SAVVY CYBER KIDS ADVISORY BOARD
Mark Aklian
Cybersecurity Advisor, CISO
Mark brings over 25 years of experience in technology and cybersecurity leadership within global financial firms. He helps regulated organizations navigate complex digital risks—ransomware, AI threats, identity security, and evolving cyber threats—through a practical, real-world approach that drives resilience and smarter decision-making. Mark’s experience fuels his passion to help the next generation grow up safer and more confident in the digital world.
Liam Barnes
Head of Marketing at Legion Security
Liam Barnes is a marketing leader with a passion for cybersecurity, digital safety, and mission-driven work. He leads marketing at Legion, an AI SOC startup, and has helped grow companies like CrowdStrike, Bionic, and Sumo Logic through demand generation. Earlier in his career, Liam supported nonprofit fundraising efforts for the B+ Foundation and the Alzheimer’s Association—work that continues to shape his values.
Tylar Bloch
Tylar is the consumer tech columnist for Savvy Cyber Kids and is committed to helping organizations and families use technology to advance wellbeing and economic opportunity. Prior to joining Savvy Cyber Kids, Tylar ran operations at a career training platform for prospective engineers, and was the founder of Virtual VITA Connecticut, the first state-sponsored online platform that connects volunteer tax preparers with low-income taxpayers.
Stacy Brown
21st Century Learning Coordinator, The Davis Academy
Stacy is the 21st Century Learning Coordinator at The Davis Academy in Atlanta, Georgia, where she facilitates the integration of technology into the curriculum, manages two media centers in a kindergarten prep through 8th grade academic environment, and provides professional development in the area of technology integration.
Allie H.
Founder, Mothers Against Cyber Crimes
Allie is deeply committed to promoting digital literacy and cybersecurity education for children. Her background in psychology, coupled with her extensive experience in digital marketing, brings a unique perspective to the intersection of technology, mental health, and online safety. In her role as the cybersecurity awareness manager for the Savvy Cyber Kids team, Allie continues to drive positive change by educating individuals and families on best practices for secure navigation of the digital world.
Kristen Hess, PhD
Founder/Principal, Hess Academy
Kristen is an educator and currently the founder and principal of Hess Academy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the growth and development of children.
Peggy Marcus, MD, FAAP
Pediatrician, Dekalb Pediatric Center
Peggy is a pediatrician in Decatur, Georgia who is committed to the healthy development of children and families. In her own pediatric practice, Peggy is dedicated to working closely with parents as they negotiate the challenges inherent in raising healthy children.
Josh S. Spitalnick, Ph.D., ABPP
Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Board Certified in Behavioral and Cognitive Psychology, and Owner of Spitalnick & Associates
Josh S. Spitalnick, Ph.D., ABPP, is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist, Board Certified in Behavioral and Cognitive Psychology, and Owner of Spitalnick & Associates, an outpatient clinic in Dunwoody, GA. In his clinical practice, Dr. Spitalnick specializes in the delivery of Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to treat OCD, anxiety and mood disorders, stress and trauma, medical and health issues, and difficulties in relationship functioning. He is a Board Member for OCD Georgia and holds an appointment as Adjunct Assistant Professor in Psychiatry at Emory University’s School of Medicine where he trains physicians and other health care providers in the delivery of CBT.
Erica Wagner
Erica is a tech policy leader focused on youth safety and wellbeing in digital spaces, from social media and streaming to gaming. At TikTok, she led Global Family Safety & Developmental Health, advancing safety-by-design initiatives, youth wellbeing frameworks, and AI policy for moderation. At Netflix, she directed global ratings strategy for kids, teens, and families, ensuring consistent and culturally attuned standards across markets. With over a decade of experience, her passion is ensuring the next generation grows up in digital environments that are not only safe by design, but also enriching, inspiring, and built for their wellbeing.