Julie Frank has more than 17 years of corporate and nonprofit experience in physical activity, physical education, health, and community wellness. From 2002-2015, Julie managed SPARK’s most important projects and relationships with Nike, New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, American Diabetes Association, BlueCross BlueShield Tennessee Health Foundation, and countless others. She provided expert consultation and support to projects throughout the U.S., and around the globe including SPARK’s successful dissemination effort in China. As of April 2019, Julie became the SPARK Executive Director – leading the World’s Most Evidence-Based Physical Education & Physical Activity Programs! Julie received her bachelor’s degree in Community Health Education from UW-La Crosse, WI and has completed Master of Public Health coursework from San Diego State University. Julie has been a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) since 2000. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes in January 1986, Julie has not let this disease stop her. Julie’s passion and mission in life is to inspire everyone to live an active and healthy life. Julie received the 2011 Volunteer of the Year Award from American Diabetes Associate, San Diego.

Dr. Matt Mahar is a Professor and Director of the School of Exercise and Nutritional Sciences. His areas of interest include the promotion and measurement of physical activity and fitness, identification of valid and reliable youth fitness testing methods, and analysis of the effects of classroom-based physical activity programs on physical activity and on-task behavior. He is a member of the Scientific Advisory Board for the FitnessGram youth fitness test and developer of the Energizers classroom-based physical activities. He is a co-author of a measurement and evaluation textbook and has served as investigator for a variety of research grants supported by the CDC, The Cooper Institute, and the Active Living Research initiative of the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation.