Speakers
Nick Fish
Since 2018, Nick Fish has served as the president of American Atheists. Nick first joined American Atheists in 2012 and has spent his career defending the separation of religion and government, advocating for equality under the law, and protecting civil rights for all Americans. Nick was born and raised in Michigan but now calls Philadelphia home.
Ryan Dudley
Ryan joined FFRF as the State Policy Manager in 2022. He has worked in advocacy roles for a number of nonprofits, as well as a nonpartisan legislative research analyst for both the Colorado General Assembly and the Wisconsin General Assembly. Ryan also served in the Army National Guard from 2007-2015. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science from Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi, a Master of Public Policy from DePaul University in Chicago, a Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law.
Amanda Knief
Amanda Knief is on the board of American Atheists. She received her B.S. in Journalism and Communication from Iowa State and her J.D. from Drake University Law School. She worked as legislative counsel for the Iowa Legislature before working for the Secular Coalition for America and American Atheists as lobbyist and legal director, respectively. She is an avid birder, bibliophile, and traveler. September 19 is "Talk Like a Pirate Day" and one of Amanda's favorite days of the year.
How Pirates Saved the American Revolution
This talk explores the daring exploits of American privateers who played a pivotal role in undermining British naval dominance during the Revolutionary War. These seafaring rebels disrupted British supply lines, captured enemy vessels, and bolstered the fledgling American economy through prize money and trade. Through gripping stories and historical analysis, the talk highlights how these unofficial naval warriors helped turn the tide of war in favor of independence.
Jake Via
As the Organizing Director for the American Humanist Association, Jake Via is dedicated to building and mobilizing a strong grassroots network to advance humanist values across the country. With nearly two decades of experience in community engagement, program development, and leadership at the YMCA and Playworks, Jake has a deep understanding of how to bring people together around shared values. Jake holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Thomas Edison State University. He is passionate about the power of play, believing that shared play experiences foster empathy, strengthen communities, and break down barriers. Jake lives in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, with his wife, Anabel, and their three dogs. When he’s not working to organize humanists, you can find him exploring new ideas, writing, or dreaming about sailing.
Humanism, Community, and the State of the AHA
In an era defined by a growing loneliness epidemic and rapid secularization, millions of Americans are walking away from traditional religion—but leaving behind the vital communities that once brought people together. Join Jake for an inspiring look at why building healthy, real-world humanist community is a frontline necessity today.
Drawing on modern psychology, public health data, and political realities, Jake will share how the AHA is actively transforming. From pioneering legal victories to launching innovative creator funds and youth programs, discover how we can offer the next generation a powerful sense of purpose and belonging grounded in reason, compassion, and human potential—without asking them to distrust their own eyes and ears.
Dr. Pearlie Johnson
Based on historical records, secondary sources, and oral history interviews with quilters across Kentucky, Johnson discusses 19th century quilts made by black women living and working on slave plantations, traditional quilts made by African American women of the 20th century, as well as contemporary art quilts made by women of all cultural groups of the 21st century. Her work explores women’s history, storytelling, identity politics, social activism, and empowerment. Her study of quilts in Kentucky is aimed at examining cross-cultural parallels in technique and assemblage, as well as revealing unique designs.
