Stories That Connect Us

Stories that Connect Us provides a unique interview experience for NJAGC members and guests. Individuals from the world of gifted education are invited to join our host, Mary Aruffo (past Co-VP of Membership and Trustee) for an intimate conversation on their work in the world of gifted education in addition to some of their own personal stories on experiences, teachable moments and points in their life that have left an impression that may have forever changed them. There are 3 samples of interviews that are being shared for your viewing pleasure. Each one of these individuals Dr. Jonathan Plucker, Dr. Brian Housand and Andi McNair, have each positioned themselves in the world of gifted education. Their personal work, collaborations, writings and classroom/PD offerings are used in a variety of situations.They are each highly respected within the community of gifted ed and speak to and work with individuals both nationally and internationally.

Stories that Connect Us has also welcomed individuals from across the state of New Jersey who have brought stories from their everyday life that have meaning in the world of gifted education.

The interviews take on a very personal format and guests are often sharing stories that have helped to shape the practitioner that they are today. Stories that Connect Us truly brings us together.

Dr. Brian Housand believes learning should always be an adventure. As Coordinator of the Academically or Intellectually Gifted Program at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, he helps educators challenge gifted learners both intellectually and emotionally. A frequent speaker at national and international conferences, Brian explores creativity, gifted education, and the power of play. His latest book, SEED: Silverquicken Episodes for Enrichment and Diagnosis, blends immersive storytelling with puzzle-based learning designed to instigate cognitive and affective growth. A longtime classroom teacher, gifted specialist, and professor, he also co-authored Using the Schoolwide Enrichment Model with Technology and wrote Fighting Fake News!. When not teaching or presenting, Brian proudly embraces his geeky passions for Star Wars, Disney, Taylor Swift, video games, and fonts.

Jonathan Plucker, is a Professor of Education and Program Director for the Master of Science in Education Policy program at the Johns Hopkins School of Education. He previously served as the Julian C. Stanley Endowed Professor of Talent Development at Johns Hopkins, the Raymond Neag Endowed Professor of Education at the University of Connecticut, and Professor of Educational Psychology and Cognitive Science at Indiana University. He is past-president of the National Association for Gifted Children and the Society for the Psychology of Aesthetics, Creativity, and the Arts (APA Division 10).

His research examines education policy, talent development, and creativity.

Andi McNair, founder of Genius Hour Academy and author of Genius Hour: Passion Projects that Ignite Innovation and Student Inquiry. I have more than 25 years of experience in education, including serving as a teacher, gifted classroom teacher, and gifted specialist.

I created Genius Hour Academy to help educators build classrooms where curiosity, creativity, and meaningful learning can thrive. My approach combines practical implementation strategies with hands-on experiences so you leave with both inspiration and a plan.

If you want to launch Genius Hour with more clarity, structure, and confidence, this academy was designed for you.

As the founder of A Meaningful Mess, LLC,  I support schools and educators across the country through keynotes, professional development workshops, online courses, curriculum design, service consulting and a thriving educator community.