1. What is your educational background and what positions have you
held? Please include the current school district.
I am a proud graduate of Aliquippa High School and
earned my Bachelor’s degree from Indiana University of
Pennsylvania in 2000. I later completed a Master’s in Special
Education and Principal Certification at Slippery Rock University,
followed by my Doctorate in Education (D.Ed.) in 2017.
My professional journey began at Holy Family Institute,
where I served as a teacher and counselor supporting underserved youth. I
continued my career in the Penn Hills School District, advancing from
special education teacher to vice principal. In 2011, I became principal of
West Mifflin Area High School, leading diversity and cultural initiatives
that earned the school statewide recognition. I later served as principal of
Woodland Hills High School, where I helped reduce violent incidents by 60%,
increased AP enrollment, and raised graduation rates.
Currently, I am the Superintendent of the Aliquippa School
District, where I lead with a focus on equity, innovation, and community
partnership. Since my appointment in 2021, the district has transformed
financially from a deficit to a $7 million surplus and made measurable gains in
safety, attendance, and student achievement.
2. Name one SRU experience, in general or specific to the field,
that you will never forget and explain why.
One experience I’ll never forget was the collaborative learning environment at Slippery Rock University, particularly during my Principal Certification program. The program challenged me to think critically about leadership beyond compliance—to focus on culture, climate, and systems change. The cohort model encouraged authentic dialogue about real-world challenges in education, and it was there that I began to understand the power of transformational leadership grounded in equity. That experience shaped how I lead today.
3. Name an SRU faculty member who had a positive influence on you
and explain why.
I will always be grateful to Dr. Isherwood and Dr. Merhaut,
who encouraged me to pursue the field of educational leadership after
completing my master’s degree in special education. Their belief in my
potential and their consistent guidance gave me the confidence to take the next
step in my career. Without their encouragement, I don’t know if I would be an
administrator today. They not only saw leadership ability in me before I saw it
in myself, but they also modeled the kind of mentorship and trust that I strive
to extend to others in my own leadership journey.
My interest in education was sparked by my own upbringing in
the Linmar Terrace Housing Community in Aliquippa. Growing up, I saw
firsthand the difference that caring educators and mentors made in the lives of
young people who faced adversity. I wanted to be that same force for others—to
create pathways of opportunity for students who might otherwise be overlooked.
Education became not just a profession, but a calling—to break cycles, build
confidence, and empower families and communities through learning.
5. What do you love most about being in education administration?
What I love most about educational administration is the
ability to create systemic change. As an administrator, I can connect
vision with action—building programs, policies, and partnerships that directly
improve student outcomes. I value the opportunity to empower teachers, engage
families, and build a culture of accountability and care. Every decision I make
has the potential to uplift an entire community, and that’s both humbling and
motivating.
6. What makes a great administrator?
A great administrator is a servant leader who listens
deeply, leads courageously, and acts decisively. They balance empathy with high
expectations, ensuring every stakeholder—students, staff, and families—feels
valued and heard. Great administrators are systems thinkers who align resources,
data, and people toward a shared vision. Most importantly, they lead with
integrity, humility, and a relentless belief that every child can succeed when
given the right opportunities and support.
