The Copperstone Education Board of Directors comprises esteemed global leaders in educational innovation, technological advancement, and strategic governance. They provide visionary leadership and rigorous oversight, ensuring the delivery of transformative educational experiences. Committed to cultivating future leaders, the board champions programs that drive exceptional student achievement, foster critical thinking, and forge direct pathways to successful careers and economic prosperity.
A visionary leader and a seasoned banker with over 30 years of experience in the Banking, IT industry and Family Business. He has extensive expertise in Board Membership, Islamic Banking, Wholesales & Consumer Banking, Risk Management, Finance, Operation & Technology, Sales & Distribution and Business Development. Serves in various boards of companies and is actively involved in various startup companies and is a co-founder of Blink.
Currently, he is an advisor to the Group Chairman of Alserkal Group and serves as an Independent Board Member. His expertise lies in devising impact and commercial strategies, working with government leaders and private sectors. Works extensively with various ministries in future technologies, circular economy, and sustainability of family businesses by training NextGen on Venture Studio Module. On the advisory board of UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and other entities.
He is on the Board of Director / Advisory Board:
– UAE Ministry of Economy – Circular Economy Committee
– UAE International Investors Council
– Middle East Energy
– MENA Power Projects
– MIT Sloan CIO Council
– Cybersecurity Global
– The Optimisation Hub
– Chairperson – Star International School & Copperstone Education
– Impact Investing Solutions
– Impact Boards Emerging Markets
Has worked at Citigroup for over 14 years where he assumed various senior roles. Post that he worked as the Chief Risk Officer at Dubai Bank. And then as Group Head of Islamic Banking at Emirates NBD and served as Group Head Chief Operating Officer for Wholesale Banking. He has been honored with numerous Global Awards. Currently pursuing his doctorate in AI driven sustainability.
For over 25 years, Veronica Griffin has distinguished herself as a service-oriented leader in academic and community spheres, now serving as Vice President of Education for Copperstone Education. Her extensive experience spans senior leadership roles across school systems in the United States, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, where she notably excelled in three Founding Director/Principal positions.
Leveraging her extensive experience and co-founding success with the Common Core Boot Camp, Veronica is spearheading the development of several key strategic initiatives at Copperstone. These include expanding professional development services in international schools under the Boot Camp's established framework and creating impactful secondary school programs designed to reach students across the Middle East and Africa.
Beyond her impactful professional journey, Veronica demonstrates a deep commitment to volunteerism, exemplified by her election as the Founding President of the Arabian Gulf Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in 2020, leading a chapter of 83 members. Her exceptional leadership skills, combined with her genuine warmth and ability to connect with people, drive transformative change and underscore her dedication to empowering those around her.
Jeffrey Smith is the Managing Director of Copperstone Education and Co-Founder of the Common Core Boot Camp, where his visionary leadership has driven innovative collaborations that expand opportunities for students and schools. With decades of success in international education, Jeffrey is recognized for building strategic partnerships that connect schools, families, and communities with impactful learning solutions. He has played a key role in launching high-impact academic initiatives, including the Copperstone University Exam Preparation, while fostering collaborations that enhance student outcomes and institutional growth. His leadership style emphasizes teamwork, shared vision, and long-term relationships, positioning Copperstone Education as a trusted partner in the region. Known for his ability to inspire others and unite stakeholders around common goals, Jeffrey continues to advance Copperstone’s mission of empowering students with the skills, confidence, and opportunities they need to succeed in higher education and beyond.
Eli Ghazel, MA, serves as the Vice President of Curriculum Design, where he leads the implementation, training, and ongoing enhancement of Copperstone Education's curriculum.
With nearly 25 years of experience creating and delivering educational training across the Gulf, Middle East, UK, and USA, Eli brings a wealth of expertise to his role. He is a published author of several textbooks and has delivered professional development to thousands of educators.
Globally recognized for his insights, Eli is also a sought-after presenter and keynote speaker at English language learner conferences. His leadership ensures Copperstone's curriculum remains innovative and impactful.
Dr. Jacob Francom has worked with schools in the U.S. and abroad for many years. He completed his Bachelor of Science in Chemistry and Physics, Master of Arts in Russian Language, Literature, and Linguistics, Master of Education in Educational Leadership, and Doctor of Education degree in Educational Leadership.
He has been a principal of both private and public schools, a superintendent of a school district, and a professor. He has worked with different accreditation bodies and enjoys working with international schools around the globe. Dr. Francom has been named principal of the year and recognized as educational leader of the year by his university.
