Keynote Speakers

Representative Regina Lewis-Ward was elected to the Georgia General Assembly in 2020 and serves the 115th District, which includes parts of Henry and DeKalb counties. A native of Brooklyn, New York, she holds a Master of Arts in political science from Clayton State University, a Bachelor of Business Administration in computer systems from Bernard M. Baruch College, and an Associate of Applied Science in data processing from LaGuardia Community College. Representative Lewis-Ward has a diverse background and experience spanning decades, working with emerging data processes across multiple environments.

She began her professional journey in 1982 as a programmer analyst with the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission, where she developed systems for efficiently storing and retrieving data related to artifact preservation. Later, she designed and implemented automated employee time and leave management systems at the NYC Transit Authority, improving recordkeeping and paycheck accuracy. After moving to Georgia, Representative Lewis-Ward collaborated with Georgia Tech’s Enterprise Innovation Institute and the Advanced Technology Development Center in 2016 to evaluate and pilot a technology incubator to support small businesses in the region. Building on her experience in technology, Rep. Lewis-Ward channels her efforts into academic research, focusing her dissertation on The United States Federal Government and lags in protecting personally identifiable information.

Representative Lewis-Ward commits deeply to using innovative technologies to drive progress, promote growth, and encourage sustainable development in both business and community initiatives.

Karis Townsend serves as the Human Resources Outreach Coordinator for the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority (MARTA), where she supports workforce development and community outreach across the region. In her role, she collaborates with schools, colleges, and community organizations to increase awareness of the many careers that keep public transportation moving—careers spanning engineering, technology, planning, logistics, safety, operations, customer experience, and skilled trades. Karis is passionate about helping students connect what they’re learning in the classroom to real-world opportunities and impact, and she works to strengthen early exposure and career readiness through meaningful partnerships and programming.

Karis earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from Hampton University and a Master’s Degree in Professional Studies from Georgetown University. She is also a Certified Master Professional Life Coach, bringing a student-centered, strengths-based approach to helping young people build confidence, curiosity, and a vision for their future.

She is proud to represent MARTA and speak on behalf of the organization, highlighting how STEM fuels mobility, opportunity, and community connection.