11 We support educators by providing novel science, technology, engineering, and math experiences (STEM) and bridging the gap between the STEM industry and the classroom. COVID revealed cracks in the education system. We all have an interest in preparing problem solvers and addressing the teacher deficit that could affect future generations. I can’t solve every problem related to this. But I can support schools and educators, so they can do their best, given their situation, and realize their own potential. Students need to learn that the STEM world is not an individual enterprise. Everybody works with somebody, and you do not have to know it all. One strategy is to gamify traditional learning environments and create STEM content that has real-life application and team-building components. Using our STEM products, teachers can guide students to identify and amplify their strengths, which can ready them for the fastest-growing career paths. I’m teaching teachers how to do this. I have spoken at the National Science Teachers Association conference twice and offer professional development for schools and teachers. Our custom-built escape rooms offer a wow appeal. And we offer STEM career kits. We are just getting started, and without walls, there are no limits. Our relationship with the Levan Center of Innovation provides a meaningful opportunity for TD Bank to support future generations of technology professionals, while also helping to attract and develop local talent. TD and the industry at large are on the hunt for entrepreneurial employees with start-up mindsets who are inclined to value diversity, collaboration, and agile thinking. Seeing an entrepreneur’s vision come to life is incredible. We are here to help amplify and guide their ideas to help solve real-world problems. It’s an honor to support the uniqueness of their contributions. We understand the value of business because it is the heart of every economy: jobs, revenue, innovation. We believe in the purpose of this endeavor by NSU and Broward County. We aim to help businesses stay abreast of industry trends that will create longevity. “The Levan Center of Innovation benefits our communities immensely. Entrepreneurship fuels creativity and innovation, and it is here to help folks bring their ideas to life and at scale. I’m thrilled to serve on the board.” “We teamed up with Tangy Frederick, founder of Cre8tive Devs Software, to provide one-hour courses of 5 to 10 days in length to help our colleagues upskill. TD proudly supports underrepresented, local entrepreneurs, and this partnership with Tangy boosts her company and helps our communities flourish.” COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIP LICENIA ROJAS TD Bank SVP/Chief Architect and Engineer CARISSA BRAZEAL “The cool thing about the Levan Center of Innovation is that it is for ALL entrepreneurs.” MARINE CONSERVATION I shifted my initial career from biomedical research using marine organisms for cancer cures to marine restoration after seeing coral reefs rapidly degrade in Florida. I saw gaps in creating sustainable business models to support marine restoration at scale. After serving as head laboratory technician for a British multinational consultancy, I joined the 1000 Mermaids project as the CEO and science director. Art was a beautiful way to connect. I started Ocean Rescue Alliance International (ORAI) to design biologically impactful structures, where today, we outplant corals at scale through innovative technologies such as the Coral Lok. The ORAI is growing our research projects, designs, and products to help serve the marine environment. The biggest motivator is the outlook for a more synergistic future and the limitless things we can do to improve our environments and people’s livelihoods. SHELBY THOMAS “The Levan Center of Innovation is helping me build out more formal business models to support the work more efficiently. I am also thankful to have met so many amazing, driven entrepreneurs who have become supportive aids.” Scan and learn. Scan and dive in. EDUCATION
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