Faculty & Staff Directory

Faculty & Staff

List of 97 members.

Robert Alden

Director of Maintenance and Facilities

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Abbigail Andolino

First Grade Teacher
Patricia Babcock

Food Service Assistant Manager

Bio
Patricia Babcock is the Assistant Manager of the Food Service team. She started in 2003 and is a Certified Food Handler. She is a mother of four and a grandmother of four. She loves being part of the AC family and spending time with her co-workers.
Julie Barrett

Summer Camp & After School Program Director/Summer LEAP Onsite Support

Bio
Julie is AC's Summer Camp & After School Program Director, as well as Summer LEAP Onsite Support. Prior to joining AC, she worked for Mattiacio Orthodontics and Rochester Wedding Magazine in customer service oriented roles. She received her Associate’s Degree in Sports Tourism and Marketing from Finger Lakes Community College and is in the process of earning a Certificate in Business and Entrepreneurial Studies from Monroe Community College.

What do you love most about your job?
No two days will ever be the same! You never know who is going to walk through the door and what story you might hear on a particular day and to me that is exciting!

What’s the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
From the moment I stepped into the school, I could feel the energy and the passion that each and every one of the faculty and staff members has for their roles here.

What’s your favorite hobby and why?
I love to travel to the beach because it’s such a relaxing place and I feel at home when I am there.
Becky Benchik-Watson

Upper and Middle School Mathematics Faculty

Bio
Becky comes to AC with more than two decades of experience teaching mathematics at colleges in New York, Maryland, and Delaware. Over the years, she has taught at St. John Fisher College, Monroe Community College, Genesee Community College, Community College of Baltimore County, Goldey-Beacom College, and the University of Delaware. In addition to teaching, Becky has presented at the AMATYC National Conference in Orlando, Florida, as well as doing multiple presentations at CCBC on the use of cooperative exploratory learning techniques in teacher prep courses, statistics, and liberal arts mathematics. Becky earned her undergraduate degree in mathematics from SUNY Oswego and her masters from the University of Delaware.

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
I don’t know, but it would probably involve making something.

What’s your favorite hobby?
Do I have to pick just one?! I love quilting, sewing, basket weaving, knitting… Honestly, I’ve never met a craft that I didn’t want to at least try!

Share something that people may not know about you.
I have been to 33 states and 6 foreign countries.
Vincent Bissonette

Upper School English Teacher

Bio
Vince earned a B.A. in English and Philosophy at Marietta College in Ohio and a Ph.D. in English from the Graduate Center of the City University of New York, where he focused on British poetic and philosophical writings from the seventeenth to the nineteenth century. He has published articles on Coleridge, Dryden, Tennyson, and Adam Smith. Vince has taught English at Allendale Columbia School since 2010, previously teaching English at the college level for over ten years, in addition to tutoring students in writing and helping faculty to incorporate more writing across the curriculum. Vince is also the Director of the AC Center for the Humanities.

What do you love most about your job?
Thinking about literature and learning new things. Every time I teach a book, I get to reread it and talk about it with students. Thinking about how to present it to them helps me to see it in new ways, and I am repeatedly impressed by their insights in class discussions and in their written work.

What’s the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
I’ve been in teaching situations where my only interaction with students was when they were in my class. That makes it easy to forget that the student has a life outside of my class. And then, when they are no longer my student, it’s easy to forget them. At Allendale Columbia, I get to know students by seeing them, not just in my classroom, but in other contexts: office hours and mini-assemblies, the stage and the sports field, from one year to the next. I get to be impressed by them in so many ways, see them deal with hard times and see them triumph in small and big ways. I get to see the whole person.

What’s your favorite quote?
We shall not cease from exploration
And the end of all our exploring
Will be to arrive where we started
And know the place for the first time.
-T.S. Eliot
Ronald Bouwens

Facilities Housekeeper
Daouda Camara

Director of the Center for Global Engagement

Bio
Daouda Camara teaches French and is the Director of Global Engagement at AC. Prior to joining AC in February of 2020, Daouda worked at BuildOn in Senegal as a Trek Manager where he trained, monitored and evaluated the host country trek team, arranged trips, and built schools committed to gender equality. He has been teaching French since 1986 in various locations, including California and Illinois, and he has served as trainer and cross cultural guide in the U.S. Peace Corps in Senegal, Niger, Nigeria, and Mali. Daouda graduated with his baccalaureate from Lycèe Charles de Gaulle in Senegal and continued his university studies at the Universitè de Dakar. He also has a certificate in Educational Administration and Management from Ecole Normale Superieure, Senegal and a certificate in Adult Education from Accord Paris Ecole de Langues, France.

What do you love most about your job?
I am not in this job for the income… but for the outcome.

What inspires you?
Learning every day from students as I facilitate their learning.

What’s your favorite hobby?
Soccer and reading.
Rockella Caporale

Rainbow Room Instructor

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Ellen Carmestro

Business Office Manager
Samantha Carroll

AC3s Teacher

Bio
Samantha joined AC in 2023 as an AC3s teacher. Prior to AC, she was the Lead Pre-K Teacher at The Goddard School in Rochester. There she was responsible for designing and implementing developmentally appropriate lesson plans and incorporating a variety of instructional strategies and materials to engage and challenge students. Samantha also previously served as the Marketing Director at Camp Stella Maris, recruiting new campers and highlighting their camp program. Samantha earned a Bachelor’s of Science degree in Communication Studies with a minor in School & Counseling Psychology from SUNY Fredonia.

What's your favorite hobby and why?
Reading! I've always been an avid reader and love the immersive experience of reading. My favorite genres are historical fiction, memoirs, and thrillers/mysteries.

Share a fun or interesting fact about yourself:
I've climbed the fifth highest peak in the Rockies, La Plata Peak at 14,360'.
If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
An interior designer. I love following interior design blogs and watching a space come together over time.
Kristie Clark

Food Service Worker

Bio
Kristie Clark joined the Food Service team in 2021 and is a Certified Food Handler. She loves to ride her bike and spend time with her family.
Christine Colson

Upper School Science Teacher

Bio
Chrissy earned her undergraduate degree in Physics at Canisius College in Buffalo, New York, and she is currently finishing her Masters of Education in Physics with an Alternative Certification at Buffalo State College. Chrissy has experience teaching Algebra Based Classical Mechanics, Electricity and Magnetism, and Astronomy, in addition to her previous work with robotics, electronics, and 3D printing technology.

Why did you decide to get into this line of work?
I was a TA in college, and I realized that I loved working with students in labs and helping them with homework. I have really always liked science, but what I enjoyed more was sharing it.

What is your favorite hobby?
My favorite hobby is martial arts.

Share something about yourself that people may not know.
I have a black belt in Tae Kwon Do.
Gabriel Costanzo

Instrumental Music Teacher

Bio
As an instrumental music teacher at Allendale Columbia School, Gabe leads ensembles for students in grades 4 through 12 and teaches courses in music composition, technology, and theory. He held the David M. Pynchon Chair in the Visual and Performing Arts from 2008 – 2013 and is a member of the American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers. He earned bachelor’s degrees in Music Education and Music Composition from SUNY College at Fredonia and a master’s degree in Music Composition from Bowling Green State University.

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
I love sharing my passions, whether they be in music, gardening, or other areas with our students.

What’s your favorite part about working at Allendale Columbia?
AC challenges its teachers to be active learners and to think outside of the boundaries of conventional educational thought. I have been given the independence to develop programs that go beyond the typical school ensemble paradigm and provide students with genuine experiences in music. From creating recordings with students as the performers, engineers, and producers to partnering with local artists and alumni in providing music for traditional school events, there have been many explorative opportunities at AC that I never would have imagined as a music ed student contemplating a career as a teacher.

What or who is your biggest influence?
There is no single person or thing. All of the most valuable experiences I have had and amazing people I have known are always right there, in the back of my head or in the pit of my stomach, guiding me through everything I do.

What’s your favorite quote?
“Practice makes permanent.”
Lisa Crandall

Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Bio
Lisa has been working at Allendale Columbia School since 1996, starting in our Admissions Department as the Admissions Assistant as well as a substitute teacher before securing her current role as a Pre-K teacher in 2002. Prior to joining AC she worked at Monroe Community College as the Student Association Secretary where she supervised office operations for the Student Senate, and at Progressive Childcare Center as a preschool teacher. Lisa is a graduate of Nazareth College where she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in English Literature with a concentration in Elementary Education.

What do you like most about working at Allendale Columbia?
The students, faculty, and staff are what I like most. I enjoy the supportive, creative, friendly atmosphere. AC has always felt like home to me, and the Lower School faculty is like a family.

Who or what inspires you?
People who aren’t afraid to take chances and step outside of their comfort zones.

What’s your favorite quote?
“Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened.” – Dr. Seuss
Tammy Crowe

Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Bio
Tammy joined Allendale Columbia over 15 years ago working in the Pre-Primary School and Rainbow Room after school program before becoming a pre-kindergarten teacher full-time. Prior to AC, Tammy taught in a variety of educational settings including creative arts, the YMCA, and daycare programs. She’s a graduate of SUNY Brockport where she earned her Bachelor of Science Degree in Interdisciplinary Arts for Children.

What do you like most about your job?
I love watching our youngest students blossom socially, emotionally, and academically. I also love the fact that I have the ability to explore creative opportunities outside of the pre-k classroom like teaching summer camps, AC’s Encore programs, and choreographing the Middle School musical.

Why or how did you decide to go into this line of work?
Growing up on Long Island, I was very fortunate to have so many wonderful teachers during my Lower School years. Their passion, dedication, and wisdom motivated me to become a teacher.

What’s your favorite quote?
“Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are truly endless.” – Mother Teresa
Stephanie DePaul-Pragel

Fourth Grade Teacher

Bio
Stephanie brings a wide range of experiences to her role as a Lower School teacher at AC, having taught children and adults in public, parochial, and independent schools. She holds a bachelor’s degree and a master’s equivalency in Elementary Education from Millersville State University, and she completed her Master of Education Degree in Curriculum and Instruction in 2015. Stephanie has also recently taken a course on Visible Thinking from Harvard University. Her professional interests are community-driven and have led her to use her skills in many volunteer positions. She has been a teacher at AC since 1995.

What do you like most about your job?
The ability to create a curriculum that engages and inspires children to learn and become lifelong learners. I love opening minds to all the possibilities the world has to offer.

How did you decide to go into this line of work?
My mother was a high school English teacher and my father was a coach for over 28 years. For me, it was what I was naturally drawn to from an early age. I always question – was it fate or was it my destiny to teach?

What is your favorite hobby and why?
Kayaking is currently my favorite hobby. I love the freedom on the water and the empowerment of going where I want to go using my own physical strength. I also love the peacefulness of exploring places I would otherwise miss from land.
Charlotte Dickinson

AC3s Teacher

Bio
Charlotte comes to AC from Virginia where she previously served as an Early Childhood Case Manager & Head Start Mental Health Consultant at New River Valley Community Services. Prior to that she was a teacher in the Child Development Center for Learning and Research at Virginia Tech, where she implemented Reggio Emilia inspired education for toddlers and preschoolers. Charlotte earned her undergraduate degree in Human Development from Virginia Tech, and she went on to earn her masters in Education from Radford University.

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
If I could have any other job in the world, I would choose to be a dolphin trainer.

What’s your favorite hobby?
My favorite hobby is sewing.

Share something that people may not know about you.
I helped to run a camp for underprivileged children in Latvia.
Riley Donahue

Rainbow Room Instructor
Robert Doran

Director of Technology

Bio
An Allendale Columbia teacher since 2000, Rob moved into the role of Director of Information Technology in 2018 to pursue his passion for problem-solving and love of technology. He is in charge of all hardware and software for students, faculty, and staff at AC. He holds both a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in Mathematics.

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
I have always enjoyed helping people in any way that I can and I also love technology. I taught Middle School computer classes for 12 years at AC and was in charge of setting up and managing all the machines during that time. I’ve been the “unofficial” back up for IT support at the school for years and was thrilled to have the opportunity to make this my full-time work.

What’s the best part of working at Allendale Columbia?
The best thing about working at AC has to be the people here. Students are hard working, enthusiastic, and a blast to get to know, and I like and respect every one of my colleagues. I consider myself fortunate to be working with them every day.

What’s your favorite hobby?
It’s a tie between ultimate frisbee and gaming. Both of these hobbies are extremely fun to play, challenging to master, but different every time. They are a good combination, because one is physically challenging, while the other is mentally challenging.
Sharon Ellmaker

Lower School Art Teacher

Bio
Shari has been an educator for more than 30 years. During the academic school year, she teaches Lower School art and in the summer, she is a valued member of our AC Summer LEAP faculty. Shari brings with her experience teaching second, third, and fourth grade, in both the public school system and independent schools. She holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education from Bluffton University.

What do you like most about your job?
I love working with students and their families! Watching students build relationships, grow as learners, think creatively, and problem-solve is an awesome part of my job!

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
I would love to work with senior citizens and provide enriching and creative experiences for them. To bring a little happiness into their world each day would be perfect.

What’s your favorite hobby?
My favorite hobby is cooking. I love experimenting with spices, flavors, and fresh ingredients. I very rarely make the same recipe more than once except for chocolate chip cookies!
Alicia Feeley

AC3 Nursery Assistant

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Casey Franklin

Lower School STEM Teacher

Bio
Casey started teaching at Allendale Columbia School in 2022. Prior to that, she spent 11 years as an informal science educator, helping to connect students to science and nature. She's been lucky enough to work with talented individuals across the country, from the Smoky Mountains NP to Homer, Alaska. Most recently, she was the Education Coordinator at the Helmer Nature Center. Casey earned her BS in Biology and Environmental Studies from Hobart and William Smith College.

Casey loves spending time outside, hiking, camping, and kayaking, just as much as she loves being inside with a good book, a new recipe, or her latest craft project.

Tell us something about you that would surprise most people:
Casey has climbed Mt. Doom from the LOTR movies, while studying abroad in Australia and New Zealand!

What is your favorite quote?
It's a tie between “Take chances, make mistakes, and get messy!” (Ms. Frizzle) and “And into the forest I go, to lose my mind and find my soul” (John Muir)

If you could do any job in the world besides the one you currently do, what would it be?
A ranger in a National Park
Colleen Gill

Little School Teacher

Bio
Colleen Gill is delighted to be part of Allendale Columbia’s Little School. Known for her love of children, she is dedicated to teaching with compassion and empathy. She understands the importance of exploratory learning, having experienced the benefits of child-led and inquiry-based educational approaches firsthand.

She has hands-on training and experience in both Reggio and Waldorf-style programs. She completed her graduate studies through Vermont College of Norwich University and has also studied a variety of experimental pedagogies. In addition to posts as professional educator, Colleen has spent time volunteering her services in the community, developing and facilitating creative arts and nature-based educational offerings. She is an avid naturalist with a love of music and yoga, and she blends all of those interests into her work with young children.

What do you love most about your job?
The moments of connection are what I love the most, where a child looks into my eyes and I look into theirs. We share a smile or a gesture, a game or a word or two of conversation, or we observe something wonderful about the world together. It’s all those moments of presence stacked up together that make the days truly shine.

Tell us something about you that would surprise most people?
I love running. I completed four half marathons and a full marathon all in one calendar year. While my running days are full of milder targets now, I deeply enjoyed the structure and accomplishment of my years of race running. Completing that marathon forever reminds me that I can cross any finish line.
Ryan Glantz

Morning Little School Teaching Assistant & Afternoon Rainbow Room Instructor

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Travis Godkin

Upper School STEM Teacher & Director of Invent Center for STEM and Innovation

Bio
Travis holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Biology from Allegheny College, a Master of Science Degree in Zoology from the University of New Hampshire, and a Master of Science Degree in Science Education from Oregon State University. He taught high school Biology in Dallas, OR for five years and moved to the Rochester area to be closer to family.

What do you love most about your job?
I love helping students see the amazing aspects of our natural world and how they are affected by them.

What’s the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
Being part of a great community of teachers, students, and parents.

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be and why?
I would be a field Biologist. I would still be working in a field that I’m passionate about and my office would be the outdoors.
Hillary Gozigian

Marketing & Development Specialist
Jamie Gullo

Lower School Counselor

Bio
Jamie earned her Master’s degree in Counselor Education and has served in both the mental health and education fields. Prior to starting at AC in 2022 as the Little and Lower School Counselor, she spent 15 years working as the Preschool Director at Risen Christ Preschool. She has also worked as a School Counselor at Greece Olympia High School, Churchville-Chili Middle School and Williamson High School, caring for children ages 2-18.

Jamie loves to spend time with her family and enjoys gardening, hiking, kayaking, walking her dog or completing DIY projects.

What's the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
Our children are absolutely beautiful, creative and diverse in their needs and gifts.

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
When I was a sophomore in college I heard a professor share a story about caring for others and I knew that was what I wanted to do.

Tell us something about you that would surprise most people:
I worked as an apprentice with my best friend who is also a plumber.
Mary Haenig

School Nurse

Bio
Mary joined AC in 2023 from the Hollidaysburg Area School District where she worked as the School Nurse for eight years. She has extensive experience managing healthcare for children ages 5-18 years old and was responsible for the well-being of 1,500 students. She also worked at the Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh-North Satellite in Wexford, Pennsylvania. Mary earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree from Temple University and her Educational Specialist Certificate from Eastern University.

What's the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
I love that Allendale Columbia has all ages of children. One moment I have a 2-year-old in my office and the next student is 16, I love that variety and difference in all the children.

Share a fun or interesting fact about yourself:
I have lived in many different places because of my husband's job. We have lived in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, Alabama, New York, Australia and Brazil!

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
I love helping people, knowing my efforts can make a difference.
Anita Hagen

Executive Assistant to the Head of School

Bio
Anita currently serves as the Executive Assistant to the Head of School. Previously, she worked in business operations for the Discovery Charter School and spent 14 years as the School Director for the Learning Care Group.

Anita has a Bachelor's Degree in Biology and Childhood Development from SUNY Geneseo and a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Albany.

What do you like most about your job?
I enjoy Allendale Columbia School's collaborative environment and the opportunity to work with such a diversely talented and passionate group of people!

Tell us something about you that would surprise most people:
I am at my happiest when I am around the water- it can be a lake, river, ocean, even a pool- it doesn't matter!

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
Our greatest weakness lies in giving up. The most certain way to succeed is always to try just one more time. It gives me great joy to work in an environment where we can share this mentality with our students.
Ian Hawkins

Maintenance Mechanic

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Julianne Henninger

Middle & Upper School Counselor
Kara Holdren

Little School Teacher

Bio
Over the past 30 years, Kara has been blessed to teach and learn from children. She has a vast repertoire of working with children, including time as an in-home nanny, director of child care centers, supervisor of summer camps and after-school programs, and a teacher in a local private school. Kara is beyond happy to be teaching in the Little School and to be a part of the AC community.

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
I decided to become an educator because I wanted to make a positive impact in the lives of children.

What is your favorite quote?
"Life moves pretty fast. You don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it" -Ferris Buehler

What do you like most about your job?
What I like most about being a teacher is that every day is always different. You never know where the day may take you when you are surrounded by children.
Seth Hopkins

Middle and Upper School Learning Advocate

Bio
Seth brings 22 years of teaching experience at the Middle and High School level from Wellsville Central School District, The Charter School for Science and Technology, and most recently, The Norman Howard School. Seth holds a CAS in Educational Administration from The State University of New York College at Brockport, an MS in Adolescent Education in English from The State University of New York College at Geneseo, and a BA in History from The State University of New York at Stony Brook. Seth also holds New York State Certifications in Social Studies (Grades 7-12), English (Grades 7-12), Students with Disabilities (Grades 7-12), School Building Leader, and School District Leader. Additionally, Seth has been involved with grant writing efforts and curriculum development, and has served on a variety of professional committees.

What do you love most about your job?
Working with kids keeps me young.

What’s your favorite hobby and why? 
Reading because there is so much to know.

What or who inspires you?
I am inspired by people who have achieved something in the face of others who said that they could not.
Rachel Hucko

Middle School Music Teacher

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Ted Hunt

Upper School History Instructor

Bio
Ted has been teaching since he graduated from Dartmouth College in 1977. He spent his first few years teaching at Vermont Academy, a boarding school in Saxtons River, Vermont. Upon leaving the academy in 1982, Ted joined Allendale Columbia as a history teacher. He teaches history and economics to eleventh and twelfth graders.

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
Teaching and coaching allowed me to engage with high school students in areas that have always been my passions – history and soccer.

What is the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
The students at our school are, by and large, bright, enthusiastic, and engaging.

What’s your favorite hobby?
Reading; I am constantly looking for new history stories to make my classes come to life.
Deanna Interlicchia

Middle and Upper School English Instructor

Bio
Deanna graduated from St. John Fisher College with a bachelor’s degree in Adolescent English Education and went on to get her master’s degree from SUNY Brockport in English Literature. Prior to joining Allendale Columbia eight years ago, she student taught at Freddie Thomas Learning Center and Canandaigua Middle School. Deanna also tutors at St. John Fisher College in their Higher Educational Opportunities Program.

What do you like most about your job?
I love getting to know the kids and having the opportunity to teach them and watch them grow through their Middle School and Upper School years.

How did you decide to go into this line of work?
I have always loved reading and writing, and my mom was an English teacher, so when I started working with Middle School students, I knew that was what I was meant to do.

Share a fun or interesting fact about yourself.
I am an aspiring Adirondack 46-er, I was a competitive dancer for 11 years, and I love to do crafts, including knitting and scrapbooking.
Tiara Johnson

Little School Teaching Assistant

Bio
Tiara joined the AC Community in 2022, and prior
to her time at AC, she served as an Assistant
Teacher at Banners Childcare where she worked
with various age groups from infants to elemen-
tary-aged students. Tiara decided she wanted
to dedicate her life to working with children
during her junior year of high school after years
of babysitting and volunteering. After school she
would often volunteer in the middle school
music department as an Assistant and Vocal
Director.
Jean Kasongo

Upper School World Language Faculty

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Ann King

Lower School Reading Interventionist

Bio
Ann currently serves as the Lower School Reading Interventionist, following 9 years as a 1st and 2nd grade teacher at AC. Prior to her teaching career she worked in corporate banking for 15 years. Ann has a BS in Business Economics from Penn State and BS in Childhood and Special Education from Roberts Weslyan College.

Ann and her husband Mike relocated to Rochester 11 years ago from Pittsburgh, PA. Her children Bryan and Laurie are AC alumni, and she loves spending time with her cute (and fierce) little dog, Remi.

Do you have a dream job?
I am doing it!

What inspires you?
People who have overcome big and small adversity.

What do you like most about your job?
Helping kids on their learning journey and being a part of the AC community.
Barbara King

Kindergarten Teacher

Bio
Barbie has nearly three decades of experience and came to AC from Cobblestone School where she served as a Primary School Teacher and Summer Camp Director. At AC, she is a Kindergarten teacher, AC landscaper, AC After 3 p.m. teacher, and Camp Cobblestone Summer Camp Director. Barbie earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education with a Concentration in Fine Arts at Saint Bonaventure University.

What do you love most about your job?
I love working with children and their creative minds!

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
I would be a traveling food critic!

What’s your favorite quote?
“Art is the most effective mode of communication that exists. Learning by doing.” – John Dewey

Please list a fun or interesting fact about you people may not know.
I’m a black belt in mixed martial arts.
Donna Kwiatkowski

AC3s Nursery Teacher

Bio
Donna has been teaching nursery school at Allendale Columbia for 30 years! Prior to teaching at AC, Donna was a Graduate Assistant at the Early Childhood Research Center at the University of Buffalo while getting her master’s degree in Elementary Education with Specialization in Early Childhood Education. She is also New York State certified in nursery through grade six and holds two bachelor’s degrees in Early Childhood Education and Psychology.

What’s the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
My job at AC allows me to teach at the nursery level in a real-school setting. When I graduated from college, nursery schools were typically located in church basements or daycare centers. I hit the jackpot when I saw that AC, nursery through grade 12, was looking for a nursery school teacher! There’s nothing like a three-year-old, and to spend my days with them in a beautiful classroom, on a spacious campus with a playground, fields, and nature trails… what more could I ask for?!

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
Considering that I think I have the best job in the world already, if given the chance, I would pick up AC and place it in the middle of a beach somewhere. I am not a fan of our cold, snowy winters here in Western New York!

What’s your favorite quote?
“You’ve always had the power my dear, you just had to learn it for yourself.” – Glinda, Wizard of Oz
Jennifer LaMarsh

Grade 3 Teacher and Grade Level Curriculum Coordinator
Cory Lamberton

HAC Assistant Athletic Director and Physical Education Teacher

Bio
Cory joined AC in 2023 as the Assistant Director of Athletics and Physical Education teacher. Cory previously served as the Director of Athletics and a P.E. Teacher at True North Rochester Prep Charter School as well as a Dean of Students. He was also the Assistant Coach of the Rush-Henrietta Modified Basketball team. Cory earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from SUNY Brockport along with his teaching certification.

What do you like most about your job?
Just being able to support our student-athletes in their sports each day. Making sure we are giving our students the most opportunities in athletics.

What inspires you?
My two boys. Being a Dad is probably the greatest thing to me. I want to make sure I show them the right path and how to try to navigate in this world. All I do is for the two of them.

Who is your biggest influence?
My Dad. My Dad inspired me when I was a kid. I got to see firsthand how hard he worked to support our family. He had an amazing work ethic. He would do everything he could to make sure our family was supported and he would always be there for us at all of our school events or sports events. He never missed a thing.
Catherine Livingston

Middle and Upper School History Teacher

Bio
Catherine joined AC in 2023 from the University of Rochester where she worked as a Program Assistant to develop and coordinate student programs. She has a passion for history and served as a Lead Teacher in two co-teaching classrooms at Success Academy. Catherine earned a Master of Arts in Teaching with a focus in Social Studies from New York University, and she earned a Bachelor of Arts in History with a minor in Women and Gender Studies from Hunter College.

Share a fun or interesting fact about yourself:
I grew up with parents in the military so I got to travel and live all over the country as a kid!

What's your favorite hobby and why?
Definitely camping! I love being outdoors with my family, my dog, and a good book.

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
I would be an author or a historian.
Stephen Lopez

Assistant Director of Information Technology

Bio
Steve joined Allendale Columbia in 2022 as Assistant Director of Technology. He came to AC after working in various roles with the technology department at Fairport CSD since 2006. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Music Education from Nazareth College. While he decided against teaching, he learned that he truly loved working in schools where the focus is always on learning.

Do you have a dream job?
 I absolutely still dream of being a professional recording and touring musician. While I am generally introverted and quiet, most people are surprised to learn that the place where I feel most comfortable is on stage with an electric guitar in my hands and an amplifier turned up to 11 at my back (and ear plugs in my ears).

What are your hobbies?
Aside from music, I dabble in nature photography and gardening, and I’m an avid fan of ice hockey (go Amerks!). I am also a passionate advocate for animals (especially my beautiful and voracious cats) and preserving the natural resources of our planet. I recently completed 365 consecutive days of visiting Tinker Nature Park in Henrietta during which I collected over 10,000 photos and videos and became a friendly and recognizable human face for dozens of various wild animals.
Siomara Lorenzo

Lower School Spanish Teacher

Bio
Siomara has 17 years of teaching experience and comes to AC from the Rochester City School District. Currently, Siomara teaches Spanish in our Lower School. Siomara has a Masters in Spanish Linguistics and a Masters in Secondary Education from SUNY Albany.

What's the best part about working for Allendale Columbia?
Almost everything, from the teachers and admin I work with to the kids i have in my classes each day. The great food and beautiful campus I get to enjoy everyday. I love AC!

If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be and why?
My dad, so I can see and talk to him one last time.

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
I love way too many things to just be one thing. I wish I had my own bakery, working as an audible reader, or doing anything where I was working with dogs all day.
Kathleen Maguire

Interim Director of the Center for Humanities & Upper School English Teacher

Bio
Katie has been teaching English since 1994 (minus a few years working as a senior editor in educational publishing). New to the Rochester area as of 2019, Katie taught Western Humanities and supervised pre-service English teachers at SUNY Geneseo before joining the Allendale Columbia community in January 2020. Prior to that, she taught high school in Evanston, IL, where she also directed the school’s writing center. Katie holds master’s degrees in English Literature and in Writing, both earned in Chicago where she was born and raised.

What do you like most about your job?
I get to listen to what young people think and then help them develop and express their ideas through writing. I especially love working one-on-one with students on their writing.

What’s the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
I love the way Allendale Columbia promotes such a strong sense of community while also honoring and celebrating students as individuals.

What is your favorite quote?
“Once you learn to read, you will be forever free.” — Frederick Douglass
Indy Maring

Assistant Director for Student Life and Community Engagement

Bio
Indy Maring (they/them) graduated from AC in 2018, and they are completing a BA in Psychology from the University of Rochester. Since graduating from AC, Indy has worked exclusively in community embedded roles in the Rochester area supporting Black, Latine, Indigenous, and Queer youth. Indy has been involved in AC Summer LEAP since 2014, working in many capacities including as a Teacher’s Assistant, Special Events Coordinator, and Site Coordinator. In 2021, Indy served as Assistant Director of the program, launching two community-embedded partnerships with Rochester Rec and Noetic Learning Center. This year, Indy will serve as Director where they hope to continue expanding AC Summer LEAP and its reach into Rochester while sharing their knowledge of community engagement with Allendale Columbia.
Aurora Martinez

Middle School Spanish Instructor

Bio
Aurora has been teaching for nearly 25 years and has worked with students in kindergarten through grade 12. After college, Aurora moved to Mexico to raise her family, where she also co-founded two schools- one in San Miguel de Allende and one in Veracruz. There she was part of the steering team, served on the parent education group, and trained teachers while also serving as a classroom teacher at both schools. In 2014, she moved back to the United States and became a Middle School Spanish teacher at the Seattle Waldorf School before moving back to Rochester as a substitute teacher in Webster and a medical interpreter at the University of Rochester. At AC, Aurora brings her extensive background in education to our Middle School where she teaches Spanish. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education from American University.

Why/how did you decide to go into this line of work?
I have always known I wanted to be a teacher; I believe it’s the only way to bring about change in the world.

What do you love most about your job?
I love working with children and seeing those “a-ha moments” of discovery.

What’s your favorite quote?
“Education is not the filling of a pail, but the lighting of a fire.” – William Butler Yeats
Tucker Marvin

Rainbow Room Instructor
Michele McEneany

Co-Teacher for Math and Literacy

Bio
Michele is currently co-teaching both first and second grade math and literacy, with previous experience as a teacher and literacy specialist/interventionalist for pre-K through grade 5. She has a Masters Degree in Elementary Education from Nazareth College.

What do you like most about your current role?
I love to see my students learn and grow. Every day is a new day and I see and hear things all the time that make me smile. I've always wanted to be a teacher and can't imagine doing anything else.

What's your favorite quote?
If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours.

Tell us something about you that would surprise most people:
I love the winter and snow - and I don't even ski!
Bridgette McGoorty

Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Bio
Bridgette began at Allendale Columbia School in 2020 after working as a Lead Teacher at the Palma Ceia Presbyterian Preschool in Tampa, Florida. Bridgette has a passion for engaging her young students in their natural surroundings through the Reggio Emilia approach. She graduated from the University of Tampa with a Bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies and Instructional Support.

Why did you decide to get into this line of work?
Working with children has always been a passion of mine. Through my experiences, I have seen how important it is for children to learn through play and because of that, I am pursuing my passions through the Reggio way.

What’s your favorite hobby?
I love to spend my free time exploring and spending time outside. I love to go on runs and do yoga.

Share something about yourself that people may not know.
I am originally from New Jersey and I come from a big family. I am one of four children!
Kristen McKenzie

Lower School Mathematics Specialist

Bio
As Allendale Columbia’s Lower School Mathematics Specialist, Kristen loves empowering children, watching them grow, and seeing the light inside of them shine. She has been at AC since 1995, serving in a variety of roles over the years. Kristen holds a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s degree in Educational Technology Leadership, both from The George Washington University.

What’s the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
AC is special because of our community! I love working with students throughout their Lower School careers. I’m also lucky enough to see them mature and develop into amazing young adults as they continue through Middle and Upper School. Connecting with alumni and even teaching former students children is a gift. I can’t imagine working anywhere else! These relationships are very special.

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
If I wasn’t teaching, I’m not sure what I would do!

What’s your favorite hobby?
I am passionate about travel! I don’t get to do it as often as I used to, but I love exploring different places and cultures. I also love to read! My current favorite genre is historical fiction.
Amanda Meldrum-Stevenson

Middle and Upper School Music and Drama Instructor

Bio
Amanda holds a Bachelor of Science in Music Therapy from SUNY Fredonia, has studied Vocal Performance and Music Education at Eastman School of Music, and is currently completing a master’s in Creative Arts Therapy at Nazareth College. She brings experience as a board-certified music therapist, rehabilitation therapist, private voice instructor, and youth community musical theatre director. At AC, Amanda manages and directs the Upper School musicals and plays, teaches Upper School theatre classes, leads the Boys Ensemble, and teaches Middle School music electives and Drama Foundations.

What do you love most about your job?
I love knowing that I can teach the way I believe my students will learn best.

What or who inspires you?
Teenagers, and their capacity to take on so much in their lives at once.
What’s your favorite quote?
“The mind is like an umbrella – it functions best when open.” – Walter Gropius

What’s your favorite hobby and why?
Playing piano. I always say music was my first language, as I started to learn piano at 3 years old. When I sit down to play for fun, I can tune everything else out and enjoy the ease of doing something so familiar, but challenging at the same time.
Brent Neeley

Mathematics Teacher

Bio
Brent joined Allendale Columbia in 2012 and has more than 30 years of experience as an educator. Prior to teaching at AC, Brent worked at Hornell City Schools, educating students in virtually all levels of middle and high school mathematics up to, and including, Advanced Placement Calculus. In recent years Brent has also been selected as a Question Reader where he and about 1,000 colleagues score the over 450,000 AP Calculus exams taken each May. He earned his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Mathematics and Master of Science in Education Degree from the State University of New York College at Geneseo.

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
I have always wanted to teach ever since my childhood friend and I would play school, and she would always be the teacher. In my heart, I knew I was better suited for that role, and the desire to teach never left me.

What’s the best part of working at Allendale Columbia?
The opportunity to work with great people.

What’s your favorite quote?
“It is our choices that show what we truly are, far more than our abilities.” – Albus Dumbledore/J.K. Rowling
Emily Nevinger

Director of College Counseling

Bio
Emily is the Director of College Counseling at Allendale Columbia School. Previously, Emily was AC's Associate Director of Admissions and the College Advising Consultant. Emily joined AC in 2018 from Emory University where she directed the selection process for more than 20,000 freshmen candidates each year. She began working at the university level in 2003 and was a senior member of the admission committees for University of Miami, Emory University, and UNC Chapel Hill. Emily holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Policy from Duke University, a Master of Higher Education Administration and Enrollment Management from the University of Miami, and a Certificate in College Access Counseling from Rice University.

What do you love most about your job?
I love providing guidance (and hopefully calming nerves) for families during the college admissions process.

If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be and why?
I’d have lunch with Mike Krzyzewski, Duke’s former Head Basketball coach for more than 40 years. I’d like to get a few pointers on his leadership style and incredible drive to succeed.

What’s your favorite quote?
“You are never too old to set another goal or to dream a new dream” – CS Lewis
Emily Newcomb

AC3s Assistant

Bio
In 2020, Emily joined us with two decades of experience spanning the fields of higher, secondary, middle, and early childhood education. As a higher education professional, Emily recruited students across the globe and supported graduate programs in Singapore and Hong Kong. Emily has taught children ages 18 months – 4 years old since 2011 and is an active member of the North American Reggio Emilia Alliance. Emily holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and a minor in Psychology from Brigham Young University-Provo and has completed post-graduate work in Special Education.

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
I’d like to operate a non-profit U-pick and Christmas tree farm accessible to City of Rochester residents.

What’s your favorite hobby?
I love watching reruns of Downton Abbey!

Share something that people may not know about you.
I was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska, and I am passionate about emergency preparedness.
Amanda Offord

Lower School Literacy Specialist

Bio
Amanda joined AC in 2023 from Monroe BOCES Department for Exceptional Children. Prior to AC she also taught both second and fourth grade at Geneseo Elementary School and served as an Academic Intervention Services Provider for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. Amanda earned a Masters of Education in Literacy degree from Nazareth College, a Bachelor of Science degree from SUNY Geneseo in Childhood and Special Education, and a Bachelor of Arts from SUNY Geneseo in English.

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
To be part of a community of lifelong learners and innovators. Educators are the most talented and creative people I know.

What inspires you?
Our students! I am lucky to get to know so many wonderful humans who will be the caretakers and trailblazers of our world in years to come.

What or who is your biggest influence?
My family. We have a long history of being in education, and their joy for literature and exploring the world is what led me to where I am today.
Amy Oliveri

Director of the Center for Creativity and Entrepreneurship & Upper School Art Teacher

Bio
Amy has been a part of Allendale Columbia School’s Art Department since the fall of 2010 and serves as Director of AC’s Center for Creativity and Entrepreneurship. Amy holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts Degree in Illustration, a Concentration in ASL, and a Master of Science Degree in Teaching Art from the Rochester Institute of Technology.

How did you decide to go into this line of work?
After teaching dance throughout high school, I knew I wanted to be a teacher from that point on. I worked in graphic design for a few years and then went back to school for education.

What’s the best part of working at Allendale Columbia?
The best part of my job is the freedom to create a curriculum with my students. I can learn from them just as they can learn from me. The flexibility of an open-ended classroom that is student-driven motivates me as a teacher.

What is your favorite quote?
“We are all just walking each other home." Ram Dass
Kristen Osborne

Speech and Language Pathologist

Bio
Kristen started her career as a speech and language pathologist 23 years ago in Hawaii where she worked and lived for 3 years. She moved back to Rochester and worked in the Rochester City School District for several years before taking a few years off to work as a stay-at-home mom and raise her 3 kiddos before joining the Allendale Columbia community.

Kristen loves using a literacy and thematic-based approach to helping children develop their expressive and receptive language skills and teaching them correct articulation of age-appropriate sounds.

Who inspires you?
My dad! He truly lived by the golden rule of treating others the way you would want to be treated. He was always fair, level-headed and gave people the benefit of the doubt.

Do you have a dream job?
A detective or private investigator.

What is your favorite hobby and why?
I love to travel, cook, and do home improvement projects.
Mengqian Ou

Little School Teacher

Bio
Mengqian Ou began her teaching career as both an English teacher and a music teacher of the Chinese lute after receiving her Bachelor’s degree in English from Chengdu University of Electronic Science and Technology of China. She has been teaching professionally since 2014 at a number of schools both in China and in Rochester, NY. She is also a CSL (Chinese as Second Language) teacher in the Chinese School of Rochester.

What’s your favorite hobby and why?
I like playing the Chinese lute, also known as pipa, because after 23 years of playing it, it has come to feel like another part of me.
Kevin Overdyk

Assistant Director of Facilities & Environmental Services

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Teresa Parsons

Middle School STEM Instructor & Interim Co-Director of Invent Center for STEM and Innovation

Bio
Teresa joined the Allendale Columbia team as a part-time Middle School STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) teacher in 2014 and became a full-time AC faculty member in 2015, after spending 15 years in the engineering industry. She was a product engineer and then she transitioned into marketing and business development. As a business development manager, she created and provided product training, and it was in that role that she discovered her passion for teaching. Teresa earned a Master of Science Degree in Education from Nazareth College, and she also holds a bachelor’s degree in Interdisciplinary Engineering/Management from Clarkson University and a bachelor’s in Physics from the State University of New York College at Geneseo. She is a National Geographic Certified Educator and CK12 Certified Educator.

What do you like most about your job?
I love the challenge of engaging students in their learning and those moments when you know you have been instrumental in their success in learning something new.

What’s your favorite hobby?
It’s hard to pick just one! I really enjoy being outdoors with family and friends. Golfing, biking, hiking, skiing, snowshoeing, and just walking the dog all bring me joy!

What is your favorite quote?
“Connection is why we are here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.” Brene Brown
Kristi Phillips

Second Grade Teacher

Bio
Kristi joined the AC faculty as a second grade teacher in 2023. She has experience teaching Lower School students at a number of different levels. Most recently, she taught first grade at Crane Elementary and Leary Elementary School in the Rush Henrietta School District. Kristi also taught kindergarten at Southwest Charlotte STEM Academy. Kristi earned her Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and her Associates Degree in Liberal Arts from Onondaga Community College.

What's your favorite hobby and why?
I love to read and get lost in a good story!

What do you like most about your job?
I love teaching my students new things and watching them grow throughout the year!

If you could have any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be and why?
If I could have any job in the world, I would work with animals in some capacity. I absolutely adore animals, especially cats and dogs.
Evie Pizarro

Little School Teaching Assistant
Marissa Polizzi

Little School Teaching Assistant
Alexander Reinhardt

Upper School Mathematics Instructor

Bio
Alex brings a decade of teaching experience to Allendale Columbia School. He has held numerous teaching positions throughout North Carolina, Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, DC before moving to New York. He’s taught STEM, math, physics, coding and computer science. Alex earned his B.A. in Physics and received his 9-12 Science Certification through the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He also earned a Master’s in Software Engineering from RIT.

Why did you decide to get into this line of work?
In the third year of my undergraduate studies in Physics I was presenting research at the University of Chicago, and my favorite part of the conference was a simple demo in the science building’s lobby that elegantly showed how water droplets form, using strobe lights to make the water droplets appear in slow motion. Ever since then, I’ve come to realize that I am very interested in finding elegant ways to convey difficult topics— and teaching is a natural way to apply that type of interest.

What is your favorite hobby?
I enjoy hiking at the state parks in the area.

Share something about yourself that people may not know.
In 2010 I finished an Ironman triathlon in Louisville, KY!
Laura Reynolds

Director of Food Services

Bio
Laura Reynolds is Allendale Columbia’s Food Service Director. She started in 1997 and has her B.S. in Management from Keuka College as well as a Manager Level Food Handler Certification. She truly enjoys being part of the AC family and feels lucky to watch our students grow into amazing adults. Some of her happiest memories at AC include seeing an alum at new parent orientation and realizing that she had become a multi-generational lunch lady and the time a kindergarten student, quite seriously, asked, “Do all of you lunch ladies live together in the same house?” (As much as I love my co-workers, we do not!)

What do you like most about your job?
My favorite part of my job is watching the students grow into amazing adults and, hopefully bringing them happiness on their journey.

What's your favorite hobby and why?
I enjoy seeing and hearing beautiful things whether it's a concert, show, or walk in the woods.

What's the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
I love spending the day with my team, they are like family.
Daniel Robb

Upper School History Teacher

Bio
Daniel joined AC's Upper School as a history teacher in 2023 after serving as a freelance writer and curriculum designer. Prior to his contracted work, he was the history teacher and department lead at BASIS Chandler in Chandler, Arizona. He was also a Subject Expert Teacher in WWorld History and Geography and underwent an AP History training program. Daniel earned his Master of Arts in History degree from the University of Rochester and his two Bachelor of Arts degrees in History and Philosophy from Barrett Honors College at Arizona State University.
Sara Rogers

Middle and Upper School Art Teacher

Bio
Sara joined Allendale Columbia School in 2022 after working in both public and private schools in Texas and California. Prior to her career in teaching, Sara was a Media Producer for multiple non-profit music organizations based out of Boston, Allentown, and Denver. Sara holds a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Photography from the New Hampshire Institute of Art and a Master of Fine Arts in Visual Arts from the New England College: Institute of Art & Design.

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
I would own my own plant store/cafe. I am also extremely interested in art therapy, so possibly something with that as well!

Share something that people may not know about you.
I lived in Turin, Italy for a semester in college and used to be fluent in Italian. I loved every minute of it and would go back in a heartbeat!
Bridget Root

Director of Rainbow Room Jr.

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Alyson Rubelmann

Kindergarten Teacher

Bio
Aly is no stranger to AC! She joined the AC community in 2016 as a parent and PACK member, and in 2020, she began working in Allendale Columbia's Little School, with children 18-36 months old. Aly has more than 10 years of experience in education and holds a B.S. in Psychology from SUNY Brockport and a M.S. in Inclusive Early Childhood Education from Nazareth College. She can't wait to share her love of nature, animals, and exploration with her students!

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
If I could do any job in the world besides what I do now I would be a veterinarian. I’ve always loved animals, and prior to pursuing education, I worked at an animal hospital and on a horse farm.

What’s your favorite hobby?
My favorite hobby is pottery. I love getting my hands muddy and throwing something on the potter’s wheel!

Share something that people may not know about you.
Something you may not know about me is that I love genealogy! Even as a child I was asking questions and studying photos to understand the connection I had with my ancestors. Currently, I am researching Mayflower descendants to confirm how my family connects to the early settlers.
Lisa Shearing

Admissions Assistant & Welcome Desk Associate

Bio
As Admissions Assistant and Welcome Desk Associate, Lisa helps introduce families to Allendale Columbia School and assists them throughout the admission process. In addition to her role in admissions, Lisa also manages the Welcome Desk at AC. She studied Philosophy at the State University of New York College at Brockport.

What do you like most about your job?
I like the diversity of each day and that no two days are ever the same.

If you could do any job in the world besides what you do now, what would it be?
A teacher; after seeing how much fun they have each day at Allendale Columbia, I wish I had chosen that path.

Share a fun or interesting fact about yourself.
I have a secret love of power tools.
Aaron Shepard

Middle School English & History Teacher

Bio
Aaron has been an educator since 2000 and he’s been at Allendale Columbia since 2005. He began working at AC as a long-term substitute teacher in fifth grade and moved to the Middle School full-time shortly after. Prior to joining AC, Aaron was a special education teacher at Steuben-Allegany BOCES and in the Bradford Central School District in Bradford, New York. He earned a Specialized Technology Degree in industrial design from The Art Institute of Pittsburgh, a Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary and Special Education, with a focus on English, from the State University of New York College at Geneseo, and a master’s degree in Educational Psychology, specializing in gifted and talented education, from the University of Connecticut.

What do you like most about your job?
I get to share my love of reading, writing, and tabletop roleplaying games with my students. I love showing them that it's cool to be a geek or a nerd. The seventh-grade Pathfinder trip is also a significant annual event for me. Helping kids experience nature is a passion of mine.

What’s the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
I appreciate the freedom to design my own curriculum and the support I have received for my tabletop roleplaying game program. I started collaborative storytelling (Dungeons & Dragons) with my students in English class in 2019. It evolved into elective classes for sixth, seventh, and eighth-graders, clubs, and May Term courses.

What’s your favorite hobby?
I am a constant reader. My favorite genres are horror, dark fantasy, and historical fiction and nonfiction. I also love tabletop roleplaying games such as Dungeons & Dragons, Call of Cthulhu, Alien, Tales from the Loop, and The One Ring.

Share a fun or interesting fact about yourself.
I am working on climbing the 46 High Peaks in the Adirondacks. I have done twelve so far.

What’s your favorite quote?
“In wildness is the preservation of the world.” – Henry David Thoreau
Jessica Shuff

Library and Digital Media Specialist

Bio
Teaching since 2010, Jessica has extensive experience teaching Pre-K, Kindergarten, and First Grade. She spent five years teaching Kindergarten and First Grade at Bayvale Elementary in Atlanta, Georgia where she was awarded Teacher of the Year and the Golden Apple Teacher Award. Prior to Bayvale Elementary, Jessica taught Pre-K in Metro Atlanta. She graduated from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Education. In 2020, she earned a Masters degree in Instructional Technology and School Library Media Studies from Georgia Southern University. Jessica has been a kindergarten teacher at Allendale Columbia since 2018, and in 2022 she began working as AC's Library Media Specialist. She is excited to work with all students and faculty to develop a well-rounded library program.
What’s the best part about working at Allendale Columbia? Or if you’re new to AC, what made you want to work here?
AC let’s kids be kids! My teaching philosophy completely aligns with AC’s philosophy. Kids need to explore and learn through play. AC gives students these amazing opportunities.

Please list a fun or interesting fact about you that people may not know.
I was a coxswain for the University of Georgia's Rowing Team.

Share a fun or interesting fact about yourself.
I have the ability to name most car makes and models by their tail or headlights.
Ericka Simmons

Director of Little School
Anika Skarzynski

Assistant Director of Development

Bio
Anika joined the Allendale Columbia School Development Office in 2019 as the Manager of Gifts and Donor Records. Here at AC she is responsible for donor record keeping, gift processing, and reporting. Prior to joining AC, Anika worked at Hillside Children’s Foundation, the Landmark Society of Western New York, and Central Coast YMCA in Monterey, California. She earned a Bachelor of Arts in History from Goucher College and a Masters of Urban Planning from University at Buffalo.

What do you love most about your job?
I love the research, investigation, and problem solving.

If you could have lunch with anyone, who would it be and why?
My late father. He inspired me to be a lifelong learner and his influences still permeate my every day.

What is your favorite hobby and why?
Hanging out with my family and two dogs.
Laura Smith

Administrative Assistant for Admissions

Bio
Laura joined AC as the Administrative Assistant to the Admissions Office in 2022. She graduated from Nazareth College in 2006 with a B.A. in English Literature and Religious Studies and completed her M.A.R. from Yale University in 2008. Prior to working at AC, Laura served as the Director of Admissions and Financial Aid at St. Bernard’s School of Theology and Ministry beginning in 2009 and later moved into church administration and youth ministries at Fairport United Methodist Church.

What do you like most about your job?
I love meeting families! Everyone comes to our office looking for the best for their children and I am so excited to be part of this incredible school

What's your favorite hobby and why?
I love to sew and knit - I love choosing fabric and imagining what it could become. I also love to cook and explore the world through recipes!
Fun Facts: Laura worked at the oldest church in Oxford, UK and travels back frequently to visit family and friends.

What inspires you?
I am inspired by the artists and makers here on this campus. There are so many people who work at AC who produce such beautiful work (crafts, arts, music, writing) that I am endlessly inspired to do more each day!
Melissa Snyder

Lower School Music Teacher

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Abhirami Somaskanda

Associate Director of Admissions

Bio
Abhi began working at AC in 2022 as the Associate Director of Admissions. As a graduate of AC, she decided to return to help families navigate the admissions process and learn more about the unique educational experiences AC provides, which she experienced firsthand. Prior to working at AC, Abhi worked in admissions at the Rochester Institute of Technology since 2014. During her tenure at RIT, Abhi spent many years meeting with prospective students, reviewing thousands of applications, and executing campus-wide events for high school students. Abhi holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from Boston University and a master’s degree in Childhood/Special Education Teaching & Curriculum from the University of Rochester.

What’s your favorite part about working at Allendale Columbia?
The beautiful campus and the incredibly welcoming community.

Tell us a fun fact about you.
I’m a bit of a sports nut! I love most sports, especially basketball.
Courtney Sperry

Rainbow Room Instructor

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Laila Squalli

Upper School World Language Faculty
Morgan Strutt

Fifth Grade Teacher

Bio
Morgan completed her Bachelor’s Degree at Le Moyne College in 2014, majoring in Psychology with a concentration in Elementary/Special Education, and earned her Master’s Degree in the Math/Science/Technology Program at St. John Fisher College. She came to AC in 2017 from the Victor Central School District, where she taught 5th grade for two years. She has always had a passion for mathematics and helped develop the Lower School mathematics curriculum. In addition to her role in the classroom, Morgan also coaches HAC girls soccer and enjoys providing students with authentic learning opportunities and chances to apply their experiences, both in and out of the classroom.

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
Ever since I was a little kid I loved learning and being in school. During my senior year of high school I chose to volunteer as a tutor in the City of Rochester and had a great experience.

What do you love most about your job?
I love creating a community and getting to know my students. I also get to learn something new each and every day!

What or who is your biggest influence?
My mom because she is the most caring person I know!
Wendy Stumpf

Pre-Kindergarten Assistant

Bio
Wendy came to AC in 2021 from Mendon Childcare Center where she worked as a Teacher in the Toddler Classroom. She has an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education from Cazenovia College. She also did her college internships at the college’s nursery school on campus. Throughout Wendy’s 20+ year career in Early Childhood, she has had many experiences working with children in a variety of settings, including daycare, residential treatment, as well as working as a Nanny for some beloved families.

What’s the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
Everyone at AC is so warm and welcoming! I am working in a classroom with three amazing teachers who welcomed me with open arms. The ebb and flow of the class in many ways seems so natural. All of the employees and children are so thoughtful and caring. It is nice to be working in such an amazing environment and beautiful campus. To quote Annie, “…I think I’m gonna like it here… could someone pinch me please?… I know I’m gonna like it here.”

What is your favorite hobby?
I enjoy a lot of hobbies, indoor and outdoor. I love to ski, which I’ve been doing since I was four years old. I also enjoy yoga, SUP and SUP yoga, camping, hiking, theater, concerts and traveling.

Tell us something about you that would surprise most people.
I packed up and moved to Los Angeles with only my cat and dog and whatever else would fit in my car. No apartment or job to speak of. I’d saved for a couple years for the move and was fortunate to have friends who worked at a pet-friendly hotel where I stayed, and they helped me find a place to live. I have made that cross country drive a total of six times… so far! I absolutely loved the cross country drive!
Justin Summons

Physical Education Teacher

Bio
Justin is currently a Physical Education Teacher at AC. He served as a lead teacher at St John's Regional College in Melbourne for 6 years prior to joining our faculty. He earned a Bachelor of Exercise Science and a Masters of Education from Australian Catholic University.

Tell us something about you that would surprise most people:
I'm Australian!

What's your favorite quote?
Think up and out instead of down and in.

What or who is your biggest influence?
My family.
Abigail Tabone

Physical Education Teacher

Bio
Abigail came to AC in 2023 from the Gates-Chili Central School District, where she served as a substitute teacher and as the Lead Teacher at the YMCA Child Care Center. Abigail earned a Master of Science in Education from Canisius College and a Bachelor of Arts in English with Literature from St. John Fisher University.

What do you like most about your job?
I love the family atmosphere here at AC. Everyone is so kind and welcoming and it truly feels like a family here. I also like that I get to know so many of the students here at Allendale since I am working in multiple divisions.

What is your favorite quote?
"Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it." Charles R Swindoll

What is one of your favorite hobbies and why?
One of my favorite hobbies is being active, I enjoy going for walks, lifting weights, and finding other ways to be active. Being active helps to clear my mind and keep me healthy at the same time.
Carolyn Thompson

Food Service Worker
Kyle Voll

Facilities Housekeeper

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Vanessa Warren

Rainbow Room Instructor

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Kristen Weinbach

Pre-Kindergarten Teacher

Bio
Kristy is an alumna of Allendale Columbia School and began teaching in the AC Little School in 2020. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Special Education and Elementary Education from Peabody College of Vanderbilt University, and she obtained her Master’s degree in Education of the Deaf from Smith College. Kristy’s career has been spent teaching preschool students, with an emphasis on working with those who are deaf and hearing impaired. She has worked at the Memphis Oral School for the Deaf, Pittsford United Nursery School, St. Louis School, and The Harley School. Kristy’s most recent position before coming to AC was at Liberty POST, an integrated preschool in the Rochester area. Her professional accomplishments include designing a science curriculum at the preschool level that was inspired by the Reggio Emilia educational philosophy. Kristy also has experience as an education director and site manger.

What do you love most about working at AC?
Since starting at AC, I’ve been overwhelmed by how welcoming all of my colleagues have been and how supportive everyone has been of The Little School program.

What is your favorite hobby?
Skiing with my family!

Favorite quote:
“Education is the kindling of a flame, not the filling of a vessel.” — Socrates
Brooke Wheeler

Director of Rainbow Room

Bio
As an alum of Allendale Columbia (Class of 1988), Brooke has experienced an AC education first-hand. After graduating from William Smith College, she came back to AC to help with the Rainbow Room program. A year later, Brooke became the Director of the program, where she has excelled for the past two decades!

What do you like most about your job?
I LOVE what I do! People always ask why I don’t teach in the classroom, and it’s because I really enjoy having students year after year and watching them grow. I also enjoy seeing parents every day. The relationships I have developed over the years mean the world to me!

What’s the best part about working at Allendale Columbia?
AC is such a warm, welcoming community of people who really care about what they do. It just feels like home.

Share a fun or interesting fact about yourself.
I have traveled around the world twice. I have been to France, Germany, Switzerland, England, Japan, Taiwan, Hong Kong, China, Kenya, Tanzania, Malaysia, Indonesia, India, Sri Lanka, Tibet, Nepal, Brazil, and Venezuela.
Quinn Wilson

Little School Teaching Assistant
Warren Wood

Middle School Math Teacher

Bio
Bio coming soon!
Ian Yates

Middle School Science Teacher

Bio
Ian is a member of the STEM Faculty and teaches 7th Grade Science, Middle School Science Electives, and an Upper School Science Elective. This is his full-time teaching job, but Ian served as a substitute teacher in various districts and schools when on breaks from college.

Ian attended Syracuse University, graduating with a degree in Earth Science, a degree in Science Education, and a minor in Music History and Cultures in May 2022. He is currently enrolled online at the University at Albany where he is pursuing a Masters in Curriculum Development and Instructional Technology.

What do you like most about your job?
The things I like most about working at Allendale Columbia are the close-knit community, the ability to develop courses that interest us and students, and the small class sizes that allow stronger rapport to build with the students.

Tell us something about you that would surprise most people:
Something that would surprise people is that I am an avid participant in the local theatre scene in Rochester, performing often both on stage and playing the drums in the bands for musicals. The Rochester community has such a strong art and theatre scene and it is great to be able to pursue that passion as an extra hobby.

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
I decided to go into teaching science because I wanted to do something related to science, but I couldn't figure out a field that interested me directly. When I thought about what I liked when I was in grade school, I always remembered being inspired by my science teachers and the interest they instilled within me, so I wanted to do something similar for other students.
David Youngblut

Third Grade Teacher

Bio
David came to AC in 2023 from The Harley School where he was a third grade teacher since 2016. Prior to his work at Harley, he taught second grade at The Packer Collegiate Institute in Brooklyn, New York, as well as serving as an Adjunct Instructor at the Steinhardt School of Education at NYU. David earned a Master of Education in Leadership for Educational Change-Advanced from Bank Street College of Education and a Master of Science in Elementary Education from State University of New York at Potsdam. He also has a bachelor of arts in Communications from State University of New York at Geneseo.

What do you like most about your job?
I like making a positive difference in the lives of students.

What inspires you?
I am inspired by people who strive to make the world a better place.

Why did you decide to go into this line of work?
I found that I had a talent for connecting with children and figuring out what they need.
Madison Zenoski

Rainbow Room Jr. Teaching Assistant

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