Introduction
Education is the cornerstone of societal progress, shaping the minds that will lead us into the future. As we navigate an increasingly complex and interconnected world, the role of education has never been more crucial. This article highlights 100 individuals who are at the forefront of educational innovation, policy, and practice in 2025. These influencers come from diverse backgrounds – educators, researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders – all united by their passion for transforming education.
Our selection criteria for this list include:
- Impact on educational policy and practice
- Innovative contributions to teaching and learning
- Influence on educational technology and its implementation
- Thought leadership in education theory and research
- Advocacy for educational equity and access
It’s important to note that influence in education can manifest in various ways, from grassroots classroom innovation to high-level policy changes. This list attempts to capture a broad spectrum of influence across different educational sectors and geographical regions.
Let’s explore the individuals who are shaping the future of education in 2025.
The List
1. Salman Khan – Founder and CEO, Khan Academy
Salman Khan continues to revolutionize online education through Khan Academy. In 2025, the platform has expanded its reach to over 200 million users globally, with a focus on AI-driven personalized learning and partnerships with school systems worldwide.
2. Reshma Saujani – Founder, Girls Who Code
Reshma Saujani’s work in promoting gender diversity in technology education has had a lasting impact on the tech industry. Girls Who Code has expanded globally, inspiring a new generation of female technologists and advocating for policy changes to support women in STEM.
3. Andreas Schleicher – Director for Education and Skills, OECD
Andreas Schleicher continues to shape global education policy through his work at the OECD. His leadership in international education assessments and policy recommendations has influenced education reform in countries worldwide.
4. Malala Yousafzai – Co-founder, Malala Fund
Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai’s advocacy for girls’ education has expanded to address global challenges in education access. The Malala Fund has become a major force in promoting education in conflict zones and advocating for refugee education rights.
5. Sebastian Thrun – Co-founder and CEO, Udacity
Sebastian Thrun’s work in AI-enhanced learning and nanodegrees has redefined professional education. Udacity’s partnerships with major tech companies have created a direct pipeline from education to employment in cutting-edge fields.
6. Carol Dweck – Professor of Psychology, Stanford University
Carol Dweck’s research on growth mindset continues to influence educational practices globally. Her work has expanded to address how mindset interventions can combat educational inequalities and improve student resilience.
7. Arne Duncan – Former U.S. Secretary of Education
His tenure as U.S. Secretary of Education left an indelible mark on the country.
8. Daphne Koller – Co-founder, Coursera and Insitro
Daphne Koller’s contributions to online learning platforms and her recent work in applying machine learning to life sciences education have positioned her as a key innovator in interdisciplinary edtech.
9. Ken Robinson – Author and Education Advisor
Sir Ken Robinson’s advocacy for creativity in education continues to shape curriculum design and educational philosophy worldwide. His work has influenced a shift towards more holistic and arts-integrated education models.
10. Wendy Kopp – CEO and Co-founder, Teach For All
Wendy Kopp’s global network of education leaders has been instrumental in bringing innovative practices, including edtech solutions, to classrooms worldwide. Teach For All’s impact on education policy and practice has grown significantly.
11. Angela Duckworth – Founder and CEO, Character Lab
Angela Duckworth’s research on grit and character development has influenced how edtech platforms approach non-cognitive skills. Character Lab’s tools for educators have become widely adopted in schools.
12. Anant Agarwal – Founder and CEO, edX
Anant Agarwal’s leadership has made edX a cornerstone of the MOOC (Massive Open Online Course) movement. His advocacy for micro-credentials and modular learning has influenced higher education globally.
13. Linda Darling-Hammond – President and CEO, Learning Policy Institute
Linda Darling-Hammond’s research and policy work continue to shape teacher education and school reform efforts. Her advocacy for equitable and empowering education practices has influenced policy at both state and national levels.
14. Sugata Mitra – Professor of Educational Technology
Sugata Mitra’s “Hole in the Wall” experiments and work on self-organized learning environments continue to influence approaches to technology in education, especially in developing countries.
15. Esther Wojcicki – Educator and Journalist
Esther Wojcicki’s TRICK (Trust, Respect, Independence, Collaboration, and Kindness) approach to education has influenced how many edtech platforms design for student engagement and autonomy.
16. Michael Horn – Co-founder, Clayton Christensen Institute
Michael Horn’s work on disruptive innovation in education has shaped how many view the role of technology in learning. His insights continue to influence edtech strategy and policy.
17. Kimberly Bryant – Founder and CEO, Black Girls Code
Kimberly Bryant’s work in promoting diversity in tech education has inspired numerous similar initiatives. Black Girls Code’s expansion and partnerships have created new opportunities for underrepresented groups in tech.
18. Vicki Davis – Teacher and Creator, Cool Cat Teacher Blog
Vicki Davis’ practical insights into classroom technology use have made her a trusted voice for educators worldwide. Her podcast and blog continue to bridge the gap between edtech innovation and classroom implementation.
19. Audrey Watters – Writer and Scholar
Audrey Watters’ critical analysis of edtech trends and policies has shaped important conversations about the role of technology in education. Her work challenges the industry to consider the broader implications of educational technology.
20. Tom Vander Ark – CEO, Getting Smart
Tom Vander Ark’s work in promoting innovation in K-12 education has influenced school design and learning models globally. His advocacy for personalized and project-based learning has shaped educational practices in numerous school systems.
21. Diane Ravitch – Education Historian and Policy Analyst
Diane Ravitch’s critiques of education reform and standardized testing continue to influence debates about education policy. Her advocacy for public education has shaped resistance to privatization efforts in many states.
22. Paul Reville – Professor, Harvard Graduate School of Education
Paul Reville’s work on the “new education commonwealth” has influenced thinking about comprehensive child development and community engagement in education. His advocacy for wraparound services in schools has gained traction in urban education policy.
23. Yong Zhao – Foundation Distinguished Professor, University of Kansas
Yong Zhao’s research on globalization and education has influenced international education policies. His advocacy for creativity and entrepreneurship in education has shaped curriculum development in several countries.
24. Pasi Sahlberg – Professor of Education Policy, University of New South Wales
Pasi Sahlberg’s insights into Finnish education continue to influence global education reform efforts. His advocacy for teacher professionalism and play-based learning has shaped early childhood education policies worldwide.
25. Erin Gruwell – Founder, Freedom Writers Foundation
Erin Gruwell’s work with at-risk students has inspired educators globally. The Freedom Writers methodology has been adopted in schools worldwide, promoting empathy and social-emotional learning.
26. Freeman Hrabowski – President, University of Maryland, Baltimore County
Freeman Hrabowski’s leadership in promoting diversity in STEM education has influenced higher education policies nationwide. His Meyerhoff Scholars Program has been replicated at universities across the country.
27. Jaime Casap – Education Evangelist
Jaime Casap’s work in promoting digital equity and his insights into the future of work have influenced how edtech companies approach workforce development and skills training.
28. Manuela Veloso – Head of AI Research, J.P. Morgan
While her current role is in finance, Manuela Veloso’s pioneering work in AI and robotics continues to influence educational robotics and AI in education. Her research is shaping how we think about human-AI collaboration in learning environments.
29. Caitlin Dooley – Deputy Superintendent, Georgia Department of Education
Caitlin Dooley’s work in integrating technology into state education policy is influencing how schools approach digital learning. Her leadership is shaping the future of K-12 education at a systemic level.
30. Megan Mead – Chief Strategy Officer, Digital Promise
Megan Mead’s work with Digital Promise is bridging research, practice, and innovation in education. Her focus on leveraging technology to close opportunity gaps is influencing educational policy and practice.
31. Deena Pierott – Founder and Executive Director, iUrban Teen
Deena Pierott’s work with iUrban Teen is bringing STEM education to underrepresented youth. Her innovative programs are changing the face of technology education and inspiring the next generation of diverse tech leaders.
32. Katelyn Donnelly – Founder and Managing Director, Avalanche VC
Katelyn Donnelly’s work in edtech investment through Avalanche VC is funding innovative solutions to global education challenges. Her focus on impact-driven investments is shaping the future of the industry.
33. Angie McAllister – Senior Vice President of Data Science, Renaissance Learning
Angie McAllister’s work in applying data science to education is revolutionizing how we measure and support student learning. Her leadership is influencing the development of adaptive learning technologies.
34. Kimberly Scott – Founder and Executive Director, CompuGirls
Kimberly Scott’s work with CompuGirls is empowering girls of color through technology. Her innovative approach to culturally responsive computing education is changing the landscape of diversity in tech.
35. Maryanne Wolf – Director, Center for Dyslexia, Diverse Learners, and Social Justice at UCLA
Maryanne Wolf’s research on the reading brain in the digital age is influencing how edtech companies design literacy tools. Her work is shaping our understanding of how technology affects cognitive development.
36. Elissa Salas – CEO, College Track
Elissa Salas’ leadership of College Track is leveraging technology to support underrepresented students on their journey to and through college. Her work is influencing how we approach college access and success in the digital age.
37. Kathy Benemann – CEO, Discovery Education
Kathy Benemann’s leadership at Discovery Education is shaping how digital content is integrated into K-12 classrooms worldwide. Her focus on providing high-quality, standards-aligned resources is influencing curriculum development and instructional practices.
38. Sanna Lukander – CEO, Fun Academy
Sanna Lukander’s work with Fun Academy is revolutionizing early childhood education through play-based learning. Her innovative approach to combining physical and digital play is influencing how we think about preschool education.
39. Erin Mote – Co-founder and Executive Director, InnovateEDU
Erin Mote’s work with InnovateEDU is driving innovation in K-12 education through technology. Her focus on interoperability and data standards is shaping how edtech companies approach product development.
40. Deborah Quazzo – Managing Partner, GSV Ventures
Deborah Quazzo’s work in edtech investment through GSV Ventures has been instrumental in funding and scaling innovative educational technologies. Her insights into the future of learning have influenced the direction of the industry.
41. Jessie Woolley-Wilson – President and CEO, DreamBox Learning
Jessie Woolley-Wilson’s continued innovation in adaptive learning technology has kept DreamBox at the forefront of personalized math education.
42. Cindy Mi – Founder and CEO, VIPKid
Cindy Mi’s expansion of VIPKid’s services and her focus on cultural exchange through education have maintained the platform’s position as a leader in online language learning.
43. Jennifer Carolan – Co-founder and General Partner, Reach Capital
Jennifer Carolan’s investments in innovative edtech startups continue to shape the future of the industry, with a particular focus on equity and access.
44. Betsy Corcoran – Co-founder and CEO, EdSurge
Betsy Corcoran’s leadership of EdSurge continues to provide crucial information and analysis for the edtech industry.
45. Kimberly Bryant – Founder and CEO, Black Girls Code
Kimberly Bryant’s expansion of Black Girls Code’s programs and her advocacy for diversity in tech education continue to create opportunities for underrepresented groups.
46. Reshma Saujani – Founder, Girls Who Code
Reshma Saujani’s ongoing work in expanding coding education for girls continues to address gender disparities in STEM fields.
47. Angela Duckworth – Founder and CEO, Character Lab
Angela Duckworth’s ongoing research on non-cognitive skills and her development of tools for educators continue to shape how edtech platforms approach character development.
48. Esther Wojcicki – Educator and Journalist
Esther Wojcicki’s TRICK approach continues to influence how edtech platforms design for student engagement and autonomy.
49. Vicki Davis – Teacher and Creator, Cool Cat Teacher Blog
Vicki Davis’ work in bridging the gap between edtech innovation and classroom implementation provides valuable insights for educators worldwide.
50. Audrey Watters – Writer and Scholar
Audrey Watters’ critical analysis of edtech trends provides important perspective and challenges the industry to consider the broader implications of technology in education.
51. Aileen Lee – Founder and Partner, Cowboy Ventures
Aileen Lee’s investments in edtech startups and focus on founder diversity continue to shape the edtech startup ecosystem.
52. Daphne Koller – Co-founder, Coursera and Insitro
Daphne Koller’s work in applying machine learning to education and life sciences continues to push the boundaries of interdisciplinary learning.
53. Anne-Marie Imafidon – Co-founder and CEO, Stemettes
Anne-Marie Imafidon’s continued work with Stemettes inspires and supports young women and non-binary individuals in STEM fields, addressing the gender gap in technology education.
54. Ayah Bdeir – Founder and CEO, littleBits
Ayah Bdeir’s ongoing innovation with littleBits continues to make complex technology accessible to young learners, fostering creativity and problem-solving skills.
55. Nina Ong – Co-founder and CEO, ClassDojo
Nina Ong’s leadership at ClassDojo continues to transform communication between teachers, students, and parents, fostering positive classroom cultures globally.
56. Lynda Weinman – Co-founder, Lynda.com (now LinkedIn Learning)
Lynda Weinman’s influence in online skills training continues to shape how professionals approach lifelong learning in the digital age.
57. Julia Stiglitz – Co-founder and CEO, CoRise
Julia Stiglitz’s work with CoRise continues to redefine professional development, focusing on cohort-based learning and industry-relevant skills.
58. Katrina Stevens – President and CEO, The Tech Interactive
Katrina Stevens’ ongoing leadership at The Tech Interactive continues to inspire the next generation of innovators through hands-on STEM education.
59. Phyllis Lockett – Founder and CEO, LEAP Innovations
Phyllis Lockett’s work with LEAP Innovations continues to transform K-12 education through personalized learning, bridging research, practice, and innovation.
60. Heather Hiles – Founder and CEO, Pathbrite (acquired by Cengage)
Heather Hiles’ continued advocacy for equity in education shapes conversations about access and opportunity in the digital age.
61. Megan O’Connor – Co-founder and CEO, Nth Cycle
Megan O’Connor’s ongoing work with Nth Cycle continues to address the skills gap in technical education, reshaping vocational education in the digital age.
62. Leah Belsky – Chief Enterprise Officer, Coursera
Leah Belsky’s work at Coursera continues to bridge the gap between higher education and industry needs, influencing how companies approach employee education.
63. Tory Patterson – Co-founder and Managing Director, Owl Ventures
Tory Patterson’s leadership at Owl Ventures continues to fund innovative edtech startups, shaping the future of the industry.
64. Joanna Smith-Griffin – Founder and CEO, AllHere
Joanna Smith-Griffin’s innovative approach to student engagement through AI-powered chatbots continues to change how schools address attendance issues.
65. Sabrina Manville – Co-founder and COO, Edmit
Sabrina Manville’s work with Edmit continues to bring transparency to college pricing and financial aid, reshaping the college selection process.
66. Jutta Treviranus – Director, Inclusive Design Research Centre
Jutta Treviranus’ ongoing work in inclusive design continues to influence how edtech companies approach accessibility, ensuring educational technology serves all learners.
67. Rose Luckin – Professor of Learner Centred Design, UCL Knowledge Lab
Rose Luckin’s research on AI in education continues to shape the development of AI-powered educational tools and systems.
68. Barbara Kurshan – Senior Fellow and Innovation Advisor, University of Pennsylvania GSE
Barbara Kurshan’s work at the intersection of education, technology, and entrepreneurship continues to influence how universities approach innovation in education.
69. Kathy Hirsh-Pasek – Professor of Psychology, Temple University
Kathy Hirsh-Pasek’s ongoing research on playful learning continues to influence the design of educational apps and games for young children.
70. Candace Thille – Director of Learning Science, Amazon
Candace Thille’s work at the intersection of learning science and technology continues to shape the future of workplace learning.
71. Shalini Kantayya – Filmmaker and Activist
Shalini Kantayya’s documentaries continue to spark important conversations about AI ethics in education, influencing how we think about the societal implications of edtech.
72. Esther Care – Senior Fellow, Brookings Institution
Esther Care’s research on 21st-century skills assessment continues to influence how edtech companies approach skills measurement and workforce readiness.
73. Caitlin Dooley – Deputy Superintendent, Georgia Department of Education
Caitlin Dooley’s work in integrating technology into state education policy continues to shape how schools approach digital learning at a systemic level.
74. Megan Mead – Chief Strategy Officer, Digital Promise
Megan Mead’s work with Digital Promise continues to bridge research, practice, and innovation in education, influencing educational policy and practice.
75. Deena Pierott – Founder and Executive Director, iUrban Teen
Deena Pierott’s work with iUrban Teen continues to bring STEM education to underrepresented youth, changing the face of technology education.
76. Katelyn Donnelly – Founder and Managing Director, Avalanche VC
Katelyn Donnelly’s work in edtech investment through Avalanche VC continues to fund innovative solutions to global education challenges.
77. Angie McAllister – Senior Vice President of Data Science, Renaissance Learning
Angie McAllister’s work in applying data science to education continues to revolutionize how we measure and support student learning.
78. Kimberly Scott – Founder and Executive Director, CompuGirls
Kimberly Scott’s work with CompuGirls continues to empower girls of color through technology, changing the landscape of diversity in tech.
79. Maryanne Wolf – Director, Center for Dyslexia, Diverse Learners, and Social Justice at UCLA
Maryanne Wolf’s research on the reading brain in the digital age continues to influence how edtech companies design literacy tools.
80. Elissa Salas – CEO, College Track
Elissa Salas’ leadership of College Track continues to leverage technology to support underrepresented students on their journey to and through college.
81. Kathy Benemann – CEO, Discovery Education
Kathy Benemann’s leadership at Discovery Education continues to shape how digital content is integrated into K-12 classrooms worldwide.
82. Sanna Lukander – CEO, Fun Academy
Sanna Lukander’s work with Fun Academy continues to revolutionize early childhood education through play-based learning.
83. Erin Mote – Co-founder and Executive Director, InnovateEDU
Erin Mote’s work with InnovateEDU continues to drive innovation in K-12 education through technology, focusing on interoperability and data standards.
84. Greta Thunberg – Climate Activist and Education Advocate
While not directly involved in edtech, Greta Thunberg’s global climate movement has significantly influenced environmental education and the use of technology for global youth activism.
85. Malala Yousafzai – Education Activist and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate
Malala Yousafzai’s continued advocacy for girls’ education worldwide has inspired numerous edtech initiatives focused on expanding access to education in developing countries.
86. Angela Merkel – Former Chancellor of Germany
Although no longer in office, Angela Merkel’s emphasis on digital education during her tenure continues to influence European education policy and edtech adoption.
87. Oprah Winfrey – Media Executive and Philanthropist
Oprah Winfrey’s investments in education and technology, particularly in developing countries, continue to expand access to digital learning resources globally.
88. Melinda French Gates – Co-chair, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Melinda French Gates’ ongoing work with the Gates Foundation continues to shape global education policy and fund innovative edtech solutions for underserved communities.
89. Michelle Obama – Former First Lady of the United States
Michelle Obama’s continued advocacy for education, particularly for girls and underserved communities, influences edtech initiatives focused on expanding educational access and opportunities.
90. Jacinda Ardern – Former Prime Minister of New Zealand
Jacinda Ardern’s emphasis on digital literacy and technology education during her tenure continues to influence education policy in New Zealand and beyond.
91. Mark Leppard MBE – Education Leader
Mark Leppard’s leadership in international education continues to influence global educational practices and policies.
92. Kai Vacher – Education Innovator
Kai Vacher’s work in educational leadership and innovation continues to shape international school practices.
93. Matthew Wemyss – Education Technology Specialist
Matthew Wemyss’ expertise in educational technology integration continues to influence how schools adopt and implement new technologies.
94. Alex Gray – Education Consultant
Alex Gray’s work in education consulting continues to shape school improvement strategies globally.
95. Mark Anderson FCCT – Education Technology Advisor
Mark Anderson’s insights into educational technology continue to guide schools in effective tech integration.
96. Sam Ashley-Welbeck – Education Leader
Sam Ashley-Welbeck’s leadership in education continues to influence diversity and inclusion practices in schools.
97. Katrina Daniels-Samasa – Education Innovator
Katrina Daniels-Samasa’s work in educational innovation continues to shape teaching practices and school culture.
98. Angie Browne – Education Leader
Angie Browne’s leadership in education continues to influence school improvement strategies and teacher development.
99. Nikki McLeary – Education Technology Specialist
Nikki McLeary’s expertise in educational technology continues to guide schools in effective digital learning strategies.
100. Olly Lewis – Education Innovator
Olly Lewis’ work in educational innovation continues to shape teaching practices and learning environments.
Conclusion
The individuals featured in this list represent the diverse and dynamic nature of the education sector. From classroom teachers to tech entrepreneurs, policymakers to researchers, each has made significant contributions to how we understand and implement education in the 21st century.
As we look to the future, several key trends emerge from the work of these influencers:
- Personalization and Adaptive Learning: Many of the leaders on this list are focused on using AI and data analytics to create truly personalized learning experiences.
- Accessibility and Equity: There’s a strong emphasis on making quality education accessible to all, regardless of geographic or economic barriers.
- Skill-based Learning: With the rapidly changing job market, many influencers are focused on providing practical, job-ready skills through innovative educational platforms.
- Lifelong Learning: The concept of education as a lifelong journey, rather than a finite period, is reflected in many of the platforms and philosophies represented here.
- Interdisciplinary Approaches: Many of these leaders are breaking down traditional subject barriers, recognizing that the complex problems of the future will require interdisciplinary solutions.
- Global Perspective: The list reflects the increasingly global nature of education, with influencers working to connect learners and educators across borders.
- Critical Thinking and Creativity: Beyond just delivering content, many of these influencers are focused on developing critical thinking skills and fostering creativity.
As technology continues to evolve, so too will the landscape of education. The individuals on this list are at the forefront of this evolution, shaping not just how we learn, but what we learn and why. Their work will continue to influence educators, learners, and policymakers for years to come, helping to prepare current and future generations for the challenges and opportunities of an increasingly complex world.
The future of education is bright, filled with potential to make learning more engaging, effective, and equitable. As we move forward, it will be crucial to balance technological innovation with sound pedagogical practices, always keeping the needs of learners at the center of the conversation. The leaders on this list are doing just that, and their continued efforts promise to revolutionize education in ways we’re only beginning to imagine.
