Bathsheba Smithen, the founder and CEO of Cage Free Voices®, is a visionary leader dedicated to transforming how we teach, inspire, and uplift all learners, both neurotypical and neurodivergent. With over 15 years of experience as a curriculum developer, ELA and Social Studies teacher, professor, and performing artist, Bathsheba has designed programs that bridge entertainment and education while producing measurable academic impact. 

Dr. Jacqui I. Virgil is a dynamic and results-driven leader with a proven record in academic innovation,
student success, and institutional advancement. As Founder and President of C.H.A.P.S. Inc., she has
developed nationally recognized academic programs that have secured over $12 million in scholarships,
while achieving a 90%+ success rate in NCAA eligibility among underserved student-athletes.

Dorothy Jean Rice is an accomplished science educator, curriculum designer, and advocate for equity in education with nearly 25 years of experience fostering inquiry-based learning across diverse populations. A graduate of both a Bachelor of Science in Biology and a Master of Arts in Teaching, Dorothy brings a rare blend of scientific rigor and pedagogical expertise to her role as Chief Content Officer with Cage Free Voices.

Zoë Smithen is a multifaceted 15-year-old business owner, published author, athlete, and voice actor who brings talent and intention to every creative and professional endeavor. The daughter of educator and EdTech innovator Bathsheba Smithen, Zoë has cultivated a strong sense of identity and purpose from an early age, quickly emerging as a young leader to watch.

Chris Price is a NYC-based actor, singer, producer, and education reformer. Performance credits include: Off-Broadway’s Freefall Frostbite (Ensemble), NJ Rep’s Wild Horses (Vocalist), Harlem Rep’s Jamaica the Musical (Cicero), and more. Price currently teaches elementary performing arts at a school in Brooklyn….

Soffia Aikens is a Senior Juvenile Probation Officer with over 10 years of experience in customer service, quality improvement, training, and onboarding.  She has a proven track record of success and developing goals and plans for improvement in employee retention and compliance in company policies and procedures.  She is a highly motivated and results-oriented individual. She enjoys listening to music. 

Chloe is an artist and educator with a passion for nurturing long-term relationships with students through consistent guidance and support. Raised in a French-speaking household in Texas, she brings a sensitive and inspired perspective to her work, informed by a multicultural upbringing and a deep appreciation for creativity and connection.