Dr. Niki Elliott has taught students of all ages for more than 30 years. She is a staunch advocate for students whose lived experiences include learning disabilities, mental health diagnoses, foster care placement, and racialized marginalization. As a sought-after educator, keynote speaker, retreat facilitator, and curriculum developer, Dr. Elliott's unique approach to integrating applied educational neuroscience with mind-body nervous system wellness has supported thousands of child-serving professionals and parents around the world. Dr. Elliott delivers her teachings through the Heart-Centered Connections curriculum, which offers professional certificates through the University of San Diego, where she serves as Director for the Center for Embodied Equity and Neurodiversity. She holds a doctorate in education from UCLA in addition to certifications in yoga, mindfulness meditation, and clinical breathwork. She is a native of Southern California, where she resides with her family.