Seymour Simon and Liz Nealon: GEC 2012 Keynote

Seymour Simon, whom the New York Times called "the dean of the [children's science] field," is the author of more than 250 highly acclaimed science books, more than seventy-five of which have been named Outstanding Science Trade Books for Children by the National Science Teachers Association. He has introduced tens of millions of children to a staggering array of subjects, and his Collins photo-essay series is co-branded with the Smithsonian Institution, giving them a special seal of approval from a leading authority on science and education.

Seymour Simon has been honored with many awards for his work, including the American Association for the Advancement of Science/Subaru Lifetime Achievement Award for his lasting contribution to children's science literature; The Washington Post/Children's Book Guild Award for Non-fiction; and the Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Forum on Children's Science Books.

Liz Nealon is an award-winning executive producer and industry leader who played an integral role in shaping indelible youth brands like Sesame Street and MTV. Ms. Nealon is currently the CEO & Publisher of StarWalk Kids Mediaand Seymour Science LLC, an early mover in children's digital publishing. The company's streaming digital platform serves Schools and Libraries with a highly valued catalog of digital books, both fiction and nonfiction, from award-winning authors and illustrators.

In addition, Nealon spent a decade as a writer/producer at the start-up of MTV. She traveled the world as Senior Vice President of International Programming, launching the MTV brand in Europe, Brazil, Japan and Australia. Nealon's colleagues dubbed her the "keeper of the trademark" due to her ability to adapt and articulate the MTV vision and attitude as it was expressed in diverse cultures and musical environments.