2026 Utah First-year conference keynote address Speakers

Adam is a dedicated medical professional and student leader with a deep commitment to the Medical Laboratory Sciences field. A multi-degree WSU alum, he earned an AAS in Medical Laboratory Sciences and an AS in Health Sciences with an emphasis in Emergency Healthcare. He is currently finalizing a BS in MLS complemented by a minor in Chemistry.

Adam serves as a First Year Experience Peer Leadership Advisor and a Medical Laboratory Technologist. With six years of experience as an FYE Peer Mentor, he is passionate about guiding students through higher education. His expertise and interests lie in the intricacies of pathology, hematology, chemistry, microbiology, and immunology. 

When he isn’t utilizing his lab brain or leadership heart, Adam is likely found in the great outdoors. He is an archery enthusiast who enjoys camping trips or settling in for a competitive night of board games with friends.

 Gino currently serves as a Transition Advisor at Davis Technical College, specializing in reentry-focused support. He is a proud graduate of Weber State University, having earned a Professional Sales degree. With a strong foundation in student success, Gino’s experience includes four years as a First Year Experience Peer Mentor, where he guided incoming students through the complexities of campus life.

In addition to his work in academia, Gino brings valuable experience from the substance rehabilitation sector. Working within clinics, he developed a deep expertise in supporting individuals through high-stakes life transitions, fostering resilience, and providing resource-heavy guidance for those in recovery. This unique combination of clinical and educational experience allows Gino to support the "whole student" with empathy and practical strategy.

When not advocating for students, Gino can be found on the sidelines coaching basketball or exploring the latest sounds in his constant search for new music.

Samone currently serves as a Special Education Reading Resource Teacher, where she specializes in Tier 3 behavioral intervention and supporting at-risk youth. A dedicated educator and mentor, she earned an Associate of Science in December 2023 and is pursuing a Bachelor's degree in Special Education with a minor in ESL at Weber State University.

Samone’s extensive background in student leadership includes advising students in alternative high schools to get back on track toward graduation, three years as a First Year Experience Peer Mentor and her current role as a Peer Leadership Advisor.

Outside of the classroom, Samone is a creative spirit who enjoys designing custom crafts with her Cricut machine and perfecting the art of doing nails. She is a firm believer that some of the best moments in life involve enjoying a good drink and a side of chisme, because a little heartfelt conversation is always good for the soul.