belonging in destination imagination
a place for all innovators
Creativity thrives when everyone belongs.
At Destination Imagination (DI), we know that the best ideas come when people with different backgrounds, experiences, skills, and talents come together. Our vision is to ignite the power of all youth to be the creative and collaborative innovators of tomorrow.
One of the most powerful ways to achieve this vision is to cultivate a culture of belonging—one in which every participant feels like they’re valued, respected, and empowered to achieve their fullest potential.
We purposefully and passionately work to design educational experiences where creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration can flourish and everyone feels like they belong. When students feel connected, supported, and empowered within their learning environments, they gain the confidence to take risks, think in new ways, and develop solutions to real-world challenges.
From our dedicated volunteers to the schools and organizations we partner with, we are proud to work with one another to ensure greater access, foster deeper engagement, and open doors to opportunity—both seen and unseen.
Our core values—respect, collaboration, stewardship, perseverance, and integrity—guide us in this mission. By welcoming different perspectives and championing a culture of belonging, we’re creating a future where creativity knows no bounds and where every student has the skills and confidence to lead.
Meet the Committee for Belonging & Connection
The Committee for Belonging & Connection focuses on building a space where everyone at DI can feel comfortable, valued, and part of the team.
Our Purpose
The Committee for Belonging & Connection helps create space for all participants at Destination Imagination, so a wide variety of people feel genuinely welcomed and empowered to take part. Through open listening, thoughtful reflection, and true collaboration, they support connections that reflect DI’s core values and help ensure every voice is heard.
What We Do
- Facilitate thoughtful dialogue to strengthen our creative community
- Offer tools and suggestions that promote respectful collaboration
- Collaborate with DI leaders to ensure events and experiences are welcoming
- Share ideas that uplift connection and shared purpose
Our Committee
Each member brings unique strengths and perspectives to help foster an environment of connection and collaboration. Explore their professional journeys below.
- Kelley Akins – Teacher at Canutillo Independent School District
- Erica Begun-Veenstra – Educational Experiences Coordinator, Destination Imagination
- Shammy Coello – A Strategic Project Director, Conference Speaker, Educator and Activist
- Katherin Marie Crossling – Litigation Attorney at Heidell, Pittoni, Murphy, & Bach, LLP
- Rebekah Garriock – Virtual Administrative Coordinator at INNoVA
- Carrie Hefner – UIL, ESL, GT, DI Director – GT/DI teacher
- Andrew Herridge – Assistant Professor at University of Southern Mississippi
- Morgan Kryzanek – Medical technician/assistant
- Renee Rainville, Chair – International Territory Consultant at Destination Imagination
- Cherry Santos – Projects and Sr. HR, Al Rayyan Tourism Investment Company – Al Faisal Holding Qatar
- Urooj Seemeen – CEO at e-Services and Learning, DI Board Member
- Tina Shaffer – Executive Editor & Social Media Director, Destination Imagination
- Clistia Smith – Director of Finance and Administration, Destination Imagination
- Michele Tuck-Ponder – CEO at Destination Imagination
Want to Connect?
If you’re curious about the committee or would like to share feedback or ideas, we’re happy to hear from you. Reach out here.
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