Educators in Faith

Conference Keynote

About the Keynote

We’re honored to welcome Dr. Dwight S. Riddick, II and Rev. Dr. Jennell Whitfield Riddick as our keynote speakers for the 2026 Educators in Faith Conference. Together, they will deliver a dynamic, tag-team keynote that will encourage, challenge, and equip educators to faithfully walk in the calling God has placed on their lives.

Dr. Dwight S. Riddick, II

Dr. Dwight S. Riddick, II is a global speaker, executive coach, pastor, author, and leadership strategist with decades of experience in organizational leadership and pastoral ministry. He serves as Senior Pastor of Gethsemane Baptist Church in Newport News, Virginia, and has also served as an adjunct professor, executive coach, and nonprofit leader. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from James Madison University, a Master of Divinity from the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University, and a Doctor of Ministry in Homiletics from Chicago Theological Seminary. Certified by John Maxwell and Sam Chand, Dr. Riddick is passionate about equipping individuals and organizations to maximize their God-given potential through practical, faith-centered leadership and personal growth.

Learn More About Dr. Dwight S. Riddick, II

Dr. Jennell Whitfield Riddick

Rev. Dr. Jennell Whitfield Riddick is an author, speaker, minister, educator, and nonprofit leader dedicated to empowering others to walk confidently in their God-given purpose. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Walk In It Inc., serves as an adjunct instructor, and ministers alongside her husband at Gethsemane Baptist Church in Newport News, Virginia. She earned her bachelor’s degree from the University of Richmond, a Master of Divinity from the Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology at Virginia Union University, and a Doctor of Ministry from Chicago Theological Seminary. Through ministry, mentoring, teaching, and leadership development, Dr. Riddick is passionate about helping others grow in faith, leadership, and service while making a lasting impact in their communities.

Learn More About Dr. Jennell W. Riddick

Reviews

Rating: 5 out of 5.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the entire conference. The speakers were informative and engaging. The prayers were inspiring. I will most definitely attend this conference in the future and I will bring coworkers. Overall, the conference was AWESOME!!”

— MM

Rating: 5 out of 5.

“Enjoyed the conference – as an educator and Christian this was such a great way for me to remember my God given purpose! It truly inspired and gave me a push to go back to the classroom recharged! I can’t wait for next year!”

— Anonymous

Rating: 5 out of 5.

“A heartfelt thank you for one of the best conferences I have ever attended in my 35 years in education. Thank you for renewing my faith and reminding me that no matter what we are facing, God has our back. I can’t wait until next year’s conference!!! I will be back!!!!! God Bless!!!”

— LS

Rating: 5 out of 5.

“The conference was out of this world. God really moved and the way the presence of the Lord hovered over the atmosphere was unforgettable.”

— KB

Rating: 5 out of 5.

“I was a vendor last year and this year.   Thanks so much for providing a great space for the vendors.  I was fortunate enough to be where I could see and hear some of the conference speakers.  It was awesome.  There was no doubt that faith plays a huge role in the mission to teach and transform.  I don’t think anyone could leave without being inspired. 

I hope to be able to participate next year.”

— NJM

Rating: 5 out of 5.

“The conference was excellent again this year! I sat at the table with some amazing educators that are outside of the public school space. They had lots of wisdom to share and questions about how we do things.”

— SB