Convention Speakers

Jeff Barnes to Deliver Keynote Address

Jeffrey A. Barnes, also known as “Dr. Disneyland,” is a best-selling author, keynote speaker, and Disney historian. As the former dean of student success and professor of humanities at California Baptist University, he made history by creating the world’s first and only accredited college course on The History of Disneyland.

Inspired by his course—and a life-changing battle with a brain tumor—Jeff wrote two best-selling books: The Wisdom of Walt: Leadership Lessons from The Happiest Place on Earth and Beyond the Wisdom of Walt: Life Lessons from the Most Magical Place on Earth. These books use Walt Disney’s life and legacy to inspire readers to dream bigger, take action, and create their own magic.

After 22 years in higher education, Jeff retired in 2022 to write and speak full-time. Today, he travels the world, challenging audiences to live their own great story by embracing courage, creativity, and perseverance—just like Walt Disney did. His work has been featured in The Orange County Register, The Press-Enterprise, Walt Disney World Magazine, and A&E’s History Channel.

For ten years Jeff was the faculty advisor for the chapter of Alpha Chi at California Baptist University, during which time he also served as Region VII President for two years and spent a year on Alpha Chi's National Council.

Jeff lives in Riverside, CA, with his wife, Lyndsey (an Alpha Chi alum), and together they visit Disneyland and Walt Disney World as often as possible. Each week, he publishes his popular newsletter, WEDnesdays with Walt, bringing Disney history, inspiration, and leadership lessons to fans around the world.

Thomas C. Varkey Named 2026 Distinguished Alumnus

Thomas C. Varkey is the Chief Resident (Education Chief) of Neurology at the University of Arizona College of Medicine-Phoenix. He received a degree in Biology with an emphasis in Pre-Medicine in April 2017 and a Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA) in April 2018 from Grand Canyon University. He received a dual Doctorate of Medicine (MD) and Masters of Education in Educational Psychology (MEd) from the University of Texas at Austin in 2022.

Dr. Varkey completed his internship in internal Medicine at the University of Arizona College of Medicine in Phoenix and is currently continuing his residency there. In the summer of 2026, he will start his role as the Multiple Sclerosis and Neuroimmunology Fellow at the University of Miami in Florida. Dr. Varkey continues to work on honing his skills both as a leader and researcher. With over 70 different peer-reviewed papers and numerous conference presentations, Dr. Varkey has led both national and international research teams. In his spare time, he enjoys running, dates with his wife, Tatiana, and playing with his cat, Ty.