – December 31, 2026

Site Safety, LLC
New York, NY

MARIA DIAZ

Vice President of Training and Marketing with over 15 years of experience in the Construction Safety Industry.

Ms. Diaz manages our Training Institute and has over 15 years of experience in the Construction Safety Industry. Maria served as our Training Coordinator and Director of Training prior to being promoted to Vice President of Training and Marketing. She transformed our entire training department into a state-of-the-art facility and is responsible for the professional development of the organization's workforce and general public.

Maria attended the New York Institute of Technology (NYIT) where she majored in Business Administration and Marketing. She also obtained a Human Resources Certification from PACE University. Maria is an active member of the NYC Chapter of The American Society of Safety Professionals (ASSP) and a Board member of the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).

Currently overseeing Training and Marketing operations for the company. Responsible for ensuring all training Operations are in compliance with Local, Federal, and State regulations and Company branding. Develop Marketing Campaigns to increase brand awareness. Day to Day operations includes, but not limited to: • Developing and implement a consistent marketing plan to increase brand awareness. (Electronic, social media, and SEO). • Finance and Business development. • Database Management • Design and develop all regular and special training events. • Develop marketing campaigns • Research, design, and develop training curriculums. • Ensure compliance with the ANSI/IACET Standard, Local, State, and Federal Agency. • Continue an ongoing partnership with the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), New York City Department of Buildings (DOB), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to maximize training opportunities for TISS.

David Ehrlich Member
October 1, 2022 – December 31, 2025

Barcami Lane, Inc.
Farmington Hills, MI

David is an Executive Director with Barcami Lane, Inc., an association management company.  Prior to his service there, David served as the director of education with NTEA – The Association for the Work Truck Industry, an IACET Accredited Provider. The NTEA provides in-depth technical information, education, member programs and services, and produces multiple events, including The Work Truck Show® and Green Truck Summit. He is also the managing director of Elevated Association Solutions, an association management company and holds a master's degree from the University of Michigan. He holds the following credentials: CAE (Certified Association Executive), CMP (Certified Meeting Planner), CNP (Certified
Nonprofit Professional), CPTD (Certificate Professional in Talent Development), and the PHR (Professional in Human Resources).

David, who lives in Farmington Hills, Michigan, is very active at the national level of the Boy Scouts of America, has served on the advisory board of 100+ Millennials Who Care, the Rising Achiever's Advisory Board for Junior Achievement of Southeastern Michigan, and the Michigan Marketing Educators board of directors. He is a Rotarian who is also active on several business/marketing education advisory committees and at the national and state levels of DECA: An Association of Marketing Students and Virtual Enterprises International.

Teresa Hardee Boone Member
January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2027

I5O Consulting Services
Raleigh, NC

Dr. Teresa Hardee is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer for Administration and Finance. She specializes in strategic planning, business process reengineering, financial sustainability, performance indicators, risk assessment, and many other components in public administration, higher education, and non-profit management. Teresa has been in higher education, the public sector and business for over 25 years. She has been an auditor, budget director, Associate VC for Budget and Finance, CFO and VP for Finance and Administration, and Chief Operating Office and Senior Vice President at three universities. She has also worked in the private sector in several accounting/finance related capacities. She received her undergraduate degree majoring in accounting from Fayetteville State University, a masters (MPA) from NC Central University and her doctorate in Higher Education Administration from the University of Pennsylvania. She is a CPA, and Six Sigma Black Belt.

Daryl Lim Member
October 1, 2020 – December 31, 2026

DesignThinkers Academy Singapore
SG

Daryl is responsible for the implementation and advocacy of design thinking training and consultancy services for Asia. Daryl Lim brings over 15 years of experience in designing and creating a wide range of people related solutions. He has designed and co-created business and people management strategies working around employee career journeys.

His design solutions include skills maps, evidence-based goal management, personalised skills profiles, career progression pathways, training and assessment systems and courseware. He also helps individuals to design and build their own personal branding while enhancing their own career progression.

His advocacy of design thinking extends across  organisations in Singapore, Malaysia, Hong Kong, Bangladesh, Uganda, Myanmar, Azerbaijan, etc; with multi-national companies including Daimler, S-Three, Coca-Cola Company, Myanmar Breweries, Hewlett Packard, Great Eastern Life, Manila City Government, Bloomberg Philanthropies, AIG, BECA, etc. 

He represents the DesignThinkers Academy in strategising and implementing design thinking initiatives, trainings and projects in Asia. 

Bridgitt Mitchell Member
January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2027

National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)
Washington, DC

Dr. Bridgitt Mitchell is the Director of Professional Development for NAEYC, with over 20 years of experience in Early Childhood Education. Her expertise includes teacher training, social-emotional development, strategy and innovation, and multicultural education.

Dr. Mitchell has held diverse leadership roles, including Department Chair for Early Childhood Education, Director of Early Education for Denver Public Schools, and Sr. Director of Training at Zero to Three. A published author on topics like bullying and early childhood education, she is also a dedicated advocate for underserved populations.

She serves on the NAEYC Council for Accreditation of Early Learning Programs and the boards of Reach Out and Read Colorado and Playworks Denver. Dr. Mitchell holds a BA, MA, and MBA from the University of Kansas, a Doctorate in Higher Education from Walden University, and a graduate certificate in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion from Cornell University.

David Ortner Member/Personnel Committee Chair
October 1, 2022 – December 31, 2025

Individual Member
Brookfield, WI

David Ortner is a learning, organization development, talent management, and human resources professional with fifteen years of related experience, including global practice. Currently working for Pentair as an HR Manager, Ortner holds a Master of Education (EdM) in Human Resource Development from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Ortner previously served as the lead accreditation specialist for Rotary International's Global Headquarters (an IACET accredited provider), where he led professional development activities, including a comprehensive management development certificate program. In addition to his experience working with an IACET accredited provider, Ortner also served on the IACET Board of Directors, IACET Council on Standards Development, IACET Commission, and served on the IACET Communications Taskforce. Previously, Ortner was also an adjunct Faculty member at Northwestern College.

Greg Richmond Member
October 1, 2023 – December 31, 2026

AVO Training Institute
Dallas, Texas, United States, TX

Greg is a retired U.S. Air Force veteran with extensive experience in electrical systems and training. He has deployed seven times and received 12 commendations for his work. After retiring, he joined AVO Training Institute, quickly rising from Instructor to Director of Training Operations. His military background and passion for training make him a strong leader with hands-on expertise. With 26 years of marriage and a love for the outdoors, Greg brings a balanced perspective to the board.

Amie Royer Member
October 1, 2022 – December 31, 2025

The American Institute of Resuscitation
Medina, OH

Amie is the CEO of AIR Child Care Training Solutions, specializing in state-compliant childcare training courses. With a nursing background and experience at the Cleveland Clinic, she brings a unique healthcare perspective. She has worked extensively with legislators to expand online professional development for educators, setting a national trend. A member of IACET's Early Childcare Education Advisory Board, her commitment to quality and integrity makes her an invaluable asset to the board.

Sandra Schwarz Member
January 1, 2025 – December 31, 2027

Self
Newton, IA

Sandra (Sandy) Schwarz has 25 plus years of experience in all aspects of training and development, with an emphasis on quality assurance and control and use of technology. She has experience managing design and development teams as well as independently producing instructionally sound learning solutions that satisfy customers' needs for prompt, technically correct, and cost-effective training that works.

Ms. Schwarz holds an M.Ed. in Education & Technology from Iowa State University (ISU) and a B.S. in Business Administration from Upper Iowa University. She has served on various Boards including Noah's Ark Pre-school as Secretary, and Newton Soccer Association as Director of Coaches and President. Ms. Schwarz is active in her community, with most recently serving in creating the Jasper County 20 Year Economic Plan. Ms. Schwarz has served as a member of the IACET Standards Council, as well as Chair of the Standards Council throughout 2024. She has also served on the Engineering Committee and helped to author the Digital Badges White Paper. She is currently a member of the IACET Finance Committee.

In her free time Ms. Schwarz enjoys writing, painting, gardening, repurposing furniture and exercising by walking and bicycle riding.

Steven Villanueva Member
October 1, 2022 – December 31, 2025

NCG
Seacaucs, NJ

Steven Villanueva serves as Vice President, Director of Safety for Noble Construction Group, LLC. A leading Construction Management firm in the NY/NJ/FL residential and commercial real estate markets. Steve is responsible for the daily oversight of comprehensive occupational safety and health programs on New York City and New Jersey construction projects. Steve works closely with Developers, company ownership, corporate executives, project teams, and trade partners to ensure proper safety planning & worker training is incorporated into each phase of the development process. As an industry consultant, Steven has supported clients in developing predictive models toward incident prevention and instructed numerous tradespersons in topics associated with safety on the jobsite.

Steven has spent the last 15 years of his career, focused on injury and illness prevention in construction. Collaborating with Americas blue collar workforce, real estate developers, and governmental agencies granted him the unique experience necessary to impact adult education within this sector. Training needs analysis, instructional design, and site-specific orientation training development were key in ensuring a safe start to all of the projects Mr. Villanueva has managed.

In 2017, New York City's mayor signed local law 196, which set forth some of the most stringent construction safety training regulations in the country. One key aspect of the new legislation, was the designation of a site safety training taskforce, in which Steven was appointed. This 15-member group was tasked with advising the NYC Department of buildings on course curriculum content, duration, and rollout for 40 and 62-hour construction safety training required in all 5 boroughs of New York city. It was during this experience, Steve discovered IACET and its' capacity to take safety training and education to a higher standard. In 2018 Steve officially joined IACET as an affiliate member, and was recently appointed as Co-Chair of IACET's Construction Safety Advisory board. In 2022, Mr. Villanueva was elected to the IACET Board of Directors and serves as Co-chair of the Construction Safety Taskforce. 

Maja Hukic Council Chair (ex-officio)
November 7, 2024 – November 6, 2026

Rotary International
Evanston, IL

Performing as a facilitator, and curriculum designer has been the hallmark of Maja’s international 19-year career in the education field. She has considerable skills and experience to transition any content area into practical, hands-on training and facilitation. Maja has a background in training services and leadership, specifically training of adult learners.

At Rotary International, Maja works as a Manager of Global Talent & Organization Development. In this role, she oversees several programs in the organization including the mentoring program, management development certificate program, new hire orientation, and professional development. Rotary International has been accredited by IACET since 2008. She is responsible for ensuring that the robust curriculum offered to staff complies with the standard and the organization gets re-accredited.

At IACET, Maja has volunteered her time on the Council for Standards Development as a member, and Vice-Chair throughout 2023 and 2024. She also serves on the Nominations & Elections Committee as a member.

Before transitioning to adult education, Maja worked as a high school English teacher for several years. Internationally, she worked as a teacher trainer for the Abu Dhabi Education Council. While in Abu Dhabi, Maja was selected to work with a group of licensed teachers and training professionals to create a curriculum and standards for all secondary schools in the city.

At Northeastern Illinois University, she designed, implemented, and evaluated software training for the faculty and students.

Maja holds a bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education & English as well as a Master of Arts in Human Resource Development from Northeastern Illinois University.