| Name | Biography |
|---|---|
| Justin Ahlbach jeahlbach@gmail.com |
Justin Ahlbach has an MA in Literature from Rosemont College, and has taught Composition, Language Arts and American Literature at schools in China and the Philippines. |
| Frances Alloway N/A |
I have been teaching cooking and nutrition classes for many years as a consultant and employee. As a consultant, I have worked with hospitals, child care sites, senior centers, and libraries including the Free Library of Philadelphia. I have presented programming on Radnor 21 and WGTV television stations that included seasonal food and health topics. As an employee of Penn State Extension and Early Head Start, I co-authored Dining with Diabetes, Totally Veggies, The Mediterranean Cuisine Comes to You curricula and taught hundreds of classes for all age groups. I am a registered dietitian and nutritionist, a certified ServSafe instructor and have child abuse clearances. |
| Pamela Aloia pamela@blossomingeveryday.com |
Pamela is an experienced writer and energy practitioner dedicated to exploring the intersection of consciousness and personal transformation. With a background spanning professional writing and editing, Pamela seamlessly blends technical expertise with deep spiritual insight. She is certified in various modalities of energy work, including Reiki, Past Life Regression Therapy, and Meditation where she empowers others on their journey of healing and conscious living. As a passionate advocate for fellow authors, Pamela hosts workshops that focus on self-expression and discovery through writing. She also provides essential services, such as editing and outline development, to help clients polish their work and make it publication-ready. |
| Bellafrida Andres N/A |
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| Amy Anna N/A |
Amy B Anna is an artist and attorney living in Media, PA. She is a contributing writer for the film website, www.cutprintfilm.com, which is a Philadelphia-based site devoted to all things related to film. Her art-related website and blog can be found at www.amyannaart.com. |
| David Back N/A |
David R. Back, is a photojournalist with thirty-five years of experience with film cameras, and digital cameras, and cell phone photography. Media covered includes Club newsletters, weddings, social gatherings, education seminars, sports, studio, nature, technical, (three published books), and pet photography. He is also a ASE Master certified electrical instructor with 35 years of experience with teaching, diagnosing, and repairing electrical equipment and adding circuits. |
| Staff, Baltimore Craft Show N/A |
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| Eric Bell ericbellwriter@gmail.com |
Eric Bell is the author of two juvenile fiction books: Alan Cole Is Not a Coward and its sequel, Alan Cole Doesn't Dance, both published by HarperCollins. Alan Cole Is Not a Coward was nominated for the 2018 ALA Rainbow List of GLBTQ Books for Children & Teens. Eric has experience leading workshops and classes in the Philadelphia area. He is eager to bring his unique blend of writing experience, interactivity, and good humor to Main Line School Night. |
| Abha Belorkar N/A |
I have a PhD in Computer Science from the National University of Singapore. I have been a faculty member in the Department of Computer Science at Temple University, where I have taught courses such as discrete mathematics, probability, and statistics. I am an avid learner, and I am especially interested in all things math. This class will allow me to share some cool things about Vedic mathematics.. |
| Aliza Benjamin ambenjam@olemiss.edu |
Aliza M. Benjamin PhD |
| Lynn Berkowitz lberkowitz225@gmail.com |
Lynn Berkowitz, MFA, BFA, with a career in art museums, has developed an array of award-winning gallery tours, experiences, and apps aimed at helping audiences of all ages and abilities engage with a diversity of art ‘isms and approaches. |
| Richard Berman N/A |
Richard Berman, Owner, Pour Richard's Coffee Company |
| I Berwyn Squash & Fitness Club dominic@berwynsquash.com |
Staff, Berwyn Squash & Fitness Club |
| Dan Biddle N/A |
Daniel R. Biddle is a Pulitzer Prize winning journalist for a series of investigative stories on the Philadelphia courts for The Philadelphia Inquirer. He has won national awards for his work and was a Nieman Fellow at Harvard University. He's taught journalism at the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University and the University of Delaware. He currently writes for the Equal Justice Initiative in Montgomery, Ala. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife, Sara Rimer, and babysits often for his two grandchildren. |
| Owen Biddle owenbiddlephotography@gmail.com |
OWEN BIDDLE has been taking pictures for thirty-five years and teaching photography for about thirty years. One thing he loves about teaching is watching his students' unique vision and creativity unfold as they master the how-to's of the camera. He loves challenging his students to see the camera as a tool for creating meaningful images. He also loves studying the masters of photography, and strives to inspire his students to use the lessons that can be learned from those who came before us, both in photography and in art, in general. Owen reports that the whole class has a lot of fun together, following and developing their passion for this wonderful media. |
| Amanda Blevins amanda@blevins-somm.com |
Amanda Blevins is certified wine educator and sommelier who has a passion for sharing the story behind each bottle and helping others discover new wines to love. She is the owners of Blevins Sommelier Services, LLC, a graduate of Napa Valley Wine Academy and holds Level 3 Certification from Wine & Spirits Education Trust. |
| Roslyn Blyn LaDrew roislindubh@gmail.com |
Dr. Roslyn Blyn-LaDrew received her Ph.D. in Folklore and Folklife at the University of Pennsylvania and her B.A. in Celtic Languages and Literature at Harvard University, with study abroad in Ireland (Co. Donegal), Scotland (Stornoway, Isle of Lewis), and Wales (Aberystwyth). She was a columnist for the Irish Edition newspaper for about 25 years, until the paper's final issue. She currently teaches Irish (Gaeilge) at the University of Pennsylvania and also teaches Irish and Welsh online. She is also a musician, singing and playing the fiddle with the group Roz an' the Beaux. |
| Jon Bock N/A |
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| Yolanda Booker N/A |
With over 40 years of experience as a maker, Yolanda is known for her creative handmade knitted and crocheted accessories. She enjoys sharing her creative passion through teaching and coaching at Wild Hand LYC (https://wild-hand.com/), Cheltenham Township Adult School, Jefferson University Creative Making Workshop, Princeton University Winter Session Knitting Workshop and Allen’s Lane Art Center. Her objective is to inspire knitters and crocheters to raise the bar with new techniques. Like our world, she knows that creativity comes in many shapes, sizes, and colors. |
| Donna Boyle donnaboyledisco@aol.com |
Donna has been competing and performing as a dancer for 30 years. She was the regional dance champion on the national TV show "Dance Fever" and has numerous TV credits. She teaches dance throughout the Philadelphia region and is the proprietor of Party Pros Entertainment & Disco America. |
| Jennifer Brandt jbrandt@cozen.com |
JENNIFER BRANDT has been practicing family law for more than 25 years. She is licensed both in Pennsylvania and New Jersey and is currently a partner at Cozen O’Connor and chair-elect of the ABA Family Law Section. She also appears frequently as a legal expert on local and national television such as Court TV and Fox News. Jennifer received her law degree from the University of Pennsylvania Law School. You can view her complete bio at www.cozen.com. |
| Cynthia Branigan N/A |
https://cynthiabranigan.com/about/ Cynthia Branigan’s professional involvement with the welfare and protection of animals dates to 1974, when she began volunteering with author Cleveland Amory and his organization, The Fund for Animals. In 1977, she became a full-time staff member. Through The Fund, she helped set up adoption centers across the country for over 6,000 wild burros and 4,000 mustangs rescued from public lands in the west. In 1980, on The Fund’s behalf, she bought Gamal, the last Atlantic City Steel Pier Diving Horse. The relationship that developed between the two transformed them both and is the subject of her recently released third book, a memoir titled THE LAST DIVING HORSE IN AMERICA (Pantheon, New York, 2021). The book won the 2022 EQUUS award for Best Nonfiction Equine Book. In 1987, Ms. Branigan adopted her first retired racing Greyhound, King (racing name Low Key Two), and in 1988 was inspired by him to found Make Peace With Animals, a non-profit, all volunteer, animal protection group, www.mpwa.org. Its special mission is the adoption of retired racing Greyhounds. So far, over 5,500 of these dogs have found homes through the organization. Other Books Ms. Branigan is the author of two books on Greyhounds, both published by Howell Book House, NY. The first, ADOPTING THE RACING GREYHOUND, has sold over 100,000 copies since it first appeared in 1992 and is now in an updated Third Edition. It was the first book published on the subject, and the only one written by someone who directs an adoption group. Known as the Bible for anyone considering ownership of a former racing dog, it inspired the Greyhound adoption movement worldwide. Her second book, THE REIGN OF THE GREYHOUND: A POPULAR HISTORY OF THE OLDEST FAMILY OF DOGS, traces the breed in art, history, and sport from 6000 BCE to the present. It won top prize, Best General Interest Book, in 1998 from the Dog Writers’ Association of America and is now in an expanded Second Edition. Other Publications In 1994, Ms. Branigan wrote the chapter on adoption for The COMPLETE BOOK OF GREYHOUNDS (Barrons, New York). In 2002, she edited LIVING WITH A GREYHOUND (Ringpress Publishers, Ltd., U.K.) Journalism and Media Appearances Ms. Branigan is an award-winning journalist who has written for such publications as THE NEW YORK TIMES, NEW JERSEY MONTHLY, EQUUS, and DOG WORLD. For many years, Ms. Branigan wrote a monthly column, “From The Home Front,” for the GREYHOUND REVIEW, the magazine of the National Greyhound Association. Her media appearances include ANIMAL PLANET, GOOD MORNING AMERICA, GOOD DAY PHILADELPHIA and WHYY’s RADIO TIMES. Peer Recognition In 2003, The Greyhound Project recognized her pioneering adoption work, as did Greyhound Pets of America in 2005, and the National Greyhound Association in 2007. Education and Personal Ms. Branigan was educated at Franconia College in New Hampshire and the University of Pennsylvania. She shares a home in Bucks County, Pennsylvania with her husband Charles and their adopted Greyhounds and cats. The Last Diving Horse in America The book described by Publisher’s Weekly as “a moving love letter to rescued animals,” The Last Diving Horse in America (Pantheon, NY, 2021) recounts the author’s life-changing experiences with Gamal, Atlantic City’s last Steel Pier High-Diving horse. Cruelly discarded by the pier’s owners when the act was shuttered, Ms. Branigan, on behalf of her employer The Fund for Animals, bought Gamal at a treacherous auction and, together, horse and human transformed each other. |
| Dotty Brown dotty.brown@gmail.com |
Dotty Brown is a former reporter and editor at The Philadelphia Inquirer. During her newspaper career, she edited numerous award-winning projects, including one that won a Pulitzer Prize. She is a graduate of Wellesley College (where she did not learn to row despite its historic crew program) and the Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism (where she did learn to report and write). She came to rowing as part of the surging wave of masters rowers and is a member of the Vesper Boat Club, on Boathouse Row in Philadelphia. |
| Laura Bryan N/A |
Laura Bryan, founder of The Dearden Group, is a dynamic marketing expert, travel writer, and digital nomad who’s explored 30+ countries across six continents. Writing her way around the world, she’s crafted stories for travel brands and publications that inspire others to explore with confidence. On her blog, Laura shares her adventures, travel inspiration, and creative marketing strategies to help others tell their own stories. Check out her recent articles: https://www.thedeardengroup.com/blog |
| Richard Buoni N/A |
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| Catherine Cahill N/A |
Catherine M. Cahill has served as the president and CEO of the Mann Center for Performing Arts since 2008, and before joining the Mann she led the Brooklyn Philharmonic as its president and CEO. Since starting her role at the Mann, she has drawn on her leadership experience with major arts and culture organizations in markets such as New York, Toronto and Chicago. |
| Bradford Carmichael BCarmichaelEnterprises@gmail.com |
A multi-disciplinary Philadelphia area artist and freelance designer, Brad has exhibited in the region for the past 15 years. He holds a BFA in painting and drawing from Tyler School of Art and an MFA from the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts. https://BradDesign.net. |
| Tasha Carson tashatai12@icloud.com |
Tasha is a fitness enthusiast with over 25 years of experience. She is an avid hiker, enjoys biking, camping and kayaking. Tasha is the proud mom of 3 active boys and has been a lifetime resident of the Main Line. She has been teaching fitness classes for a little over 25 years and is certified to teach Yoga (all types), Body Pump, Barre, Pilates, step aerobics, weight training. |
| Michael Castillo michaelcastilloskitchen@gmail.com |
Owner, Michael Castillo's Kitchen. www.michaelcastilloskitchen.com |
| Maria Ceferatti mcef869@gmail.com |
Maria Ceferatti is a published writer of short stories, essays and poetry, and earned her MFA in Creative Writing from Rosemont College. She is a writing instructor and music teacher in the Philadelphia area. |
| Staff Chanticleer N/A |
Staff, Experienced Chanticleer Tour Guide |
| Margie Cherry margiebcherry@gmail.com |
Margie Cherry’s multiple professional identities include Associate Director of Alumni Career Services at Lafayette College, career coach, professional speaker, and former long-running cartoonist and short-term stand-up comic. Margie is the author and illustrator of "Mom's Comedy Coloring Book", published by Humor Outcasts Press, and her work has appeared in numerous humor anthologies and publications including "The Best of the Best American Humor"; and "The Best Contemporary Women's Humor". |
| Staff, City Hall Visitor Center N/A |
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| Staff, Cliveden House N/A |
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| Elizabeth Cochran etclizard@gmail.com |
ELIZABETH COCHRAN plays the Double Bass and received an AB from Bryn Mawr College. She also received a Diploma in Music from the New School of Music in Philadelphia, where she was a student of Michael Shahan. Elizabeth performs with numerous symphonic and chamber ensembles in the Philadelphia region, including the Delaware Symphony, Pennsylvania Ballet and the Philly Pops. In addition to her work as a bassist, she is the organist at Central Baptist Church in Wayne. |
| Mary Coe N/A |
Mary Coe, Hike Leader, Willows Park Preserve |
| Cathleen Cohen cpoems@gmail.com |
Cathleen Cohen is Montgomery County’s 2019 Poet Laureate. A painter, poet and teacher, she founded ArtWell’s “We the Poets” program in Philadelphia (www.theartwell.org). She has taught students of all ages from a variety of diverse cultural and faith backgrounds in the USA and in Israel. Her poems have appeared in Apiary, Baltimore Review, Cagibi, Chrysalis Journal, East Coast Ink, 6ix, Philadelphia Stories and other publications. In 2017 her chapbook “Camera Obscura” won a Moonstone Arts Press prize. She received the Interfaith Relations Award from the Montgomery County PA Human Rights Commission and the Public Service Award from National Association of Poetry Therapy. Her paintings are on view at Cerulean Arts gallery in Philadelphia (https://ceruleanarts.com) |
| Staff, Colonial PA Farmstead N/A |
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| Jennifer Colucciello jenilyn77@msn.com |
Jennifer Colucciello is the Director of Compliance for Rothman Orthopaedics with over thirty years in healthcare, including clinical and operational management and education, and over a decade in healthcare compliance. Jeni specializes in Healthcare Compliance, working hard to ensure that all regulations are met as effectively as possible for the benefit of patients and the organization. A strong believer in continued growth and a team approach to meeting these goals, she regularly works with team members to ensure to increase knowledge across the Practice, with an educational instead of punitive approach. Her clinical knowledge and operational background help achieve a seamless integration between the functional and regulatory aspects of the organization. In her free time, Jeni enjoys cooking, rock climbing, and reading. |
| Marebeth Conard N/A |
Marebeth Conard, Experienced Games Teacher |
| Radnor Conservancy N/A |
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| Winifred Constable hello@diatahealth.com |
Dr. Winifred Constable founded Diata Health over 22 years ago and specializes exclusively in metabolic health and weight loss. She and her multidisciplinary team take a functional medicine approach, using personalized labs to uncover the root causes of weight challenges and tailoring plans that work with each person’s unique hormones and microbiome. With more than 10,000 patients treated and a success rate above 90%, Dr. Constable has developed a proprietary program that consistently delivers lasting results and has earned recognition as one of the leading weight-loss physicians in the Northeast. |
| Roberta Cooks robertacooks87@gmail.com |
Roberta Cooks, MD, Gokhale Method® teacher, trained as a physician at New York University School of Medicine. Dr. Cooks has been a Gokhale Method®Teacher for ten years, guiding hundreds of people of all ages away from back, neck and musculoskeletal pain through teaching healthy ways to perform our daily movements of life. Dr. Cooks is also an avid Argentine Tango dancer and Qigong Medicine practitioner. |
| Sara Corse N/A |
Dr. Sara J. Corse is a dynamic clinical psychologist with 34 years of experience working with individuals, couples, and families. Clients are drawn to Dr. Corse for her engaging style, her deep caring and her effectiveness in helping clients resolve and heal troubling emotions and relationships. Her approach is integrative and includes training in EMDR, a modality that helps clients resolve traumatic events interfering with present life and relationships. Her areas of expertise include depression and anxiety, grief and loss, trauma, couples communication and intimacy, work-life balance and parenting effectiveness. She works with couples at all stages of family development, from pre-marital counseling to families with adult children. She helps veterans and first responders heal from the hidden wounds of war or community trauma. Dr. Corse is the author of "Cradled All the While: The Unexpected Gifts of a Mother's Death". In the midst of career and child rearing, and having lost her father at a young age, Dr. Corse became her mother’s primary caregiver through to her death from cancer. It is a story of healing, as the often-strained relationship between Dr. Corse and her mother is transformed as they negotiate this life passage. Dr. Corse is the Director of Council for Relationship’s Community Partnership Initiative, which offers therapy on-site at schools and housing shelters to help vulnerable families get back on their feet. |
| Marie Cosgrove N/A |
Marie Cosgrove is a lifestyle professional who has spent the bulk of her career working for luxury brands such as Waterford and Wedgwood. A member of Les Dames D’Escoffier, she is widely known as an expert in the culinary world, as well as an award-winning tablescaper. An avowed anglophile, Marie has a deep knowledge of the British world of tea traditions and is a collector of tableware used at afternoon teas and other culinary gatherings. |
| Jack Covington Premier.performances@gmail.com |
Dr. Covington is an Oxford-educated historian and classically trained stage actor and lecturer. He is also the Creative Director of “Characters-on-Call” – 1 st person living history biographies. He presents dynamic first-person historical impersonations of famous literary and historical personages from the pages of history – in authentic period costume – history brought to life! He is a refreshingly innovative, enlightening, and engagingly dynamic educator, actor, and entertainer of the most creative kind – one who loves both his craft and his audience – who consistently delivers a lecture in true “that’s entertainment” style. He deliberately steps outside the proverbial box, breaking down barriers and successfully injecting spontaneity, wit, and warmth into his lecture ‘performances’. He has lectured and performed for many historical museums and cultural organizations. Performance topics he has presented are listed on his website, www.PerformancesParExcellence.com. Dr. Covington is also a world traveler, adventurer, and a former avid mountaineer. His ability to incorporate his first-hand experiences into his lecture performances serves to both enlighten and enthrall his audiences. He delights in the opportunity to share his unique concept of combining lifelong learning with entertainment that will educate, stimulate, and inspire his audiences today and tomorrow! |
| I Creative Voice Development Gro N/A |
With more than 30 years as a voice over artist and voice over producer, your instructor is part of the team at Voice Coaches with clients including major television networks, gaming designers, audio book publishers and more. Learn more at voicecoaches.com |
| Harrington Crissey hcrissey45@gmail.com |
Harrington Crissey, is an ESL instructor who has a BA degree in classical languages from the University of Rochester and an MEd in TESOL (teaching English to speakers of other languages) from Temple University. Since 1974 he has taught English at institutions such as Temple University, the Nationalities Service Center, Arcadia University, Saint Joseph's University and Harcum College. He currently does substitution work at English Language Services (Saint Joseph's University) and mentors graduate students at the University of Pennsylvania. |
| Lori Lorraine Crook lorraine.crook1@gmail.com |
A social worker and artist, Lori teaches alcohol ink at multiple venues in the region. Her abstract florals are sold as notecards at Valley Forge Flowers and elsewhere. She is a mentor with Expressive Paths. |
| Eileen Cunniffe eileenmcunniffe@gmail.com. |
Eileen Cunniffe writes nonfiction that explores identity and experience, most often through the lenses of family and travel. Her first book, Mischief & Metaphors: Essaying a Life, was published in 2023 by Shanti Arts Publishing and includes several travel essays. Her writing has appeared in literary journals and anthologies, and her travel essays have been recognized with four Travelers’ Tales Solas Awards and the Emrys Journal 2013 Linda Julian Creative Nonfiction Award. |
| Denise Daniels 18scitech@gmail.com |
Denise Daniels, a teacher by trade and profession, is a certified Reiki III energy healer, an angel card reader, a spiritual life coach, and has a metaphysical sciences degree, among other areas of study. She is a lifelong learner who follows her soul’s intuition in creating courses, inspirational videos, and guided meditations. She brings a wealth of knowledge, enjoyment, and enthusiasm to her workshops. Her website is believedreambecome.com. |
| Christiane De Boisseson N/A |
Christiane de Boisseson, Native Speaker and Former Instructor at the Baldwin School |
| Kenneth DeMarco N/A |
Kenneth F DeMarco, MS, JD |
| Jeremy DePrisco jjdeprisco@gmail.com |
http://www.jeremydeprisco.com/ |
| Staff Deaf-Hearing Communication Cen N/A |
Staff, Deaf-Hearing Communication Centre |
| Samuel Di Trolio N/A |
I’m a Drexel University student from Glen Mills, PA, and I’ve been playing guitar for over 15 years, studying under some of the greatest jazz minds in the Philadelphia area. My training is in jazz, rock, and R&B, but I have been contracted to do many other genres of music, such as country and blues. I’m a part of the Drexel Jazz Ensemble, and also play with Groove Heart, one of the premier bands in Atlantic City. |
| Lauren DiMartino N/A |
Lauren DiMartino has been teaching Zumba for the last 15 years. Her teaching style is inviting fun, upbeat, and energetic. She wants everyone to feel like themselves when in class. The goal is to have fun while dancing to a variety of Latin and disco beats. |
| Valerie Dickman N/A |
Valerie is a YTT-200, AFAA Group Exercise and Total Barre certified instructor. She’s also a licensed Reiki practitioner and Mindfulness Meditation teacher, certified by both the Awareness Training Institute and Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley. |
| Jean Distefano N/A |
I am a student at the Nelly Berman School of Music. I am currently studying for a piano exam for the Royal Conservatory. I play the piano at the memory care unit at Dunwoody Village Retirement Community once a week. I also play twice a month after dinner at the restaurant at Dunwoody. I am a believer in lifelong learning, |
| Cory Donovan N/A |
Cory Donovan is Co-founder & SVP of Community Engagement at ImpactPHL. ImpactPHL is a non-profit advocacy organization that encourages and helps individuals and organizations align their financial assets with their values in order to create a more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient economy in the Philadelphia region. Cory’s background in economic development and community building includes roles operating a tech startup incubator and as the Executive Director of the Roanoke-Blacksburg Technology Council. His prior corporate experience includes various positions with well-known tech firms like Hughes, DIRECTV, and Aerotek. Cory has a bachelor’s degree from the University of Scranton and received his MBA from Johns Hopkins University. His personal interests include playing sports (particularly pickup basketball), hip hop & old school rap, home improvement, stand-up comedy, classic cars, and animal welfare. |
| Sarah Doody travel@mainlineschoolnight.org |
Sarah Doody, Founder & President, Engaging Journeys |
| Koren Draper N/A |
Koren fell in love with cooking as a child, learning to cook family meals at her mother’s side. After attending Walnut Hill College (formerly the Restaurant School) she continued to hone her skills working in professional kitchens, working her way up to become a head chef and general manager of a multimillion dollar catering company. She now owns Koren’s Kitchen on the Main Line where she daily provides freshly prepared meals to time-pressed professionals and families who need “fast food” that’s healthy. She is known for sourcing the freshest, organic and local ingredients to create unique and flavorful dishes. |
| Murray Dubin N/A |
Murray Dubin was a reporter and editor at The Philadelphia Inquirer from 1971 to 2005. He is the author of "South Philadelphia: Mummers, Memories and the Melrose Diner." At the Inquirer, he covered race and ethnicity, edited fashion, wrote about children and families and was the paper's Los Angeles bureau chief. Before all of that, he worked on a cattle ranch in Wyoming. He liked it. He lives in Philadelphia with his wife, Libby Rosof. |
| Liz Dunleavy N/A |
Liz Dunleavy is a licensed social worker and Certified Care Manager with an emphasis in gerontology. She began her practice, Kith Elder Care, in 2015 and has enjoyed supporting families over the years as they navigate the aging landscape. Her practice has grown to include several social workers, a registered nurse and licensed occupational therapist. Liz received her Master of Social Work from Fordham University. |
| Anthony Durkin delvalchessclub@gmail.com |
Anthony Durkin is a certified United States Chess Federation Chess Coach and Tournament Director. He founded the Delaware Valley Chess Club and has taught young people and adults throughout the region chess for the past 15 years. |
| East Falls Glassworks staff@eastfallsglass.com |
Staff, East Falls Glassworks |
| Kim Einhorn N/A |
Dr. Kim Einhorn is a board certified OBGYN, a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. She is a Philadelphia native and has worked here on the Main Line throughout her career, providing obstetric and gynecologic care to her patients from puberty through pregnancy and beyond, and now specializes in menopause and perimenopausal care. Dr. Einhorn is a wife and mother of two teenage daughters. In her spare time she has a “side career” as a mosaic artist where her works have generated tens of thousands of dollars for charity. She also enjoys weight lifting, paddle boarding, yoga and cooking. |
| Scott Ellsworth scottell@umich.edu |
Scott Ellsworth is an award-winning writer and historian. The author of five books, The Secret Game was a New York Times best seller and The Ground Breaking was longlisted for both the National Book Award and the Carnegie Medal. Scott has written about American life and history for the New York Times, Washington Post, and Los Angeles Times. Formerly a historian at the Smithsonian Institution, he’s taught at the University of Michigan since 2007. Described by Booklist as “a historian with the soul of a poet,” he’s appeared on the TODAY Show, PBS’s The American Experience, National Public Radio, Fox, CNN, and the BBC. His newest book is Midnight on the Potomac: The Last Year of the Civil War, the Lincoln Assassination, and the Rebirth of America. |
| Nina Epstein N/A |
Nina Epstein is known as the Digital Diva and has been an information technology instructor and consultant for over 25 years, helping individuals and small business owners use technology and solve their computing problems. Nina has been teaching technology courses in local communities for over 15 years. |
| Charo Evangelista charo.freespirityoga@gmail.com |
CHARO EVANGELISTA CABELLO, ESSENTRICS® Level 1 Instructor, Certified Hatha Yoga Instructor, Reiki Master and Wellness Advocate, is certified as a TriYoga instructor. She is a meditation instructor, Reiki Master, Director of Inkalight and is a primary teacher at Free Spirit Yoga. Her personal teaching style focuses on expressiveness and derives from the different disciplines she's practiced throughout the years. Charo has been teaching yoga to children, adults and seniors for the past 28 years. In her classes you will experience the kundalini-inspired sequenced flow of postures synchronized with rhythmic breath (Pranayama) and mudra (focus), which will increase your energy and bring mental clarity. Her website is www.inkalight.com. |
| Susan Evans susanevanspacp@gmail.com |
SUSAN EVANS has been a solopreneur for eight years and operated her businesses (YOUR OFFICE ASSISTANT and FAMILY TALES AND TRAILS) as “side hacks” before that. Her background includes working as a Paralegal in Estate Planning/Administration, Corporate & Real Estate law; banking (commercial loan documentation) for Bryn Mawr Trust & an SBA lender; Financial Aid & Alumni Affairs at Villanova University and the insurance world. (She jokes that she has made a career out of not having a career!) Susan has maintained personal and business accounts in Quicken. However, all business financials are currently maintained in QuickBooks, a program recommended by the SBA. Susan enjoys sharing with others the “tips & tricks” she has sometimes learned the hard way. For over 30 years, Susan has researched several of her family lines, one of which enabled her to join the Daughters of the American Revolution. Susan’s background in law enables her to present students with a unique perspective to doing genealogical research and opens doors to records not commonly discussed, even in professional settings. As FAMILY TALES & TRAILS, Susan performs heir searches, assists folks in getting organized and entering data into family history programs and conducts a bi-weekly genealogy meetup (virtual). She is available for one-on-one consultations and as a guest speaker. B.A. in Liberal Arts, Villanova University; A.A. in Liberal Arts, Delaware County Community College. Member: Association of Professional Genealogists, New England Historic Genealogical Society |
| Donald Fennimore N/A |
Donald L. Fennimore retired from the Winterthur Museum, Library and Garden after serving 34 years in the curatorial department, where he was responsible for the metals collections. Since retiring, he has devoted his time to researching and writing (as a coauthor) several books on early American clockmakers. |
| Cynthia Foxworth profesora631@gmail.com |
Cynthia Foxworth is a certified Spanish and French Teacher. She has a BA from Temple, an MA from Rutgers and has been teaching world languages for over 25 years. She recently collaborated with other professional course developers to update the French curriculum for Lincoln Learning Solutions, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing products/strategies to empower learning communities. She is currently teaching online Spanish classes for Achieve Test Prep, a school that prepares students to sit for an exam to earn college credits. Cynthia enjoys reading, dancing and singing in her church’s choir. Born and raised in Philadelphia, she now resides in South Jersey. |
| Sharon Frisch N/A |
Sharon has been playing Mah Jongg for 25 years and still plays every day. Over the years, she has taught many family members, friends and acquaintances how to play. |
| Nancy Gabel N/A |
NANCY GABEL taught high school French at the Wallingford-Swarthmore School District for thirty-five years where she also headed the Foreign Language Program for the district. After retiring from public education, she taught at The Agnes Irwin School, The Baldwin School and The Episcopal Academy. She was a founder and President of the Board of the French International School in Bala Cynwyd, as well as Board Member and President of Main Line School Night. She is thrilled to be teaching adults at MLSN, where she has offered a variety of courses. |
| Carla Gambescia N/A |
Carla Gambescia is the author of the acclaimed bookLa Dolce Vita University: An Unconventional Guide to Italian Culture from A-to-Z, a rousing tribute to Italy, Italians and a culture that has contributed so much to the world. A native of Philadelphia, Carla is also a marketing executive, former restaurateur and avid traveler; she co-created the Giro del Gelato bike tour which won OUTSIDE Magazine’s Best Trip in Western Europe. |
| Alice Garrett rosaliegarrett@gmail.com |
Alice Garrett graduated from Princeton University in 1982 with a degree in English Literature. She received her MA in Classical Studies in 1986 from Boston University. Since that time she taught high school Latin at Haverford High School and Lower Merion High School. |
| Bruce Gill N/A |
Bruce Gill, Beekeeper and Blacksmith |
| Christopher Glover N/A |
https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopheraglover/ |
| Jake Goldbum N/A |
Jake Goldblum has over 21 years of experience in internet marketing, advertising, and SEO, dedicating his career to building and scaling ecommerce businesses. Since 2020, he has served as CEO of Budge Industries, where he has focused on enhancing web marketing strategies and fostering innovative approaches to online retail. His entrepreneurial journey began in 2004 with the founding of EmpireCovers.com, which he grew from a one-person operation into a multimillion-dollar enterprise employing more than 20 people. This success reflects his ability to combine technical expertise with strategic vision, consistently driving growth and delivering measurable results. He specializes in accelerating ecommerce growth by creating magnetic social media brands and maximizing return on ad spend. With deep expertise in Google Analytics, PPC advertising, and paid social strategies, he ensures that every marketing investment translates into profit rather than just clicks. Passionate about consumer engagement and team empowerment, Jake continues to shape the future of ecommerce through innovation, leadership, and a results-driven approach. |
| Ann Goody N/A |
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| Esther Gordon thegordon7@gmail.com |
Esther taught French at Harriton High School for her entire career, learned Mah Jongg years ago and has enjoyed teaching it in recent years. |
| David Grauel dgrauel99@gmail.com |
DAVID GRAUEL comes to MLSN by way of New York City where he was a Technical Support and Training Specialist in Microsoft Office products for such companies as Goldman Sachs and Morgan Stanley. David teaches classes on a variety of Microsoft products and looks forward to sharing his knowledge and experience with others. |
| Jeffrey Green jegr@sas.upenn.edu |
Jeffrey Edward Green is Professor of Political Science and Andrea Mitchell Endowed Director of the Andrea Mitchell Center for the Study of Democracy at the University of Pennsylvania. He is currently working on a book project on civics education. His previous books include: The Eyes of the People: Democracy in an Age of Spectatorship, The Shadow of Unfairness: A Plebeian Theory of Liberal Democracy, and Bob Dylan: Prophet Without God. |
| Felicia Greenfield N/A |
Felicia Greenfield is a licensed clinical social worker working as a therapist in private practice. Felicia helps people navigate changes related to life transitions, aging, memory change, caregiving, grief, and loss. Prior to going into practice in January 2024, Felicia supported individuals and families as a clinician at the Penn Memory Center since 2006 where she served as executive director. She earned a Master of Social Work (MSW) degree from the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy & Practice in 2008, where she also taught Advanced Clinical Practice and mentored the next generation of clinical social workers. |
| Wendy Greenfield N/A |
Wendy Greenfield, MLSN Executive Director. An experienced non-profit and marketing professional, Wendy Greenfield joined Main Line School Night as Executive Director in September, 2016 following an eighteen-year career as Executive Director of the Alumnae Association of Bryn Mawr College. Prior to Bryn Mawr, Wendy was a marketing and communications executive in New York. An avid hiking enthusiast, Wendy enjoys hiking with her red Lab Rhett on local trails. |
| Cordula Grewe N/A |
Dr. Cordula Grewe specializes in modern European art, with an emphasis on visual piety, word-image relationships, aesthetics, and art as politics. Her books include Painting the Sacred in the Age of Romanticism (2009), The Nazarenes: Romantic Avant-garde and the Art of the Concept (2015), Wilhelm Schadow (1788-1862): Werkverzeichnis der Gemälde (2017), and The Arabesque from Kant to Comics (2021) as well as essay collections on museums of mankind (Die Schau des Fremden, 2006) and print culture (The Enchanted World of German Romantic Prints, co-edited with John Ittmann, 2017). Her current research projects now push into the 20th and 21st century, ranging from modern theo-aesthetics (Ingres to the Leipzig School) and the body as medium (Emma Hamilton to Nicki Minaj) to art in the Third Reich (Nazi Cultures of Display). In addition to her art historical research, she has embarked on a ‘non-fictional novel,’ part historical reckoning, part family history, and titled Mink in Flames: A Memoir of Immigration, Intergenerational Trauma, and the American Dream. |
| Jeff Groff N/A |
Jeff Groff recently retired as Estate Historian at Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library. He also served as Director of Public Programs and Director of Interpretation. For sixteen years he was Executive Director of Wyck Historic House and Garden in the Germantown section of Philadelphia. He holds an MA from the Winterthur Program in Early American Culture of the University of Delaware. For over forty years he has studied and lectured on American country houses and gardens, particularly those of Philadelphia’s “Main Line” and surrounding areas, with an emphasis on country life and sports, and gentleman farming. He served as co-curator of Winterthur’s very successful exhibitions “Costumes of Downton Abbey” and “Costuming The Crown." |
| Emily Gunn fishtownstitch@gmail.com |
Emily makes hand-embroidered pieces for commission through her business, Fishtown Stitch, and teaches public and private workshops. Insta: @fishtownstitch. |
| Alison Hallam BoneWiseInfo@gmail.com |
Alison Hallam is a BoneFit Certified physical therapist of 30 years, specializing in Bone Health and Wellness. She is an international lecturer, a member of the National Osteoporosis Foundation, and BoneFit certified. She is also the owner of BoneWise, designing customized exercise programs for individuals and classes (myBoneWise.com). |
| Andrea Hallmark andreahallmark@yahoo.com |
ANDREA HALLMARK is a Landscape Architect who has designed and installed hundreds of gardens in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, New York, Florida, Texas and Mexico. She currently teaches Design Communication at Temple University. She has taught garden and design courses at the University of Pennsylvania, School of General Studies, The Barnes Foundation, Longwood Gardens, and The Morris Arboretum. Ms. Hallmark started as a fine artist and painted at The Penn Academy Of Fine Art and continues fine art as a hobby. She also does Jewelry Design. www.andreahallmark.com |
| Perry Hamilton N/A |
Perry was born and raised in Lower Merion where he and his wife Betsy have raised their three children. He graduated from Susquehanna University in 1974 with a BA in History. Since graduating from college, he has enjoyed a business career of more than 45 years in a variety of private sector industries such as Commercial Banking, Automobile manufacturing, and Wholesale Lumber. During his adult life, Perry has read countless history books with much of his personal focus on business history. Among his associations is the Lower Merion Historical Society where he has been a board member and officer for more than 5 years. |
| Scott Harker N/A |
Scott Harker has been an avid cribbage player for the last 20 years, and learned to play 20 years before that. He founded and currently directs the King of Prussia Cribbage Club, an ACC-sanctioned Grass Roots club, where he has taught many people how to play. He has competed in dozens of sanctioned tournaments against hundreds of people, and has won several. He recently retired and is eager to share the great game of cribbage with others. |
| Muriel Harmon murielharmonms@gmail.com |
Muriel Harmon, Native Speaker; French Instructor |
| Anne Harris vwbug66@aol.com |
ANNE HARRIS holds a BA in German from Wake Forest University, an MA in German from Duke University and an MEd (with concentration in adult education) from Worcester State University. She has lived and worked in Germany and has more than thirty years of experience teaching German to adults. Currently she is an instructor at the DonauSchule. |
| Staff, Haverford College Arboretum jciborowsk@haverford.edu |
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| Ann Hazan N/A |
Ann Hazan is a food consultant and instructor and the co-author of 'The Original Philadelphia Neighborhood Cookbook,' 'The Original Baltimore Neighborhood Cookbook,' and 'The Reading Terminal Market Cookbook.' She holds a degree in Food and Nutrition from Drexel University. Ann emphasizes healthy foods and cooking in all her work, as well as in her home. |
| David & Barbara Heaton N/A |
An avid hiker, David Heaton is now semi-retired, after having created and managed two non-profit volunteer organizations that helped repair inner city row houses for twenty-five years before merging with Habitat. |
| Andrew Heckert andrewheckert@gmail.com |
ANDREW HECKERT, in 1973, began studying Tai Chi in Philadelphia with Maggie Newman, and was one of the six senior students of Cheng Man-ching’s school in Manhattan, the Shr-jung. In 1981, he began study with William Chen in New York City. For the next ten years he commuted to New York to attend classes in Chen’s school and took private lessons. During summers he attended weeklong workshops in the Catskills given by his classmate Ben Lo of San Francisco. In 1989, he became a student of Dr. Ping-siang Tao of Taiwan. Andrew Heckert, Germantown Tai Chi Study Group |
| Allen Heffler N/A |
For 30 years, Allen Heffler CLU, ChFC, President of MyMedicareAdvisor, has helped thousands of people with their Medicare plans. The entire Medicare process can be complex and confusing. Our Mission is to educate consumers about Medicare and their Medicare options in a clear, concise & honest way that allows those consumers to make informed decisions. Allen Heffler and MyMedicareAdvisor- We Make Your Medicare Decision Easy. www.MyMedicareAdvisor.com, email: mymedadvisor@gmail.com |
| Matt Hendricks matthendricks922@gmail.com |
A life long board game enthusiast, Matt has been associated with several gaming ventures both personal and professional. In particular, he advocates for the use of tabletop games in both educational and professional contexts as a way to stimulate meaningful authentic interaction. |
| Bode Hennegan bode@life-managers.com |
Bode Hennegan is a passionate advocate for independent aging and an experienced resource for aging in place in the Philadelphia region. She holds an MBA from St. Joseph’s University and a BS in Management from Thomas Jefferson University. She is a Certified Aging in Place Specialist. Bode has served on the boards of the Philadelphia FPA and Montgomery County Estate Planning Council, and is an active member of the Philadelphia Estate Planning Council and the American Association of Daily Money Managers, collaborating with professionals to advance resources for seniors. |
| Gina Henry N/A |
Gina Henry, owner of GoGlobal, has traveled to over 80 countries and states. She takes free vacations three months every year. Check out www.goglobalinc.com for more instructor information. Gina Henry also has been a professional mystery shopper for over twenty years and wrote the digital book "Mystery Shopping - Get Paid to Shop.” |
| Andrew Herron N/A |
Andrew Herron and Kevin Manning are CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNERS™ and the founding members of Stone Pine Financial Partners located in Media, PA. They have over 30 years of combined experience helping individuals and families transition to retirement. Andrew and Kevin are experts in retirement distribution planning and have created a system called The Flight Path™ to help bring clarity to the complexities of the retirement distribution phase. They also specialize in Social Security planning and are passionate about educating people on how to best take advantage of this retirement benefit. They’ve previously taught classes and seminars on retirement planning and Social Security at local universities and they sponsor community financial education throughout the year. |
| Sue Hilger sue.hilger@gmail.com |
SUE HILGER has been teaching knitting at Main Line School Night for nearly thirty years and, more recently, crochet. She was the owner of EWE and I, a knitting and needlepoint store located in Bryn Mawr for nineteen years and is currently working as a freelance designer in both knitting and crochet for the Plymouth Yarn Co. |
| Jane Hodson N/A |
owner, Jane Baked It |
| Seth Holzman zepharpo@aol.com |
Seth Holzman, (BA Music, Syracuse University) has been playing harmonica since 1965, teaching harmonica since 1975, and has performed with Muddy Waters, Koko Taylor, Ronnie Earl, Roomful of Blues, Magic Slim & The Teardrops, and many others. Seth was inspired to play by (and eventually studied with) the great blues harmonica player Sonny Terry. He is a caring and thoughtful instructor who teaches the techniques and musical knowledge he wishes he had known when he began his own studies. Seth currently performs with Stevie and the Bluescasters in the greater Philadelphia area. |
| Kevin Hughes N/A |
Kevin Hughes is Professor of Historical Theology and Chair of Theology & Religious Studies at Villanova University. His interests as a teacher and scholar are in Catholic theology and spirituality, art and poetry, mystical theology, and contemplative practice. He is the author or editor of four books, including Constructing Antichrist: Paul, Biblical Commentary, and the Development of Doctrine in the Early Middle Ages and Church History: Faith Handed On, along with articles appearing in publications such as Modern Theology, Theological Studies, Commonweal, and Church Life Journal. He is a nationally-known retreat leader, writer, and speaker on Catholic faith, history, and spirituality. He has three adult daughters, and he lives in Media, PA with his wife Bridget, a ceramic artist. |
| Brad Inglesby N/A |
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| I JKST Inc narberthtennis@jkst.com |
Teaching Professionals, Julian Krinsky School of Tennis |
| Alison Jaeger N/A |
Alison Jaeger is owner of Fresh Look Design, a home and garden company specializing in container garden design and installation for residential and commercial customers in the Philadelphia suburbs. In addition, she provides garden consultations and plans for home gardeners wishing to create their own garden oasis. Alison is committed to sharing her love of gardening and design as a way to encourage people to engage with the beauty and wonder of the natural world. |
| Kenneth James N/A |
I started Soul Line Dancing in 2004, taking classes 3 times a week, & out dancing every Friday & Saturday night. I had all the dances down that were out then. I started teaching in West Chester, PA 3 nights a week and now teach at venues throughout the region. To bring all my students together, I began to have a monthly 3rd Friday Dance party in which everyone got together to do the dances they learned in class. This year marks my 20th year of line dancing teaching. I’m known as KenJamz in the line dance world. |
| Leahcim James hr@leahcimjamescoaching.com |
https://leahcimjamescoaching.com/ |
| Rebecca Jaroff rjaroff@ursinus.edu |
Rebecca Jaroff, Ph.D, is emeritus professor of English, with over 25 years of teaching experience in American and women's literature at Ursinus College. Her courses emphasize close reading and historical contextualization. She is adept at creating lively in-class discussions and encouraging all participants to develop and share their unique insights, while helping to explore their questions. An award winning teacher, Jaroff specializes in a student-focused classroom that actively engages others to create a better learning environment for everyone. |
| Beancé Jenkins N/A |
Beancé Jenkins is a business strategist and digital innovator who helps entrepreneurs turn their ideas into profitable digital products. As the founder of AI Power Course, she teaches creators to use AI to simplify content, automate systems, and build sustainable income — all without tech overwhelm or on-camera pressure. Learn more at AIPowerCourse.com. |
| I Jenkins Arboretum & Gardens amy@jenkinsarboretum.org |
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| Brannon Johnson N/A |
Brannon Johnson is the head coach and owner of BLJ Community Rowing, one of the most diverse community rowing programs in the Philadelphia metro area. After beginning to row at the age of 15, Brannon received a full athletic scholarship to attend the University of Texas, where she rowed at the Division I varsity level all 4 years. In 2003, she competed as a single sculler in the Henley Royal Regatta, one of the most prestigious regattas held on the Thames River in England. She has been rowing, teaching and coaching over the past 15+ years, having taught and coached 80 classes and roughly 700 Philadelphia area residents, ranging from ages 18 to 65. |
| Josh Johnson N/A |
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| Barnett Kamen N/A |
Barnett Kamen, is a retired teacher of Bible, Literature, and Philosophy at the Jack M. Barrack Hebrew Academy. He has an MA in Biblical Literature and was a PhD. candidate |
| Laura Kanavy N/A |
Laura Kanavy, is a Native Speaker from Venezuela with 6 years as a legal interpreter in the Administrative Court System of Philadelphia and is CoreCHI (proficient in medical terminology) and CHI(Certified Healthcare Interpreter). |
| Teresa Kane N/A |
Terry Kane grew up in a proud community of Irish-Americans who had emmigrated after the potato famine around 1850. As the youngest of 11 children she can't remember a day without song and dance, harmonizing with her mother and siblings. An experienced teacher and performer, Terry holds a Master's degree from Crane School of Music. She is a life-long set and céilí dancer. A performer of traditional Irish music, she sings and accompanies herself on guitar, banjo, and mandolin and has released 8 Irish recordings. Listen to a few songs on sound cloud https://soundcloud.com/user-512972348, www.TerryKaneSings.com |
| Staff, Karamoor N/A |
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| Larry Kaufman lfkmal@verizon.net |
Larry Kaufman started learning and doing Improv 22 years ago in 2000, through Temple University's Community Outreach Program, which lasted about ten years until 2010 when Temple cancelled the entire outreach program. We were known as Full Circle Theatre. It was educational in nature and we performed for schools, religious institutions, senior living facilities, corporations, on such topics as, anti smoking, anti bullying, wellness, work place harassment. After Temple shut the program down, we, the improv troupe, went out on our own, as 2nd Circle Improv Players. We continue to meet to this day to learn and practice improv. I was the Director of 2nd Circle Improv Players from 2013 to 2019. My duties included hiring improv teachers, scheduling our practices, advertising our group as we are open to the public to learn with us and join our group. I began to teach my own classes around 2015 through, HTAS Haverford Township Adult School, which lasted a few years. I also started teaching through Chester County Night School around the same time, which has recently become Chester County Lifelong Learning. I have now been teaching improv at mainline school night for three years. |
| Elena Kazakova ekazakova@msn.com |
Elena is an instructor of French at Villanova University. She holds a Ph.D. from the Johns Hopkins University and has been teaching French at all levels for over a decade. |
| Marti Keegan N/A |
I've been a professional actor for over two decades. My experience includes theater, film and commercials. I have enjoyed sharing my passion for acting as a teacher for over eight years, in group classes and one-on-one sessions. |
| Chef Jacquie Kelly N/A |
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| Tira Kelly N/A |
Tira Kelly is a fashion designer and founder of tiracooks.com. Her work celebrates diversity and expands the way we view fashion standards. She specializes in vintage glamor. Her website offers free patterns, pattern reviews and tips. |
| Joanna Kenty N/A |
Joanna Kenty earned her PhD in Classical Studies from the University of Pennsylvania in 2014 and taught in higher ed programs around the world until 2020, when she shifted gears to work in civic education and curriculum design for The Citizens Campaign. Her book Cicero's Political Personae was published by Cambridge University Press in 2020, and she wrote essays for Eidolon and Medium on topics related to inclusive teaching, connecting ancient and modern ideas, and political rhetoric. |
| Gloria Kingcade dancesing4fitnes@aol.com |
GLORIA KINGCADE started instructing line dancing in October 1998. She is a Certified Primary Aerobic Instructor AAAI & ISMA (AAAI-American Aerobic Association International, ISMA-International Sports Medicine Association). In January 2001 Gloria founded “D.A.S.H.E.R.S. Entertainment Network” (Dancing and Singing Help Everyone Relieve Stress). The Dancing is R&B or Soul Line Dancing and the Singing is Karaoke. For more information, contact her at (215) 232-6232 or e-mail DANCESING4FITNES@aol.com or www.leathaslinedancing.com/D.A.S.H.E.R.S.html. |
| Sandi Kirschner sandikirschner@aol.com |
Sandi is a wellness consultant, helping people meet their lifestyle goals. Sandi is a certified fitness instructor and holds a M.Ed in group dynamics. She teaches corporate wellness and fitness classes to promote overall well being. |
| Ken Koeplinger kakoeplinger@gmail.com |
As a recent semi-retired research scientist, Ken has had the good fortune in his career to work across diverse scientific fields. To share his experience and enthusiasm for science with others, he is currently working as an adjunct chemistry professor and has been a NASA outreach volunteer since 2022. His interests include the chemistry of intrastellar nuclear fusion and the ongoing search for chemical signatures of life in our Universe. |
| Franmar Kopko N/A |
Franmar Kopko, RPh., has been a registered pharmacist for over 19 years and has worked in retail, managed care and now in the medical cannabis industry. Franmar has been counseling patients at a local dispensary on the use of medical cannabis for their specific medical issues and providing insight on the numerous products available. |
| Meredith Krain N/A |
A resident of Center City Philadelphia, Meredith has been a Mah Jongg enthusiast since first learning the game several years ago. She is a weekly player in a variety of local Mah Jongg groups and has taught many people, including her husband, and two daughters how to play! She loves the community aspect of the game and how it so easily brings together people of all ages, backgrounds and skill levels for a fun and personally challenging leisure activity. Always ready to join a group in an exciting game of "Mahj", Meredith is thrilled to be able to teach others the fundamental skills so that they too can share in the joy of this beloved game. |
| Lisa Kramer N/A |
Lisa Kramer MSW, PCC is the founder and president of Leading with Intention http://www.leadingwithintention.com. Since transitioning to full time coaching in 2002, Lisa has successfully coached business leaders and managers, and she has served as a mentor-coach and coach trainer for hundreds of coaches worldwide. More recently, Lisa has pivoted to retirement coaching to assist individuals and couples to design their next chapter. Lisa’s passion for coaching emerged from a successful career in clinical social work and social work education. Lisa served on the faculty of Widener University’s School of Human Service Professions and the University of Texas at Dallas Master’s Program in Organizational Behavior and Executive Coaching. She is currently a leadership coach at the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania. Lisa received her master’s degree in social work from the University of Pennsylvania and her coaching certification from the Co-Active Training Institute. She is also a certified Kripalu yoga instructor, an avid cyclist, and she loves all kinds of dancing. |
| Katie Kriner info@thebeethebear.com |
Katie Kriner, Author, Fibert Artist, Shop Owner The Bee & The Bear |
| David Krueger N/A |
David M. Krueger is the executive director of the Dialogue Institute, based at Temple University, and is a co-editor of the Journal of Ecumenical Studies. He is a scholar, author, and educator who is passionate about public history, religious literacy, and dialogue. His areas of academic expertise include American religious history, religious pluralism, and dialogue. Dr. Krueger is a sought-after lecturer and speaker and has frequently served as a narrator and scholarly contributor on the Science Channel. He received an M.Div. from Palmer Theological Seminary, a Th.M. from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a Ph.D. in Religious Studies from Temple University. His book, Myths of the Rune Stone: Viking Martyrs and the Birthplace of America, was published by the University of Minnesota Press. Dr. Krueger has taught at several area colleges, universities, and community-based settings. He also served as a faculty trainer and education consultant for the Inside-Out Prison Exchange Program. Although he grew up as a farm kid in Minnesota, he has come to love Philadelphia and its fascinating history since moving there in 1995. He enjoys offering tours of diverse religious and historical sites in the city. |
| Ji Ku 9jihyun@gmail.com |
Ji Ku, Native Speaker; ACTFL Certified, Korean Instructor |
| Staff LL Bean N/A |
Staff, L.L. Bean |
| Staff, Lancaster County Farm Market N/A |
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| Tuscarora Lapidary Society hansensm@gmail.com |
Staff, Tuscarora Lapidary Society |
| Vincent Lartigue jacqvin2@aol.com |
VINCENT LARTIGUE is a native French teacher, born and raised in Paris. He is a graduate from the University of Paris. He has over thirty years of experience as a French teacher working with adults at all levels, from beginner to advanced. His method is conversational and direct and he teaches on a Private, Semi-Private and/or Group-based instruction. He travels back to France several times a year so that his French is up-to-date. During his career he has worked with the major chains of language schools in the US and Europe. |
| Sue Laskin suelaskin@comcast.net |
Sue Laskin, Experienced Canasta Teacher |
| Fabienne Lauret fabienne@salyn.com |
Fabienne Lauret, Native Speaker |
| Devin Lawson dlawson@brynmawr.edu |
Devin Lawson has an academic background in computer science and serves as a Digital Scholarship Graduate Fellow at Bryn Mawr College, where she is completing a doctoral degree in Classics. |
| Staff Lazaretto Foundation N/A |
David Barnes, Associate Professor, UPenn |
| Olive Ledlie N/A |
Olive Ledlie, PhD, Former Chair English Department, The Baldwin School |
| Susanne Lennon susannelennon@verizon.net |
Experienced bridge player and instructor; previous chair of Philadelphia Country Club Bridge. Previous math teacher. |
| R. Barry Levis levis@rollins.edu |
R. Barry Levis, PhD, Professor Emeritus, History, Rollins College (ret 2013); Director, Humanities Program, Hamilton Holt School of Rollins College, 1981-2012; Director, Graduate Program, Liberal Studies, Rollins College (1990-2000) |
| Irene Levy Baker, Author N/A |
Irene Levy Baker is the author of two Philly-centric books, 100 Things To Do In Philadelphia Before You Die (first and second editions) and Unique Eats and Eateries of Philadelphia, and owner of Spotlight Public Relations, a firm specializing in restaurants and hospitality. Prior to that she spent many years working at the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau. Irene is always hungry for adventures that will surprise and delight her readers. For the latest news about the Philadelphia region follow: @100ThingsToDoInPhiladelphia on Facebook and Instagram. @100Philly on Twitter. |
| Xuemei Li N/A |
Xuemei Li, Native Speaker, Experienced CSL and Chinese Teacher |
| Jessica Liddell Gorlin N/A |
Jessica Liddell is a professional artist known around the region for her architectural mosaic and fused glass installations. She has been commissioned to create artwork for parks, hospitals and corporations throughout the country. Jessica has also facilitated many community projects with schools and non profit organizations. She is enthusiastic about her craft and has taught at the Main Line Art Center, MALT and Fleisher Art Memorial. She owns Bella Mosaic Art, a studio in the Mount Airy neighborhood of Philadelphia. |
| Myriah Lipke info@stonepinefinancial.com |
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| Carol Livingood clivingood@timoneyknox.com |
Carol Ryan Livingood, Esq., Timoney Knox Carol joined Timoney Knox as a Partner in 2022 in the Wills, Trusts and Estates Department. She focuses her practice on all aspects of estate planning and estate administration. Carol previously was the managing partner of Davis Bennett Spiess & Livingood – a firm which had been serving individuals, families and businesses on Philadelphia’s Main Line since 1930. Along with the support of Timoney Knox, Carol continues to bring large firm services with a focus on building long-standing relationships and innovative legal solutions to the community of Wayne. Carol has represented clients in all aspects of estate and tax planning and estate administration for over two decades. Her clients include individuals and families with small to extremely sizable estates who appreciate her keen eye in trying to preserve their wealth for their intended beneficiaries while minimizing the tax liabilities. A graduate of Brown University, Carol received her law degree from Widener University School of Law. After law school, she was awarded an Estate Planning Certificate from Temple University James E. Beasley School of Law. Prior to being in private practice, she served for seven years as a Deputy Attorney General in the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General’s Charitable Trusts and Organizations Section. Carol is admitted to the Pennsylvania Bar and is a member of the Delaware County Bar Association and the Delaware County Estate Planning Council. Carol has been named to the Pennsylvania Super Lawyers list in Estate & Probate Law since 2022. Each year no more than 2.5% of the lawyers in the state are selected by Super Lawyers to receive this Honor. Carol grew up in Wayne and is a graduate of the Academy of Notre Dame, where she formerly served as a member of the Board of Trustees. |
| Michael Lizzio N/A |
Michael Lizzio, Certified Pool Instructor |
| Hali MacLaren hali@hkmjewelry.com |
Hali MacLaren, HKM Jewelry Owner and Maker, creates handmade jewelry that is inspired by the sea, to spread awareness about its importance and beauty. She holds a BFA in Jewelry and a minor in Photography from The University of the Arts. She teaches classes and workshops Main Line Art Center, Wayne Art Center, ArtFusion in Pottstown and at her studio in West Chester. https://hkmjewelry.com/ |
| Joanie Mackie N/A |
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| Kristina Maletta kristinakunza@sbcglobal.net |
Kristina Maletta is committed to sharing the history, preservation and hands-on creativity of calligraphy. Kristina has worked in the prominent wedding industry in Southern California, and has been an independent artist and teacher for over 10 years. She has studied with Master Penmen and the White House Calligraphers throughout the United States. www.kristinaanndesigns.com |
| Lynn Marsden-Atlass marsdenatlass@gmail.com |
President LMART Consultant LLC |
| Alicia Marziani arm3188@gmail.com |
Alicia Rose Marziani has been making jewelry for over 20 years, with a particular interest in working with brass, handmade ceramic charms and global finds. Her work is often inspired by her love of history and geology and her enjoyment of whimsical and fun jewelry. She teaches at Main Line Art Center and provides workshops throughout the region. @creationsbymariani |
| Ellen Mashkovich info@tangodesign.org |
Ellen (Lena) and Oleg Mashkovich, professional Tango dancers from Argentina, perform in competitions and have taught tango for over 20 years. The founded the Tango Design Co. (Greater Philadelphia) to carry on their dedication to the Tango of Buenos Aires, folklore, and culture of Argentina. www.tangodesign.org |
| W. Barksdale Maynard barksdalemaynard@gmail.com |
Author, Lecturer, Art History, University of Delaware |
| John McBride N/A |
John McBride has degrees from the Tokyo University of Foreign Studies (Classical Japanese literature), Australian National University, (International Relations), and The University of Melbourne (MBA). John’s interest in travel writing in Japanese classical literature has seen him walking the old highway systems of Japan for over 40 years. For the past eight years he has been guiding history walks in Japan. In 2010, John was awarded an Order of Australia (AM) for his services to business and cultural links between Australia and Japan. |
| Jack McCarthy (author) N/A |
Jack McCarthy is a longtime Philadelphia archivist and historian who has held leadership positions at several area historical institutions and directed a number of major archives and public history projects. He has written extensively on the history of Philadelphia music and industry. |
| Jack McCarthy (music) Jacksnotes88@verizon.net |
Jack McCarthy is a longtime Philadelphia archivist and historian who has held leadership positions at several area historical institutions and directed a number of major archives and public history projects. He specializes in Philadelphia music history, a subject on which he has written and lectured extensively, along with leading tours, curating exhibits, and consulting on documentaries. He has served as archivist and historian for The Philadelphia Orchestra, Mann Center for the Performing Arts, and Philadelphia Jazz Legacy Project. His book, A Century of Music Under the Stars: A History of the Mann Center for the Performing Arts and Robin Hood Dell, was published by Temple University Press in 2025 |
| Michael McDermott N/A |
Professional Michael McDermott serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Kathmere Capital Management, one of the region’s fastest growing wealth management firms. Michael has almost 30 years of experience in the wealth management industry. In his role, he drives the firm’s strategic vision and plays an active role in managing many of its key client relationships. Additionally, Michael serves on Kathmere’s Investment Committee, helping to shape the firm’s investment strategies. A graduate of St. Joseph’s University, Michael was a standout member of the golf team being named the Top Athlete in his Graduating Class of 1997 and eventually being inducted into the St. Joseph’s University Athletics Hall of Fame. He was also named an All-American Scholar, a national award given to those who excel both in the classroom and in their sport. He remains an active and competitive golfer in both local and national events. Michael also recently published a book called The Efficient Family Office. The book highlights how the most effective modern advisory firms are refining their innovative services and value to clients after the “Family Office” models used by the world’s wealthiest. It offers practical guidance on what to expect from elite advisory teams and how to ensure you are optimizing the value of the advice that your situation deserves. Personal Michael is active in the community as a board member of The Cobbs Creek Restoration Foundation. This organization has created an education partnership with The Tiger Woods Foundation on a formerly well-known, but defunct golf course in Philadelphia. Michael is also a co-founder of The GolfBridge Society, an organization seeking to provide mentorship and leadership advice to a younger generation of golfers by pairing up these high school aged children with business leaders from the Philadelphia community. Michael lives in Wayne, PA with his wife and 3 sons. |
| Staff McKaig Nature Center info@enjoymckaig.org |
Vytas Masalaitis, McKaig Park Ranger, VP KoP Historical Society (Ret.) |
| Noah Meanix N/A |
@meeeanix |
| Eva Mergen creativefibers@gmail.com |
Eva Mergen has taught handwork at several historic sites in the region. Her topics include spinning, basket weaving, broom making, embroidery and more. She particularly enjoys introducing beginners to a new craft. |
| Mary Ann Meyers N/A |
Mary Ann Meyers, PhD, Lecturer , American Religious History, University of Pennsylvania and Haverford College The Senior Fellow and a Trustee of the John Templeton Foundation, Mary Ann Meyers served for more than a decade as Secretary of the University of Pennsylvania where she also taught the history of religion in America. She had previously taught at Haverford College and subsequently served as President of The Annenberg Foundation. A magna cum laude graduate of Syracuse University, where she was elected to Phi Beta Kappa, Dr. Meyers earned a Ph.D. in American civilization at Penn. She is the author of Art, Education, and African American Culture: Albert Barnes and the Science of Philanthropy and A New World Jerusalem: The Swedenborgian Experience in Community Culture. With Gerald O'Collins, she edited Light from Light: Scientists and Theologians in Dialogue. |
| Karl Middleman maestrokm@aol.com |
As both a conductor and educator, Karl Middleman's presentations have been hailed for the easy way they mix scholarship with showmanship. Karl has lectured for the Philadelphia Orchestra over 50 times and has received many awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Pew Center for Arts and Heritage, and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts. He has taught at Temple University and at Pendle Hill Learning Center. Karl has taught courses for many years at MLSN. |
| Larry Minisci larryminisci@yahoo.com |
LAWRENCE MINISCI (aka Larry, Laurent or Lorenzo by his students) has been teaching ESL, French and Italian to children, adults and corporate executives for more than twenty years. In addition to his current responsibilities at MLSN, Mr. Minisci works as a Foreign Language & Cross Cultural Trainer, Freelance Translator and Project Manager for a global language service provider which consults for local, national and multinational companies. Mr. Minisci speaks nine languages and keeps his linguistic and pedagogical skills current by visiting family and friends in Europe, researching new teaching methods and materials, as well as attending professional workshops, seminars and conferences. He studied at Villanova University, University of Pennsylvania, University of Cambridge (UK), Gratz College and the Goethe Institute. |
| Kyra Zapf Mlitt N/A |
Kyra is a Philly local costume designer, history teacher and all-around art nerd. She's worked in more than 20 different countries in historical collections, including the National Museum of Scotland, the Islamic Art Museum of Cairo and the Balkan Heritage Foundation. instagram@krya.historic.costumes |
| Mo Moadeli N/A |
Mo is a software engineer with a graduate degree in Computer Science from SUNY New Paltz and also completed the IBM MBA Program in collaboration with NYU Stern and Columbia Business School. With experience at Morgan Stanley, Bloomberg, EY, and Microsoft, Mo has led and managed engineering teams and mentored peers, focusing on software systems architecture and development. Mo aims to inspire and educate others in systems development and AI. For more details, visit Mo's LinkedIn profile at https://www.linkedin.com/in/momoadeli/ |
| Dianne Moore diannemoore@moorebetterfood.com |
Dianne is a Functional Nutrition and Lifestyle Practitioner, Board-Certified Integrative Health & Wellness Coach, and Certified Nutrition Educator, focusing on Nutrition and Wellness. She is certified through the Functional Nutrition Alliance, Board -Certified through the National Board of Health and Wellness Coaches and Institute Of Integrative Nutrition, and certified through the Academy of Culinary Nutrition. She also holds a Master of Social Work from Temple University and a Master of Science degree from the University of Pennsylvania. |
| Brian Patrick Mulligan N/A |
Brian Patrick Mulligan has performed as "Ben Franklin" across the country for over 35 years. In addition to hundreds of Speaker Series presentations, Brian's "BEN" has appeared on PBS, The Game Show Network, HBO Max, The Disney Channel, Comedy Central, The Food Network, CNN, "Jimmy Kimmel Live", "The Tonight Show", to name but a few. You've also seen his "Ben" in Commercials for Doritos, Comcast Cable, AARP, Bud Light, American Signature Furniture, Virginia Tourism Board, NJ Lottery, Chiques Creek Hemp Tea, Wild Turkey Bourbon, Quicken Loans, & more! |
| Chris Mullins, Co-Owner N/A |
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| Linda Munich N/A |
Linda has acted as an assistant to the culinary program at MLSN for many years. Her specialty is Italian cooking. |
| Ford Myers N/A |
Ford R. Myers is a Certified Retirement Coach and award-winning Career Coach. For decades, he has helped people navigate life transitions. Ford’s articles and interviews have appeared in thousands of magazines, newspapers, web sites, television and radio networks. He is the author of two books. Ford has conducted presentations at hundreds of companies, associations and universities. |
| Felicia Newman N/A |
I have been a market research and sports fan for 6 decades. I have been an adjunct professor at Villanova and West Chester Universities as well as a focus group moderator for over 30 years. Having been a football fan for decades, I want to share my love of the game. |
| Neal Newman nealnewman@gmail.com |
Over the past 40 years, Neal Newman has directed extensively in classical, Shakespeare, modern theater, musicals, and opera. He trained as an actor at California State University, and trained in Shakespeare at ACT of San Francisco, where he directed A CRY OF PLAYERS, and THE CRITIC, and acted the title role in RICHARD II. He trained as a director at Carnegie Mellon, and the Guthrie Theater in Minneapolis. He directed many Off-Broadway productions in New York (DANCE ON A COUNTRY GRAVE, CRADLE WILL ROCK, ORPHEUS IN THE UNDERWORLD); ran a summer stock company, (ROBBER BRIDEGROOM, TAMING OF THE SHREW); and directed five seasons of Shakespeare in the Park in Philadelphia, (MIDSUMMER NIGHTS DREAM, HAMLET, HENRY IV). Opera productions include many by Gilbert & Sullivan, BOHEME, and CARMEN. He was a New York Critic for Show Business Magazine for 7 years, and continues as a record producer. He has taught and directed at The Walnut Street Theater, Fordham University (CABARET, FIGARO); University of the Arts (SEAGULL, CRUCIBLE); Cabrini College (MISS JULIE, 2 GENTLEMEN OF VERONA); and the University Of Pennsylvania, (MIKADO). At Steel River Playhouse he directed RAGTIME, MIRACLE WORKER, CHRISTMAS CAROL, BLITHE SPIRIT and TOYS IN THE ATTIC. As an actor, Neal has appeared at Steel River in THE CRUCIBLE, (Danforth) and PIPPIN, (Charlemange). He was co author of GOLDILOCKS AND THE DOWN HOME BEARS presented at Steel River, and will soon present a reading of the new musical LITTLE PRINCESS. Neal recently presented BIRTH OF A NATION, AND THE FOUNDING OF WHITE SUPREMACY at MLSN. |
| Eliot Niles N/A |
Eliot Niles, Licensed NYC Guide, Member of GNYC |
| Pat Nogar N/A |
A native St. Louisan, in Philadelphia has made her mark as the “Diva of Lifestyle. She is the founder of “Living Well with Pat Nogar”, a company that features her interests and expertise in all things lifestyle including entertaining, cooking, gardening and in, general, bringing people together for the best possible experiences. For a number of years, Pat hosted a lifestyle show, “Living well With Pat Nogar” on LMTV and regularly shares her expertise across digital platforms. Pat is a Penn State Master Gardener, and a member of Les Dames d'Escoffier, the international organization of food, fine beverages and entertaining. |
| Scott Noye chefdad928@yahoo.com |
Scott Noye is a native Bostonian who has been living in the Philadelphia area for over 30 years. He received his BS degree in Culinary Arts and Management from Johnson and Wales University, and has been working in the retail, management, education, and customer service areas of the food industry. A father of three, Mr. Scott lives in Broomall, Delaware County Mr. Scott, as he is known by his students, is a home-cook, "foodie", and an avid fan and follower of the local restaurant scene. He is passionate about teaching and sharing his knowledge and expertise, as well as using healthy, locally grown, and sustainable ingredients whenever possible. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Scott developed the idea for Chef Dad's Table. He was a teaching assistant at Widener University, a PA Certified Substitute Teacher, and a Culinary Instructor at a Lavner Summer Camp. When schools shut down due to COVID, Scott immediately answered parents' needs for homeschool assistance and tutoring. While working with his students, he also discovered that everyone was struggling to find non-traditional learning activities that were Covid-safe, yet interesting and fun. Scott's culinary training led him to develop cooking and baking classes for children. And thus "Chef Dad's Table" was born. Besides cooking and eating great food, one of the missions of Chef Dad's Table is to provide a safe and engaging place for kids and teens to learn and have fun. Whether it is to strengthen their academic skills or to explore their creative side, Chef Dad's Table offers students a variety of extra-curricular classes, activities, and camps. The classes teach life long skills, build confidence and self-esteem, and introduce students to a variety of vocations and opportunities that are available to them later in life. Chef Dad's Table continues to work with local like-minded organizations to educate people about Family and Consumer Sciences with the goal of helping those in need and reducing the burden that Food Insecurity causes. The students of Chef Dad's Table are introduced to volunteering and philanthropy through their efforts to help combat Food Insecurity and to increase social harmony in our communities. |
| Caroline O'Halloran N/A |
Caroline O’Halloran is the founding editor and publisher of the award-winning online newsmagazine, SAVVY Main Line. Before she created SAVVY, Caroline was a longtime journalist, editor and freelance writer whose articles appeared in regional newspapers, national magazines and collegiate publications. Hundreds of articles carried her byline in the Main Line Times, Main Line Suburban Life and Main Line Life where she served as features, education, society and news editor. An honors graduate of Brown University, Caroline began her journalism career on all-news radio as an anchor, reporter, public affairs show host and producer. She is a proud graduate of Merion Mercy Academy and lives in Malvern. |
| Paul Offit N/A |
Paul A. Offit, MD is the Director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia as well as the Maurice R. Hilleman Professor of Vaccinology and a Professor of Pediatrics at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania. He is a recipient of many awards including the J. Edmund Bradley Prize for Excellence in Pediatrics from the University of Maryland Medical School, the Young Investigator Award in Vaccine Development from the Infectious Disease Society of America, and a Research Career Development Award from the National Institutes of Health. Dr. Offit has published more than 160 papers in medical and scientific journals in the areas of rotavirus-specific immune responses and vaccine safety. He is also the co-inventor of the rotavirus vaccine, RotaTeq, recommended for universal use in infants by the CDC; for this achievement Dr. Offit received the Luigi Mastroianni and William Osler Awards from the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, the Charles Mérieux Award from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases; and was honored by Bill and Melinda Gates during the launch of their Foundation’s Living Proof Project for global health. In 2009, Dr. Offit received the President’s Certificate for Outstanding Service from the American Academy of Pediatrics. In 2011, Dr. Offit received the Humanitarian of the Year Award from the Biologics Industry Organization (BIO), the David E. Rogers Award from the American Association of Medical Colleges, the Odyssey Award from the Center for Medicine in the Public Interest, and was elected to the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences. In 2012, Dr. Offit received the Distinguished Medical Achievement Award from the College of Physicians of Philadelphia and the Drexel Medicine Prize in Translational Medicine fro the Drexel University College of Medicine. In 2013, Dr. Offit received the Maxwell Finland award for Outstanding Scientific Achievement from the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, the Distinguished Alumnus award from the University of Maryland School of Medicine, and the Innovators in Health Award from the Group Health Foundation. In 2015, Dr. Offit won the Lindback Award for Distinguished Teaching from the University of Pennsylvania and was elected to the American Academy of Arts and Sciences. In 2016, Dr. Offit won the Franklin Founder Award from the city of Philadelphia, The Porter Prize from the University of Pittsburgh School of Public Health, the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Philadelphia Business Journal, and the Jonathan E. Rhoads Medal for Distinguished Service to Medicine from the American Philosophical Society. In 2018, Dr.Offit received the Gold Medal from the Sabin Vaccine Institute. Dr. Offit was a member of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and is a founding advisory board member of the Autism Science Foundation and the Foundation for Vaccine Research. He is also the author of nine medical narratives: The Cutter Incident: How America’s First Polio Vaccine Led to Today’s Growing Vaccine Crisis, (Yale University Press, 2005), Vaccinated: One Man’s Quest to Defeat the World’s Deadliest Diseases (HarperCollins, 2007), for which he won an award from the American Medical Writers Association, Autism’s False Prophets: Bad Science, Risky Medicine, and the Search for a Cure (Columbia University Press, 2008), Deadly Choices: How the Anti-Vaccine Movement Threatens Us All (Basic Books, 2011), which was selected by Kirkus Reviews and Booklist as one of the best non-fiction books of the year, Do You Believe in Magic?: The Sense and Nonsense of Alternative Medicine (HarperCollins, 2013), which won the Robert P. Balles Prize in Critical Thinking from the Center for Skeptical Inquiry and was selected by National Public Radio as one of the best books of 2013, Bad Faith: When Religious Belief Undermines Modern Medicine (Basic Books, 2015), which was selected by the New York Times Book Review as an “Editor’s Choice” book in April 2015, Pandora’s Lab: Seven Stories of Science Gone Wrong (National Geographic Press/Random House, April 2017), which was nominated for Best Science and Technology book of 2017 by Goodreads, and Bad Advice: Or Why Celebrities, Politicians, and Activists Aren’t Your Best Source of Health Information (Columbia University Press, June 2018). Overkill: When Modern Medicine Goes Too Far will be published by HarperCollins in April, 2020. |
| Diane Olivia diane.oliva@jhilburnpartner.com |
Diane Oliva is a Independent Personal Menswear Stylist with J.Hilburn. Her background in fashion includes owner/buyer of luxury fashion boutique on the Main Line, Style Editor for Main Line Tonight, and Fashion Contributor for Fashion at the Races. She has judged many fashion events including Radnor Hunt and Devon Horse Show. |
| Benjamin Olshin N/A |
Benjamin B. Olshin PhD, Fulbright Scholar |
| Tara Ominsky N/A |
An attorney whose love for fitness brought her to become pilates certified, Tara brings a unique blend of precision, discipline, and passion to every class. After years in the legal field, she followed her lifelong love for fitness and discovered her true calling in helping others build strength, balance, and confidence. After becoming certified, Tara has taught at several boutique studios on the Main Line focusing on both the Lagree reformer method and mat pilates. She is currently teaching pilates reformer classes at Villanova University. With a sharp eye for detail and a warm, enthusiastic style, Tara empowers clients to feel strong both on and off the mat. This class is designed for all levels to build core strength, improve posture, and increase mobility. Modifications are offered throughout class, making it accessible for beginners while still challenging for the more experienced pilates mat enthusiasts. |
| Michelle Oosterbaan mjo3132@gmail.com |
Michelle Oosterbaan’s drawings, wall paintings, and installations describe relationships between motion/stasis, and investigate ideas of cartography, memory and the idea of place, in an ever-evolving notion of the sublime landscape. Oosterbaan has exhibited internationally including the Weatherspoon Art Museum, The Drawing Center, The Delaware Art Museum, The Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Art and Museum, The Contemporary Art Museum St. Louis, MO. Recent public art projects include the Democratic National Convention and the Mural Arts Philadelphia. She has a BFA from Washington University in St. Louis as a Fred Conway Scholar and an MFA from Indiana University with post-graduate studies in Florence, Italy with S.A.C.I and Indiana University, Bloomington, IN. Currently she teaches at PAFA, Drexel University, Wilmington Friends, and the Fleisher Art Memorial. @mjoosterbaan; www.michelleoosterbaan.com |
| John Parker N/A |
John Parker has grown orchids for 25 years and specializes in growing mediums and orchid care. He has worked with local organizations to revive their orchids and is particularly engaged in teaching non-specialists how to keep their orchids thriving. |
| Michelle Partlow N/A |
Michelle is a professional educator and teaches Mah Jongg locally and around the country. She is a tournament player, lauded as an outstanding teacher who is enthusiastic and patient. https://mjwithmichelle.mailchimpsites.com/ |
| Staff Paws & Affection N/A |
Laura O’Kane took her business management background and parlayed it into founding and leading the team at Paws and Affection for the past 12 years. As the Executive Director of the organization, she leads her team of both dogs and people to success. She enjoys building relationships with dogs, staff, fosters, volunteers, recipients, donors, and the community and believes in a team atmosphere with open communication. Laura has a B.S. in Management from Virginia Tech along with 10 years of management experience prior to taking on the role of leading Paws and Affection since 2013. During her time in this role, she has found the most effective approach to successfully working with both humans and dogs is to understand what they need and show them what we need. Working as a team, using body language and tone of voice, has proven effective in cultivating ones' ability to think, resutling in high self-confidence, low anxiety, and strong problem solving skills. www.pawsandaffection.org |
| Staff, Penns Woods Winery N/A |
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| Lennie Perrott lenoreperrott1@yahoo.com |
Lennie Perrott is a licensed psychologist and certified life coach in Wayne, who works with individuals, couples and families. Central to her work is the powerful self-discovery tool, the Enneagram, which she uses extensively in her private practice and in group settings. You can find out more about lennie on her website: https://www.lenoreperrott.com |
| Beth Perry N/A |
Beth Perry, Tai Chi Instructor |
| Robert Peters N/A |
Robert Peters, Wine Specialist, Best of 'Philadelphia Magazine' has over 25 years of experience in the wine and spirits industry. Wine Specialist at the Ardmore Fine Wine & Good Spirits store which is the number one store in the southeast Pennsylvania area. Rob has been working with MLSN for over 20 years. |
| Jennifer Phelps jphelps@councilforrelationships.org |
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| Staff, Philadelphia Phillies N/A |
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| Naomi Pliskow npliskow@gmail.com |
Naomi Pliskow, MD, MA, is a retired physician and psychotherapist. She spent several years as a medical writer for the pharmaceutical industry, during which she wrote papers and created presentations for healthcare professionals and consumers. |
| Simone L. Pollard simone@simonepollard.com |
Ms. Pollard is a classically trained dancer who has studied many forms of dance from ballet to West African dance. She started dancing at age 3, when ballet slippers were placed on her feet, and then went on to wear tap, jazz, and pointe shoes, and sometimes no shoes! Ms. Pollard has been dancing ever since, with and without shoes, and has been diligent about incorporating her passion for dance into her life. A lifelong wellness enthusiast, Ms. Pollard created The Stretch Room® to bring the stretching practice she developed during her dancing tenure to others. Right brained and left brained, Ms. Pollard is keenly focused on wellness and self-care and combines those perspectives to enrich her life, and the lives of others. Ms. Pollard earned a B.S. in Chemical Engineering from the University of Virginia’s School of Engineering and Applied Science, basing her undergraduate thesis on dance and its mechanics (“An Analysis of Distributed Loads Experienced from Ballet and Gait”). Ms. Pollard also earned an MBA from the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business where, among other leadership positions, she was the Director of Choreography for a major, annual school production. Prior to founding The Stretch Room®, Ms. Pollard traveled the world and thrived as an engineer, management consultant, higher education leader, and business development professional in a diverse set of industries. |
| Nancy Post N/A |
Nancy Post, Ph.D., M.Ac. has been a health practitioner and teacher for 40 years. Her Doctorate is in Organizational Psychology and she holds a masters degree and national certification in Acupuncture and Chinese Herbology. She has taught at the University of Pennsylvania and Temple University as well as designing and running customized education for companies to maximize the energy and productivity of their work forces. She is passionate about teaching people how to be healthy, and is also author of 30 articles addressing practical ways to be better and better. |
| Joel Price jfwp@jfwp.com |
Joel F. W. Price is the Technology Outreach Team Lead at Swarthmore College. In addition, he has consulted for schools, musicians, and small businesses, including social media strategy and implementation, individual and small-group training and photography. He has spoken nationally at conferences on the topic of responsible and creative emerging media implementation. |
| I Purenergy Studio N/A |
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| Catherine Robert N/A |
Catherine Jeanne Robert, PhD, BA, Connecticut College for Women, MA, PhD, University of Pennsylvania, has taught at Haverford and Bryn Mawr Colleges. She is currently on the Liberal Arts faculty of the University of The Arts. Dr. Robert wrote her dissertation under the direction of Dr. Robert Regan. |
| Leslie Robison leslie@masteryconsulting.net |
Leslie Robison has provided coaching and organizing services 1999. She is passionate about helping you achieve more ease, credibility and satisfaction at home and at work. Master your day, master your life: Leslie@MasteryConsulting.net |
| Jason Rodriguez jdrodpictures@gmail.com |
Jason D. Rodriguez is an illustrator who specializes in comic art and picture books for children, working digitally and traditionally. He teaches drawing and illustration to adults, teens and children. https://jdrpictures.bigcartel.com/ |
| James Rosin N/A |
I have acted in numerous episodic TV shows and written stories and teleplays for TV series. I have also written two full-length plays as well as three screenplays and written eight published books on classic TV series. |
| Sam Rossman N/A |
Sam Rossman is a graduate of Drexel’s Film & Television program and works as an Assistant Production Coordinator. He has worked on Mare of Easttown and Task, both created and written by Brad Ingelsby. His other credits include Creed II, Jack Ryan, Rustin, Dispatches from Elsewhere and Dope Thief. |
| Nancy Rugart Plummer NancyRugartPlummer@gmail.com |
Nancy Plummer, M.Ed; President & Founder, All About Connecting; Life Coach/Dating Expert. Nancy has been working for over a decade helping hundreds of men and women find the love they deserve. Allaboutconnecting.com |
| Anthony Francis Russo tonino613@gmail.com |
Anthony Russo, AB, German Language and Literature with Italian Minor, Villanova University, 1970; MA German Language and Literature, Villanova University, 1974 Hired as a teacher of German in 1970, I initiated an Italian curriculum within 3 years, and within 10 years, the program had grown to a full 4 year curriculum. Two full-time teachers of Italian were needed due to student number, about five years later. In 1996, hired again as a teacher of German for the Tredyffrin-Easttown School District in Chester County, I was asked to initiate an Italian curriculum once again at Conestoga High School, and this program grew to a full 4 year curriculum in four years, with 2 full-time teachers of Italian within 9 years. During my career, I have led 15 tours with students and adults, to Germany, Austria, Switzerland, but mostly to Italy. I led a tour of 35 students and adults to Italy and Sicily most recently. As leader of the group, and as lead teacher, I was required to deal with such diverse situations as rooming and other hotel issues, retail store negotiations which students were not able to handle, logistical issues of timing with the tour bus, the Metro in Rome, and the like. While touring with my students, I also had the unique privilege to sing in the Teatro di Ercolano (the ancient theater in Herculaneum) as a demonstration of the incredible acoustics which the ancient Romans developed over 2000 years ago. No microphone is necessary even today, to project the voice of the actor or singer to reach the hundreds in the audience. Almost thirty-nine years of classroom teaching in high school, adult night school, and several courses at the university level in not only Italian, but also in Cultural Diversity, have given me an excellent proficiency in written and spoken Italian, and virtually native fluency in speaking. Never having lived in Italy for any extended period of time, I have nonetheless more than held my own in both business and personal conversations with natives - even those using in part their local dialect - on various topics. |
| Karen Santini Clemens karen@santinifinancial.net |
Karen Santini Clemens is a CPA and a CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ practitioner. I understand how important it is for clients to take an active role in planning for their future. Working alongside my clients has allowed me to help build relationships and gives folks a level of confidence in their financial future. Through fostering a true client partnership and working together as a team, I can help guide clients through life’s milestones. Whether it be navigating through a major life event, planning a comfortable retirement, or educating the next generation on the importance of future planning, my services will be there every step of the way. I grew up in Wayne, PA and attended Pennsylvania State University where I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Finance. I have been residing in West Chester since 1999 where I raised my two children, Nick and Sara. In my free time I enjoy exercising, reading, gardening, and traveling. |
| Rona Satten ronasatten@mac.com |
RONA CORDISH SATTEN is a Professional Member of the National Qigong Association and a Certified Level III Instructor. She is certified by Master Li JunFeng to teach Sheng Zhen Wuji Yuan Gong, and has been certified as an Associate Healing Tao Instructor. Rona is a lifelong shamanic qigong student of Master Zhongxian Wu. She is also certified as a Medical Qigong Therapist through the International Institute of Medical Qigong and has a healing practice combining qi healing with other energy therapies. Rona loves teaching and her priority is to share the joyful, self-healing qigong practice with everyone interested. More information is available from her at: innersageqigong@gmail.com. |
| Anne Schmid encircledg@gmail.com |
With the use of labyrinths, Anne offers meditative walking, inspirational storytelling, and creative reflection. Since becoming a Certified Labyrinth Facilitator in 2013, Anne has conducted presentations, workshops, special events, and retreats for people ages 2 to 92, interfaith and no faith, in schools, places of worship, and community groups. Welcoming all, Anne creates safe, nonjudgmental space to allow feelings and questions to be explored. Anne travels with three different labyrinths and has witnessed the gentle power move through many diverse communities. PA Criminal Record Check and PA Child Abuse Certification are current. Learn more at encircledgrace.com. |
| Cara Schneider Bongiorno caraschneiderbongiorno@gmail.com |
Cara Schneider Bongiorno represented the city to travel media for more than 20 years at VISIT PHILADELPHIA® and now shares her love of the region through her entertaining Philly History Pop Ups – interactive talks on surprising parts of Philly history to inspire curiosity and future visits. For more, visit www.phillyhistorypopups.com |
| Melissa Schweiter Oeth N/A |
Melissa is a lifelong resident of the Main Line. She has a Master's Degree in Counseling from Villanova University which plays a huge role in the work she does in helping people with the difficult transition of preparing and selling their homes. She started The Well Kept Home in 2014 because she wanted to help friends, family and now an extensive network of clients to make their homes more enjoyable, more beautiful and more profitable. Melissa is authentic, compassionate and committed to providing service to others in any aspect of real estate. |
| James Scott N/A |
As a member of President Carter's White House Staff and holding the rewarding position as a White House Fellow during his presidency, I was a key staff contributor on Presidential Task Forces on programmatic legislation on government deregulation, S.A.L.T II Treaty, Federal Reserve/International Banking Act of 1978, Humphrey-Hawkins Full Employment Act of 1978, Trade Agreement Act of 1979, and groundwork for the comprehensive Depository Institutions Deregulatory and Monetary Control Act of 1980. My extensive and diversified experience, pre- and post- White House service provided a unique prism of understanding of government's impact on the institutions comprising the U.S. and international economies; service included positions of authority in domestic and international corporate banking, institutional investment management, mutual fund boards, Fortune 500 corporate boards, university Trustee boards, not-for-profit boards, and CFO for higher-ed institutions, C-Suite positions in energy companies. |
| Elliott Segelbaum N/A |
Elliott teaches cross stitch classes, runs stitching groups and contributes regularly to a quarterly cross stitch magazine. He has an active cross stitch design business, blog and website. https://manlyxs.com |
| Julie Seville's Lifetime Fitness julie@sevillefitness.com |
Julie has been leading group exercise classes for over 30 years and has been teaching classes at Main Line School Night since 1995. Fostering a warm and welcoming atmosphere, Julie strives to make every class fun, informative and motivating, and to help her students achieve their health and fitness goals. |
| Anjali Shaw N/A |
I have a B.A. in European Studies/French literature and an M.A. in Information Science. I have also spent a number of years studying film at the New School in New York City. I was a tenured faculty member at the Fashion Institute of Technology in NYC before moving to the Main Line in 2006. I have been an avid student of film and culture for decades, but only discovered Hindi Cinema more recently. It has changed my life in that it is so much more than movies; there is a profound wisdom and emotional connection that these movies provide. It has become my passion to help others experience this. |
| Staff, Shofuso Japanese Tea House N/A |
Staff, Japanese Tea House |
| Laura Shook N/A |
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| Melinda Shorr act3lifecoaching@gmail.com |
Melinda B. Shorr, PhD, is a psychologist turned life coach. Melinda spent several years as a clinician with emotionally disturbed children in residential care before leaving to become a market research professional. Most recently, Melinda has been a vice President at Research Partnership, a London-based company specializing in pharmaceuticals. Melinda has been pulled by a desire to move back into a helping profession and trained as a life coach. She has developed a program, the Art of Your Joyful Act3, designed to help clients envision and optimize their later years. www.Act3lifecoaching.com |
| Steve Shreiner N/A |
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| John Sigmund N/A |
John Sigmund is the Director of Partnerships at Fairmount Park Conservancy and the caretaker at Lemon Hill Mansion. https://myphillypark.org/who-we-are/staff/john-sigmund/ |
| Robert Siravo N/A |
With over 20 years of experience in professional photography, Bob Siravo's work has been featured in several outdoor publications and exhibitions; he has been recognized for his ability to blend creativity with technical precision. He has conducted numerous workshops and is passionate about mentoring aspiring photographers. |
| Ken Sklar N/A |
Ken Sklar has moderated MLSN course Topics in the News since 2014. Before that he created the popular Global Issues and Contemporary American Studies classes at Radnor H.S., where he taught for 37 years. While there, Ken served on the faculty of the Governor’s School for International Studies, helmed the Model UN Club, the Global Responsibility Organization, the student newspaper, led trips to the Soviet Union and China, ran Radnor’s gifted education program, and hosted guest speakers from area colleges, US and foreign governments as well as former students. Always seeking to promote the teaching profession, Ken served as President of Radnor’s Teachers union and was its Chief Negotiator. Ken considers himself a lifelong learner who transitioned from teaching 17 year-olds to septuagenarians. A political junkie and an avid traveler, Ken has visited over 80 countries. He is married with three sons and two grandchildren |
| Debbie Smith dancr4evvr@aol.com |
Debbie Smith has been teaching dance for over 40 years. She teaches Ballet, Tap and Jazz to both children and adults at Dain Dance Academy (formerly McHenry Dance Center) where she is a faculty member. She enjoys continuing education classes at the University of the Arts, Broadway Dance Center, Koresh, and Dance Masters of America summer intensive at NY University and taking classes from the many tap masters throughout the Philadelphia Area. She is a member of a tap company known as UCTT (Uniting Colleges Through Tap) and is proud to be a part of this ambitious talented company of tap dancers. |
| Emily Smith N/A |
Emily Smith is a seasoned expert in myofascial release therapy and licensed massage therapy, offering a deeply integrative approach to healing and body awareness. With over twenty years of experience, Emily blends manual therapy with fascia-focused movement coaching, reflexive strengthening, and functional Pilates instruction to help clients restore mobility, reduce pain, and reconnect with their bodies. Her sessions are known for their depth, precision, and transformative impact, often serving those who have struggled to find relief through conventional methods. Drawing on her background in both the science of movement and the art of touch, Emily empowers her clients to build resilience and fluidity from the inside out. She specializes in guiding individuals through postural re-patterning, nervous system regulation, and sustainable strength practices tailored to their unique fascial architecture. Whether recovering from injury or simply seeking more freedom in movement, her work bridges clinical expertise with intuitive care. |
| Daniel Solway N/A |
Daniel Solway is a Philadelphia-based sommelier and owner of Santé LLC. Santé is an events business focused on wine tastings, dinners, and collaborative events. Daniel has worked in almost every part of the wine industry, from floor sommelier, to wine retail, wine sales, to working on vineyards in Champagne, Austria , and Germany. Dan has worked at several critically acclaimed restaurants including Lord's, Oxalis, and The Finch. Daniel is WSET 3 Certified. |
| Rick Spector krypton1992@gmail.com |
Through his MOVIEHOUSE PRODUCTIONS, Rick Spector showcases local history and memories through live presentations and video. His topics include sports, movies, television, lost architecture, unusual Philadelphians and memories of the "old" neighborhood". For more than forty years Rick has presented at adult education classes, libraries and a variety of other venues where seniors congregate. His "YouTube' videos are quite popular. Visit his website at www.moviehouseproductions.com to view his podcasts and for further information about his work. |
| MLSN Staff N/A |
Staff, MLSN |
| Staff, Stateside Distillery N/A |
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| Staff, Stoneleigh: A Natural Garden N/A |
Staff, Stoneleigh: a natural garden |
| Jackie Strauss N/A |
Broadcast Pioneers Board member Jackie Strauss is a Philly girl, born and raised. Her memories of growing up in the city led her to her position as "Neighborhood Correspondent" on the "Remember When” radio program, along with hosts, Steve Ross and Jim Murray, formerly on “CBS 1210 AM” and then on “ 990 AM WNTP” for over a decade. During the six years Jackie was a part of the radio show, her segment was one of the longest-running features; reporting on people's birthdays, anniversaries, reunions and events in their lives, and researching the various neighborhoods in the Delaware Valley which prompted calls from listeners anxious to talk about their memories and their pride in the places where they grew up. Jackie was always a part of the conversational dialogue between Steve and Jimmy and their listeners, as they took their weekly trip together down "Memory Lane”. |
| Pedro Suarez pesuarez@gmail.com |
Pedro Suarez, M.A.; Native Speaker; Spanish Instructor |
| Nancy Sullivan N/A |
Nancy is a Board Certified Health and Wellness Coach with a lifelong commitment to healthcare and well-being. As a coach Nancy draws on her extensive experience in healthcare and passion for empowering others. She helps individuals build resilience by harnessing their unique strengths and guiding them toward a more balanced and fulfilling life. Learn more at nancysullivanwellness.com. |
| Lawrence Swesey N/A |
I am a retired educator and military officer, married with three adult children. My educational experience is primarily in mentoring and instructing adult (both young and mature) students in a variety of disciplines. My professional educational career centered upon instructing juniors and seniors in a highly regarded academic public high school in Princeton Junction, New Jersey. My military career included a long assignment as a primary instructor at the U.S. Army’s Reserve Officer Advanced Course at Ft Knox, Kentucky. Additionally, my professional career included several years as an adjunct facility instructor at the college level. I have also, presented lectures, learning sessions and workshops at professional conferences and various organizations, developed and conducted educational tours of historical significant locations and mentored young professionals. After retiring from public school instruction I accepted a position as Adjunct Professor at Valley Forge Military College instructing Ethics and History. Since my professional retirement I have continued to give occasional lectures and conduct historical site educational tours. I also serve as a volunteer in the Museum Programs Department at The Benjamin Franklin Institute , Philadelphia, PA. Certifications and degrees include: Bachelor of Science The United States Military Academy, West Point, New York 1969 Master of Education Temple University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 1978 U.S. Army Instructor 275th U.S. Army Reserve School, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 1985 Major educational assignments include: High School Teacher Lower Moreland High School Huntingdon Valley, PA High School Teacher Lower Merion School District Lower Merion, PA Advanced Course Inst U.S. Officer Reserve Advanced Course Ft Knox, KY High School Teacher West Windsor-Plainsboro Sch. Dis trict Princeton Junction, NJ Adjunct Professor Valley Forge Military College Wayne, PA |
| Jood Thompson N/A |
Jood Thompson is a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach with a background in Psychology and Human Relations. She currently volunteers at both the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy and Partners in Change. She is also a Holden Qi Gong Certified Teacher offering classes to small groups locally. |
| Rebecca Thompson rthompson@beaconpointe.com |
Rebecca Thompson is a Wealth Advisor with the Bala Cynwyd office of Beacon Pointe Advisors, the largest woman-run Registered Investment Advisory firm in the country. She is a proud Villanova University graduate and holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER® (CFP®) designation. With over two decades of industry experience, Rebecca is a seasoned financial professional dedicated to creating tailored strategies to help her clients align their wealth with their values and what matters to them most. She has worked closely with women in transition and widows for most of her career and prides herself on making the financial planning process an exercise of empowerment during difficult times. |
| George Tolton georgetolton@yahoo.com |
I have taught English country dance to adults and children for over twenty years. As a member of Heritage Dancers, we demonstrate dance at several historic sites and encourage the visitors to try a dance with us. |
| Sue Trembeth strembeth@comcast.net |
Sue is an experienced teacher of Zentangle™ and paper crafting. She was recently featured on Action News for Zentangle™. She enjoys sharing the creativity and mindfulness of Zentangle™ with others. https://suezentangle.carrd.co/ |
| Staff Tri-State Training mstewart@tristatetraining.com |
Staff, Tri-State Training |
| I US Coast Guard Aux. 5NR bayardanderson@comcast.net |
Staff, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary |
| Caroline Ulstrup caroline@diatahealth.com |
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| Staff Upper Merion Community Center dmuthersbaugh@umtownship.org |
Staff, Upper Merion Community Center |
| Jeffrey Urbin N/A |
Jeffrey Urbin is the Education Specialist and Director of the Pare Lorentz Film Center. He is responsible for developing all of the Library’s on-site and online education programs and materials for students ranging from second grade to college including adult learning and public programs. His work with the Pare Lorentz Center has produced hundreds of hours of award winning video programs and materials used in classrooms across the country and around the world. He is the recipient of the 2023 Archivist’s Award for Excellence in Leadership in Advancing Education Programs, Distance Learning and Fostering New Learning Environments for Diverse Audiences. In June he will receive the Dutchess County Hayden Award for Excellence in Education. He has been instrumental in creating the curriculum for the new National Archives National Civic Education Initiative, and the development of disability and accessibility programs and curriculum. Prior to joining the National Archives in 2001, he taught history and government for public and private colleges in the Hudson Valley for 10 years. He earned a Masters Degree in Public Administration and a BA in Political Science and International Affairs as a Truman Scholar and studied education and Latin American and Caribbean Affairs. |
| Kate Varley kateoffcenter@gmail.com |
Kate Varley earned a BA from Clark University, MS and PhD from University of Pennsylvania. She has worked as a therapist, psych adjunct, teacher, editor, tutor, and even had a brief stint as a quasi-forger (totally legal). She was founder and editor of the late, lamented zine of autobiographical writing and poetry, Creek Road Gang, and author of a comic mystery Off Center. |
| Cynthia Veloric N/A |
Cynthia H. Veloric, PhD, Art Historian, Curator, Environmentalist |
| Nury Vicens lasgreenpeas@gmail.com |
Nury Vicens holds a MFA from University of Pennsylvania and a BA from Applied Art School of the University of Chile. Nury works in many different kinds of media and she currently works on portrait commissions and indoor murals. She has been noted as a PA Latino artist and was chosen to exhibit her paintings at the State Museum of Pennsylvania and The Berman Museum of Art. She has been invited to exhibit in Germany, Belgium and Chile as well as many juried exhibitions in the States. Her work was exhibited at Zone One Gallery in Philadelphia for many years. |
| Sarah Vogan skvogan@mtholyoke.edu |
Sarah Vogan began her training at a young age. Her performance highlights include: ABC Boscov's Thanksgiving Day Parade, Sunoco Welcome America 4th of July Parades, Republican National Convention in 2000, Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell Inauguration Parade, and in 2003, Sarah made her debut dancing at Carnegie Hall in concert with Janellen Farmer. While acquiring her BA in dance at Mount Holyoke College, she choreographed an adjudicated piece for the American College Dance Association national festival. Sarah teaches at many dance studios in the greater Philadelphia area and choreographs musicals for local schools and community theaters. A dancer with The Lady Hoofers Tap Ensemble, she was recognized in 2019 by Camille Bacon-Smith of Broad Street Review as the "star turn" of The Lady Hoofers' annual spring concert, On Tap. In 2021 and 2022, Sarah danced one of the leading roles, Queen of Versailles, in The Lady Hoofers’ production of The Tapcracker, performed at the Suzanne Roberts Theater. With The Lady Hoofers, Sarah has also been cast in the premier performances of guest choreographers: Dolores Sanchez, Caleb Teicher, Michele Dunleavy, Robyn Watson, Lisa LaTouche, and Michael J. Love. |
| Mike Walsh N/A |
Mike Walsh has written computer manuals, a true crime book, short stories, journalism, song lyrics, and plays. He is also the co-creator of a new family of baseball stats called total Bases Generated (tBG). And he is VP of Communications for the local chapter of the Society for Advanced Baseball Research (SABR). |
| Marylyn Waltzer waltzermarylyn@gmail.com |
Marylyn Waltzer, NY Botanical Gardens Certified Botanical Illustrator |
| Staff, Washington Memorial Chapel N/A |
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| Mike Weilbacher mike@mikeweilbacher.com |
Naturalist Mike Weilbacher is an environmental educator with 40 years of experience teaching through lectures, walks, newspaper essays, theatrical performances, and radio. A frequent lecturer, Mike has been traveling the Delaware Valley the last five years offering public lectures on environmental concerns. He’s also been a keynote speaker and workshop leader at state and national education conferences, speaking before groups like the National Science Teachers Association, the Pennsylvania Association for Environmental Educators, the National Association of Interpretation, and the Association of Nature Center Administrators. As an environmental educator, he has designed a diverse array of programs across the region, including family festivals, Earth Day events, town meetings, lecture series, nature walks, and so much more. Over a 30-year career, he served as the executive director of the Lower Merion Conservancy, the Briar Bush Nature Center in Abington, and the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education in Roxborough. As an emcee and radio personality, Mike hosted Earth Talk on WHYY-FM, an early 90s newsmagazine on regional environmental concerns. Over the show’s five-year run, his guests included Al Gore, biodiversity pioneer Edward O. Wilson, environmental activists Paul Ehrlich and Barry Commoner, writers Bill McKibben, Terry Tempest Williams, and Michael Pollan, and many more. Mike is also well-known as “Mike the All-Natural Science Guy” on the Peabody award-winning live children’s radio show “Kid’s Corner” on WXPN-FM in Philadelphia and worldwide at XPN.org, where he has been talking to children about nature and the environment for more than 30 years. As a writer, his first book, Wild Philly, was released with Timber Press in 2022. He has authored weekly columns on preservation and environmental issues for two different local newspapers since 1997, where in 2006 the Suburban Newspapers of America honored him for outstanding writing. He has published articles in Green Teacher, E: The Environmental Magazine and Learning, placed numerous book reviews and op-ed pieces in The Philadelphia Inquirer, and wrote an acclaimed regular column in his state’s environmental education journal. As a performer of original vaudevillian-style theater about nature and science, Mike has performed on stages across the country, in parks, festivals, museums, nature centers, and more, from the American Museum of Natural History in New York to the Tallahassee Museum in Florida. |
| Sally Weinstock sallyweinstock1@comcast.net |
Sally Weinstock is the founder of Pennington Arts. She has been teaching music, art and creative writing for over fifty years. |
| Susan Weisgrau sulear6@gmail.com |
Susan Weisgrau is a retired writing and literature teacher with J.M. Barrack Hebrew Academy (formerly Akiba) She is a former board member of JASNA, Eastern Pennsylvania. and judge of national student essay contests for JASNA. Susan has led book groups for many years at libraries and other venues. |
| Staff Wharton Esherick Studio N/A |
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| Nancy White nancy@digitalconsultingassociates.com |
Nancy White is owner of Digital Consulting Associates, LLC in West Chester PA. She is a technology course development specialist, and gives private computer lessons to individuals and business in the Main Line area. A graduate of Immaculata University, Nancy has a contagious passion for teaching adults how to make the best possible use of technology. She is also an adjunct instructor at Delaware County Community College. Nancy's company website is digitalconsultingassociates.com and she can be reached at 610-357-1525. |
| Phil Witmer philip.witmer@verizon.net |
Phil Witmer is an avid birder and conservationist with over 30 years birding experience. He is a past board member of Bucks County Audubon Society, past-president of the Delaware Valley Ornithological Club, one of the oldest birding clubs in the country, and was a member of the advisory board of Audubon Pennsylvania State Office. He is currently vice-president of Bird Town Pennsylvania, helping to build bird-friendly habitats in PA municipalities. His work in support of the conservation of birds includes teaching and giving lectures on the forces driving their decline and what we need to do to save them. |
| Suzanne Wolko N/A |
Suzanne Wolko grew up in Finance & Accounting roles for Financial Services firms. While there she created a Global Business Travel role negotiating airline and hotel contracts for business travelers which combined her two loves - Finance & Travel. Traveling solo to nearly fifty countries, she has navigated the world of airline miles, credit card points and little known travel sites to explore the world for less. Her best award redemptions have been business class to Australia, Easter Island and South Africa. Those savings have allowed her to upgrade her travel experiences and discover private guides, charming cities and feed her chocolate addiction. Recently, she has appearred on interviews with WHYY "You Oughta Know" and BYU radio. She has over 15 years of HR experience which includes recruiting, intern programs and compensation. Sue has been on both sides of the job search - as recruiter and job seeker so she understands the day to day process of job search and the importance of building a strategy for success. She jokes that "meeting Oprah is easier than a job search" and is keen to help job seekers find their voice, tell their story to build networks and have a strategy for job search. |
| Anthony Wood tonywood1@mac.com |
Anthony Wood has been a freelance photographer since 1981. He has worked in many areas of photography including: location shooting for editorial, corporate and non-profits, documentary and fine art. He’s also been teaching all aspects of photography for over 20 years. Learn more at www.Anthonywoodphotography.com |
| Staff, Woodford Mansion N/A |
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| Staff, Woodmere Art Museum N/A |
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| Maggie Wreski celticmeetscountry@gmail.com |
Maggie Wreski has taught Irish Dance to adults and children since 1968. After living many places in Europe and the US, she moved to Montgomery Country where she taught Irish Dance at the Irish Pub she owned for many years. In the last decade she has taught country line dance and started Appalachian clogging. She and her dance partner have performed at many national festivals. She's also an avid runner. |
| Elizabeth Wright eawright1016@gmail.com |
ELIZABETH WRIGHT learned to knit at a Main Line School Night class twenty years ago, and hasn't stopped knitting since. In addition to having taught at Main Line School Night since 2004, she also teaches knitting and crocheting to children at Agnes Irwin in the summer and gives private lessons. She is a member of the Haverford Guild of Craftsmen, a local chapter of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen, and participates in local art shows. She knows that anyone can learn to knit, and thoroughly enjoys introducing new knitters to the hobby and helping experienced knitters learn new skills and expand their knitting knowledge. |
| Bin Wu N/A |
Bin Wu grew up in a tea plantation village in China, where the rhythms of nature shaped everyday life and inspired her creativity. Through study and practice in Japanese Ikebana and Chado, she has cultivated an understanding of balance, mindfulness, and the art of expression. Now pursuing a doctorate in Art and Art Education, Bin shares these traditions in ways that fit daily life, inviting participants to discover how simple flowers, branches, and mindful rituals can bring calm, beauty, and connection to everyday life. |
| Sean Yom N/A |
Sean Yom is a specialist on states and governance in the Middle East. His research explores the dynamics of authoritarian politics, democratic reforms, and economic development in these countries, as well as their implications for US foreign policy. His past publications include the books From Resilience to Revolution: How Foreign Interventions Destabilize the Middle East (Columbia University Press, 2015/2016) and Jordan: Politics in an Accidental Crucible (Oxford University Press, 2025), as well as various essays in academic journals like Journal of Democracy and popular outlets like The Washington Post. He sits on the editorial board of the International Journal of Middle East Studies and the editorial committee of Middle East Report. Education: A.B., Brown University (2003); PhD., Harvard University (2009). |
| Julie Zagdanski N/A |
Julie Alison Zagdanski, M.ed, is a certified wellness coach and artist with over 20 years of experience working with individuals, groups, and families to support personal growth and creative expression for healthier and happier life choices. Julie believes in the transformative power of creativity and has cultivated a teaching style that encourages exploration, imagination, and self-expression. She guides students of all ages in discovering their unique creative voices through various mediums, such as visual arts and creative writing for emotional expression and healing. |
| Hari Zandler N/A |
He's called a 'teacher of teachers' whose self-mastery yoga and teacher training programs are based on more than 40 years of practice and teaching. Meet Hari Zandler, a classical Hatha yoga instructor, who has explored the roots of Indian spirituality on several journeys to the sub-continent. As recently as 2016, he observed that India is "a place where the universal principles of ancient wisdom are being rediscovered and integrated into a science of enlightened living for the whole modern world." His teaching and practice of Hatha yoga reflect these observations. "Hatha yoga and meditation are particularly beneficial in helping to alleviate the stresses of modern life," he commented. Dating back to before the 15th century, this ancient yoga informs newer yoga styles and brings an authentic perspective to the practice by focusing on restorative poses, meditation and breathing. Whether you are a new or experienced practitioner, see how this ancient self-discovery approach creates health, harmony and renewal with a foundation of inner peace. Zandler was an Adjunct Professor at Philadelphia University, taught yoga and meditation at St. Joseph's University for 20 years and has been an instructor at Main Line School Night since the early 1980s. At the Philadelphia Inquirer's headquarters, reporters and staff members participate in Zandler's ongoing yoga for stress management classes designed specifically for professionals with challenging jobs. |
| Franny Zehmer N/A |
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| Tatiana Zelenetskaya Young tayoung@moore.edu |
TATIANA ZELENETSKAYA YOUNG, a native of Ukraine, is a professor of Anthropology, an archaeologist-Mayanist, a world traveler, a professional dancer, a historical fashionista, and an artisan. Digging through history has been her life’s passion which has ultimately led to her attaining doctorate in Anthropology, with emphasis in ancient Maya. Tatiana is well-traveled, has over 10 years of archeological fieldwork – domestic and abroad, and accompanying years teaching cultural anthropology collegiately. Among her other passions is dance. Tatiana has been involved in performing and teaching Middle Eastern dance for over 17 years. She performed across the tri-state area under her stage name, Kahina Asurah; and, appeared on MIND TV in the history of Belly Dance. Additionally, Tatiana also performs historical dance in the outfits of the time (Colonial, Victorian, Regency and Edwardian) which she has sewn herself. Tatiana enjoys creating during her free time. This can be seen through her resin art with dry flowers, necklaces with different stones and objects, and fluid painting. Tatiana has been teaching at MLSN for the past 10 years and has been featured at local station MLTV21. |