Alvin Irby is a former kindergarten teacher turned award-winning social entrepreneur, comedian, and author. As Founder of Barbershop Books, he has inspired communities across America to promote reading in barbershops. Irby’s TED Talk has received over 1 million views and his funny children’s book, Gross Greg, has garnered stellar reviews. As a cultural competency specialist, he provides professional development to school districts, library systems, and education organizations. Irby’s nationally recognized keynotes and workshops help educators better understand and nurture children’s intrinsic motivation to learn. Alvin Irby holds an M.S. in Childhood Education from Bank Street Graduate School and an MPA in Public and Nonprofit Management and Policy from New York University.