CLOSING SESSION SPEAKER 
Anna Weingart
Founder, Sanghalink.org
Using Technology to Create Acceptance in Schools

Why do members of Gen Z seem more comfortable interacting online than in real life? No, it's not because technology is making them lazy. Just as every culture has its own set of norms, so does the digital world. The only rule you must remember in the digital world is this: there are no rules. Gen Z feel free to manifest their individuality online because diversity is expected. However, this freedom of self expression does not always transfer to their daily lives -- high school is still high school. How can we use the power of technology to create more acceptance offline and in our schools? ​During her talk, Weingart will share strategies for using technology to create a culture of acceptance in schools. 

ABOUT ANNA
Anna Weingart founded SanghaLink (song-uhh-link), an online platform for LGBTQIA(+) high school students, during her sophomore year at The University of Texas at Austin. After a brief hiatus, she is now continuing her studies part-time while simultaneously serving as SanghaLink's Executive Director. In addition to being a student and a leader, Anna is a long-time artist and she believes that art has the power to affect great change. She is currently writing a fictional TV series that is partly inspired by people she has met through her work with SanghaLink, including students, social workers, doctors, and even a few Washington politicians. ​