Class Listing - by Instructor
| Name | Biography |
|---|---|
| Muhammad Abdul-Hadi N/A |
Muhammad Abdul-Hadi is the Founder and Owner of Down North Pizza, a mission-driven restaurant that exclusively hires formerly incarcerated individuals and serves up pies with a purpose in Philadelphia. Leveraging his academic background in criminal justice and experiences as an entrepreneur, Muhammad embarked on a path to reimagine a business leader’s role in supporting underserved communities. Through fair wages, innovative hiring practices, and community building, he is on a mission to help reduce recidivism rates across the city of Philadelphia and beyond. This year, Muhammad’s outstanding contributions earned him The James Beard Foundation’s 2024 Leadership Award, recognizing achievement by individuals actively working to set standards that create more equitable, just, sustainable, and economically viable food systems. Muhammad also sat on The James Beard Foundation’s Legacy Network Cohort, an honor bestowed upon emerging leaders in the culinary industry. He is the author of We The Pizza, a Clarkson Potter-published cookbook set for launch in February 2025. Alongside cinematic photography and award-winning recipes, We the Pizza will tell the Down North story about how the restaurant fulfills its mission to educate and support the formerly incarcerated. Muhammad is the Founder of Down North Foundation, a non-profit organization focused on community development, education, and improvement. His latest initiative includes the Down North Treehouse, a communal space built from a refurbished library, aiming to address the school-to-prison pipeline by empowering students to find purposeful and financially rewarding careers in the tech sector. Muhammad hopes to spread the mission of Down North throughout the country, uplifting similar communities by addressing the barrier to success through employment opportunities and neighborhood initiatives ACCOLADES - Recipient of the 2024 James Beard Leadership Award - Advisor for the James Beard Foundation’s 2023-2024 Legacy Network Cohort - Robert Wood Johnson Interdisciplinary Research Leaders Fellow - Awarded New York Time’s 50 Best Restaurants in America 2021 - Awarded Bon Appetit’s Head of the Table 2021 |
| Bryan Adler N/A |
Bryan J. Adler Esq., CELA, Managing Partner, Rothkoff Law Group Bryan J. Adler is a Certified Elder Law Attorney (CELA) through the National Elder Law Foundation, the only Pennsylvania and New Jersey Supreme Courts authorized and American Bar Association accredited certification in Elder Law. He dedicates his elder law practice to advising and counseling clients in the areas of elder law, life care planning, asset protection, veterans’ benefits, estate planning, guardianships, and long-term care advocacy for both Pennsylvania and New Jersey residents. *Certified Elder Law Attorney by the ABA Accredited National Elder Law Foundation, as Authorized by the Pennsylvania and New Jersey Supreme Courts. |
| Elizabeth Aguilera N/A |
With over three decades of experience in corporate America, Elizabeth's professional journey took a transformative turn when her job was outsourced overseas. This pivotal moment led her to embrace entrepreneurship, where she successfully founded a coaching business aimed at helping women where she used to be. Drawing from personal experiences with back-to-back narcissistic relationships, she has committed the last several years to helping women recover and rebuild their lives after narcissistic abuse. Through her tailored coaching methods and insights, Elizabeth is dedicated to guiding women towards reclaiming their self-worth, setting firm boundaries, and living a fulfilling life free from manipulation. Join her as she shares her journey and tools to help you evict the narcissist from your head and embrace a brighter future of your own design. |
| Ilona Ahearn N/A |
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| 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 Aloia has been a writer since youth, writing short stories and poems, instilling a passion for crafting written compositions. In her professional work, she has penned corporate communication, articles, books, newsletters, and more. For the past 20 years she has served as a personal development coach using meditation, reflection, mindfulness, and energy work to assist others in achieving greater versions of themselves. Her interactive and imaginative workshops include relaxed self-exploration through writing. Additionally, Pamela supports fellow authors and new and seasoned writers reach higher levels of self-expression and discovery through the written word. Visit her website: blossomingeveryday.com. Email: pamela@blossomingeveryday.com. |
| Kevin Altman N/A |
Kevin Altman is a strategic communications expert with over a decade of experience on political campaigns. He holds a Master’s degree in Literature from the University of Louisville, where he wrote his thesis on Shakespeare within the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. |
| I Amalia amalia@amaliadance.com |
As a performer, Amalia has appeared at venues and dance events along the East Coast and in her home state of California. Highlights include performances at the Brooklyn Academy of Music, Queens Theater, and opening for the Belly Dance Superstars Philadephia Show at World Cafe Live. She has taught for the past 15 years throughout the Philadelphia area and coached the belly dance club of Swarthmore College. She is passionate about helping people find confidence, fluidity and ease in their bodies through this beautiful dance form. |
| 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. |
| Staff, Appleford Estate N/A |
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| David Barnes N/A |
David Barnes, Associate Professor, UPenn |
| Mita Barot N/A |
Mita works at a Main Line School District’s Nutrition Department. She frequently entertains large groups in her home in Chester County introducing her guests to the many healthy dishes of India and has been teaching cooking classes since 2009, most recently in St. Mary’s County, MD. Mita is passionate about healthy cooking, entertaining and loves to laugh and have fun while cooking. |
| Carrie Barron classeswithcarrieb@gmail.com |
My name is Carrie and I love connecting people with the natural world through classes, workshops and gifts. My classes inspire conservation through crafting! I've worked for several environmental organizations, including the National Park Service Baltimore Aquarium, Philadelphia Zoo and the National Audubon Society, where I served as Center Director for the John James Audubon Center. Currently, I am Director of STEM at a non-profit forensic lab. https://classeswithcarrieb.com |
| Susannah Beckett N/A |
CSz Philadelphia - Home of ComedySportz! Teaching Artist - Performer, Instructor, Workshop Facilitaor. Improvisation, Theater Skills, Communication, Team Building. |
| 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. |
| Lynn Berkowitz N/A |
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 |
| 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. |
| Tracy Blanchard N/A |
Tracy Blanchard brings over fifteen years of experience in language teaching, translation, and interpretation. With more than 18 years of immersion in Brazil, including time spent in some of its most remote and culturally rich regions, she combines her deep passion for the Portuguese language and Brazilian culture with her expertise in language education. to deliver an engaging and dynamic class. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Kent Bottles kentbottles@gmail.com |
Dr. Kent Bottles teaches health policy and payment reform at The Thomas Jefferson University College of Population Health in Philadelphia and regularly consults and presents on population health, health care reform, digital medicine, and the future of the doctor patient relationship. He has been a Professor and Chair of academic medical school pathology departments, a Chief Medical Officer of a state-wide integrated delivery system, a President and CEO and DIO of an educational and research collaborative in Grand Rapids, Michigan, a President and CEO of an evidence-based medicine health care consortium in Minneapolis, and a President and Chief Knowledge Officer of a genomics bio-tech start-up company in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Dr. Bottles has received the following awards and honors: Phi Beta Kappa, The Rodney T. West Literary Achievement Award for the most important article on medical management in 2001 from the American College of Physician Executives, the Resident Teacher of the Year Award from the University of Iowa Department of Pathology, the UC San Francisco Class of 1991 Certificate of Distinction in Teaching for a Major Contribution, the UC San Francisco Class of 1990 Certificate of Distinction in Teaching for a Stimulating Lecture Series, and the Henry J. Kaiser Award for Excellence in Teaching at UC San Francisco for Basic Science. |
| 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. |
| John Brewer kristie@kieranrobinsonwines.com |
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| 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. |
| Vinroy David Brown, Jr. N/A |
David Vinroy Brown is an Adjunct Assistant Professor of Sacred Music at Westminster Choir College. He is a Ph.D. student in Music (Musicology) at Temple University. |
| Jeanne Buckley N/A |
Dr. Jeanne Buckley is on the faculty of Arcadia University, where she teaches courses on Gender Inequality and Bruce Springsteen. While some might think these are diametrically opposed topics, Jeanne considers herself both a feminist and fan of rock and roll singer-songwriters. |
| 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. |
| Joanna Carmichael N/A |
Joanna Carmichael is an RN, Doctor of Metaphysics and Divinity, Interfaith Minister, and Ayurveda, Meditation & Yoga teacher. She’s been practicing in the nursing field for over 35 years including a 20+ year career in pharmaceutical research. Her studies have given her a well-rounded perspective on health & healing, and its intimate relationship to spirituality. She completed the Vedic Mastery program at the Chopra Center under the inspired direction of Drs. Deepak Chopra and David Simon and went on to obtain a diploma in Ayurveda which included an internship in Ayurvedic Medicine in Coimbatore, India. She writes and speaks about the disparity within medicine due to the pharmaceutical and agriculture lobbies, and the lack of adherence to the laws of nature which subsequently affect health and healing, or the lack thereof. She works to bridge the gap between the remarkable advances in medicine and the holistic medical community where the focus is on consciousness, longevity, and aging gracefully along with the mindful and minimal use of pharmaceuticals and surgery when necessary. She’s an animal advocate and is planning to create a holistic retreat center and farm animal sanctuary to bring together the healing of animals and people through education, rescue, and advocacy. |
| 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". |
| Thomas Christopher N/A |
A graduate of the New York Botanical Garden School of Professional Horticulture, Thomas Christopher has been planting and writing about gardens for more than four decades. In addition to serving as a columnist for several nationally circulated magazines, he has written more than a dozen award-winning books, including Nature Into Art, The Gardens of Wave Hill. Currently he produces Growing Greener, a weekly radio program about environmentally friendly gardening that broadcasts on 20 radio stations and downloads as a podcast to more than 10,000 additional listeners every month. He gardens and makes vintage New England hard cider with his wife Suzanne in the Berkshire Hills of southwestern Massachusetts. |
| Staff, Cliveden House N/A |
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| Mary Coe N/A |
Mary Coe, Hike Leader, Willows Park Preserve |
| Jeffrey Cohen N/A |
Jeffrey A Cohen, PhD, Chair, Growth & Structure of Cities Department, Bryn Mawr College |
| 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 |
| Maria Ann Conelli N/A |
Maria Ann Conelli is a Professor of Art History and was the founding dean of the School of Visual, Media and Performing Arts at Brooklyn College, City University of New York (2011-2022). Her area of specialty is Renaissance and Baroque Art and Architecture in Italy and France. She was previously the executive director of the American Folk Art Museum and oversaw the landmark red and white quilt exhibition at the Park Avenue Armory. Conelli has served as dean of the School of Graduate Studies and acting dean of the School of Art & Design at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York and, prior to that, as chair of the Smithsonian Institution’s graduate programs in the History of Decorative Arts in New York and Washington, D.C. Conelli holds a Ph.D. in architectural history from Columbia University, a master’s degree from the Institute of Fine Arts, New York University and a bachelor’s degree from Brooklyn College in Art History. She has been the recipient of numerous awards, including the J. Paul Getty Postdoctoral Fellowship in the History of Art and the Humanities, and is a fellow of the American Academy in Rome. Conelli has taught in the United States and in Europe; organized exhibitions, lectured and published on sixteenth- and seventeenth-century art, architecture and landscape design. She served on the College Art Association’s Executive Committee as a Vice President for External Affairs, and is on the Board of Director’s Forum, and Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts at Brooklyn College. |
| Radnor Conservancy N/A |
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| Abby Contract YOGA206@icloud.com |
Abby Contract's trainings include RYT 200 Hour Yoga Alliance, Chair Yoga, Yin Yoga, Yoga for Bone Health, IIN Health Coach, Brain Longevity® Specialist. With YOGA206, she offers a full service private and group yoga practice to boost bones, balance and brain. More Info: YOGA206@icloud.com, Instagram:YOGA_206, Facebook: YOGA206. |
| 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. |
| 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! |
| Meridith Coyle catering@aneukitchens.com |
Meridith Coyle, has owned and operated many Main Line restaurants, markets and catering companies over the last 25 years and is now teaching people how to take their own health back through their diet and lifestyle. She is a vegan chef and a graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition. Her newest shop, Aneu Kitchen is an organic juice and smoothie bar in addition to a gourmet take out market and breakfast and lunch spot that takes comfort food and makes it healthy! Now certified in whole food cooking and Integrative nutrition, Meridith gets to use her love of food and fun to help people succeed in their health goals through a comprehensive approach to a healthy lifestyle. She enjoys helping individual clients, speaking to major corporations and planning her future in helping people navigate the ever-changing landscape of food. You may have seen Meridith on Bravo TV’s Real Housewives of NY and Orange County where her healthier food selections are a favorite of the housewives and their guests. |
| I Creative Voice Development Gro N/A |
For more than 30 years Voice Coaches has provided voice over production, recording, and communication coaching to clients including Netflix, Discovery, HGTV, Disney, Lifetime, Nickelodeon, Universal, The New York State Governors Office, Department of Health, Transportation, Tourism, and numerous others. In addition to being actively involved in industry organizations, we provide internships to college students in recording, production, and entertainment business. Voice Coaches is proud to be a 16-year, A+ Member of The Better Business Bureau. |
| 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. |
| Rachel Dalinka N/A |
Rachel A. Dalinka, Owner RAD Consulting Business, Community & Workforce Development Podcaster, Writer |
| Kenneth DeMarco N/A |
Kenneth F DeMarco, MS, JD |
| Sheri-Lynn DeMaris teawithsheri@aol.com |
Sheri-Lynn, founder of Macro Magic, made macrobiotics her life mission as she witnessed the tremendous rise in childhood illnesses, autism, ADD and early onset diabetes. She knew her training in psychotherapy and emotional support was not enough for these children, that they had to make deeper, more lasting changes in their lives if they were going to improve their well-being. Sheri-Lynn is now a TV host and macrobiotic chef/educator who has taught people all over the world the importance of cooking and eating well. Sheri-Lynn recently partnered with Patricio Garcia de Paredes and Lorraine McCamley to form the Macrobiotic Global Institute, a non-profit whose mission is to restore personal and planetary health. Macro Magic (TV/Streaming on ROKU) is a unique show for its time. Macro Magic not only offers cooking techniques using the finest natural organic ingredients, it also includes an abundance of cutting-edge information on how viewers can make conscious choices toward creating a more balanced, healthy lifestyle physically, emotionally, mentally, and environmentally. |
| Valerie Dickman N/A |
Valerie is a mindfulness coach, yoga teacher, reiki master, and former public relations executive with extensive meditation teacher training, certified by both the Awareness Training Institute and the Greater Good Science Center at the University of California, Berkeley. |
| 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. |
| Patrick Duffy N/A |
Patrick J. Duffy is a Supervisory Special Agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation specializing in Corporate and Securities fraud investigations, including those related to Investment frauds, Insider Trading, and Market Manipulation schemes. SSA Duffy is currently assigned to a Complex Financial Crimes squad in Philadelphia, with oversight of the Complex Financial Crime, Money Laundering, Financial Institution Fraud, and Intellectual Property Rights programs. SSA Duffy is FBI Philadelphia’s Program Coordinator for Financial Elder Abuse as well as Business Email Compromise schemes. Additionally, SSA Duffy is FBI Philadelphia’s primary point of contact for all COVID-19 financial fraud schemes, to include advance fee schemes, work from home scams, and misrepresentations and misuse of CARES Act funding intended to assist individuals and small businesses through the pandemic. Prior to joining the FBI, SSA Duffy worked within the audit practice of KPMG Philadelphia for six years, where he was employed as an associate and senior associate on both public and private client engagements. SSA Duffy received his Bachelor’s Degree in Accounting from LaSalle University in 2002. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Elanur Eroglu Williams elanureroglu@icloud.com |
I have a M.S.Ed. in Reading/Writing/Literacy from University of Pennsylvania Graduate School of Education (2022). Additionally, I hold a Master of Philosophy in Children's Literature from Trinity College Dublin (2021), and a Bachelor of Arts from Concordia University Montreal, in English, Creative Writing, and Sustainability Studies (2020). |
| 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 19 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 |
| 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. |
| Jean French N/A |
Jean French served as a Museum Educator for twenty-eight years at The Philadelphia Museum of Art. She received her degree in Art History from Rosemont College. She is a House Committee member and guide at Historic Waynesborough (Anthony Wayne's house). |
| 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. |
| Bruce Gill N/A |
Bruce Gill, Beekeeper and Blacksmith |
| Jane Golden N/A |
Jane Golden has been the driving force of Mural Arts Philadelphia since its inception, overseeing its growth from a small city agency into the nation’s largest public art program and a global model for transforming public space and community through art. Under Golden’s direction, Mural Arts has created over 4,000 works of public art through innovative collaborations with community-based organizations, city agencies, nonprofit organizations, schools, the private sector, and philanthropies. Initially hired as a young artist by former Mayor Wilson Goode to address Philadelphia’s widespread graffiti issue through the Philadelphia Anti-Graffiti Network in 1984, Golden worked with graffiti writers to channel their creative energy and talent toward mural collaborations, transforming neighborhoods where buildings and communities had long suffered from years of neglect. The process gave graffiti writers an opportunity to rethink their work and contributions to the city as artists. In 1997, the Anti-Graffiti Network was restructured by then Mayor Ed Rendell, who would eventually support the creation of the Mural Arts Program under Golden’s leadership. In 1998, Golden established the Philadelphia Mural Arts Advocates, a nonprofit organization to work in tandem with the City and raise funds to support the program. In the decades since, Mural Arts has connected the process of muralism to a multitude of community and public outcomes. Through innovative collaborations with community-based organizations, city agencies, nonprofit organizations, schools, the private sector, and philanthropies, the program has created over 4,000 works of public art that reimagine the intersection of art and public space and address societal challenges. Under Golden’s direction, Mural Arts has developed groundbreaking programs that transform practice and policies related to youth education, restorative justice, environmental issues and behavioral health. Golden has overseen a series of increasingly complex, ambitious, and award-winning public art projects, and launched the knowledge-sharing Mural Arts Institute in 2017 to help guide best-practices internationally. Sought after nationally and internationally as an expert on urban transformation through art, Golden has received numerous awards for her work, including the Philadelphia Award, the Hepburn Medal from the Katharine Houghton Hepburn Center at Bryn Mawr College, the Philadelphia Sketch Club Medal, the Visionary Woman Award from Moore College of Art, the 2012 Governor’s Award for Innovation in the Arts, a Distinguished Daughter of Pennsylvania Award from former Governor Edward G. Rendell, the Adela Dwyer/St. Thomas Peace Award from Villanova University, LaSalle University’s Alumni Association’s Signum Fidei Medal, an Eisenhower Exchange Fellowship Award, Philadelphia Magazine’s Trailblazer Award, the Philadelphia Public Relations Association’s 2016 Gold Medal Award, the 2016 Paul Philippe Cret Award from the American Institute of Architects, the 2016 Woman of Influence Award from Pearl S. Buck International, a Woman of Distinction Award from the Philadelphia Business Journal, the 2017 ACE (Mentor Program) Person of the Year Award, and the 2018 Anne d’Harnoncourt Award for Artistic Excellence from the Arts + Business Council of Greater Philadelphia, and the Dare to Understand Award from the Interfaith Center of Greater Philadelphia. In 2022, she was awarded the Jewish Family and Children’s Service of Greater Philadelphia Honors Award, the 2022 Philadelphia Titan 100 Award and The Philadelphia Sketch Club Medal. She has co-authored two books about the murals in Philadelphia and co-edited a third, Mural Arts @ 30 (Temple University Press, 2014), published on the occasion of Mural Arts’ 30th anniversary. Golden is referenced in publications around the world, and is an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania. In addition, Golden served on the Mayor’s Cultural Advisory Council and the board of directors of The Heliotrope Foundation. She holds a Master of Fine Arts from the Mason Gross School of the Arts at Rutgers University, and degrees in Fine Arts and Political Science from Stanford University. Furthermore, Golden has received honorary PhDs from Swarthmore College, Philadelphia’s University of the Arts, Widener University, Arcadia University, LaSalle College, Haverford College, Rosemont College, Villanova University, St. Joseph’s University, Drexel University, Auburn University, and the Maryland Institute College of Art (MICA). Currently, Golden serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania and as Critic-in-residence at the Maryland Institute College of Art. |
| Suave Gonzalez N/A |
Suave Gonzalez is the first formerly incarcerated person in the United States to ever win a Pulitzer Prize Award and IDA International Documentary Award for his podcast "SUAVE". Through his colorfully confrontational works, Philadelphia artist and activist Suave Gonzalez proves the political power of art. Suave is a self-taught street muralist and artist, working mostly with acrylic and mixed-media. He inventively reimagines pop style portraiture and highly political work that visually speak to issues of human struggle and justice. Suave grew up in the South Bronx. While serving a Life Sentence in the sixth largest prison in America, Graterford State prison in Pennsylvania, Suave committed to becoming the voice for the voiceless-he earned a BA from Villanova University and worked as president of LACEO, a latin organization that has given away 110 scholarships funded by inmates from their own wages. In 2008 Suave created the Education Over Incarceration scholarship with his own prison wage. Suave continued this community based work after his release. He had worked as a case manager for the 25th Police District, assisting low level offenders avoid prison. He was also the Director of a resource center in the heart of North Philadelphia; In 2020 Suave painted 100 essential workers who are risking their lives to help others during the Covid pandemic. Suave was a 2014 TEDx talk presenter, a 2018 Philadelphia TEDx presenter, and a 2018 Art For Justice Reimagining Reentry Fellow. He is the creator and co-host of 'A Justice Conversation' , author of 6 novels, and had taught a watercolor course at the University of Pennsylvania off campus site 'The Center for Carceral Community'. Suave is the subject of the acclaimed podcast 'SUAVE'. Suave Gonzalez was born to inspire, and his drive to do so is boundless. |
| 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. |
| 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 Physical Therapist of 30 years, specializing in Bone Health and Wellness. She is also an international lecturer, currently teaching at Arcadia University, and is a member of the National Osteoporosis Foundation. She is also the owner of BoneWise, designing customized exercise programs for individuals and classes. |
| 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 |
| Pat Halsey patsjewelryandteach@gmail.com |
Pat Halsey, Member, PA Guild of Craftsmen |
| 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 |
| Victoria Hart info@agatheringofminds.com |
Vicky’s journey towards working with people with cognitive loss began when her father was diagnosed with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy, a type of fronto-temporal dementia. A professional opera singer and voice teacher with a Doctorate in Music, Vicky used a variety of skills and modalities to connect with her father and provide meaningful engagement with him throughout the years of his illness. She found that despite his disease process she was able to help her father access memories, language abilities, and emotional responses that on the surface appeared to have been lost. This powerful experience with her father and her subsequent volunteer work with people with dementia led Vicky to make a career change. Vicky is now a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist (CTRS) and Certified Dementia Practitioner (CDP) who specializes in working with seniors with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), the early stages of Alzheimer's, and other forms of memory loss. Vicky has worked at the Main Line Adult Day Center and Waverly Heights Life Plan Community. She is also the Founder and Director of A Gathering of Minds LLC, an online program providing culture, conversation & community for people with early stage memory loss. Visit her website: agatheringofminds.com. |
| 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. |
| 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 |
| 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. |
| Amy Hunt amy@grapewoodflorals.com |
Amy received her Floral Design Certificate from Longwood Gardens and has been in the floral industry for over 20 years. She is the owner of Grapewood Florals,LLC and specializes in weddings. |
| Lance Isakov N/A |
LANCE DAVID ISAKOV, Founder of Village Wellness, a holistic acupuncture center in Berwyn, is a CYT Licensed Acupuncturist, Kundalini Yoga Teacher, Reiki Master, Life Coach, Plant Spirit Medicine Practitioner, Acupuncture Detox Specialist (NADA), Magnified Healing Master, TaeUlju Practitioner, Meditation Teacher, Qi Gong (Mantak Chia) Practitioner, Guided Visualization Practitioner, Yoga Nidra Practitioner, Zero Balancing Practitioner. He received a bachelors degree in Anthropology from the University of Pittsburgh and began teaching Reiki, a form of energetic healing, in 1996. He has a passion for experiencing new cultures and the people living in them. |
| I JKST Inc narberthtennis@jkst.com |
Teaching Professionals, Julian Krinsky School of Tennis |
| 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. |
| Jean Johnson pumpkinsoprano@gmail.com |
A classically trained coloratura, Ms. Johnson studied privately under Mr Gregory H Hopkins, Dr Francis H Williamson, Dr ebronette Barnes-Aborom and Mrs Rita McKinley-Pride. Her eclectic taste in music is reflected in her repertoire which includes various forms of liturgical music, musical theater and classical. Her Experience spans The Philadelphia Freedom Festival – Philadelphia, PA (2014) - Chorister (Rev. Nolan Williams, Jr., Festival Artistic Director; Andre Raphel, Conductor; The Philadelphia Orchestra; Uri Caine, Composer; Jay Fluellen, Chorus Master) “Can You Hear God Crying?” - Philadelphia, PA (2013) - Chorister (Hannibal Lokumbe, Composer; Dirk Brossé, Music Director; The Chamber Orchestra of Philadelphia) The Gate Called Straight gospel adaptation of “The Wiz” - Philadelphia, PA (2012) - Vocal Coach (Stephanie Mills, Director; Bill Jolly, Executive Musical Director; Kelly Beard, Executive Producer) “Sounds of Joy” a Music Ministry - Philadelphia, PA - Chorister/Soloist (Sheila D. Booker, Director; Donna Drake, Business Manager) |
| 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 |
| Ron Kanter N/A |
New Producer's Guide to Video Production Class Bio: Ron's documentaries and television programs have been broadcast nationally on PBS, CBS, cable, and French Television and garnered numerous awards including two local Emmy’s and grants from the National Endowment for the Arts, Through his company, Video Film Associates, he has produced programs for many Fortune 500 companies including Prudential Securities, Random House, McGraw-Hill, Learning Corporation of America, Chemical Bank, Glaxo Pharmaceuticals, Seagram, Eastman Kodak, and Fidelity Mutual Life Insurance Company. His work for government agencies and NGO’s includes the National Institutes of Health, Morris Arboretum, the University of Pennsylvania, Temple University, the State of New Jersey, the Pennsylvania Department of Education, and Camden County, Prior to establishing Video Film Associates, Ron held staff positions at Philadelphia TV channels 6, 10, and 17 and for four years was the Executive Producer for Public TV’s WHYY TV12. Ron holds an MFA from Penn’s School of Design and has taught script writing, video production, and How to Appear on TV at Penn, University of the Arts, and the New School in New York. Woodworking Tools Class Bio: The same traits - curiosity, flexibility, and creativity - that enabled my career as a videomaker are fundamental to my joy and accomplishments as a woodworker. Big projects like the resurrection of shell on South Street and smaller challenges like building a little free library, a china cabinet or a storm door have led me to search for the best tools for each step in the project. Besides, I love quality tools as you would see if you were to visit my shop that is packed with them! |
| Ilana Kaplan N/A |
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| Chef Jacquie Kelly N/A |
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| Lydia Kendis N/A |
Lydia Kendis is an avid home cook who is passionate about delicious, nutritious plant-based cooking. She has taught cooking classes at local libraries, a local orchard, a school and out of her kitchen at home. After more than 15 years of plant-based cooking and making of her meals from scratch, she enjoys sharing her philosophy and knowledge with her community. |
| Staff, Kennett Underground RR Center N/A |
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| 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 Kirschner, MEd, Certified Group Fitness Instructor. 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. |
| 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 |
| Ji Ku 9jihyun@gmail.com |
Ji Ku, Native Speaker; ACTFL Certified, Korean Instructor |
| I LL Bean Staff N/A |
Staff, L.L. Bean |
| Tuscarora Lapidary Society hansensm@gmail.com |
Staff, Tuscarora Lapidary Society |
| Sue Laskin suelaskin@comcast.net |
Sue Laskin, Experienced Canasta Teacher |
| 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. |
| 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) |
| Wanamaker Lewis wan.lew@earthlink.net |
Has been teaching both classes and privately for over 25 years. Wanamaker Lewis has played at every major music venue in the area including Phila Folk Fest and The Keswick-he’s even played at Carnegie Hall in New York! |
| 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. |
| Sue Linderman N/A |
Sue Linderman grew up in Wilmington, Delaware, graduating from Mount Pleasant High School before attending Mount Holyoke College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science. Her 27-year career with the DuPont Company in Wilmington culminated with the spinoff of its Medical X-Ray business via a leveraged buyout that created Sterling Diagnostic Imaging, of which she was its first President. She is especially proud of the long-term R&D investment by her business that developed a selenium array for image capture that is now at the heart of nearly every mammography machine in use in the U.S. Throughout her career, Sue was active in various ‘diversity’ action groups, seeking to pursue equity in the opportunity and treatment of employees, so that each individual’s contributions might be optimized. But it was the series of police shootings of unarmed black men in recent years that galvanized her to develop a better understanding of how we got to where we are. The information being presented here is the result of significant research about our country’s history in this regard. Sue is a co-founder of the Westminster Peace & Justice Work Group in Wilmington that was formed in Spring 2018 with the twin goals of combating violence in Wilmington and promoting racial justice. The Work Group is affiliated with a number of community organizations – the Delaware Center for Justice, Network Delaware, the Campaign to End Debtors Prison, Peace Week Delaware and Smart Justice Delaware, among others. |
| Michael Lizzio N/A |
Michael Lizzio, Certified Pool Instructor |
| Staff, Love Park Visitor Center N/A |
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| David Low N/A |
David Low has a Masters in Community Counseling, received his doctorate in Religious Studies from Temple University in 1998 and is also completing an interfaith ministry doctoral program with The New Seminary. After being a small-circus juggler for a couple of years out of college, he worked as a technical writer and substance abuse counselor before teaching religion courses for 10 years as an adjunct professor at Rutgers-Camden, Rowan, and LaSalle Universities. He is the author of a spirituality textbook (Universal Spiritual Philosophy and Practice) and is currently working on a volume on the teachings of the great Dutch philosopher, Baruch Spinoza. A lifelong interest in anthropology led David to study shamanism and other indigenous practices. He has presented at IASD conferences (International Association for the Study of Dreams), and has travelled extensively and visited different Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh, Sufi, Jewish, Christian and Muslim groups. David maintains a private counseling practice in Mt. Airy in which he does dreamwork and teaches meditation. See more about David at davidlowmsphd.com. For two years out of college David was a professional small-circus performer, doing mostly juggling. He's done occasional charity gigs ever since with balls, clubs, rings, devil sticks, cigar boxes and other juggling props. |
| 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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| George Magakis N/A |
George Magakis, PhD, Licensed Psychologist; I have had 221 letters to the editor published on current events in the NY Times, NY Times Book Review, Washington Post, Philadelphia Inquirer, USA Today, Miami Herald, St. Louis Post-Dispatch, Kansas City Star, Chicago Tribune, Cleveland Plain Dealer, New Yorker, and Richmond Free Press. All dealt with current events. In getting these letters published I learned what editors are looking for and how to write a compelling letter that is likely to get published. In the past, I have taught college level courses in psychology. |
| Kathleen Magee N/A |
Kathleen Magee, Director of Care Coordination, Rothkoff Law Group Kathleen Magee joined the Rothkoff Law Group in 2014 as a Geriatric Care Coordinator and transitioned to the Director of Care Coordination in 2019. She primarily works with our clients in the Philadelphia and Bucks County area. Since joining the Rothkoff Law Group, Kathleen has received a “Certificate in Elder Law Certification” through Stockton Center on Successful Aging. She currently serves as the Vice President on the Board of Directors for the Life Care Planning Law Firm Association (LCPLFA). |
| Daniel Malley paxonpro@comcast.net |
Dan Malley, Paxon Hollow Country Club |
| Lynn Marsden-Atlass marsdenatlass@gmail.com |
President LMART Consultant LLC |
| 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 |
| 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, Former 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 |
Karl Middleman counts over 300 music courses and lectures in his repertoire. A particularly versatile performer, he is equally at home with Hart and Hammerstein as he is with Handel and Haydn. He has been hailed for the easy ways his presentations mix scholarship with showmanship. Karl has received awards from the National Endowment for the Arts, the Pew center for Arts and Heritage and the Pennsylvania Council on the Arts. He has lectured for the Philadelphia Orchestra over 50 times. For his work as a symphony conductor he has been cited in 19th Century Music and Philadelphia Magazine, twice winning the Best in Philly Award. He teaches at Temple University's Boyer College of Music. |
| Vicki Miller vicki@vinocityevents.com |
Vicki Miller is the founder of Vinocity. Although Vicki has been a practicing attorney in Philadelphia for more than 15 years, she also has been a long-time student in formal wine study. Over the years Vicki has been asked to speak on wine and has developed numerous wine events for a variety of institutions, non-profits and various businesses. Vicki developed the Art and Wine event program for a corporate sponsor of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Wine and Literature event for the Raven Society of the Free Library of Philadelphia. Vinocity was born because Vicki realized that wine courses are highly information-filled, but are not socially engaging. Traditional wine tastings, while offering more social interaction, don't provide the kind of useful information to make an informed wine selection. A Vinocity event combines the best of both worlds, as Vicki weaves the facts, figures and scientific aspects of winemaking into interesting short stories and anecdotes about wine history and culture. |
| 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. |
| Linda Munich N/A |
Linda has acted as an assistant to the culinary program at MLSN for many years. Her specialty is Italian cooking. |
| McKaig Nature Center N/A |
Vytas Masalaitis, McKaig Park Ranger, VP KoP Historical Society (Ret.) |
| David Nelson Wren N/A |
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| Eliot Niles N/A |
Eliot Niles, Licensed NYC Guide, Member of GNYC |
| David Nogar N/A |
David Nogar is a retired transportation executive who spent 50 years in the railroad industry. Given the demands of that type of work, in his spare time he developed a passion for philosophy, the arts, and fine food and drink. In essence, he became a flaneur in the classic sense, creating the brand The American Flaneur (theamericanflaneur.com). David is now an acknowledged expert in the areas of wine and spirits, especially American Bourbon and cigars. |
| 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. |
| Scott Nye N/A |
A native of Wooster, Ohio, Scott is a forty-year golf industry veteran. Scott was a four-time golf All-America selection at The College of Wooster (OH). He served as the Head Golf Professional at Country Club of York (PA) from 1990-2000. In the fall of 2000 he arrived at Merion and has recently finished a 24 year run as the Director of Golf at Merion. Scott was named the Philadelphia PGA Golf Professional of the Year in 2012 and the PGA of America’s National Merchandiser of the Year in 2014. Over the years, Scott served as the host professional for five USGA Championships. At Country Club of York, Scott help host the 1999 United States Junior Amateur Championship. While at Merion, he was involved in the 2005 United States Amateur Championship, the 2009 Walker Cup, the 2013 United States Open Championship and the 2022 Curits Cup. Merion will play host to the 2026 United States Amateur Championship, the 2030, 2040 and 2050 United States Open Championship and the 2034 and 2046 United States Women’s Open. |
| Gail Oldfield N/A |
Gail Oldfield is a dancer, choreographer, and teacher. From touring the country in her early career to becoming a Radio City Music Hall Rockette, she has enjoyed many memorable dance experiences. She was Dance Director at Cabrini College for several years, as well a choreographer for over sixty musical productions across the tri-county area. Recently, she served as Vice President of the Rockette Alumnae Association in New York City. |
| 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. |
| 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 |
| Elizabeth 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. |
| Clayton Platt N/A |
Clayton Platt’s professional background is a reflection of his diverse interests and talents. He served in leadership positions in finance and not-for-profit fundraising for over 30 years and then began what has been a very successful career as a corporate trainer and executive coach. Clayton has facilitated leadership development and performance improvement training at a wide range of organizations, including Fortune 50 companies, representing several of the most respected international learning and development companies. Clayton’s deep passion for helping individuals and teams discover and live into their true potential has been bolstered by his study of (and achievement of official certifications in) NeuroLeadership, and Emotional Intelligence. In January 2021 after practicing meditation for 20 years, Clayton completed a two-year intensive certification program to teach mindfulness meditation. In many ways this was the natural combination of his gifts and experiences; he has led over 300 hours of virtual mindfulness sessions since the beginning of 2020 and has personally participated in an annual average of four-day silent retreats since 2019. Clayton has enjoyed his previous opportunities to teach at MLSN both in-person and virtual classes. He launched his podcast Magic in the Moment – Mindfulness in Real Time and his book with the same title will be published in the fall of 2024. |
| Naomi Pliskow npliskow@gmail.com |
Naomi Pliskow MD, MA, is the author of numerous medical-related works. After a stint as an instructor at the University of Michigan Medical School, she spent her career writing about medicine for both professional and nonprofessional audiences. In her sixties, she became a psychotherapist, which has given her profound insight into our human journey. Dr. Pliskow is the author of the forthcoming book Ungrowth: An Affectionate Look at How Our Bodies Change as We Age. |
| Dale Power N/A |
Dale Power is a serial entrepreneur having built several businesses in catering, childrens' entertainment, and consulting. She is an author who loves adventure, having done Outward Bound in midlife. Her latest company, Share Your Courage, comes from all of her life experience of facing large life challenges as well as having seen the transformative effects on individuals who needed to find their courage through learning those skills and being genuinely encouraged to do so. Learn more at shareyourcourage.com. |
| 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. |
| Shireen Qadri & JD Walsh N/A |
Shireen’s family hails from Kashmir, a region located in the Himalayan Mountains of North India where families show love through the daily preparation of fresh food. She grew up eating Moji’s (her mother’s) delicious dishes that were prepared with a unique base of freshly ground aromatic spice mixtures (called masalas) that livened every meal. JD, who is Irish-American, grew up on Long Island but spent five years working in India. When he returned home, he found that he constantly craved the tastes of India that he enjoyed while there. So, Shireen & JD decided to cook more frequently. But they quickly realized the process was costly and time-consuming. So, moji masala was born, making pre-measured spice mixtures and recipes readily available for anyone to cook Indian food anytime. |
| Rita Qubain N/A |
Tagline can also be (for cooking) Traditional Arabic Cook |
| Jennifer Rhine N/A |
Jennifer Rhine, CDP, CALA, Certified Dementia Practitioner, Rothkoff Law Group As a certified Dementia Care Practitioner, Jennifer offers a diverse perspective working with seniors and professionals in the long-term care industry. Jennifer recently was certified as a Positive Approach to Care® Certified Independent Trainer. This has broadened her understanding of Dementia and allows her to offer education on Normal Aging vs Not Normal Aging, GEMS®, as well as Hand-under-Hand®. |
| 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/ |
| Kermit Roosevelt, III krooseve@law.upenn.edu |
Kermit Roosevelt III is a professor of constitutional law at the University of Pennsylvania Law School, a former clerk for Supreme Court Justice David Souter, a member of the Presidential Commission on the Supreme Court, and an award-winning author. A frequent op-ed contributor, his work has appeared in The New York Times, the Foreign Policy Research Institute, The Washington Times, TIME, Newsweek, and The Hill, among many other outlets. He serves as a media expert and keynote speaker, discussing topics including the Supreme Court, civil rights, U.S. presidential history, leadership, American politics, patriotism, and U.S. current events. Born in Washington, DC, he attended Harvard University and Yale Law School, and is the great-great-grandson of President Theodore Roosevelt. |
| Jeffrey Rosen N/A |
Jeffrey Rosen is the President and CEO of the National Constitution Center, where he hosts We the People, a weekly podcast of constitutional debate. He is also a professor of law at the George Washington University Law School and a contributing editor of The Atlantic. He was previously the legal affairs editor of The New Republic and a staff writer for the New Yorker. Rosen’s new book is The Pursuit of Happiness: How Classical Writers on Virtue Inspired the Lives of the Founders and Defined America. His other books include the New York Times bestseller Conversations with RBG: Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg on Life, Love, Liberty, and Law as well as biographies of Louis Brandeis and William Howard Taft. Rosen is a graduate of Harvard College; Oxford University, where he was a Marshall Scholar; and Yale Law School. In 2024, the French government recognized him as a Chevalier in the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres. |
| Nancy Rugart N/A |
Nancy is the author of the high performance parenting curriculum Kids Can Too!, and creator and producer of Kids Can Too! segments for WHYY and PBS. |
| 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 |
| Mark Schrad N/A |
Mark Lawrence Schrad, Ph.D., is Professor of Political Science and Director of Russian Area Studies at Villanova University. His recent books include the award-winning Smashing the Liquor Machine: A Global History of Prohibition (Oxford, 2021), and Vodka Politics: Alcohol, Autocracy, and the Secret History of the Russian State (Oxford, 2014), which has been translated into Polish, Slovak, Chinese and Lithuanian. His commentaries appear regularly in outlets including Politico, Slate, Foreign Policy, The Atlantic, The New Yorker, The Washington Post and The New York Times. |
| Chuck Schwam N/A |
Charles Schwam works as an account executive by day, and moonlights as an historian by night. Chuck, as he is known, came to the greater Washington DC area from Philadelphia to attend American University in the 1978 to study sports journalism. Shortly thereafter he found his skills better suited as an account executive instead of a broadcaster. For over forty years has been the leader in his industry, managing national and local accounts maintaining the top position in sales and new business. Chuck brings the same passion of his professional career to his involvement with The American Friends of Lafayette. He was an active member as soon as he discovered the association in 2009. By 2011 he had joined the Board of Governors as Treasurer. Over the years his role has expanded to Executive Director and primary Event Planner for the annual conference and the publisher of the quarterly Gazette. Currently Chuck is the Chairperson of the AFL’s Bicentennial of Lafayette’s Farewell Tour 2024-2025. There are currently 30 committees comprised of 325 members across 24 states working actively to plan events, learning engagements and experiences designed to bring awareness and education to the public of the legacy of General Lafayette and the French involvement of the American Revolution. Chuck also arranged for two statues to be erected in Yorktown, Virginia: Lafayette and Rochambeau. Chuck oversaw the fundraising, the design and installation of these statues. As an event planner, Chuck has planned over 50 events for historical societies in the United States and France, ranging in size from a few to a few hundred attendees. Chuck also has raised over $25,000 for Ukranian charities. Chuck has done several standup comedy performances in Washington, DC in the past five years His filography includes Lafayette Returns (2023) – where he is the Executive Producer-awards forthcoming; Buck For Fire Marshall - (2016) - Runner-Up, Speakeasy DC Shorts Film Challenge. Retirement (2013) - Grand Prize Winner, Speakeasy DC Shorts Film Challenge. Cap South (2013) - Winner, Best Web Series – Irvine International Film Festival Winner. Backseat Driver (2012) - Runner-Up, Speakeasy DC Shorts Film Challenge. Chuck lives in Gaithersburg, MD but travels extensively. He can be reached by emailing americanfriendsoflafayette@gmail.co |
| Barbara Schwartz N/A |
Barbara Schwartz, MSS, LCSW, earned a BS from Temple University School of Pharmacy and an MSS from Bryn Mawr School of Social Work and Social Research. She worked with families at Aldersgate Youth Service Bureau for 7 years. Then she spent 30 years in private as a psychotherapist in Lafayette Hill, PA. Barbara also pursued certification from the Gestalt Therapy Institute of Philadelphia, and retired in 2017, after helping clients become promoters of their own destiny. |
| 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. |
| Cindy Shaw hello@paineshollowkitchen.com |
As a child, Cindy spent time on her grandparents' 118-acre farm in Paines Hollow, a hamlet in Herkimer County, New York, three miles south of the Mohawk River. Memories of baking alongside her grandmother and family gatherings on the farm – birthday parties, holidays, and summer picnics – inspired Cindy to launch Paines Hollow Kitchen in 2021. The brand reflects her grandmother's approach to baking: small batches, made from scratch with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Learn more at paineshollowkitchen.com. |
| Staff, Shofuso Japanese Tea House N/A |
Staff, Japanese Tea House |
| Michael Sielski N/A |
A star in the sports journalism world, Mike Sielski is a columnist for The Philadelphia Inquirer and the author of three books. His latest, The Rise: Kobe Bryant and the Pursuit of Immortality, drew on never-before-heard interview tapes with Bryant and was published in January 2022 to universal praise from readers and reviewers. Publishers Weekly, Booklist, and Library Journal all gave The Rise starred reviews, and Library Journal called it “a landmark account of Kobe Bryant’s early life [that] will stand as the most objective, definitive record of his youth.” An accompanying podcast, I Am Kobe, which Sielski wrote and narrated, was released in November 2021 through iHeartRadio and is a 2022 finalist for the Webby Award, for “excellence on the Internet,” in the Best Sports Podcast category. Within weeks of The Rise’s publication, Sielski had reached an option agreement with Mark Ciardi—the producer of more than a dozen movies, including Miracle, Invincible, The Rookie, and Secretariat—for the book’s feature film and documentary rights. Ciardi immediately hired Jonathan Hock, who is responsible for five films in ESPN’s 30 for 30 series, to direct a documentary based on the book and the podcast. Published in 2009, Sielski’s book Fading Echoes: A True Story of Rivalry and Brotherhood from the Football Field to the Fields of Honor told the tale of two high school football players from a small Pennsylvania town who went on to serve in the Iraq War. Fading Echoes received starred reviews from both Publishers Weekly and Library Journal, and Booklist called it “an emotionally charged book that offers a profound understanding of American life in the first years of the twenty-first century.” Sielski’s first book—How to Be like Jackie Robinson: Life Lessons from Baseball’s Greatest Hero, which he co-authored with longtime NBA executive Pat Williams—was published in 2005. |
| Dianna Sinanian dianna.sinanian@yahoo.com |
Dianna is a Master's student in Marketing and Communication, a teacher of piano, French and cooking, and a self-employed caterer. Raised in a rich mix of French and Armenian cultures, she realized early on that she liked to diversify into different fields. Studying piano throughout her childhood, Dianna also practiced dance, theater and violin. This diverse combination of interests and experiences allows her to teach with confidence. |
| Robert Siravo N/A |
I'm a professional photographer with over 20 years of experience specializing in landscape photography. My work has been featured in several outdoor publications and exhibitions, capturing diverse environments from rugged mountains to tranquil coastlines. With a background in both fine art and technical photography, l've developed a deep understanding of composition, lighting, and post- processing. I'm passionate about teaching others how to create compelling landscape images, combining practical techniques with creative vision. |
| Cheri Skipworth phillyhandmadeu@gmail.com |
Cheri Skipworth is the owner of the HandmadeU Studio. HandmadeU inspires creativity in others through offering a monthly craft subscription box as well as craft workshops. Cheri has been an avid crafter for more than 30 years and has been teaching arts and crafts to others for more than 20 years. https://www.phillyhandmadeu.com |
| 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 |
| Lindsey Smith N/A |
Lindsey Smith, MA, has worked with museum artifact collections and heirloom preservation for over 25 years. She loves to help people interpret, preserve, and better understand the objects that make up our world. Lindsey is a museum consultant and public speaker with Exhibitsmith and is the CEO of Hangerbee, a clothing preservation supply company. |
| Mariann Smith N/A |
Mariann Smith, MA. Prior to moving back to this area, she worked for 26 years in the Education Department--for the last 12 years as curator--in the Albright-Knox Art Gallery in Buffalo, NY, which focuses primarily on modern and contemporary art. Her major responsibilities included docent training; writing, recording, and editing audio tours and video programs; researching and preparing label copy and brochures for exhibitions; presenting lectures on a wide variety of topics; and curating a number of exhibitions. She is the author of Albright-Knox Art Gallery: Highlights of the Collection (2011) and a major contributor to The Long Curve: 150 Years of Visionary Collecting at the Albright-Knox Art Gallery (2011). Since moving back to Chester County, she had a one-year appointment as Curatorial Assistant, Art & Artifacts Dept., Special Collections, Bryn Mawr College, working with the Art and Artifacts staff on collection-based projects, exhibitions, and the museum studies program. She also worked as consultant at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, revising audio tour scripts and preparing exhibition labels. Mariann received her AB in French Studies from Bryn Mawr in 1981 and a Masters in Art History (1986) and Certificate of Museum Practice (1987) from the University of Michigan in Ann Arbor. She is also currently a consultant for the Center for Humanities in Medicine at the University at Buffalo School of Medicine and Biological Sciences. |
| MLSN Staff N/A |
Staff, MLSN |
| 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”. |
| Mikhail Strokan N/A |
Mikhail Strokan’s work looks at the idea that countries abundant in such natural resources as oil and natural gas wind up struggling economically despite the bounty—and examines why some of these countries fare better than others. https://penntoday.upenn.edu/news/resisting-resource-curse Assistant Professor (2024 - present) at HSE University. Senior Research Fellow (2023-2024) at the Center for Energy Geopolitics, Institute for Advanced International Studies of the University of World Economy and Diplomacy. Research Associate (2021-2022) at the International Center for the Study of Institutions and Development (ICSID) of the HSE University. Research Associate (2020-2021) at the European University in St. Petersburg. Teaching Assistant and Head Teaching Assistant (2018-2023) at University of Pennsylvania. Research Assistant (2017-2020) at University of Pennsylvania. Research Assistant (2015-2016) at Syracuse University. |
| 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 |
| Staff, The Rail Park N/A |
Staff, The Rail Park |
| Jood Thompson N/A |
Jood Thompson is a Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach with a background in Psychology and Counseling and Human Relations. She co-founded a program dedicated to helping under-resourced students access independent day and boarding schools and volunteers her coaching expertise at the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy. |
| Ellen Trachtenberg braintreebooks@gmail.com |
Ellen Trachtenberg is the owner of the Narberth Bookshop, which she opened in 2016 after more than 25 years of book industry experience. Prior to opening the bookshop, Ellen served as a book publicist and publishing consultant. |
| 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 N/A |
Staff, Tri-State Training |
| I US Coast Guard Aux. 5NR bayardanderson@comcast.net |
Staff, U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary |
| Staff Upper Merion Community Center N/A |
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. |
| Mary Vaira N/A |
Mary Vaira, a Wisconsin native graduated from the University of Colorado. She is a fluent Spanish speaker educated both in Spain and Mexico. After graduation, she served three years with the Defense Intelligence in Argentina. She returned to the US and then transferred to the Drug Enforcement Administration in Chicago. She completed her career in Philadelphia as both an analyst followed by her role as the Public Information Officer. After her government career she started El Sol Villas, a company that rented holiday villas in Spain. She owned this company for 18 years. |
| 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. |
| Susan Wallack N/A |
Susan is a yoga instructor whose training includes: 250 hour Yoga Alliance YTT, 75 hour Trauma Informed Yin YTT and post-certification work with respected teachers including Maura Manzo, Colette Marie, Corrina Benner and Seane Corn. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| Robert Wise N/A |
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| 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. |
| 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 |
| Asil Yaman ayaman@upenn.edu |
Asil Yaman, Archeologist, Dir., Phoenix Archeol. Project, Turkey; Prof., Villanova U. & Penn Museum |
| 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. |
| 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. |
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