Staff

Former NBPTS Board member Peggy Brookins, NBCT, joined the National Board as Executive Vice President in December 2014 and was named President & CEO in November 2015. Her long career as an educator includes many national leadership positions and accolades. In July 2014, President Obama named Brookins as a member of the President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for African Americans. She came to the National Board from the Engineering and Manufacturing Institute of Technology at Forest High School in Ocala, Florida, which she co-founded in 1994, where she served as director and mathematics instructor. She served on the NBPTS Board from 2007 to 2011. In addition, she has served on the board of The Conference Board of Mathematical Sciences Ad Hoc Committee on Teachers as Professionals, the Content Technical Working Group for the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers, a commissioner on the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), P21 Executive Board, and the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Teacher Prep Commission. She has been a national trainer for AFT (Thinking Mathematics K-2, 3-6, 6-8 Common Core, collaborator and national trainer for Thinking Mathematics 6-8). She currently serves on the Advisory Board of Digital Promise, National Center on Education and the Economy (NCEE) Executive Board, Fund for Teachers Executive Board, Out Teach Executive Board, Bowie State University and the STAR Program Advisory Board, National Geographic Education Audit Advisory Board, Eddie and Jules Trump Foundation of Israel Advisory Board, the Class Strategic Advisory Board, the Learning Variability Project Advisory Board, Global Teacher Leadership Advisory Board, Teach Plus, and the Learning Policy Institute’s Spencer/Yidan Advisory Committee. Brookins achieved her certification in Adult and Young Adolescent Mathematics in 2003 and renewed it in 2013. She was inducted into the University of Florida Alumni Hall of Fame in 2009, Received the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) “Woodie Flowers” Award in 2016, is a Florida Education Association “Everyday Hero,” and received the association’s Excellence in Teaching Award. In 2013, Brookins was named an Aspen Ideas Festival Scholar.

Joe Doctor leads strategy, program, finance, and operations for the National Board. His work is focused on how the National Board can catalyze a highly-skilled, diverse teaching profession through empowering teachers to meet the needs of students and advance their learning. He previously served as Senior Vice President, Strategy and Policy, and Special Assistant to the President, leading the development and implementation of the National Board’s strategic plan. He co-authored “Raising the Bar for Teaching” with Jal Mehta, arguing for adapting supports other professions have put in place as a strategy to elevate teaching. Doctor joined the National Board in 2012. Previously, he was at the Bridgespan Group, a nonprofit strategy consulting organization. His work there focused on developing breakthrough strategies for nonprofits, foundations, and public school systems in K-12 education. Doctor has an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering from Yale University and a doctorate in education leadership from Harvard University.

As Vice President, Experience and Activation, Lisa Clarke leads the National Board’s work to improve the experience teachers have as candidates for Board certification and Maintenance of Certification and activating a growing movement of champions across the country who share our vision of an elevated and empowered teaching profession. Prior to joining the staff of the National Board, she was the Team Lead for the U.S. Department of Education Teaching Ambassador Fellows. As a fellow, Clarke learned about education policy and advocated to have teachers’ expertise at the policy table. She is a National Board Certified Teacher in Adolescent Young Adult Social Studies-History. When she was in the classroom, Clarke taught social studies in Kent, WA, and Brooklyn, NY. She held a variety of leadership positions in the Kent School District, including serving on the Superintendent Professional Learning Community, assisting with curriculum development, and acting as a Social Studies curricular leader. In 2011, she was honored as the World Affairs Council 2011 World Educator and was chosen to be a World Affairs Council Fellow based on her work to promote and improve global education. She came to teaching after six years at Rutgers University, where she studied gender and public policy and worked at the Center for Women’s Global Leadership (CWGL). Clarke is a Providence College graduate with Master’s degrees from Rutgers University and Brooklyn College. She is currently enrolled in the Ed.D. program in Education Policy and Leadership at American University.

Tamara Dudley joined the National Board in April of 2022 as Vice President of Advocacy & Communications. Tamara previously worked for the National Policing Institute (NPI), where she spearheaded organizational-wide marketing, communications, and development initiatives, translating research into practice. During the aftermath of the George Floyd murder, she helped to launch the Council on Police Reforms and Race. This African-American-led council focused on proposing nationwide recommendations to reimagine American policing. Tamara has implemented creative strategies and process improvements for universities and alumni associations, revamping departments and leading enterprise systems conversions. She led membership and marketing departments, increasing engagement, retention, and growth.

Tamara has also developed community engagement programs focused on deepened relationships and inspired individuals to support education, income, and health initiatives. She achieved this while simultaneously executing award-winning revenue-generating campaigns through the DE&I lens. She has nearly 20 years of non-profit management expertise, both nationally and internationally, having worked in and/or overseen marketing, strategic planning, communications, development, events, business development, member services, and public relations functions in various large and small organizations. On the international front, Tamara worked to raise awareness of the plight of orphaned and impoverished children in Egypt. She helped to deepen the brand awareness of the Valuable Girl Project and the Serve-To-Learn Programs. As a former Director of Development and Communications, she collaborated successfully with politicians, dignitaries, and industry leaders to support youth programs and secure appropriations for education programs. She has also trained industry professionals on her recruitment, retention, and growth best practices and managed 250 workplace-giving corporate accounts while helping organizations to grow in their corporate social responsibility and community engagement efforts. She strongly advocates data and analysis-driven efforts and performance management, including return on investment analysis.

Tamara has raised nearly $30 million in funding over her career thus far. Most recently, she collaboratively helped to secure a multimillion-dollar gift from the Mackenzie Scott Foundation. Tamara has received numerous awards and recognition from the Virginia Public Relations Society and CASE, including Capital Merit Awards and an Award of Excellence. Tamara is deeply enthusiastic about inspiring a generation of youth with the courage to transform the next. Tamara holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and serves on the Board of Directors for Zoe Freedom Center.

Alissa is a seasoned senior executive with 30+ years of experience in technology and education.  In her current role, she leads the technology transformation and oversees data, project, and product management. Previously, she was the VPIT, directed IT teams at Hampton University, and held executive and leadership positions at Muse Technologies, Jacobs Engineering, and Digex/WorldCom. Outside her corporate roles, Alissa serves on three boards and is dedicated to child-focused non-profits. As a member of the NCWI board, she aims to leverage her passion for STEM and education development to advance the organization’s vision. She also contributes to the Williamsburg James City County Schools Foundation as the Development Chair and the Finance committee for the Military Child Education Coalition. Alissa holds a Doctor of Management from the University of Maryland Global College, a Master of Arts in Administration Science from The George Washington University, and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Howard University. She and her husband are proud parents of three successful sons.

Former NBPTS Board member Peggy Brookins, NBCT, joined the National Board as Executive Vice President in December 2014 and was named President & CEO in November 2015. Her long career as an educator includes many national leadership positions and accolades. In July 2014, President Obama named Brookins as a member of the President’s Advisory Commission on Educational Excellence for African Americans. She came to the National Board from the Engineering and Manufacturing Institute of Technology at Forest High School in Ocala, Florida, which she co-founded in 1994, where she served as director and mathematics instructor. She served on the NBPTS Board from 2007 to 2011. In addition, she has served on the board of The Conference Board of Mathematical Sciences Ad Hoc Committee on Teachers as Professionals, the Content Technical Working Group for the Partnership for Assessment of Readiness for College and Careers, a commissioner on the Council for the Accreditation of Educator Preparation (CAEP), P21 Executive Board, and the Southern Regional Education Board (SREB) Teacher Prep Commission. She has been a national trainer for AFT (Thinking Mathematics K-2, 3-6, 6-8 Common Core, collaborator and national trainer for Thinking Mathematics 6-8). She currently serves on the Advisory Board of Digital Promise, National Center on Education and the Economy (NCEE) Executive Board, Fund for Teachers Executive Board, Out Teach Executive Board, Bowie State University and the STAR Program Advisory Board, National Geographic Education Audit Advisory Board, Eddie and Jules Trump Foundation of Israel Advisory Board, the Class Strategic Advisory Board, the Learning Variability Project Advisory Board, Global Teacher Leadership Advisory Board, Teach Plus, and the Learning Policy Institute’s Spencer/Yidan Advisory Committee. Brookins achieved her certification in Adult and Young Adolescent Mathematics in 2003 and renewed it in 2013. She was inducted into the University of Florida Alumni Hall of Fame in 2009, Received the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) “Woodie Flowers” Award in 2016, is a Florida Education Association “Everyday Hero,” and received the association’s Excellence in Teaching Award. In 2013, Brookins was named an Aspen Ideas Festival Scholar.

Joe Doctor leads strategy, program, finance, and operations for the National Board. His work is focused on how the National Board can catalyze a highly-skilled, diverse teaching profession through empowering teachers to meet the needs of students and advance their learning. He previously served as Senior Vice President, Strategy and Policy, and Special Assistant to the President, leading the development and implementation of the National Board’s strategic plan. He co-authored “Raising the Bar for Teaching” with Jal Mehta, arguing for adapting supports other professions have put in place as a strategy to elevate teaching. Doctor joined the National Board in 2012. Previously, he was at the Bridgespan Group, a nonprofit strategy consulting organization. His work there focused on developing breakthrough strategies for nonprofits, foundations, and public school systems in K-12 education. Doctor has an undergraduate degree in Biomedical Engineering from Yale University and a doctorate in education leadership from Harvard University.

Marc D’Anjou is the Special Assistant to the President, CEO, and Corporate Secretary. As Special Assistant to the President and CEO, Marc supports the President and CEO in all aspects of the President’s office, maintaining confidentiality and maintaining strong relationships with staff on the President’s behalf. He provides strategic management of the President’s schedule correspondence, raising visibility and enhancing relationships with key external constituencies such as corporate and foundation donors, policymakers, and key stakeholders. As Corporate Secretary, Marc serves as a focal point for communication with and between the Board of Directors to ensure that Board members have the proper advice and resources for discharging their fiduciary duties. He ensures the records of the Board’s actions reflect the proper exercise of those fiduciary duties and is the custodian of the minutes of the Board of Directors’ meetings, committee meetings, and key organizational documents. Marc manages the activities of the Board of Directors, including the developing of meeting agendas and materials, as well as the planning and execution of Board meetings and preparing minutes of meeting proceedings. Marc has over nearly thirty years of experience in government service and working for nonprofit organizations. Prior to joining the National Board, Marc worked at the White House as a Staff Assistant to Vice President and Mrs. Gore, a Confidential Assistant at the U.S. Department of Education’s Office of Intergovernmental and Interagency Affairs, and at a nonprofit organization, the Campaign Finance Institute. Marc received a Master of Arts in Political Science from The American University in Washington, D.C., and a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Western New England University in Springfield, MA.

Tamara Dudley joined the National Board in April of 2022 as Vice President of Advocacy & Communications. Tamara previously worked for the National Policing Institute (NPI), where she spearheaded organizational-wide marketing, communications, and development initiatives, translating research into practice. During the aftermath of the George Floyd murder, she helped to launch the Council on Police Reforms and Race. This African-American-led council focused on proposing nationwide recommendations to reimagine American policing. Tamara has implemented creative strategies and process improvements for universities and alumni associations, revamping departments and leading enterprise systems conversions. She led membership and marketing departments, increasing engagement, retention, and growth.

Tamara has also developed community engagement programs focused on deepened relationships and inspired individuals to support education, income, and health initiatives. She achieved this while simultaneously executing award-winning revenue-generating campaigns through the DE&I lens. She has nearly 20 years of non-profit management expertise, both nationally and internationally, having worked in and/or overseen marketing, strategic planning, communications, development, events, business development, member services, and public relations functions in various large and small organizations. On the international front, Tamara worked to raise awareness of the plight of orphaned and impoverished children in Egypt. She helped to deepen the brand awareness of the Valuable Girl Project and the Serve-To-Learn Programs. As a former Director of Development and Communications, she collaborated successfully with politicians, dignitaries, and industry leaders to support youth programs and secure appropriations for education programs. She has also trained industry professionals on her recruitment, retention, and growth best practices and managed 250 workplace-giving corporate accounts while helping organizations to grow in their corporate social responsibility and community engagement efforts. She strongly advocates data and analysis-driven efforts and performance management, including return on investment analysis.

Tamara has raised nearly $30 million in funding over her career thus far. Most recently, she collaboratively helped to secure a multimillion-dollar gift from the Mackenzie Scott Foundation. Tamara has received numerous awards and recognition from the Virginia Public Relations Society and CASE, including Capital Merit Awards and an Award of Excellence. Tamara is deeply enthusiastic about inspiring a generation of youth with the courage to transform the next. Tamara holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Virginia Commonwealth University and serves on the Board of Directors for Zoe Freedom Center.

Michelle Accardi is a National Board Certified Teacher in Early Childhood through Young Adulthood/Exceptional Needs Specialist and the Senior Director Strategic Partnerships for the National Board. Prior to joining the staff of the National Board in 2011, she was an elementary school teacher in Albuquerque Public Schools. She achieved National Board certification in 2005 in Exceptional Needs and renewed it in 2015. Michelle worked in team-taught and self-contained classrooms, focusing on students with behavioral differences. In addition, she was active with the New Mexico NBCT Network. She enjoyed interacting with fellow teachers as a Candidate Support Provider and as a Dossier Assessor. Her work included consulting for several BIE Schools. Prior to work in education, she was a private-sector attorney. Michelle holds a bachelor’s degree in politics from the University of Dallas in Irving, Texas. She earned her Juris Doctor from the Columbus School of Law at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. She is a Certified Non-Profit Executive.

Stacey Hicks serves as Senior Director of State Engagement, focused on growing teacher and stakeholder commitment to National Board Certification through targeted engagement and communicating the value of National Board Certification for educators, students, and communities. Before joining the staff at National Board, Hicks served as the NT3 Project Director with the Arizona K12 Center, where she oversaw a grant focused on two main objectives: increasing the number of National Board Certified Teachers and increasing the number of NBCTs serving as instructional leaders. In 2013, Hicks achieved National Board Certification as a Middle Childhood Generalist teaching for Paradise Valley Unified School District in Phoenix, Arizona. Hicks taught third grade as a Teacher Innovator at the Pinnacle Peak Center for Teacher Development, acting as an exemplar observation classroom for the use of teacher development using live observation, video broadcasting, and collaborative telepresence. She taught for seven years in Arizona and two years before that in Ohio, where she was born and raised. Hicks has a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing from Kent State University, Ohio.

As a policy director, Sarah Pinsky supports the National Board’s state and federal policy efforts by analyzing federal and state legislation, writing policy memos and reports, and assisting the government relations team in organizing federal and state policy events. Pinsky comes to the National Board from the American Association of Colleges for Teacher Education (AACTE) where she managed state and federal policy efforts on issues related to teacher preparation.

Pinsky earned her master’s degree in public policy and her bachelor’s in government and economics from the University of Virginia. Pinsky currently attends The George Washington University’s Law School’s evening program.

As a seasoned communications, marketing, and nonprofit professional, Tamara leads with experience and passion. With a diverse background spanning over 22 years, she has honed her skills in crafting compelling narratives, developing strategic marketing campaigns, and driving impactful initiatives within the nonprofit, education, and transportation sectors. Tamara is known for effectively communicating complex ideas with clarity and empathy through engaging digital content, persuasive speeches, or powerful storytelling. She thrives in collaborative environments and is adept at building solid relationships with stakeholders, donors, and community partners to advance the organization’s mission and goals. With a deep understanding of nonprofits’ challenges and opportunities, Tamara is committed to making a difference and creating positive change. She combines creativity, innovation, and strategic thinking to drive meaningful results and inspire others to join the cause. Outside of her professional pursuits, Tamara is actively involved in her church, Ronald McDonald House Charities, and other noble causes. A firm believer in the ripple effect of kindness, she’s on a quest to leave a sparkly trail of goodness in her community and way beyond!

Zach Curtis joined the National Board in 2023 as Senior Manager, Policy. He is responsible for the organization’s federal policy efforts and assisting with state policy work. Before the National Board, he worked at the Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), where he managed federal government relations on education, the workforce, and the teacher pipeline.

Prior to these roles, Zach worked at Bloomberg in several cities and capacities, including conducting pro bono consulting work for the San Francisco Unified School District and serving as a co-chair and member of the organization’s LGBTQ+ and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion task force. Zach earned a master’s degree in public policy from George Washington University, concentrating in education. During that time, he completed an internship and capstone project with the Learning Policy Institute related to federal strategies to alleviate the national teacher shortage. After completing his bachelor’s degree in international relations from the University of Oregon and studying in Brazil, he interned for now-retired Congressman Sam Farr (D-CA).

Zach enjoys sports, travel, cooking, and mixology outside of work.

Dr. Daphne Brown is the Senior Manager of Strategic Partnerships at the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. She received her Doctorate from Jackson State University. Before joining the National Board staff, she spent over a decade working as a Program Manager in a nonprofit organization. She also served as State and Federal grants manager, strengthening community and stakeholder relationships within her community. She has been a Professional Development Specialist with The Council for Professional Recognition for eight (10) years providing direct candidate support. She is also an adjunct instructor for Jackson State University in the College of Education (Teacher Preparation Program) and Professionalism at Mississippi Delta Community College’s College Prep Division, working with both colleges for almost a decade. She enjoys working to develop and edify teachers.

John joined our team in 2023 as the Senior Manager, District Engagement. In this role, John leads and enhances targeted stakeholder engagement within districts to build relationships and grow interest and commitment to National Board Certification. Before joining the National Board, John ran a consulting business, helping companies create internship opportunities for minority college students; he also worked on the Chicago Innovation Team for OneGoal and served 17 years in the Chicago Public Schools as a National Board Certified social studies teacher. John is also an adjunct professor at the DePaul University College of Education, teaching the next generation of Chicago teachers. Hopefully, they will all become National Board Certified. John is originally from the San Francisco Bay Area, where he spent most of his childhood playing outside, and as such, is a great baseball, backpacking, and beach reading enthusiast. Currently, John and his family live in the Chicago suburbs.

Thea Williams-Black is the Senior Manager of Strategic Partnerships at the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. She earned a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum & Instruction-Literacy Education from The University of Southern Mississippi, a Master of Elementary Education with a Certification in Gifted Education from William Carey University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Tougaloo College. Thea comes from a family of educators and has over 25 years of education experience as a K-12 educator, promoted and tenured professor, department chair, dean of education, curriculum writer, project manager, professional development facilitator, author, and educational researcher. Before joining the National Board, Thea was Dean of Education at her alma mater, Tougaloo College. She revised the curriculum for all programs, was awarded over $5 million in grants, and oversaw the Jackson-Tougaloo Early College High School and an after-school STEM enrichment program, YOUCAN! Institute. Thea enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, and creating many memories.

Edward Santiago is the Senior Associate of Digital Communications for the National Board. Eddie joined the National Board in 2019 as an Associate of communications. Edward works to spread awareness of the importance of Board Certification in classrooms for students and teachers. He leads all the digital communications efforts and media relations for the Board.

Edward graduated from West Virginia University in December 2015 with a Bachelor of Science in Journalism. Before joining the National Board, he worked as a production assistant at WWLP 22News in his hometown of Springfield, Massachusetts (where basketball was invented). Eddie enjoys spending time with friends and family, being active, finding new experiences, and is a big-time sports fan.

Dr. Andra Smith coordinates departmental-level communication, administration, and research as the Senior Associate (VP Support) for the National Board’s Advocacy and Communications Team. With over a decade of experience in public health, Dr. Smith is passionate about quality improvement and continuous learning. She has worked at various organizations in the past, including non-profit organizations, community behavioral health centers, higher education institutions, and medical centers. Dr. Smith holds a Ph.D. and MPH in behavioral science and health promotion from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston School of Public Health. In her free time, she enjoys spending time in nature.

Lauren Amador is an associate with the Strategic Partnerships team in the Advocacy and Communications department. Her work focuses on supporting projects in targeted geographies by gathering and maintaining project data, supporting budgeting procedures, processing invoices, and supporting stakeholder relationships. Prior to joining the National Board, Lauren served as an educator in Mississippi and New Jersey, focusing on differentiation and literacy.

She was recognized as the 2022 Teacher of the Year through the Best of Mississippi Awards and honored as one of Gulf Coast Woman Magazine’s 100 Women of Success in 2021. Lauren holds an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Early Childhood Education from Raritan Valley Community College and a BA in Psychology and Post-Baccalaureate Teaching Certification through Caldwell University. She lives in Gulfport, MS. Lauren has a four-year-old son and two rescue pit bulls. She enjoys pop punk music, raising monarch butterflies, Harry Potter, and Disney.

Shelby Beck has over 14 years of experience in nonprofit and program management. She has gained experience in fundraising, event management, social media marketing, and brand consistency throughout her career. Armed with a Bachelor of Business Administration from Radford University, Shelby’s not just about business buzzwords. When she’s not working, you’ll catch her ruling the great outdoors – hiking, camping, boating, and reeling in the big fish.

As Vice President, Experience and Activation, Lisa Clarke leads the National Board’s work to improve the experience teachers have as candidates for Board certification and Maintenance of Certification and activating a growing movement of champions across the country who share our vision of an elevated and empowered teaching profession. Prior to joining the staff of the National Board, she was the Team Lead for the U.S. Department of Education Teaching Ambassador Fellows. As a fellow, Clarke learned about education policy and advocated to have teachers’ expertise at the policy table. She is a National Board Certified Teacher in Adolescent Young Adult Social Studies-History. When she was in the classroom, Clarke taught social studies in Kent, WA, and Brooklyn, NY. She held a variety of leadership positions in the Kent School District, including serving on the Superintendent Professional Learning Community, assisting with curriculum development, and acting as a Social Studies curricular leader. In 2011, she was honored as the World Affairs Council 2011 World Educator and was chosen to be a World Affairs Council Fellow based on her work to promote and improve global education. She came to teaching after six years at Rutgers University, where she studied gender and public policy and worked at the Center for Women’s Global Leadership (CWGL). Clarke is a Providence College graduate with Master’s degrees from Rutgers University and Brooklyn College. She is currently enrolled in the Ed.D. program in Education Policy and Leadership at American University.

Laura Benedetto is a director for the Experience and Activation team. Benedetto focuses on supporting and growing the connections between National Board Certified Teachers, National Board Networks, districts, schools, and the National Board, creating a community of National Board Champions who help advance the organization’s mission. Previously, Benedetto was the Network Manager for the Network to Transform Teaching, a Supporting Effective Educator Development-funded networked improvement community focused on advancing student learning through access to highly effective teachers. She joined the National Board in 2011 as an administrative assistant and has held positions supporting the work of multiple departments. Prior to joining the National Board, Benedetto enjoyed being in the classroom. She had an opportunity to work in various settings in Connecticut, focusing on alternative education. Benedetto holds a master’s degree in education from Saint Joseph College in West Hartford, CT, and a bachelor’s degree in history from Wheaton College in Norton, MA. A native of New York (home of the best bagels), she currently lives in Arlington, VA, when not traveling to concerts.

Dr. Chawanna Bethany Chambers, NBCT, is a national award-winning PK-20 career educator with teaching experience spanning primary, secondary, and higher education. She has taught a variety of content areas in multiple classroom settings, coordinated tutoring programs, developed curricula across the world, supported teachers through instructional coaching, published educational research, and served in several leadership capacities over the years, including Chief Academic Officer and Deputy Superintendent. In addition to being named New Teacher of the Year in 2009, the National Council for Teachers of English awarded her with one of its Early Career Educator awards. She received the Principal’s Award on her campus in 2010. Chawanna was a class of 2018 New Leaders Council San Antonio fellow and 2019 Leadership SAISD cohort member.

Chawanna, known as Dr. Chae to many, thrives at the intersection of educational theory and practice. Understanding students’ experiences in school is integral to delivering what will help create a lifetime of meaningful success and joy for each of them. Using research and relationships as the cornerstone of her work, she aims to design learning environments that encourage belonging and mastery for K-12 students with equity, anti-racism, and decolonization at the center. She is an entrepreneur and has fundraised and won over $11 million in grants for educational and service organizations.

Chambers holds a Bachelor of Arts in Multidisciplinary Studies specializing in Early Childhood through Grade 4 from Texas Lutheran University, a Master of Education in Educational Administration: School Leadership from Grand Canyon University, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum & Instruction from Capella University. Chawanna enjoys the blessings of a multigenerational household in Texas with her two children and grandmother.

As the Director, Candidate Experience Jacquelyn works to ensure the National Board candidate experience is grounded in equitable practices and cultivates a sense of belonging for all educators. She joined the National Board in March 2021. Jacquelyn achieved certification in 2019 in Adolescent/Young Adulthood English/Language Arts and was an educator in the ELA and Social Studies classroom for 13 years, primarily in the co-taught setting. During that time, she also served as department chair and led professional development on DEI initiatives, student-centered classrooms, and innovation. She co-founded the Latin American Student Association and Bridging the Gap, a mentorship program for BIPOC middle school students transitioning to high school. In addition to her work at the National Board, Jacquelyn currently engages in speaking opportunities for organizations centered on equity initiatives, advocates for improving and expanding the teacher pipeline for the Hispanic/Latine community, serves as a mentor for Edifying Teachers, and is a member of the Teach to Change Collaborative. When she isn’t working, she hosts a podcast, goes on long walks or runs around the city, and spends time with family and friends. She proudly lives in Chicago with her senior dog, Romeo.

As Director of the Candidate Support Community, April Jones works to build relationships across the candidate support community. She collaborates with leaders and facilitators nationwide to foster a candidate-centric, improvement-minded culture in the design and execution of candidates’ experiences both to and through the National Board certification process. She elevates our candidate and stakeholder experience by creating structures and processes to deepen stakeholder relationships with one another, scale successful program practices, and build a community of support among stakeholders.

Cheryl Corpus serves on the Experience and Activation team as the Director of Candidate Support, Programs, and Practices. Her work focuses on supporting emerging Candidate Support Programs and collaborating with leaders and facilitators on the system and practices to support candidate experience. She curates best practices, supports programs in planning for a candidate-centered design program, and facilitates professional learning and coaching for candidate support programs. Corpus joined the National Board in 2023. She has held leadership positions in ed-nonprofits, school administration, and central office leadership. She has led strategic planning, facilitated educator networks, and used system design and continuous improvement to support program efforts. Corpus holds a B.A. in Education from Central Michigan University and an MA in Educational Leadership from Colorado University. Cheryl is an avid professional learner and enjoys traveling, attending performances, and daily adventures with her family and friends.

Danielle Brown is a National Board Certified Teacher in Early Childhood Education and the Director of Candidate Experience for the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Before joining the National Board staff, she was a Program Director at the Arizona K12 Center at Northern Arizona University, where she worked with districts statewide to build induction and mentoring supports for beginning teachers. Danielle taught kindergarten as an Arts Integration Specialist in the Fort Huachuca Accommodation School District.

She became a National Board Certified Teacher in 2014. Danielle received her Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Arizona and holds a Master’s degree in Educational Technology with an emphasis on adult learning and training from Northern Arizona University. Danielle has served as the President of her local education association, a Candidate Support Provider for National Board Candidates, and was a 2015-2017 Hope Street Group National Teacher Fellow. Danielle has been recognized as an Emerging Leader with ASCD and an Influence Leader. She was also a Gates Foundation Teacher Advisory Council member from 2016-2018.

Jéri L. Ogden, Ed.D. is an educator, writer, and facilitator with a passion for and emphasis on equitable practices and cultural competence. She serves as the Senior Manager of Network Learning and Engagement. Jéri graduated from Howard University with a B.A. in Communication and Culture and from American University with an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and Policy. Most recently she completed her studies at Marymount University earning and Ed.D. in Educational Leadership and Organizational Innovation. Upon her undergraduate matriculation, she spent one year working at DC’s first all-boys public charter school as a substitute teacher and assistant director of the after-school program before training as a Summer 2010 DC Teaching Fellow. Jéri has taught at public and charter schools in DC and Houston and an international school in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. Before joining the National Board, she managed teacher residents and later was the Director of the Professional Learning Community at ASCD. With over 14 years of progressive teacher leadership, Jéri is also the founder of P.U.R.P.L.E., a consulting firm that provides purposeful, uplifting, and restorative professional learning experiences to organizations and communities. She is a former adjunct staff member at Trinity Washington University, where her courses focus on restorative practices, relationship building in school systems, and empathy. Her work is rooted in the philosophy that you cannot separate the tree from its roots, so understanding the context of people and places matters. You will often hear Jéri say, “Equity is not a buzzword.”

Danielle Belanger is the Senior Manager of Grant and Project Management at the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Bringing over a decade of experience in nonprofit management and philanthropy, she has a proven track record of success leading large-scale projects and managing complex budgets. Before joining the National Board, Danielle spent much of her professional life supporting grantmakers and their portfolios of nonprofit partners. During that time, she launched and led an inaugural learning and giving collaborative focused on the intersection of trauma and poverty, an ongoing program. In this work and throughout her career, she has always valued the opportunity to develop deep relationships across organizations to ensure the achievement of myriad, diverse missions, and goals. 

In Danielle’s role at the National Board, relationship-building remains a key part of her work as she leads the day-to-day coordination of the Culturally Sustaining Candidate Support Network. This network is a grant-funded project to support and promote teacher diversity, quality, and retention. Leveraging her extensive experience in grant and project management, she works closely with partner sites nationwide to ensure the effective use of resources for their culturally-responsive, data-driven teacher support efforts.

Danielle holds a Bachelor of Arts in French and History from Franklin & Marshall College. A long-time New Englander, she currently lives in Maine with her partner. When they aren’t hiking or camping, you can find her tending to her native, pollinator-friendly plants, reading a fantasy novel, or enjoying time with friends and their pets!

Janet Haber joined the National Board in May 2011. She brought with her the project organizational and financial skills she acquired from more than 20 years of supporting both federal and foundation-funded projects. She has strong project management experience, including maintaining records and budgets to ensure all are on track per contract specifications. As Manager of engagement and mobilization, she is responsible for performing administrative and operational duties in support of special initiatives of the organization, drafting and coordinating the execution of contracts for her team, providing information and customer service to internal and external stakeholders, and advising leadership on status and best practices for grant management. Janet also manages the NBPTS Scholarship Project’s transactions, reporting, and customer service for the full cycle of third-party payment. Janet professionally handles sensitive and confidential materials and is adept at managing fast-paced, time-sensitive workloads. In her spare time, Janet enjoys doing needlework, reading, and gardening.

Joy Medley, NBCT, serves as the Manager of Engagement and Mobilization for the National Board’s Engagement and Activation team. Medley’s work focuses on increasing the engagement of Nationally Board Certified teachers through access to collaborative opportunities and resources. She joined the National Board in 2022 after teaching for 14 years as an early childhood educator. In 2017, Medley achieved National Board Certification as an Early and Middle Childhood Generalist in Literacy: Reading-Language Arts, teaching for Montgomery County School District in Maryland. In addition to teaching, Medley enjoyed being an educational leader, curriculum developer, and instructional designer. She taught in a variety of content areas, coordinated tutoring programs, supported teachers through coaching, and served as the state liaison for reading and math curriculum implementation. Medley holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education specializing in PreK through Grade 3 and Special Education from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and a Master of Education in Educational Administration: School Leadership from the University of Maryland. Joy enjoys spending time with her family, gardening, and traveling.

Claire Brown serves on the National Board Margins to Center grant under the Experience and Activation team as the Senior Associate for Grant and Project Management. Her work focuses on supporting budget objectives and grants project management. Her work will bolster the success of our team and partners as we implement our strategies for the grant. Before joining the National Board, Claire was a Pantry and Seasonal Program Manager at Metrocrest Services, a nonprofit located in the Dallas Metroplex, with her work focused primarily on food security within the community. She supported the organization’s expansion as it grew client demand by 400% during the pandemic and was responsible for program management and growth. Claire is a strong believer in the power of music education and has been a private piano instructor for the past five years, with a current studio at the Coppell Conservatory. She has been a Music Teachers National Association member for the past six years, chairing multiple committees and events for the Carrollton Chapter. Claire holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Applied Music from Baylor University. She lives in Dallas, TX, with her German Shepherd, Bonnie. She enjoys taking Bonnie on long walks and spending time with friends and family.

Miranda Frederick joined the National Board in March 2023 as the Senior Associate for Network Learning and Engagement. She provides administrative support for logistics, operations, and partner collaboration for the Culturally Sustaining Candidate Support Network. Miranda is an experienced event planner and proud alumna of Coastal Carolina University. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, and skincare.

Joining the National Board in January of 2024, Jen is a Senior Associate on the Experience and Activation Team. She provides administrative support for the Vice President of E & A and assists with the team’s collaborative planning, organization, and administration. Jen holds a master’s in literacy education from SUNY Geneseo and a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from the University of Central Florida. Go Knights! With a background as an elementary educator, property manager, and administrative assistant, Jen values team collaboration to support the development of impactful and inclusive programs here at the National Board. Jen takes great pride in knowing her work supports opportunities for every child to be taught by an accomplished teacher.

Jeff Derrick joined the National Board in July 2014 as the Director of Finance. He leads the financial planning, budgeting, and management reporting for operational and program performance, and the financial systems to support National Board operations.

Prior to joining the National Board, Derrick spent the past 23 years in the government contracting industry, functioning in multiple financial roles. Most recently, during 15 years at Booz Allen Hamilton, Derrick provided strategic financial planning and analysis for several areas, managing the financial strategies for budgets ranging from $70 to $250 million. Derrick’s financial expertise lies in planning, reporting, modeling, forecasting and analysis, indirect rate management/analysis, risk analysis, and proposal pricing.

Derrick earned his MBA in finance from Virginia Tech and bachelor’s degrees in business administration and management science from Geneva College. He has two daughters and a son, and is into all things Washington Nationals, classic rock, spy novels, and home brewing.

Evangeline Stewart joined the National Board in 2005 as an Administrative Assistant for Development. During her tenure at the National Board, Stewart has provided high-level support for multiple departments. In this role, Stewart conducts research, prepares reports, provides design support, and maintains the donor database. Stewart is a part-time freelance photographer and graphic designer, a mother of two, and is pursuing a communications design degree. During her free time, you can find Stewart organizing activities for Let Us Volunteer (LUV), a community service organization she created in an effort to be of service in and around her neighboring community.

Milad Nazar, a seasoned financial professional, has been a valuable asset to the National Board since 2020, and he currently holds the position of Accounting Manager. With a comprehensive skill set, he diligently manages responsibilities encompassing accounts payable, accounts receivable, and various other financial accounting tasks, overseeing a team and guiding them toward excellence. Before joining the National Board, Nazar enriched his financial acumen as an Accounts Receivable Specialist at ITILITY LLC, a prominent defense contractor. With over a decade of hands-on experience, he has successfully navigated the realms of project management and accounting within diverse sectors, including for-profit, non-profit, and government organizations. His exceptional expertise has been instrumental in supporting multiple Logistics and Services contracts, overseeing them through completion for the Government of Afghanistan, with funding from the Ministry of Defense and the U.S. Army, a role he has excelled in since 2007. In the midst of the pandemic, in 2021, Nazar achieved the notable milestone of becoming a certified FinTech professional from GW, demonstrating his commitment to staying at the forefront of financial technology advancements. In the quest for a balanced life, Nazar is an ardent advocate of maintaining physical well-being. He achieves this through rigorous gym workouts, ensuring a clear and focused mind in his daily tasks. His dedication to personal growth and professional excellence is exemplified by his promotion to the role of Accounting Manager at the National Board, where he continues to lead and inspire his team to achieve exceptional results. Nazar’s academic foundation is rooted in his major in Finance from Kardan University, where he earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. His commitment to excellence and diverse experiences make him a dynamic and capable financial professional who continues to make a significant impact in his field.

Michele Blasey joined the National Board in June 2023 as the Controller. She is responsible for the development, administration, and implementation of all accounting systems that meet the financial and legal reporting requirements of the National Board, including functional responsibility over accounts payable, accounts receivable, financial reporting, and administration. Prior to joining the National Board, Michele worked in the finance operations of a foundation working to advance racial equity within education in the New England region, a continuing medical education company and a national non-profit advancing lived and legal equality for LGBTQ families and those that wish to form them. In these roles, Michele was responsible for the day-to-day financial operations of the organizations. Michele holds an MBA and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Western Governors University. She currently resides in Pittsburgh, PA.

Daniel Izzo joined the National Board in 2024 after over a dozen years in the classroom where he was a High School Social Studies teacher. Throughout that time, he primarily taught Psychology and was a member of various committees that dealt with teacher development, equity in student programming, culture and climate, process improvement, data analysis, coaching, and other similar groups. He holds a Bachelor’s in Education from DePaul University, a Master’s in Educational Business Administration from the American College of Education, and a professional certification in Data Analysis. Outside of work, Dan loves spending time with his family and friends, taking his kids on bike rides, watching movies and listening to music, and working with his hands doing various woodworking projects.

Alissa is a seasoned senior executive with 30+ years of experience in technology and education.  In her current role, she leads the technology transformation and oversees data, project, and product management. Previously, she was the VPIT, directed IT teams at Hampton University, and held executive and leadership positions at Muse Technologies, Jacobs Engineering, and Digex/WorldCom. Outside her corporate roles, Alissa serves on three boards and is dedicated to child-focused non-profits. As a member of the NCWI board, she aims to leverage her passion for STEM and education development to advance the organization’s vision. She also contributes to the Williamsburg James City County Schools Foundation as the Development Chair and the Finance committee for the Military Child Education Coalition. Alissa holds a Doctor of Management from the University of Maryland Global College, a Master of Arts in Administration Science from The George Washington University, and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Howard University. She and her husband are proud parents of three successful sons.

Marcia Foster joined the National Board in August 2013 as the Director of New Products and Services. In this role, Foster manages the design and development of key programs and services for Accomplished Teaching, Learning, and Schools (ATLAS) and other new products and services focused on supporting the National Board’s mission.

Prior to joining the National Board, Foster was the product and marketing director for PBS’ Education products. In this role, she led the development of Peer Connection, an online resource library for instructional coaches, mentors, and teacher leaders. She also managed PBS TeacherLine’s online professional development courses for PreK-12 teachers. Foster has taught as an adjunct at Maryland and Virginia colleges and universities. She began her career as a brand manager for multinational consumer product companies, including Campbell Soup Company and Oscar Mayer Foods Corporation.

Foster earned her undergraduate degree from Georgetown University and a master’s degree in business from Atlanta University.

Alex is a seasoned professional with over 15 years of experience in the realm of databases and cloud-based solutions. As a former Salesforce consultant who repaired and grew Salesforce instances for over a dozen non-profit organizations, he brings a wealth of expertise to the National Board. Committed to driving organizational success through innovative solutions, he harnesses the power of Salesforce to streamline business processes and enhance overall operational efficiency.

Melissa Mays joined the National Board in January 2020 and serves as the Director of Project Management, where she provides day-to-day leadership and management across the full scope of the National Board’s relationship with its operational partner. Mays is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP), Certified Scrum Product Owner (CSPO), and Certified Scrum Master (CSM). She holds a B.A. degree in Government from Georgetown University and a M.S. degree in Information Technology with a certificate in Informatics from the University of Maryland Global College.

As Senior Manager, Products and Services, Caitlin Wilson serves as a member of the ATLAS team, where she provides training and support for ATLAS users and leads ongoing efforts to increase awareness and implementation of the ATLAS library. Caitlin also supports third-party payers who provide fee support for National Board candidates. Caitlin has dedicated her career to supporting innovation and equity in teaching and learning. She started her career as a classroom teacher in Marietta, Georgia. Caitlin has expertise in leading teacher professional development, improvement coaching, and designing and implementing networked improvement communities focused on the following topics: reducing the special education teacher shortage, recruiting and retaining men of color into the teaching profession, and increasing the number of Board-certified teachers across the country. Caitlin also has expertise in federal grant management. Caitlin holds a master’s degree in teaching from Georgia College and State University. She earned an undergraduate degree in Spanish from the University of Georgia. Caitlin is an alumna of the Institute for Educational Leadership’s Educational Policy Fellowship Program.

Ben McKinney joined the National Board in 2021 and serves as an ATLAS Data Entry Coordinator. He is responsible for managing ATLAS customer contracts, customer support, marketing, trial access, and other critical aspects of the website. Prior to joining the National Board, Ben worked in Accounts Receivable at Shift4 Payments and Apartments.com. He has 4 years of experience in accounting and 4 years of experience in the telecommunications industry as a project specialist. Ben studied economics and project management at the University of Maryland. In his spare time, he loves to play soccer and guitar and spend time with family and friends.

Carol Ezzelle leads the Assessment Team within the National Board’s Standards and Assessment Department and serves as the department’s lead advisor to cross-functional teams and to senior leadership. She guides staff on development, research, policies, and inquiries. In this role, Ezzelle oversees psychometric projects, develops technical procedures and documents, and collaborates with staff and partners on certification program issues. Before joining the National Board, Ezzelle worked at GED Testing Service, Harcourt Educational Measurement (now Pearson), and Professional Examination Service. Ezzelle has a doctorate in psychometrics from Fordham University in the Bronx, NY.

Andrea Hajek joined the National Board in October 2011 as a director of educator engagement. Over the years, her portfolio has included engaging with and mobilizing the NBCT community and NBCT Networks, leading the field test of the assessment redesign, and contributing to the Maintenance of Certification (MOC) development. In January 2018, she became the director of assessment operations. In this role, she leads the ongoing progress and effectiveness of multiple assessment operations activities with particular attention to scoring and quality assurance. A career educator, Hajek achieved National Board certification in Early and Middle Childhood/English as a New Language in 2000 and renewed her certificate in 2009 and 2019. She was the first National Board Certified Teacher in Miami-Dade County Public Schools to achieve certification in this area. She has taught English as a New Language, Language Arts, and Spanish in California, Florida, and Hawai`i. She has also been a trainer of assessors, validator, and content expert for the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Hajek developed and institutionalized a candidate support program for educators seeking to become Board-certified in Hawai`i. She also taught graduate-level courses at the National University. Hajek holds a bachelor’s in elementary education and an M.Ed. focusing on ESL from the University of Mar del Plata in Argentina. She was featured in Who’s Who Among America’s Teachers in 2006 and 2007.

Dr. Susan Lopez-Aguado is the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards’s Senior Director of Standards. She holds a bachelor’s degree in history and English with honors from Stanford University and a doctoral degree in English language and literature from Yale University. After teaching at Yale, Susan worked in educational measurement, first as an English Language Arts test developer at the Educational Testing Service in Princeton, New Jersey, and later as a principal assessment specialist and project director at the American Institutes for Research in Washington, DC. In 2010, Susan formed Sulobee Consulting to provide clients with project management, meeting facilitation, and editorial writing services across the pre-K-12 field. Before accepting her current position, Susan participated in various projects for the National Board as a consultant, most notably supporting the development of the current Middle Childhood Generalist, Physical Education, and Career and Technical Education Standards, in addition to What Teachers Should Know and Be Able to Do. Susan lives in Washington, DC, with her two cats and office managers, Niles and Roger.

As Senior Manager of Standards, Dianna Minor leads the National Board work in overseeing the Standards Team’s critical functional areas, including project management, consultant management, event planning, and grant reporting. Additionally, Dianna coordinates the Certification Council, which is the arm of the Board of Directors with approval authority over the Standards and Assessment Department. She also works closely with the Assessment, Communications, Finance, and Candidate Experience Teams and with representatives from external stakeholder organizations. Minor is a renewed National Board Certified Teacher in Early Adolescence, English Language Arts. Previously, she has worked in Alabama as an English/language arts teacher, literacy and ESL interventionist, curriculum specialist, and a college adjunct in curriculum and instruction at the University of Alabama (Birmingham). She is a graduate of the University of Alabama (Tuscaloosa). She holds a master’s degree in English/language arts education, an Administrative/Instructional Leadership certification, and an Educational Specialist (Ed.S) degree in English/language arts. Minor has served as a blogger for the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) and coached with the National Math & Science Initiative (NMSI), where she designed and developed content and eLearning experiences for educators nationwide. She has also served as an education consultant with Alabama’s A+ College Ready organization, where she developed curricula and trained educators in the latest-best practice teaching strategies. She has been active in the National Board communities, serving as a board member with Alabama’s NBCT Network, as National Board Core Connections Webinar facilitator, and as an educational consultant with the Alabama A & M University/University of Alabama at Huntsville Regional Inservice Center, where she facilitated professional development workshops and seminars asynchronously for educators pursuing National Board certification. In addition to being previously recognized as a district nominee for Alabama’s Teacher of the Year with Hoover City Schools, she was recognized as a 2020 Red Mountain Writing Fellow, an affiliate of the National Writing Project, and a 2021 TEDx Birmingham Education Fellow.

Since joining the National Board in 2001, Melissa Villareal has played a key role within the National Board assessment team. Villareal works within Assessment to manage and document development, committee, research projects, and budgets for National Board Certification. She also has experience in Assessment Operations, supporting National Board candidates strongly throughout the certification process. Villareal takes great pleasure in her work, offering many opportunities to support accomplished teachers. Villareal holds a Bachelors’s in business administration from Strayer University. She is the proud parent of two school-aged children.

Arlen Hancock is the Sr. Associate of Standards and Assessments, where he optimizes internal procedures, builds relations with external clients, and organizes events for the department. Arlen holds an MA in Theatre Education and a MFA in Theatre Education and Applied Theatre from Emerson College. He is also a licensed teacher and has designed and implemented arts curricula at the public school level for three years. Before joining the National Board, Arlen enjoyed being a teaching artist, a performer, and a choreographer. He currently lives in Baltimore.