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Celebrating its 44th year, the Shaker Schools Foundation, established in 1981, was the first foundation in Ohio to support a public school system.
The Foundation supports program enrichment and expanded opportunities for learning not covered by tax dollars. Since its inception, the Shaker Schools Foundation has raised over $12M in support of students and teachers in the Shaker Heights City School District.
FOUNDATION STAFF
Holly McCormick, Executive Director
Laura Orazi, Director of Development
Erica Verderber, Senior Administrative Assistant
Erika LoPresti, Development Associate
Marla Walker, Marketing & Communications
DISTRICT STAFF
Sharon Galin, Alumni Liaison
BOARD OF TRUSTEES 2025 2026
Cathy Zbanek, President, Class of ’91
Jonas Ng, Vice President
Christopher Hunter, Treasurer
Barbara Nolan, Secretary, Class of ’85
Ramona Lowery-Ferrell, Community Engagement Liaison, Class of ’89
Jennifer Lawry Adams, Class of ’88
Alison Bibb-Carson, Board of Ed Liaison, Class of ’95
Kevin L. Clayton, Class of ’77
Nicol Coxon
Melissa Federman
Mark Freeman, Life Member
David Glasner, Superintendent
Aaron Kinney, Class of ‘09
Carla Macklin, Class of ‘96
Christine Medvedev
Cliff Mendelsohn, Class of ’94
Jonathan Roe
Phillip Rowland-Seymour, Class of ’93
Scott Shelfer
Tricia Stevenson
Carter Strang
Brittany Webb, Class of ’02
BOARD OF EDUCATION
Lora Cover, President
Alison Bibb-Carson, Class of ’95
Pamela Scott
Douglas Wang
Heather Weingart
SHAKER SCHOOLS FOUNDATION
15600 Parkland Drive
Shaker Heights, Ohio 44120 (216) 295-4329
Tax ID #34-1351470
FIND US ONLINE & SOCIAL
shakerschoolsfoundation.org foundation@shaker.org
Shaker Schools Foundation
Shaker Schools Alumni
shakerschoolsfdn
Shaker Schools Foundation & Alumni

OUR WEBSITE
Dear Friends of the Shaker Schools Foundation,
What an incredible year it’s been! Each day, we see how your generosity shapes the Shaker experience— helping our students Educate, Empower, Explore, and Engage in ways that make learning come alive. Because of your support, new ideas and opportunities are blooming all across the district—whether it’s students stretching and breathing through Yoga at Mercer, discovering the stars in the High School Planetarium, exploring science hands-on at the Middle School, or playing together on the brand-new Ludlow Playground. You’ve also helped open doors to travel, career exploration, and opportunity assistance —ensuring that every student has access to experiences that spark curiosity and confidence. Your gifts don’t just fund programs—they nurture potential, inspire innovation, and strengthen the sense of community that makes Shaker Heights so special. You’re helping build a foundation of curiosity, confidence, and lifelong learning—and that’s truly something to celebrate.
As we reflect on this year’s accomplishments and look ahead to what’s next, we thank you for believing in our mission and in our students. Your continued partnership makes everything we do possible.
With heartfelt gratitude,

Cathy Zbanek PRESIDENT
Class of ‘91
Parent, Class of ‘23 grad & Class of ‘26 student


“ Having a playground in the Ludlow neighborhood means children can come together in a safe, joyful space. It also gives older kids opportunities for independence, offering a place they can gather without crossing the Van Aken rapid tracks. We are so excited for this! Thank you to Shaker Schools, the Shaker Schools Foundation, and the City of Shaker Heights for collaborating to make the playground a reality.”
- Rosa Hand, Ludlow Community member and Shaker parent

See how donors helped build a joyful new space for our youngest learners.
With the incredible support of our Shaker community—and a generous matching gift from an anonymous donor—the Shaker Schools Foundation raised an impressive $75,600! On top of that, we invested over $30,000 from our Legacy Fund to bring the Ludlow Playground to life. This vibrant, inclusive play space is now buzzing with energy at the brand-new Ludlow Early Learning Center, which opened in Fall 2025. Walk by and you’ll see children climbing, running, and laughing together on a playground built for joy, belonging, and possibility. The project also carries forward the proud legacy of the historic Ludlow School Integration Experiment, honoring our community’s commitment to equity and opportunity for every child.
Creating, Recording, Inspiring: Shaker Students Discover the Power of Their Own Voices.
Thanks to the generosity of donors, the Shaker Schools Foundation is helping Shaker students explore creativity, collaboration, and storytelling through podcasting and music production. Students from elementary through high school now have access to professional-grade recording equipment and hands-on learning experiences.

At
Shaker Heights High School, a generous donation
from Shaker alum Colson Baker, better known as Machine Gun Kelly, helped fund a state-of-the-art recordingand podcast studio.
The space includes a professional recording booth, microphones, soundboards, video recorders, mixers, cabinets, tables, and chairs. This studio empowers students to explore music production, podcasting, and digital storytelling in a hands-on environment, giving them the tools to amplify their voices and creativity. MGK’s support brings inspiration directly to students at the place where his own journey began.
These initiatives show how donor generosity transforms learning experiences across all grade levels. By providing students with access to professional-grade tools and creative opportunities, the Foundation is helping nurture skills, confidence, and a lifelong love of storytelling.


At Fernway Elementary, the podcast booth has become a vibrant part of student learning.
Funded through an enrichment grant request from Alexandria Royal, Fernway’s IB Coordinator, the new Rode Podcast Mixing Board allows students to develop critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills. Second graders practiced thoughtful questioning and research while learning the art of interviewing, connecting arts and literature to real-world storytelling. The students celebrated their work with a podcast launch, demonstrating curiosity and a passion for learning that extends beyond the classroom.
Science Meets Fun!
Thanks to a Shaker Schools Foundation enrichment grant, 7th grade science students at Shaker Middle School turned energy lessons into hands-on fun by designing and building their own mini golf course! Each hole showcased concepts like kinetic, potential, and thermal energy. Students deepened their scientific understanding while building skills in problem-solving, teamwork, and creative design. A true example of STEAM learning in action!
Educate, Empower, Explore & Engage!

FOCUS

At Mercer Elementary, fostering social-emotional learning and tools is always top of mind. This year, a partnership with Zenworks Yoga brought a weekly yoga and mindfulness experience to all 13 classrooms in grades 3–5.
Through this evidence-based program, students and educators learned practical tools to reduce stress, sharpen focus, and strengthen emotional regulation. Each week introduced a new theme, helping participants build skills that not only support success in the classroom, but also promote resilience and well-being throughout life.
The results speak for themselves:
Empathy – 94% of students reported that they notice how others feel
Self-Awareness – 97% said they are aware of their emotions
Self-Regulation – 84% reported they know what to do when they feel stressed
And it’s not just students—90% of educators are using these strategies daily, creating calmer, more connected classrooms.
Yoga’s benefits go far beyond the classroom. By learning to manage stress, stay present, and show empathy, students gain skills that support mental health and well-being for years to come.
“I like to look at the stars and learn about planets. We went to the Planetarium this year, and last year, and I think in preschool too! I like the Big Dipper!”
- Madeline W., 1st grade, Onaway
We are thrilled to announce enhanced technology to our beloved Planetarium, an inspiring space where students and the community can explore the wonders of our universe.
Now, you can be a part of this journey in a truly special way. With your gift, your name (or the name of someone you wish to honor) can be featured as a star on our new Planetarium Donor Wall. Just like the stars in the night sky, your support will shine for years to come, inspiring future generations of explorers, dreamers, and innovators.
Together, we can create a space where curiosity knows no bounds and where Shaker students can dream bigger than ever before.
“ I love the Planetarium! It feels like you’re traveling through the galaxy. The seats are comfortable, and I’m excited to go back when the new technology arrives.” – Everett K., 3rd grade, Mercer
Thank you for helping us light the way for tomorrow’s explorers.
Be a S TA R today!

SCAN TO LEARN MORE shakerschoolsfoundation.org/planetarium/
Be part of the light! This is the first rendering of our donor wall installation — make a gift to have your name shine on a ray.


The Sky is the Limit!
We are fortunate to be able to provide our students a clearer picture of the many paths available to them after high school graduation. Whether they choose college, career, or military service, exposure to different opportunities helps them connect their strengths and interests with real-world possibilities. This preparation builds confidence, broadens horizons, and ensures students are ready to take the next step toward a meaningful future.
The Foundation is proud to partner with organizations and companies to provide these career exploration opportunities. Making connections with professionals not only opens doors to future opportunities, but also gives students the chance to see themselves in those roles, build networks, and gain the inspiration and guidance that can shape their path forward.




At the Shaker Schools Foundation, we believe every student deserves the chance to learn, grow, and thrive—inside and outside the classroom. That’s why our Level the Playing Field and Beyond the Desk opportunity assistance funds are making such an impact.
These programs remove financial barriers for students and open doors to enrichment classes, arts and science programs, and youth sports. From mastering chess moves to hitting the high notes in performing arts, or from learning teamwork on the soccer field to building confidence through martial arts, Shaker students are discovering new passions and skills thanks to donor support. The Foundation partners with a wide range of community organizations, ensuring students have access to high-quality extracurricular opportunities.

Since the program launched in 2020–2021, it has grown tremendously. In just five years, more than 200 students have been supported—and the need continues to rise.
BEYOND THE DESK ARTS & STEM ENRICHMENT
Students Served Funds Provided
6 $725 2022 32 $8,174 2023 50 $7,005
109 $16,106
72 $19,609
LEVEL THE PLAYING
YOUTH SPORTS
Students Served Funds Provided
4 $988.94
58 $11,896
62 $13,395
130 $21,537
132 $22,354
Each number represents a student who had the chance to participate, belong, and grow. Whether it’s building confidence, developing leadership, or simply finding joy, these opportunities are changing lives. And it’s all possible because of you— OUR DONORS!
To learn more about Beyond the Desk and Level the Playing Field, or to continue supporting these vital programs, visit shakerschoolsfoundation.org/student-scholarships.


Global learning has always been a hallmark of the Shaker experience, and the 2024–2025 school year was no exception. Students crossed oceans and cultures, returning with memories and lessons to last a lifetime. From Germany to China, Quebec to Chile, and Italy, their journeys brought classroom learning to life in powerful new ways—broadening perspectives and deepening their understanding of the world.
Thanks to the support of our generous donors, Shaker students had the chance to educate themselves through history, empower their voices through cultural exchange, explore new countries and traditions, and engage with peers around the world. These unforgettable opportunities extend learning far beyond the classroom.
Through the International Travel Endowment Fund, the Shaker Schools Foundation is working to ensure that every student has the chance to take part in these journeys of discovery. With your continued support, we can open doors for more students to Educate, Empower, Explore, and Engage across the globe.

Here are a few reflections from Shaker Heights High School students whose journeys were made possible through travel assistance:
“ My trip to Chile was an eye-opening experience that deepened my understanding of the country’s history, culture, and politics beyond what I had studied in class. It was especially meaningful to connect with guides, many of whom shared personal stories that brought history to life in powerful ways.”
“ Overall, my favorite part of the trip was zip lining because I love the rush I get before I go on, and the course was unlike anything I had ever done. I made so many great memories with my classmates, roommates, and our tour guide. Without the Shaker Schools Foundation’s help, I would not have been able to have this amazing experience.”
“A trip I’ll be looking back on until the end. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity that Shaker has given me, and I hope many other people will be able to




Our donors are building a legacy for the next generation of Shaker students. Thank you!
Your Planned Gift can provide for the future works of the Shaker Schools Foundation through:
• Bequest from a will or trust
• Life insurance policy or annuity
• Retirement assets (IRA, 401K)
• Current gift of $5,000 or more to the Legacy Fund or other existing endowed fund
• Establishment of a new named fund with a gift or pledge of $10,000 or more. Income from named funds helps support programs, celebrate achievement, and enhance inclusivity for Shaker students.
Questions?
Contact Holly McCormick, Executive Director 216-295-4325, or email mccormick_h@shaker.org.

Lomond Elementary’s production of The Lion King Kids
As of 9/15/25
Stuart Abrams
Ruth S. Affelder
Reading Fund
Eileen Anderson
Herbert Ascherman, Jr.
Christine Auginas
Joan Ball
Deborah Beim
Cathy Belk
Kate Blaszak
George & Margaret Cannon
Bill & Jennifer Clawson
Deborah Cowan
Mr. & Mrs. Rand M. Curtiss
James Deutchman
Sarajane & Sam Dolinsky
Susan Fainstein
Dr. Mark Freeman
Estate of M. L. Freidman
Ann & Scott Garson
Steven & Gail Goldfarb
Grant Kohn Goodman
Fiona & Matthew Green
Derek Green
Grube Family
Linda & John Hallbauer
Ayesha Bell Hardaway
Betty & Karl Hess
Estate of Dorothy Humel Hovorka
Rick & Annie Hubbard
Chris & Maria Hunter
Estate of Helen L. Ittner
Robin D. Johnson
Kathryn & J. Stephen Jones
Nancy & Bernard Karr
Amy Kerr Thome & Stephen Thome
Adam Lehman & Belinda Krifcher
Matthew & Julie Lehman
Dr. & Mrs. Gilbert
Lowenthal
Neil & Susan Luria
Abe & Barb Miller
John S. Murphy
Nancy Silber Pickus
Dorothea & Michael Polster
Judge Dan A. Polster & Ms. Deborah A. Coleman
Jonathan & Nancy Polster
Lisa & Sean Richardson
Sauerland Foundation
Paul Sauerland
SHHS Class of 1967
Philip & Shuara Shands
Sue Starrett
Craig Stout
Deedra & Carter Strang
Family of Ruth Strauss Berger
Brian S. Sullivan
Annette Tucker
Sutherland & J. Mark
Sutherland
Stasia Vavruska
Holly & Doug Wang
Robin Weaver
Fred Widen
Thomas Wise
Cathy & Brian Zbanek

As a third grader, Ruth Strauss Berger helped her immigrant grandmother study for the U.S. citizenship test—making flashcards and tutoring her until she passed. That early act of teaching reflected the curiosity, compassion, and love of learning that would define Ruth’s life.
Ruth began teaching French in Shaker Heights elementary schools, later moving to the high school where “Madame Berger” became known for her dedication to students and her passion for international experiences. She served as the foreign exchange student liaison, traveled abroad with the band, and led student trips to France—helping countless students discover the world beyond their own.
“Our Mom was a teacher to her core. She taught elementary school. She taught French, But mostly, she taught us all what it means to live as a citizen, as a friend, and as a human who has a meaningful role to play as a member of a global, beloved community. She had an abundant capacity for love and she was endlessly curious about people and places, making it easy for her to create connections. She aimed to nurture this spirit in others, which is why this fund is a beautiful way to celebrate her exquisite, meaningful, and precious life.”
- Susan Berger, Margaret Berger Bradley, Joanie Berger
To support the Ruth Strauss Berger International Travel Scholarship Fund, visit shakerschoolsfoundation.org/ donate.
She raised her three daughters—Susan Berger, Margaret Berger Bradley, and Joanie Berger—in Shaker Heights, where all three graduated from Shaker Heights High School. Her children and their families remained at the center of her life, making her support of Shaker students deeply personal. Two of her grandchildren - Zachary and Hope Nosanchukare also proud Shaker graduates.
Believing that travel opens minds and fosters understanding, Ruth established the Ruth Strauss Berger International Travel Scholarship Fund. This fund provides financial assistance to Shaker Heights High School students who want to travel abroad but lack the means—ensuring that more young people can experience other cultures and traditions.

In September 2024, we welcomed eight remarkable graduates back home for the 2024 Shaker Schools Alumni Hall of Fame. They stood before our students - first in a packed high school assembly, then in small, personal classroom conversations - sharing stories of times at Shaker when curiosity was sparked, dreams were pursued, and challenges were overcome.
At the induction dinner, one theme rang clear: each inductee’s journey began in Shaker. They spoke of gratitude for their teachers, friends, and community that shaped their lives and laid the groundwork for their success.
Our 2024 inductees included: Dr. Andy Ellner, ‘93, Jeff Epstein, ‘93, Reverend Rachel Hollander, ‘81, Dr. Leslie S. Kean, ‘83, Jonathan (Jon) Leiken, ‘90, David Warren Mason, ‘71, Judy Immerman Payne, ‘74, and Bishop St. Clair Walker, ‘08.
Starting in January 2026, you will have the chance to nominate the next group of Shaker standouts!

SHAKER CLASS REUNIONS
Say Yes to Coming Home to Shaker!
Each year class reunion groups create an amazing weekend for classmates to celebrate their Shaker Schools experience. The response is clear that they enjoy reminiscing about their time together and also creating new connections. Coming home to Shaker just warms the heart. We are grateful to the classes who choose to give back to the Shaker Schools Foundation in honor of their shared experiences at Shaker. We invite you to say YES when it is your class reunion time. Special thanks to the Classes of 1984 and 2014 for your generous class gift to the Shaker Schools Foundation in honor of your reunion weekend!

Brittany Webb’s passion for students and learning is truly contagious. In 2015, she was thrilled to return to her home district to teach sixth grade at Woodbury Elementary School. When the opportunity arose to serve as a Gifted Intervention Specialist, Brittany embraced the role—becoming a strong advocate for her students, boosting their confidence, and creating an environment where they could truly thrive.
Her commitment to Shaker students didn’t stop there. Wanting to make an even greater impact, she joined the Shaker Schools Foundation Board as a Trustee. In this volunteer role, she proudly serves as an ambassador for the Foundation’s mission, using her voice as both an alumna and a staff member to help shape opportunities and inspire success for every student.
This year, the Shaker Schools Foundation proudly hosted two Shaker Speaks events, each spotlighting the achievements of extraordinary alumni.
The first evening featured Jane Campbell (1971), who made history as the first—and so far only—female Mayor of Cleveland and who at that time led the United States Capitol Historical Society. She is pictured with the event moderator, Michael Bowen, SHHS Class of 2005.
The second event showcased Theresa J. May (2002), an award-winning trumpeter who delighted guests with a beautiful performance and joined a panel discussion focused on the impact that international travel has on Shaker students. Both inspiring evenings supported the Foundation’s International Travel Assistance Fund, helping Shaker Heights High School students explore the world. We look forward to welcoming you to a future Shaker Speaks conversation!
For more info on upcoming events visit shakerschoolsfoundation.org/events.



Your support makes it possible for students to step beyond the classroom and into the world—where lessons come alive.
From science museums to historical landmarks, our students explored, discovered, and experienced new places, cultures and ideas they might not otherwise see.
Here’s a look back at the unforgettable field trip moments and memories from this year.


Girls Who Code

Robotics and Microsoft Hololens Case Western Reserve University






A Griffin Legacy Foundation
A.C. Plumbing, Heating and Mechanical Co., Inc.
Adelio’s Contracting
Adler Team Sports
Arminius Foundation
Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.
AVI Foodsystems
Bellefaire JCB
Blue Point Capital Partners
The Brandon Family Foundation
Brightmoor Christian Church
Brokow Inc.
Calvetta Brothers Floor Show
Cardinal Charitable Foundation
Carol Nursery School
Cask Consulting and Coaching Cerity Partners
CFS Of Cleveland
Champions KLC
City of Shaker Heights
Class of 1974
Class of 1984
Class of 2014
Cleveland Cavaliers
Cleveland Clinic
Copy King Inc.
Core Life Chiropractic
By investing in education, these corporations, foundations, and organizations are not just funding classrooms, they’re sowing seeds for a stronger community. They contribute to Shaker schools because they believe in creating opportunities and shaping tomorrow’s leaders.
Cosmopolitan Dermatology
Delta Dental of Michigan
EcoLab
Expedia
The Harry K. Fox and Emma R. Fox Charitable Foundation
Fuzion Sports
Generational Fittings, LLC
Gilbane Building Company
Glaus, Pyle, Schomer, Burns & DeHaven, Inc.
GPD Group Employees Foundation
The Higley Fund
Hogan Transportation HondaGO
I.A. Lewin, PE and Associates
Independence Business Supply
IQVIA Inc.
James & Susan Ratner
Family Foundation
Jewish Federation of Cleveland
Kent State University
KeyBank National Association
LaCalle Group, LLC
Lewis and Ruth Affelder Fund
Love Insurance Agency
The Lozick Family Foundation
The Ludlow Community Association
Marrow Fine
McGrath-Spellman Family Foundation
McGraw Hill Companies
Medical Mutual of Ohio
Mega Clinics, LLC DBA Glazier Clinics
MH3 Cars, Inc.
Microsoft
Mika Metal Fabricating
Modern Yoga
Nederlandse School Cleveland Inc.
Neptune Plumbing & Heating Co.
North Point Portfolio Managers Corp.
OAPSE Chapter 149
Orange Place Family Dentistry
Parker Hannifin Foundation
Pete Leneghan Entrepreneurship Foundation
Pledgeling Foundation
The Progressive Insurance Foundation
Ronald and Deborah Ratner
Family Foundation
Regal Games
Robert P. Madison International
Sangree Foundation
Sauerland Foundation
Seawatch Condominiums
Sgt. Clean Car Wash
Shaker Arts Council
Shaker Heights Teachers’ Association
Shaker Sports Boosters
Shaker Youth Soccer Association
The Sherwin-Williams Foundation
Squire Patton Boggs LLP
StepStone Group
Stifel Nicolaus
Thompson Family Foundation
TIRL LLC
Tucker Ellis LLP
Turfscape LLC
UB Greensfelder LLP
The Veale Foundation
These numbers are a testament to the generosity of our donors, the careful stewardship of our resources, and the impact of the programs we’ve been able to support.
Make an impact! Gifts from alumni, parents, and community members provide resources, access, and opportunity for Shaker students!
Your gift to the Advancing Shaker Annual Appeal supports:
• Classroom Learning - technology for hands-on learning, resources for social emotional learning programs, supplies and equipment for new curriculum
• Innovative Teaching - enrichment grants for field trips, author visits, and other tools for creative study and exploration
• Opportunities for All - direct student support for K-12 extracurricular activities and youth sports, and assistance for international high school travel
• Career Exploration - entrepreneurship, mentoring, job-shadowing, and leadership experiences
We are proud to share how your support has made a difference:
• Over 200 students received direct support through Level the Playing Field or Beyond the Desk opportunity assistance scholarships, providing equitable access to youth sports and extracurricular activities.
• 42 students received travel assistance for international trips, helping students to be civic-minded, confident, competent communicators and problem solvers who are knowledgeable of our global and multicultural society.
• The Foundation supported over 140 projects and enrichment grants that enhanced learning by funding field trips, author visits, classroom resources, and more.
• The Shaker Schools Foundation provided a total of over $530,000 in support in 2024-2025.
GIVE ONLINE
Visit shakerschoolsfoundation.org, select “donate,” and choose where you would like to direct your gift. Make a one-time gift or set up a monthly donation.

BY MAIL
Mail your contribution to: Shaker Schools Foundation 15600 Parkland Drive Shaker Heights, OH 44120
HONOR OR MEMORY
Designate your gift in honor or memory of a special Shaker teacher, student, classmate or loved one.
QUESTIONS?
Call 216-295-4329 or email Laura Orazi, Director of Development, at orazi_l@shaker.org. The Shaker Schools Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit. All donations are tax-deductible. Tax ID: 34-1351470
What an unforgettable evening! In March, 470 guests came together for the 33rd annual A Night for the Red a vibrant celebration of community spirit, pride, and support for Shaker Schools.
The night sparkled with the engaging presence of Michael McElroy, Grammy- and Tony-nominated Broadway and proud SHHS Class of 1985 alum, who emceed alongside Brittany Webb, a dedicated Shaker Schools alum Gifted Intervention Specialist. Together, they made a dynamic and inspiring duo.
Thanks to your generosity, the event raised critical funds to help the Shaker Schools Foundation educate, and engage every student from Pre-K through 12th grade. Guests enjoyed outstanding performances by the Jazz Collective, Vocal Ensemble, String Ensemble, and Raiderettes, capped off with a high-energy dance party Gumbo Dance Party.
Your support makes a difference every day. To see the impact of your generosity, visit shakerschoolsfoundation.org.

Red & White—
Broadway star alum and empower, the SHHS party led by shakerschoolsfoundation.org.


Mark your calendars for March 14, 2026 for the 34th annual

Shaker’s biggest night is back! Join us on Saturday, March 14, 2026 at the Agora Ballroom & Theatre for the 34th annual A Night for the Red & White — a high-energy celebration of Shaker pride with inspiring student performances, dazzling PreK–12 art, delicious bites, a lively raffle and online auction, and a dance floor rocking with Gumbo Dance Party.
Don’t miss it — mark your calendar now! For more information: visit shakerschoolsfoundation.org/events.


Holly McCormick, Executive Director
Laura Orazi, Director