Regional Office
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Leadership Team
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Natalie Wiltshire
Chief Executive OfficerNatalie Wiltshire assumed the role of CEO in July 2023. Natalie started her career at KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools (KPPS) as the Managing Director of Operations before serving as Chief Operating Officer. Prior to joining KPPS, Natalie was the Director of New York Operations for Achievement First, overseeing school operations for seven academies in Brooklyn, NY. Before joining Achievement First’s central management team, she served as the founding Director of School Operations for Achievement First Crown Heights Charter School. Natalie earned her BA in Sociology from the University of Pennsylvania and her MA in Organizational Psychology from Teachers College, Columbia University. Natalie and her husband, Larry, have two sons, Hayden and Mason.
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Rob Vieira
Chief Operating OfficerAs Chief Operating Officer, Rob Vieira is responsible for design, implementation and efficiency improvements for all areas of operations for KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools. Prior to KIPP, Rob served as the Managing Diretor of People and Operations at City Year Philadelphia, where he oversaw the department focused on aligning organizational human, financial, and physical capital to develop staff and AmeriCorps members. Rob independently financed his college education, earning an MA in Mathematics/Statistics from the University of Connecticut, an MBA from the UCLA Anderson School of Management, and an MPA from the Harvard Kennedy School of Government. He and his wife reside in West Philadelphia.
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Molly Eigen
Chief Schools OfficerMolly Eigen serves as the Chief Academic Officer. In that role, she is responsible for supporting and driving the design of our student facing and teacher facing programming for KIPP Philadelphia schools. She also works with principals across school to support execution of our programming. Molly came most recently from Mastery Charter Schools, a turnaround charter network, where she served as the CAO – designing and overseeing the curriculum, student culture, teacher and leader training and coaching, and assessment programming across 26 schools. Prior to that, Molly worked at Teach For America in a variety of roles – driving teacher training and support. Molly started her career as a high school special education teacher in McAllen, Texas after graduating from University of Michigan with B.S. in Resource, Ecology and Management.
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Libing Li
Chief Financial OfficerAs Chief Financial Officer, Libing Li oversees the finance and accounting functions and executes the strategic financial vision for KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools. She has over 20 years of accounting, finance, and auditing experience. Immediately before joining KIPP Philadelphia, Libing served as Controller at WHYY — NPR and PBS member station in the tri-state area. Having begun her career at Arthur Andersen, Libing held key accounting roles within the insurance group, Prudential. She led the Finance Department of HSBC Bank’s Service Center, covering all major support functions, and managed compliance examinations for multiple States. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA), Libing received her B.A. in International Business from Sun Yat-Sen University and M.S. in Accounting from University of Massachusetts – Amherst. She also holds the designation of Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA Canada). Outside work, she enjoys gardening and traveling with her husband and two kids.
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Chatara Benson
Chief of StaffAs Chief of Staff, Chatara leads our advocacy efforts, serves as a liaison to the Board of Trustees, and facilitates strategic and annual plan implementation. Chatara has been with KPPS for nearly five years serving as the Director of Development then as the Managing Director of Development and Engagement before her role as Chief of Staff. Prior to joining KIPP, Chatara served as Director of Operations at Parents for Great Camden Schools, a start-up family advocacy nonprofit. Prior to that, Chatara worked at Philadelphia School Partnership as a part of the school investment team. Chatara started her career in the financial services industry, where she spent nearly seven years in various roles, primarily in asset management. Chatara has resided in Philadelphia for nearly fifteen years by way of New Jersey. Chatara is a graduate of The George Washington University where she earned a B.B.A. with a concentration in Marketing and received her M.S in Nonprofit Leadership at the University of Pennsylvania. Outside of work, Chatara enjoys reading, traveling, and trying new restaurants.
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Ivana Gasiorowski
Head of SchoolsIvana Gasiorowski serves as one of the Head of Schools. In this role, she supports student learning across KPPS by coaching and managing Principals. She has been in education for 10+ years, beginning her career as a kindergarten teacher with KPPS. Before beginning her role as a Head of Schools, she served as an Assistant Principal and later the Principal of KIPP Philadelphia Elementary Academy. She received her B.A. in Spanish Literature and Education from Haverford College and her M.Ed. in Elementary Education from Widener University. Outside of work, Ivana loves spending time with her husband, Gregory, and their three children, Grayson, Logan, and Gwendolyn.
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Melissa Poorman
Head of SchoolsAs Head of Schools, Melissa Poorman supports student learning across KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools by coaching and managing principals and supporting their implementation of all facets of programming.
Throughout her 14+ year career in education, Melissa has had the honor and privilege to serve the most amazing students and families in the Northeast, North, and West Philadelphia communities. Melissa started her career as a high school English teacher through Teach For America. After three years at her placement school, she joined the team at KPPS and has been here ever since. Melissa has served in many school-based roles as a teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal. She led KIPP DuBois Collegiate Academy for six years.
Melissa earned a B.A. in Politics with minors in African-American Studies and Poverty and Human Capabilities Studies from Washington and Lee University. She earned a M.S.Ed. from University of Pennsylvania.
Academics Team
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Amanda Neill
Managing Director of Student SupportsAmanda Neill serves as the Managing Director of Student Supports at KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools where she drives special education and responsive support programming across the region. Most recently, Amanda served as the Director of Teaching, Learning and Global Education for an independent school in Wilmington, Delaware where she collaborated on strategic planning, managed a dual-accreditation process, and built a robust global education program which was recently awarded an award of distinction by the Middle States Association. Her work in global education focused on cultural immersion and global competency with a focus on identity of self within the world; some of her favorite experiences include service learning in Ecuador and Peru, school-to-school partnerships in South Africa and Germany, and language immersion in France and Italy. Following a 5 year career in Arts Management, Amanda began her education career at Mastery Charter Schools in 2005 as the Director of Internship Program and secondary English teacher. Over 10 years, she grew to serve as an Assistant Principal of Special Education, Director of Academic Interventions, and Interim Deputy Chief of Specialized Services. Amanda holds a Bachelors degree from Indiana University and Masters degrees in Elementary Education and Special Education from Chestnut Hill College; she is also a proud Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar. She shares her world with her husband, David, and their three beautiful sons.
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Amanda Rau
Managing Director of Teaching and LearningAs the Managing Director of Teaching and Learning, Amanda Rau supports the instructional experience across the region. She works with school leaders and the regional office team to streamline, select and implement curriculum, assessment, and pedagogical approaches across the region.
Amanda joined KIPP Philly after several years as an Assistant Principal, driving STEAM instruction in high school and middle school settings, across both district and charter schools. She began her career as an educator teaching mathematics in Denver.
Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Amanda is a proud graduate of Colorado College which is located in the picturesque Colorado Springs at the base of the Rocky Mountains. When she is not working she spends her free time reading, drawing, cooking for family and friends, and enjoying the outdoors.
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Mike MacArthur
Senior Director of Data and AnalyticsAs the Director of Data and Analytics, Mike MacArthur supports data-informed decision-making across the region. He analyzes and generates reports of student-level achievement data; works cross-functionally to support data practices in all areas of regional operations, and; maintains the integrity of all student data through strong database management and by ensuring test protocols are followed. Mike moved into this role after serving four years as the Assistant Principal of Instruction at KIPP Dubois Collegiate Academy. Before joining the school, he worked for six years at Teach for America, where he started as a Program Director in South Louisiana, and then took on program leadership for the Greater Philadelphia region. Mike began his life as an educator at Franklin High, a small rural school nestled in the cane fields and marshland of South Louisiana. He taught Chemistry, Physics, and Physical Science, and led students to bring their passion for science to elementary students via a student-driven summer camp for 4th graders. The love of Cajun and Zydeco music and dancing that he developed in Louisiana continues today. Mike is a graduate of Cook College at Rutgers University where he majored in Natural Resource Management with a focus on Ecology and Evolution. Originally from Southern New Jersey, he now lives with his lovely wife, Tracy in the Point Breeze Neighborhood of South Philadelphia.
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Danielle Cooper-Williams
Senior Director of Equity & Cultural ProficiencyDanielle Cooper-Williams joined the regional office staff as the Senior Director of Equity & Cultural Proficiency in the summer of 2017. Previously, Danielle was an assistant principal for 4 years at KPEA and previously taught art, physical education, and grades kindergarten through 2nd, as well as serving as a grade level chair. A Philadelphia native, Danielle has been teaching, tutoring and working with students since she was 14. She began her formal teaching experiences while attending Howard University in Washington, DC. As a Human Development major, she embraces a belief in whole child development. She believes that children’s lives should be enriched with experiences that foster their social, emotional, physical and cognitive growth. During her graduate studies at Howard, she was able to conduct research on the experiences of students with ADHD. In previous years Danielle put all of her knowledge and experience to use as a second grade teacher in Southwest Philadelphia and the Founding Specials teacher at KPEA. She is classically trained in piano, an avid sports fan with a new love for Pilates and enjoys infusing art into her curriculum. Danielle became a teacher because she has a vested interest in the future of the children in her community. She will inspire and encourage her students to not just walk in her footsteps but take greater strides as they climb the mountain to college.
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Serrano Legrand
Director of MathematicsSerrano is the current Director of Mathematics for grades K-12. He is also completing his Doctorate of Education (Ed.D) at the University of Pennsylvania where his research and interests focuses on innovation, risk-taking, and professional development for teachers and learners.
Prior to working at KIPP, Serrano consulted and worked with over 500 educational leaders and students from around the world to build their capacities in imagining and enacting a better education system for students. He also worked, taught and supported Mathematics education in public schools in Atlanta, New York City and Philadelphia for the past 10 years.
Originally from Brooklyn, New York, Serrano graduated from Northeastern University with a BSBA (Bachelor of Science in Business Administration) and Relay’s Graduate School of Education with a Master of Arts in Teaching Secondary Mathematics. Serrano relies a lot on bell hooks (teaching to transgress) and Paulo Friere (Pedagogy of the Oppressed, Pedagogy of Freedom) as anchors for his philosophy on education.
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Ashley Heath
Director of Secondary MathAs the Director of Secondary Math, Ashley Heath works closely with educators to improve mathematical understanding while encouraging questioning and curiosity in scholars. Ashley lives in South Philadelphia and has a passion for urban education. She previously worked at Audenried High School as a Math Instructional Coach and Curriculum lead and as an Upper School Math teacher at Girard College.
Ashley also worked for Catapult Learning as the Math Curriculum Manager and the Manager of Assessment Products. During her time at Catapult, she led the national transition to the Common Core and created custom assessments, curriculum products, and assessments for districts throughout the country.
Before moving to Philadelphia, Ashley received her bachelor’s in mathematics from Gannon University and her master’s in Education from Slippery Rock University. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, reading, and visiting the Jersey Shore.
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Lauren Holifield
Director of Literacy and Mathematics K-2Lauren Holifield is the Director of Literacy and Mathematics for grades K-2 and a proud Philadelphia native. She graduated with a BA in Communications from St. John’s University and returned to school to earn her teacher certification and MA in Multicultural Education from Eastern University. Lauren taught kindergarten and 3rd grade in other schools across the city before making KIPP Philadelphia Elementary Academy her home in 2014. During her time there, she served as a Lead Kindergarten teacher, Liberty Teacher Fellow Coach, and Interim Assistant Principal. She was awarded the Star Teacher Award (current Connie Clayton Award) in 2017. She transferred to KIPP West Philadelphia Elementary Academy in 2019 as an Assistant Principal of Instruction, where she supported Kindergarten and Specials. Lauren is a third-generation educator, passionate about supporting the growth of our youngest leaders. She is honored to work alongside elementary school leaders across KIPP Philadelphia to ensure that literacy and math content is rigorous, accessible, and culturally relevant to all of our kindergarten through second-grade KIPPsters.
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Tammi Johnson
Director of LiteracyTammi Johnson is the Director of Literacy at KIPP Philadelphia Schools for grades 3-11. She graduated with a Bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Salisbury University and returned to earn a Master’s in Education with a Reading Specialist concentration. Tammi taught 2nd grade in Maryland for five years before joining KIPP Philadelphia Elementary Academy (KPEA) in 2014. While there, she served as a second-grade teacher and Grade Level Chair. Beyond this, Tammi spent five years as an Assistant Principal of Instruction at KPEA, supporting Specials, Kindergarten, 3rd and 4th-grade teams. Tammi is passionate about growing literacy skills in children of all ages by making data-informed decisions and supporting strong implementation of rigorous curricula. She dedicates her time to collaborating with educators across KIPP Philadelphia to ensure that students find joy, affirmation, and true self-confidence while they grow as readers. When not working, Tammi enjoys spending time with her husband and three children, lounging at the beach with a good book, and baking.
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Julia Cadwallender
REGIONAL DIRECTOR OF STUDENT SUPPORTSJulia Cadwallender is the Regional Director of Student Supports at KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools. After graduating from Emory University with a degree in Sociology, Community Building & Social Change, Julia moved to Philadelphia to join Teach for America. Following her TFA years teaching special education in North Philadelphia, Julia joined KPEA as the founding 1st-grade special education teacher. Driven by the opportunity to build more inclusive educational experiences for all students, Julia helped the KPEA team grow into an inclusive and joyful K-4 school. She then served as the founding Assistant Principal at KNPA, helping set the foundation for KIPP Philly’s first K-8 school. When she is not working, Julia spends time with her husband and two sons exploring all the best parks in Philadelphia.
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Samantha Freeman
Regional Director of Student SupportsSamantha Freeman is the Regional Director of Student Supports at KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools, where she drives special education and student support programming across secondary schools. Most recently, Samantha served as the Assistant Principal of Student Support at KIPP Philadelphia Elementary Academy, where she supported the development of robust programming to support all students and families. Prior to her leadership role at KPEA, Samantha taught for seven years in Philadelphia and Virginia, always centering her teaching around creating a joyful student experience and driving academic growth. Samantha attended the University of Hartford and received a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in education. She always knew she wanted to work with children and spent many undergraduate summers as a preschool special education assistant. When not working, Samantha loves to spend time with her husband and three wonderful children.
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Michelle Icenogle
Regional Director of Student WellnessMichelle Icenogle was previously the Founding Social Worker at the original KIPP Philly from 2004 – 2008 and recently rejoined KIPP Philadelphia in Spring 2023 as the Regional Director of Student Wellness. Michelle holds a BA in Psychology from Cornell University, a MSW from the University of Pennsylvania, and a Master’s in Educational Administration from San Francisco State University. Her work in education started in both Special Education and Gifted Mathematics in Texas as part of Teach for America (TFA). After completing her commitment to TFA, Michelle deferred graduate school at UPenn to join the KIPP Houston team for a year-long stint in various roles. Thus, she began her life-long connection to KIPP and the communities we serve. She has held Director roles with multiple CMOs and educational agencies where she provided coaching, support, and systems change and implementation for discipline, SEL, student services, social work, and more.
Michelle believes education can be a powerful force for social justice and change and requires us to put in the necessary work as individuals, organizations, and systems to move it forward. Michelle enjoys reading and learning new things outside the office, especially in creative and community-led spaces and alongside her small human.
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Dagbélossou J. Zannou
Student Information Systems AnalystDagbélossou joined KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools in March 2021 and is currently the Student Information Systems Analyst at the Regional Office (RO). Before joining the RO, he worked at Whitney M. Young, Jr. Health Center in various positions – the last and longest being the Financial Analyst.
He earned his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in economics from the University at Albany. In his leisure time, he enjoys spending time with his daughter, cycling, working out, staying in touch with relatives and long-time friends, having delicious meals, coding, or traveling.
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Faith Carter
Professional Development & Events CoordinatorFaith Carter serves as the Professional Development and Events Coordinator at KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools, where she coordinates and manages events of varying sizes and capacities across KPPS. Faith has been with KIPP in many capacities; she has the unique experience of being a KIPPster at KPCS ’12 and KDCA ’16 and is now a proud alum.
Before joining KPPS, Faith worked for Penn Libraries as a Library Liaison, supporting the development and maintenance of many Philadelphia Public School libraries, including but not limited to Lea Elementary School, West Philly High School, and Mastbaum High School. Faith graduated from the University of Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science in Africana Studies. She later joined Germantown Friends School in their Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as an Administrative Coordinator. Faith is always looking for ways to give back to the communities that served her by supporting and advocating for educational equity and diversity. Faith hails from North Philadelphia and is passionate about radical self-love, fitness, food, building generational wealth, and Philly sports! In her free time, you can find Faith at the gym, relaxing at the spa, or spending time with her friends and family!
Finance Team
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Chris Guy
ControllerChris serves as the Controller for KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools (KPPS). He oversees the accounting for the organization, including the accounts payables, accounts receivables, fiscal and regulatory compliance, cash management, and audit management. Chris earned a Bachelor of Business Administration in Finance from Temple University and a Master of Business Administration in Accounting from LaSalle University. Chris is a Certified Public Accountant in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Before joining KPPS, Chris was the Controller for Ursinus College and oversaw the daily accounting, accounts receivable, accounts payable, financial systems, payroll, endowment, contracts, and post-award grant operations.
Chris grew up in the East Mount Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia and now resides in Wynnefield Heights.
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Agnes Nowakowicz
Senior AccountantAgnieszka (Agnes) Nowakowicz serves as the Senior Accountant. In that role, she is responsible for general ledger accounting, reconciliations, and assisting with financial reporting.
She has previously worked as an auditor at Rothstein Kass and as a corporate accountant at De Novo Corporation, where she was responsible for all accounting activities.
Agnes earned her Bachelor of Science in Accounting from the University of Delaware and Master of Science in Biomedical Engineering from Wroclaw Institute of Technology.
She enjoys spending time with family and friends and listening to audiobooks.
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Coura Keita
Accounting ManagerAs the Accounting Manager, Coura Keita is responsible for the accuracy and integrity of everyday financial transactions and for assisting in the implementation and monitoring of internal controls for all six schools and the regional office of KIPP Philadelphia.
Before rejoining the Regional Office team, Coura was first employed at KIPP as an Accounting Associate. She also has a diverse professional background in Tax and Auditing through her prior employment at Nathan Caplan, CPA as Tax Associate, and The Monbo Group International as Junior Auditor.
Coura earned a Professional Master’s in Business Administration from the University of Guam and a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Towson University.
Very adventurous, one of Coura life passions besides her family is traveling and enjoying good food.
Operations Team
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Tracy MacArthur
Managing Director of Regional OperationsAs the Managing Director of Regional Operations, Tracy MacArthur supports the school-based operations and is responsible for state reporting and compliance. Prior to working for KIPP, Tracy worked in school operations for eight years, most recently as a Managing Director of Operations for a multi-state charter network. Tracy started her career as an educator at a high school in Opelousas, LA as a 2004 Teach for America corps member. Tracy then served as the Volunteer Director for Volunteers In Public Schools, a non-profit organization working to foster student success for students by building public support for public education. She received her B.A. in Speech Communication from Ithaca College and a Masters in Public Administration from the University of Pennsylvania. Tracy now lives with her husband, Mike in the Point Breeze Neighborhood of South Philadelphia.
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Patrice Green
Regional Director of OperationsHer passion for schools, operations, and doing whatever it takes to maximize student outcomes led her to serve as KIPP West Philadelphia Prep’s Director of Operations for nine years. Prior to KIPP, she served as a Site Director with the University of Pennsylvania’s Netter Center for Community Partnerships and Sayre High School in West Philadelphia. Patrice worked with Penn’s Upward Bound college preparatory program and at Teach For America as the Director of Institute Operations, the Director of Institute Support, and is a former corps member.
Patrice holds a Bachelor of Science in Advertising with a concentration in Business Administration from the University of Florida. She also has a Master of Science in Public Administration with a certificate in Non-Profit Leadership and a Master of Science in School Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania. In her free time, Patrice enjoys volunteering at local organizations and serving as a Wish Granter with the Make a Wish Foundation.
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Michael Cortez
Regional Compliance ManagerMichael Cortez is the Regional Compliance Manager for KIPP Philadelphia’s Regional Office. He is responsible for making sure KIPP school sites have accurate data to report to the School District of Philadelphia and Pennsylvania’s Department of Education. Swing by his desk, you’ll probably find him working on a spreadsheet. He enjoys using macros to streamline his workbooks and appreciates conditional formatting done the right way.
Prior to joining KIPP, Michael served as an AmeriCorps VISTA member during its 50th year anniversary at New York Cares. In this role, he met and worked with school leaders and volunteers across six NYC public school sites. Later he went on to join Coney Island Prep and its Middle School Operations team as well as Pan American Academy up in North Philly. He enjoys building connections with students, staff and parents of each school.
Michael graduated from John Jay’s College of Criminal Justice, CUNY in 2014 with a Bachelor’s in Political Science. He is from New York City and always roots for the NY Yankees. Likes include Wawa coffee, finding great Burger or Mexican food spots, and online shopping.
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Attia Reeder
Regional Office and Operations ManagerAs the Regional Office and Operations Manager, Attia is responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of the Regional Office and coordinating major events for our region. Prior to joining the KPPS team, Attia worked full time in the Beauty industry as a hair stylist at one of Philadelphia’s top hair salons. Prior to that, Attia spent several years working in the real estate corporate industry. As a native Philadelphian, she is excited to combine her organizational expertise with her love for customer relations to support the schools in the KIPP Philadelphia network. Attia is a foodie and enjoys trying out new restaurants in the city, and spending time with her son, Jordan.
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Victoria Johnson
Human Resources ManagerVictoria Johnson is the Human Resources Manager for the KIPP Philadelphia Regional Office. Before joining KIPP, Victoria worked as a Human Resource Coordinator, and Branch Manager in healthcare focused on homecare and behavioral health services in the Philadelphia area. Victoria is involved in all things HR and serves as a resource for employees to support them in everything from benefits to onboarding. Victoria got her undergraduate degree in Business Administration from the University of Maryland. In her free time, Victoria loves to bake delicious treats, binge-watch her favorite shows, travel, and spend time with family and friends. Being a Central Pennsylvania native, she prefers Sheetz to Wawa. But as a true foodie, anywhere she can grab something delicious to eat is the place for her!
KIPP Forward Team
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Vaneeda Days
Managing Director of KIPP ForwardVaneeda Days joined the KIPP Forward team in Philadelphia as the Director of College Placement, helping students who attend non-KIPP high schools through the college admissions process. A native of Philadelphia, Vaneeda has a vested interest in education and incredibly committed to seeing the youth in our city go to and through college. Her background is in non-profit program management. She has spent the past four years leading the Philadelphia Scholars Program, an initiative of the Philadelphia Education Fund. In this role she provided college admissions and financial aid counseling and support to an annual cohort of over 300 Philadelphia high school and college students. She also tracked and supported the scholarship recipients’ college retention and graduation rates. Prior to her work at the Philadelphia Scholars Program, Vaneeda worked for the Philadelphia Youth Network in roles such as Re-engagement Specialist and Operations Coordinator. She has an undergraduate degree in Business Administration from Gwynedd – Mercy College. She enjoys traveling, shopping and dining with friends and family.
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Jason Smith
Senior Director, Post-Secondary OutcomesJason joined KIPP Philadelphia’s KIPP Forward team in 2013 as a Director of College Support. In his current role, he supports the team of Advisors working with KIPP Philly alumni as they enter young adulthood and begin to build the foundation for their lives. His work revolves around program design, sustainability and alumni advising.
During Jason’s professional career, he has worked with various college access and success programs in Philadelphia; and operated in many capacities from direct service to program design and management. As a proud native of Philadelphia, Jason sees his work as a way to give back and create change in the city. He feels privileged to continue to serve in the role of “helper” in guiding students to opportunities that will shape and create meaningful outcomes for their lives.
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Dion Robinson
Dual Enrollment Program ManagerDion joined the KIPP Forward team in the Summer of 2023 as a Dual Enrollment Program Manager. In his role, he carries out the vision and goals of KIPP Philadelphia’s dual enrollment strategy to increase the number of students successfully graduating from our high school with stackable college credit(s). Dion earned his B.S. in Health Science from Lincoln University and his Master’s in Leadership Development from Penn State University.
Before joining KIPP, Dion worked as a Dual Enrollment Coordinator for Middle College programs, where he served as a liaison providing support to 250+ high school students who were dually enrolled full-time at a local community college, their high school administration, and community partners. He has also served as a Senior Admissions Counselor at Lincoln University, recruiting students nationally, focusing on the Philadelphia area. In his role, Dion worked directly with KIPP DuBois Collegiate Academy by visiting and providing KIPP students with information about acceptances and scholarship opportunities. Dion’s approach to education ensures that each student feels like an individual, as there is no “one-size fits all” way to make an impact. -
Chamoya Waller
Persistence AdvisorChamoya joined the KIPP Forward team in the Fall of 2022 as a Persistence Advisor. In her role, she supports our alumni to persist on their chosen pathways by providing information about KIPP Alumni and mental health resources, connection to campus supports, and advisement on academic and career plans. Chamoya finds joy and motivation in helping her students succeed in reaching their goals as they navigate through their new post-secondary journeys. Education is important to Chamoya, and as she transitioned through her post-secondary education, she has been so fortunate to have mentors to guide and encourage her and she wants to be that person for our students.
As a proud native of Jamaica, Chamoya migrated to America in 2010, where she completed high school and earned her B.A. in Criminal Justice and M.Ed. in Educational Leadership and College Student Affairs from Bloomsburg University. Chamoya is committed to cultural advocacy, educational equity, and social justice. Before joining KIPP, Chamoya worked in nonprofit and CTE education as a Student Success Advisor, where she mentored, coached, and advised students through graduation. In her spare time, Chamoya whips up flavorful Jamaican cuisine where the spice is always right, traveling, shopping, and spending time with her family and friends.
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Justin Lockley
Career Development AdvisorJustin joined the KIPP through College team in the summer of 2021. In his role as the Career Development Advisor, he serves as a liaison to all grade level teams, working with each team to promote strategic career exploration and exposure opportunities for all students. Prior to coming to KIPP Philly, Justin has worked in the non-profit and educational field since 2009 on the university and high school level specifically with opportunity youth. He has designed indirect and direct career pathway programming for students and alumni transitioning to postsecondary education or alternative training programs. Also he managed all facets of selection and matching, student and alumni professional development and outcomes.
Justin earned his Bachelor’s degree in Media Communications with an emphasis on journalism and public relations from Lock Haven University. In addition he has five professional secondary certifications in workforce development. Justin has a firm belief in assisting individuals to reach their fullest potential both personally and professionally.
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Natasha Toney
Career Development AdvisorNatasha joined the KIPP Forward team in the Fall of 2022 as a Career Advisor supporting the current efforts of the Career team and helping to expand career initiatives and opportunities for students. Before KIPP, Natasha served in nonprofit and educational spaces providing indirect and direct support to youth at the high school level as they entered the workforce for the first time. She earned her bachelor’s degree in English from Temple University and is intentional about leveraging her skillset and expertise to help individuals identify, secure, and navigate opportunities that align with their passion; and has grown a strong interest in consulting.
Natasha is a native of Philadelphia and spends her free time with her husband and three boys: finding new playgrounds in and around the city, taking family trips, and ordering pizza on the weekends! She also enjoys reading, writing, and binge-watching 80s & 90s TV shows and movies.
Talent Team
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Jill Farrara
Managing Director of TalentJill joined the KIPP Philly team in November of 2017 as the Managing Director of Talent. In her role, Jill works to ensure that phenomenal folks are leading our schools and classrooms and that those phenomenal folks stay with us because they are inspired, supported, and developed every day! Before joining KIPP, Jill served in various central leadership roles (curriculum, instruction, assessment, operations, talent); before that, she was a high school English teacher.
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Diana Filo
Senior Director of Teacher and Leader PathwaysDiana Filo is currently the Senior Director of Teacher and Leader Pathways for KIPP Philadelphia Public Schools. Prior to this role, she spent three years as the Founding School Leader of KIPP West Philadelphia Elementary Academy (KWPEA). Diana began her career in education in Baltimore, where she taught 2nd grade. She continued her work in Baltimore as a Teach For America staff member where she was in charge of coaching teachers throughout the city. After Baltimore, she continued to coach and train new teachers across the country as they started their teaching careers. She began her KIPP career in 2013 as a 1st grade teacher, Miles Family Fellow, and Grade Level Chair at KIPP Philadelphia Elementary Academy (KPEA). At KPEA she was also an Assistant Principal and a member of the KIPP Foundation’s Leadership Team Cohort. In 2015, she became a KIPP Fisher Fellow and in that year KWPEA was born. Academically, Diana completed her undergrad at Penn State University, she also has a Masters in the Art of Teaching from Johns Hopkins University and a Masters in Administration and Supervision from the University of Houston. Diana firmly believes that it is our responsibility is to cultivate the intellect, character, skills, and habits of our students so that they can become empowered leaders who choose their own futures while leaving the world better than they found it.
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Brea Smith
Senior Director of TalentBrea Smith is a native of Southern Jersey and a proud product of the public school system. She pursued her bachelor’s degree from Franklin & Marshall College where she majored in Political Science. After completing her B.A., she went on to become a Teach For America corp member in Jacksonville, FL.
Brea later received her M.A. in Educational Leadership & Policy from New York University. Her work experience spans across public schools, government agencies, and nonprofits. She has classroom experience ranging from 2nd to 11th grade, has created expansion opportunities for pre-K services with the New York City Department of Education, and has spearheaded workforce development programs within Philadelphia. Most recently, Brea was an Assistant Principal of Operations with IDEA Public Schools in Austin, TX. She is excited to return to Philly and support the mission and values of KIPP Philadelphia.
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Nij Curtis
Director of TalentNij Curtis is a West Philadelphia native and the big brother of thirteen siblings, all educated in the Philadelphia public school system. Nij completed his bachelors degree at Morehouse College in Atlanta, GA. He was fortunate to be a part of the class of scholars who received their full tuition paid for by Philanthropist, Robert Smith. After graduating Nij relocated from Atlanta to Memphis, TN where we began his career in education as a 4th grade teacher. While serving, he also participated in the Memphis Collegiate 100 Mentorship program where his passion for education access was sharpened while mentoring three high school students with college aspiration.
Nij then relocated to Washington, DC where he joined the KIPP network and family as a 4th grade teacher. Nij is currently pursuing his M.Ed., in Education Policy and Leadership from American University and is passionate about elevating the communal education efforts and experiences for Black and Brown children in Philadelphia. In his free time Nij enjoys eating at nice restaurants, traveling, spending time with loved ones, and keeping in contact with some of his former ‘Spelhouse’ scholars! Nij is honored to serve in this capacity and excited to grow and bridge the gap of representation for Black and Brown students right here in his hometown.
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Takeem Ragland
Director of RecruitmentTakeem is a native of New Jersey and attended Delaware State University, where he graduated with his B.A. After graduating from Del State, he went into substitute teaching and sports coaching. In 2015, he graduated from Saint Joseph’s University with his M.A. Shortly after graduation, he moved to North Carolina and became a Teach for America educator. He taught at KIPP Gaston College Prep as an 8th grade ELA teacher.
Takeem later traveled overseas to teach in China for a few years. It was there that he began his experience as a teacher recruiter. Returning to America in 2021, he stayed in recruitment as a technical and corporate recruiter. Currently, he is the Director of Recruitment for KIPP Philadelphia elementary schools. He is excited to return to KIPP and be able to serve the community.
External Impact Team
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Anisha Sinha
Managing Director of DevelopmentAnisha Sinha joined KIPP Philadelphia in January 2023 and brings a deep knowledge and understanding of community-driven work with over a decade of nonprofit leadership experience. She has played a critical role in virtually all aspects of organizational management ranging from strategic and fiscal planning to marketing. Through her work, she has transformed organizations and developed diverse partnerships, volunteer opportunities, and stakeholder engagements benefiting the community at-large. Her approach in developing effective and quality fundraising initiatives is driven by considering innovative alternatives to existing approaches to elevate an organization’s mission. Anisha began her career while serving as an AmeriCorps member at LIFT-Philadelphia, a national anti-poverty organization. This experience had a profound impact on her interest in public sector work and continues to influence her fundraising strategies. Anisha earned her MPA from the Fels Institute of Government at the University of Pennsylvania. She also holds a dual BA from the University of Michigan in Psychology and English Language & Literature. Anisha currently sits on the Board of Directors for Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Greater Philadelphia. Outside of work, she is an avid reader, enjoys cooking, and can be found spending time with her husband (Wayne), dog (Ramona), and two cats (Frederick and Patricia).
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Aja Moore-Ramos
Director of CommunicationsAja joined KIPP Philadelphia in February 2022 and currently serves as the Director of Communications. Her role includes shaping KPPS’ brand narrative, developing a cohesive social media strategy, and highlighting opportunities for impact to a growing donor audience. Prior to KIPP Philadelphia, Aja worked in the college access space and as a K-8 educator. Most recently she served as the Director of Communications at College Track, a national college completion program. She also spent four years with KIPP Northern California as an Education Specialist and Assistant Principal. Aja is a New Jersey native, who has resided in California, Massachusetts, and New York. She holds a Master of Science degree in Education from Hunter College and a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Writing from Emerson College. Aja is a proud mother of three, who enjoys creative writing and trying new restaurants in her free time.
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Andrew Ockenden
Development and External Impact ManagerAndrew serves as the Development and External Impact Manager. In this role, he manages grant writing, reporting, and data analysis. He also manages KIPP’s volunteer program. Prior to joining KIPP in June of 2021, Andrew spent over 5 years at iMentor: a New York City-based youth mentorship and college access program. At iMentor, Andrew led the region’s corporate engagement efforts. Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and daughter, as well as running and listening to music.
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Mary Okeke
Development Manager, OperationsMary Okeke joined KIPP Philadelphia in January 2024. She leads our grant writing, reporting, and development operations. Prior to their time at KIPP, Mary worked on the Development Team at the Philadelphia Outward Bound School where she wrote grants, planned donor engagement events, and managed their donor system. Mary is a dynamic and creative advocate with experience working in a variety of nonprofit organizations and functional areas for fundraising, program development, and 1 on 1 direct service. Mary leads with a strength-based approach that focuses work on equity. In her free time, she enjoys creating art, cooking for her friends, and taking long walks.
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Michelle Wells Sheed
Executive Assistant to CEOMichelle Wells Sheed serves as the Executive Assistant. In her role, she is responsible for supporting our CEO and our Chief of Staff with coordination of calendars, compiling of data for Board meetings, and providing administrative support on their behalf. Michelle has an extensive background supporting executives and has worked for several Mayors of the City of Philadelphia. She has also worked at Drexel University for over thirteen years in the College of Engineering as an Executive Assistant/Events Manager under the leadership of several deans.
She received her certification in SHRM (Society of Human Resources Management) at Villanova University and she is also a certified Events Planner through MPI.
In her spare time, she enjoys traveling with her husband, Jule and spending time with her family. She also enjoys cooking for family and friends and working with homeless women in transition through her recovery home, Reaching for Recovery, LLC.
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