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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 a leader in arts, media, and entertainment education with over 30 years of experience as an educator, administrator, and professional drummer. He holds degrees in Percussion Performance and Education Leadership and has launched international arts initiatives and online programs. A seasoned performer and author, he has played with Lorna Luft, Free Flight, and the LA Philharmonic, written several drum method books, and invented the Heel Less bass drum pedal, produced as the DW5000 ADH by DW Drums.
Chief Business Oficer
Jack Friedman
Jack Friedman founded Study Smart Tutors out of his dorm room at USC because he wanted to provide College Access Programming to students who wouldn’t otherwise receive it.
In addition to his work at Study Smart Tutors, Jack is a partner and the Chief Business Officer of Inspire EDU, a co-founder of Educational Gaming Services and Advanced Employment Group. He serves as the Board Chair of the Youth Business Alliance and as a board member of Tzedek America and the ACT’s CA Council.
Director of Arts, Media & Entertainment
Danielle Collins
Danielle Collins is a leader in arts, media, and entertainment pathway design, advancing innovative approaches to Career Technical Education (CTE). She has contributed to multiple state standards design committees and developed curriculum for schools and organizations nationwide. Danielle’s experience spans university and high school instruction in the Commercial Music field, as well as consulting for the Los Angeles County Office of Education. She is the President and co-founder of Pulse Percussion, a nationally recognized nonprofit supporting young performers through music education and performance. Danielle also has served on the boards of the Arts Media & Entertainment Institute, California Band Directors Association, and the California Music Educators Association. In 2022, she was named one of Yamaha’s “40 Under 40” for her impact on arts education
Associate Director of Partnership Development
Stephanie Ayala
Stephanie is an accomplished executive leader with over a decade of experience in sales, business development, and people management. Recognized for her empathetic leadership and data-driven approach, she has led high-performing teams across K–12 education and edtech, driving growth through strategic partnerships, sales operations, and customer-focused solutions. Passionate about coaching and mentorship, Stephanie fosters innovative, accountable team cultures that deliver measurable results and lasting relationships.
Partnership Manager - AME
Jasmine Tavakoli
Jasmine Tavakoli is a seasoned Partnership Manager with over 16 years of experience in education, specializing in strategic relationship-building and program development across nonprofit and corporate sectors. She has led impactful initiatives at organizations like STAR Education and The Princeton Review, expanding outreach and partnerships that drive student success. Holding a B.A. from UCLA and an MBA from Pepperdine University, Jasmine combines business insight with a deep understanding of education systems to create equitable, results-driven collaborations that empower communities.
Digital Learning Experience Manager
Jason Roche
Jason is the Digital Learning Manager at Inspire EDU, where they lead the design and implementation of innovative, technology-enhanced learning experiences. With a background in both English and music education, Jason earned a B.A. in English from San José State University and an M.A. in English Literature from California State University, Northridge. Before stepping into their current role, Jason served as an Academic Services Manager, training and supporting tutors to deliver impactful, student-centered programs. A former music educator in Los Angeles, Jason is passionate about creating engaging, inclusive learning environments that empower students and educators to connect, create, and succeed.
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