Meet The Team
The Inspire EDU team is a dynamic collective of dedicated professionals committed to transforming education through innovation and inclusivity. With diverse expertise spanning education, technology, and creative disciplines, our team is united by a shared passion for empowering learners.
President & Founder
Mike Packer
Mike Packer is an arts, media, and entertainment education leader with 30+ years’ experience as an educator, administrator, and professional drummer. He holds degrees in Percussion Performance and Education Leadership, has launched international arts initiatives and online programs, and has performed with Lorna Luft, Free Flight, and the LA Philharmonic. He’s also an author of drum method books and the inventor of the Heel Less bass drum pedal (DW5000 ADH by DW Drums).
Director of Arts, Media & Design
Danielle Collins
Danielle Collins is a leader in arts, media, and entertainment pathway design, advancing approaches to Career Technical Education (CTE). She has served on standards design committees, developed curriculum nationwide, and taught Commercial Music at the university and high school levels, including consulting for the Los Angeles County Office of Education. She is the President and co-founder of Pulse Percussion, has served on arts education boards, and was named Yamaha’s 2022 “40 Under 40.
Our Partner
Study Smart Tutors serves as Inspire EDU’s implementation partner, providing comprehensive K–12 support to bring Inspire EDU’s arts and industry-focused programs to the classroom.
“We are excited to embark on this transformative journey with Inspire EDU. This partnership aligns seamlessly with our commitment to providing innovative and personalized AME education. Together, we aim to inspire and empower the next generation of learners and feed the workforce development pipeline with new and emerging talent.”
- Jack Friedman, CEO of Study Smart Tutors
Chief Business Officer
Jack Friedman
Jack Friedman founded Study Smart Tutors from his USC dorm room to expand college access for students who might not otherwise receive it. Beyond Study Smart Tutors, he is a partner and Chief Business Officer at Inspire EDU and a co-founder of Educational Gaming Services and Advanced Employment Group. He also serves as Board Chair of the Youth Business Alliance and sits on the boards of Tzedek America and the ACT’s California Council.
Associate Director of Partnership Development
Stephanie Ayala
Stephanie is an accomplished executive leader with over a decade of experience in sales, business development, and team leadership. Known for her empathetic, data-driven approach, she has led high-performing teams in K–12 education and edtech, driving growth through strategic partnerships and customer-focused solutions. She is passionate about coaching and mentorship, building innovative and accountable teams that deliver strong results and lasting relationships.
Partnership Manager - AED
Jasmine Tavakoli
Jasmine Tavakoli is a seasoned Partnership Manager with over 16 years of experience in education, specializing in strategic partnerships and program development across nonprofit and corporate sectors. She has led initiatives at organizations such as STAR Education and The Princeton Review, expanding outreach and partnerships that support student success. Jasmine holds a B.A. from UCLA and an MBA from Pepperdine University and is committed to building equitable, results-driven collaborations that empower communities.
Digital Learning Experience Manager
Jason Roche
Jason is the Digital Learning Manager at Inspire EDU, where he leads the design and implementation of technology-enhanced learning experiences. He holds a B.A. in English from San José State University and an M.A. in English Literature from California State University, Northridge. Previously an Academic Services Manager and music educator in Los Angeles, Jason is passionate about creating engaging, inclusive learning environments that help students and educators connect and succeed.
AED Program Manager
Brooke Vallone
Brooke brings over 25 years of experience supporting children and teens across education, entertainment, and enrichment programs. A UCLA graduate in History with a minor in Film, Television, and Digital Media, she has worked in film, youth mentorship, and K–12 enrichment, including programs focused on civic engagement and STEM. She began at Study Smart Tutors as a tutor and facilitator, later serving as an Academic Services Manager, and now applies her broad experience to support students in the Arts, Entertainment, and Design program.