Chris received his Bachelor of Arts from Penn State University in Communications, with a specialty in Media Effects. After receiving a full-scholarship, Chris began studying at the University of the Cumberlands, where he coached the Men’s Soccer Team and received his Master of Arts in Teaching, with a specialty in Special Education. Upon his graduation, Chris began teaching in a special education classroom. In 2016 he utilized his diverse education and founded the non-profit Special Books by Special Kids. Today, He serves as SBSK’s CEO and enjoys traveling to film interviews and speaking at conferences, businesses, and schools.

Alyssa received her Bachelor of Science from the University of Florida. She then ventured to Indianapolis for graduate school where she was awarded the Allen Whitehill Clowes Museum Fellowship. As a Fellow she worked at the Children’s Museum of Indianapolis with a focus on service design and user experience. After receiving her Master of Arts in Museum Studies from Indiana University-Purdue University at Indianapolis, Alyssa returned to Florida and accepted the position of Curator at the Museum of Science and History, Jacksonville. As the Director of the Curatorial Department, Alyssa continued to expand her leadership experience and expertise in non-profit management. Alyssa transitioned into her role as Executive Director upon the founding of SBSK as a non-profit and enjoys managing all of the organization’s administrative needs.

Noodle Dog was destined to be a part of the SBSK team. She was found by one of Alyssa’s coworkers in the middle of a major intersection in Jacksonville in rough shape; she was emaciated, infested with fleas, and was suffering from endometriosis. Noodle was taken to the local Humane Society, but they were unable to intake her as they were at capacity. Alyssa brought her home that night, cleaned her up, and presented her to Chris with the hopes that he would love her too. Chris was enamored and Noodle Dog has never left their side since. Upon being nursed back to health and happiness, Noodle continues to provide the SBSK team and the world with an unlimited supply of joy. She became the official mascot of Special Books by Special Kids and enjoys traveling the world with her family.