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Sarah Elizabeth Ippel
Founder & Executive Director
Sarah Elizabeth Ippel
Founder & Executive Director
- What is your favorite local food?
- Ramps, Morels and Prairie Fruits Farm chèvre.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Madagascar, Montenegro & Myanmar
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Llamas
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- Skipping
Throughout her career, Sarah Elizabeth has traveled to over 80 different countries across 6 continents, extensively examining educational philosophies and world languages, as well as creating international alliances that have contributed to the design and culture of the Academy for Global Citizenship. When she was 23 years old, Sarah Elizabeth Ippel rode her bicycle to the Board of Education with a simple request: to reimagine what is possible in public education today. Three years later, in 2008, the Academy for Global Citizenship opened in a former dental tool factory on the city’s underserved Southwest side.
B.A., Trinity College
M. Phil., University of Cambridge
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Anne Gillespie
Founding Principal
Anne Gillespie
Founding Principal
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- Leave it better than you found it.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Wherever my imagination takes me.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Two Nigerian Dwarf Goats named Thelonius and Mr. Freckles.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- So many things! Ultimately, I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by our AGC students, parents, staff, and teachers who are all working, everyday, to make a difference in the world.
While spending countless hours catching fireflies and building forts in the woods and fields surrounding her childhood home in Wisconsin, Anne discovered the world is an infinitely beautiful and wondrous place. These experiences fostered an insatiable curiosity to learn more about our planet and the people on it. Her explorations widened from rural Wisconsin to the geysers of Yellowstone Park and from Marrakesh’s medina to the Mekong Delta of Vietnam. Despite her wanderlusting ways, she can’t think of a better place to spend her days than at AGC.
B.A. in African American Studies and Anthropology, University of Wisconsin
M.A. in Curriculum and Instruction, National-Louis University
Ed.D in Urban Education Leadership, University of Illinois at Chicago
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Steven Biedermann
Director of Sustainability and Operations
Steven Biedermann
Director of Sustainability and Operations
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- a well-worn pair of trekking boots
- What animals would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- takin and yak
- I can't imagine my life without ________.
- faith, hope, love…..and hummus
Steven has decades of diverse finance, education, and international development experience in the private and social sectors with organizations such as Save the Children, Chicago Public Schools, Moneythink, Fidelity Investments, Shearson Lehman Brothers, and more.
As a passionate agent of change in global education and with a worldview shaped by extensive exploration throughout six continents, he has served in the conflicts of Iraq and South Sudan, as well as in classrooms teaching English to Palestinian university students in the West Bank and Buddhist monks at a monastery in Nepal, and as a Peace Corps volunteer mathematics teacher in the Pacific island nation of Kiribati.
Steven and his wife Kinley share their own global citizenship while balancing life in downtown Chicago with home and family in the Kingdom of Bhutan.
B.S. Finance, DePaul University
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Benazir Ali
Teaching Assistant and Paraprofessional
Benazir Ali
Teaching Assistant and Paraprofessional
- Your motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- Taste everything once!
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Fiji Islands, where I was born.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Vietnam and Indonesia
- I can't imagine my life without...
- Music.
Benazir was born in the Fiji Islands and moved to California in 2001. She is passionate about Pacific Island politics and hopes to someday write about it. She loves music and travel and consider herself a risk-taker. She challenges herself constantly so that she never gets too comfortable in any one situation. AGC is the perfect arena for her to challenge herself and learn about things that interest her the most; for example, community gardening initiatives.
B.A. in Sociology, University of California Santa Barbara
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Heriberto Arriola
Organic Chef
Heriberto Arriola
Organic Chef
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- My birthplace, Guanajuato, Mexico. It looks like Spain and is so beautiful.
- What is your favorite local food?
- Thyme from the AGC garden.
- I can’t imagine my life without...
- My sons Isaac, who is in 2nd grade at AGC, and Diego, who will be joining us next year.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- I'd like to see an elephant, but i'll settle for sheep.
After graduating high school in Guanajuato Mexico, Heriberto moved to Chicago and started cooking. While looking for a good school for their son, Isaac, Heriberto’s wife read about AGC online and fell in love. When they weren’t selected in the lottery, she cried a lot. The next year, a spot opened up and Isaac transferred to AGC; his parents got involved in everything at the school! They love that the school is green, the food is organic and the teachers use different methods. Heriberto would like to grow with AGC as his sons grow and is grateful for the chance to join them at school every day.
Professional Culinary Certificate, St. Augustine College
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Jennifer Avery
Development Committee Member
Jennifer Avery
Development Committee Member
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Belize
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Japan
- What drew you to AGC?
- I’m passionate about the environment and community development, and AGC is an innovative education model that is empowering the next generation to be global-minded change agents in both these areas. I want to help AGC realize that vision any way I can.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- They are yet to come!
Jen grew up in California where she first developed her love of nature (and recycling!). From her 13 years as a Girl Scout to her time as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Guatemala, she has long been committed to serving her community. She became an attorney to continue this mission and now enjoys helping businesses and non-profit organizations meet their goals. Jen has visited more than 50 countries, has lived on both coasts, in Texas, and abroad, but is happy to have landed in the Midwest and call Chicago home.
Attorney
J.D. & L.L.M., International & Comparative Law, Duke University School of Law
B.A. in American Studies, Stanford University
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Evelyn (Tita) Bazaldua
Volunteer
Evelyn (Tita) Bazaldua
Volunteer
- Your motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- Where there's a will, there's a way.
- What in nature inspires you?
- The sun rising.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Africa
- I can't imagine my life without...
- Children; their ideas are so real and new.
Evelyn is a mother of two, grandmother of four, wife of 30 years, sister to six siblings, and a Tita to so many. At the young age of eight, she learned to crochet, and to this day, she enjoys sharing what her grandmother taught her with her loved ones. Evelyn has lived in many places throughout her life, including: Charleston, SC, Long Beach, CA, Mexico, and Memphis, TN; in each place she left a little piece of herself. She is proud to say her own mother always gave a helping hand to others and that she passed this down to Evelyn, too.
Farragut High School
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Valery Balderas
4th Grade Teacher
Valery Balderas
4th Grade Teacher
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- “When you know better you do better.” ― Maya Angelou
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Italy
- What do you love about AGC?
- Not many schools give students the power or freedom to act on their wildest inquiries. We not only teach students to think of a creative idea, we encourage them to invent it, plan it, do it!
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Cows and goats. Would horses be too much?
Valery values AGC’s commitment to serve the whole child and hopes to empower her students to take pride in their diverse cultures, beliefs, and even languages. Raised on Chicago’s south side, Valery is fluent in English and Spanish and is excited to share her language, culture, and life experiences with her students.
In her free time, Valery enjoys reading, knitting, traveling, cooking, baking, and gardening in the new raised garden located in her backyard.
B.S. in Elementary Education, Loyola University Chicago
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Timothy Bernier
6th Grade Humanities Teacher
Timothy Bernier
6th Grade Humanities Teacher
- What in nature inspires you?
- Snow capped mountains, winding rivers, steep canyons and dense forests...
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Machu Picchu, Peru
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Llamas!
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love how AGC emphasizes education as a life-long process. AGC provides its students with endless opportunities to problematize information, dialogue, reflect and re-conceptualize what it means to be a critical agent of change.
I am a teacher researcher who believes in –and practices- a critical pedagogy. During my tenure in Education, I have worked as an elementary and middle school teacher, and as an assistant dean of students in the inner city of Chicago. I am a husband and a father of two wonderfully wild and inquisitive boys. I love to read, write, camp, snowboard and travel during my free time.
B.A., Liberal Arts and Sciences, UIC
M.A., Elementary Education, Roosevelt University
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Kathy Burke
Lunchoom Staff
Kathy Burke
Lunchoom Staff
- Your motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- As long as you do good, there will always be good in this world.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Everything. I don't think that the human mind can come close to comprehending the greatness and wonder of natures beauty.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- A pony and a turtle.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Japan or South America
Kathy was born and raised on the Southwest side of Chicago by a single mother and her maternal Grandmother. Having attended CPS schools my entire education, she has seen the system challenged to effectively educate and support all of its children.
Kathy also worked in the kitchen at a public high school for ten years before coming to the Academy for Global Citizenship in February of 2010. She is excited about AGC’s healthy and delicious food program!
A.A.S. in Criminal Justice, Richard J. Daley College
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Melisa Carter
Teaching Assistant
Melisa Carter
Teaching Assistant
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Around a campfire far away from the city where the stars are visible. Gorgeous!
- What is your favorite local food?
- Zucchini or green tomatoes from my mom's garden.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Fluffy sheep.
- What in nature inspires you?
- The ocean. I love the movement and sound of the waves.
Melissa is an avid fan of all things hands on and creative. She loves thinking outside of the box and always looks forward to trying something new. In education, her strongest passion lies within promoting and strengthening literacy in the classroom. In fact, she is obsessed with children’s literature and hope to author and publish a whimsical series of children’s storybooks that revolve around a fictional character of my chubby white cat. If Melissa’s nose is not in a good book, then it is more than likely in the kitchen baking something delicious.
B.A., Trinity Christian College
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Yeida Chavez
Teaching Assistant
Yeida Chavez
Teaching Assistant
- I wish that I could get everyone in the world to...
- Realize we are more alike than different.
- What in nature inspires you?
- I have lived in Chicago all my life but yet every winter the first snow always takes my breath away.
- What do you love about AGC?
- The heart beat and the innovative impulse.
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "Be kind whenever possible…It is always possible." -Dalai Lama
Born and raised in Chicago, Yeida enjoys visiting her extended family in Puebla Puebla Mexico as often as she can. She hopes to visit her husband’s family in Australia in the near future. She loves being a mom and has a passion for helping people out, especially children. Yeida loves art and tries to teach her kids everything she knows about it and continues to learn about it as well. She’s excited to be part of the AGC family!
A.A.S. in Visual Communications, International Academy of Design and Technology
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Vicky Cheng
Board Member, Finance and Facilities Committee Chair
Vicky Cheng
Board Member, Finance and Facilities Committee Chair
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- On a trail in the woods - taking a walk in the woods with my family.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Diversity of color, shape, size, texture and habitat.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The energy to go out and make change and the expectation and belief anything is possible.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- I would like to take my son to Paris, France to see the Eiffel Tower.
Vicky grew up in the west suburbs of Chicago and has a vague recollection of being confused when starting kindergarten because she didn’t speak English (she spoke Mandarin at home). She believes her interest in AGC, cultural awareness, empathy, and diversity stem from her youth. Conservationism and protecting nature is an area of interest for Vicky, who used to clear trash on empty lots during walks in her neighborhood, and another element that draws her to AGC.
B.A. in Accountancy, University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana
IT Risk Consultant at Crowe Horwath
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Paula Conrad
Development Committee Member
Paula Conrad
Development Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- A board member, Steven Collens, invited me to visit the school and I was just incredibly moved by what I saw there.
- What in nature inspires you?
- This may sound ridiculous, and it shows how much I am a Midwestern gal, but I really love driving through corn fields in Wisconsin. It's a calming scene for me.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- A border collie mix to guard the chickens!
Paula Conrad is the senior manager of corporate relations at ComEd, a subsidiary of Exelon Corporation. She manages the company’s social-responsibility initiatives, including charitable contributions, executive leadership with non-profit organizations and employee-engagement activities in the community. She also oversees the company’s civic and sports sponsorships.
Paula joined ComEd in 2006 from Misericordia, where she worked in fundraising and communications. Prior to Misericordia, Paula served as an account supervisor at Cramer & Krasselt and worked for Governor and Mrs. Edgar as the events coordinator of the Executive Mansion and aide to the First Lady. Paula began her career at The Canadian Embassy in Washington as an intern in the cultural affairs department.
Paula serves on the board of advisors for Misericordia and on the board of directors for the Chicago Public Schools Student Science Fair. Paula graduated from Marquette University in 1994 with degrees in Political Science and French. She lives in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood with her dog Henry.
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Michelle M. Comella
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Member
Michelle M. Comella
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- I initially learned about AGC through a volunteer opportunity - but have been drawn to it since because of Sarah Elizabeth's story, the school's vision and the community's spirit.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- Helping prepare the schoolyard garden one Spring: replanting pepper plants and building an elevated vegetable bed.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Positano, Italy
Michelle is an attorney who puts her legal skills and 23 years’ of financial services industry experience to work identifying, enhancing and/or implementing supervisory processes for the derivatives practice of a publicly traded brokerage firm. Michelle is passionate about children and the environment – and is therefore thrilled to be able to work on initiatives for AGC.
Juris Doctorate, Loyola University Chicago
Bachelor of Arts, Saint Mary’s College
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Steven Collens
Board member and Development Committee Co-Chair
Steven Collens
Board member and Development Committee Co-Chair
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Other than AGC, Kalalau Beach.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Myanmar
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The children of AGC will grow up believing that curiosity about the world, respect for the environment, yoga, healthy food, renewable energy, conservation, high achievement and a sense of purpose are all perfectly normal.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Sheep
Steven Collens leads strategic initiatives for Pritzker Group, the investment firm led by Tony and J.B. Pritzker. The firm comprises three professional investment teams: middle-market acquisitions, technology venture capital and asset management. Steven recently led the team that created 1871, Chicago’s new center for digital startups. He previously worked at Abbott in a variety of domestic and international functions, including product management, policy and public affairs. Prior to Abbott, Steven served as an education policy advisor to a U.S. Senator. He is also on the boards of the Chicagoland Entrepreneurial Center, the Chicago Artists’ Coalition and the Civic Federation, and is a member of the Goodman Theatre’s Innovation Group and the executive committee of the Steppenwolf Theatre Auxiliary Council.
B.A., Washington University in St. LouisM.B.A, Northwestern University Kellogg School of Management
Senior Vice President, Pritzker Group
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Megan DiSciullo
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Member
Megan DiSciullo
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- I met Sarah Elizabeth at a social innovation conference and was immediately drawn to her and the vision of AGC. I wanted to get involved so I could help her raise the profile of the school, the Institute as well as the model it is trying to advance as an incubator of innovation around education.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- I loved visting the school and seeing the working farm and then walking through the classrooms and seeing the children learning and truly happy environment.
- What initiatives have you been involved with at AGC?
- Development committee, helping plan Chefs' Playground and general communications/PR support/
Megan is a senior account supervisor in Edelman’s Business + Social Purpose practice and manages many of the firm’s nonprofit, social purpose and education clients helping them integrate sustainability into their core business as well as raise awareness of their commitments among key stakeholders.
BS in Marketing and International Business, Georgetown University
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Katherine Elmer-DeWitt
Development Associate
Katherine Elmer-DeWitt
Development Associate
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Sheep
- What in nature inspires you?
- The way things look (vivid,) feel (charged,) and smell (like the earth,) before a storm.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- North Africa
- Your motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "I have come to the frightening conclusion that I am the decisive element. It is my daily mood that makes the weather… life miserable or joyous.” - Goethe
Katherine loves relativity and the power of environment. With her own environment, she played Goldilocks: New York was too big, the Twin Cities were too small, but Chicago is just right. The eco-system at AGC is beautifully evolved to encourage every element to thrive. Staff, students, and schoolyard chickens alike blossom in an empowered, intentional and caring environment. In previous roles, Katherine saw students of all ages struggling as the result of unsupportive environments. She is relieved that her colleagues at AGC gathered to explore the educational ecosystem.
B.A. in Psychology, Macalester College
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Claudia Franco
Teaching Assistant
Claudia Franco
Teaching Assistant
- What in nature inspires you?
- Trees, because no matter what they have to go through, they remain standing!
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Colombia
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Sheep
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The fact that everyone in the school has a voice.
Claudia was the first in her family to graduate from college, but hopefully not the last! She is a recent graduate who is seeking an opportunity to demonstrate her love and passion for teaching. She loves traveling, animals, and nature!
B.A., Northeastern Illinois University
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Liz Fyffe
Dual Language Kindergarten Teacher
Liz Fyffe
Dual Language Kindergarten Teacher
- Your motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "Kind words can be short and easy to speak, but their echoes are endless." - Mother Teresa
- What in nature inspires you?
- Heat and light.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Egypt
- What is you
- The coast of anywhere.
Liz was drawn to the holistic view of education AGC embraces. She also shares the belief that in today’s global community it is critical to empower the future generation to realize the power in their voices, experiences, and perspectives, while also listening to and respecting those of others. Liz couldn’t wait to share her passion for questioning, keeping an open mind, and sharing knowledge with her students at AGC. As their teacher, she is awed by the environment that a small but mighty group of learners can create. Becoming an educator is genuinely her dream come true.
B.A. in Sociology & Psychology, Minor in Spanish, Indiana University, Bloomington
M.A. in Social and Cultural Foundations of Education, DePaul University (in progress)
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Omaida Figueroa
Kindergarten Teacher
Omaida Figueroa
Kindergarten Teacher
- What in nature inspires you?
- Life inspires me. The changing in seasons is amazing to me. The colors and feel of an Autumn day is breath-taking!
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Spain and Ecuador
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Pig
- What do you love most about AGC?
- The idea of growing and learning with the consciousness of you footprint in our environment.
I have been a teacher for 12 years and feel like I learn something new everyday. I enjoy new experiences and promote that with my own children at home. I would love to travel more. I am passionate about reading and writing, and would love to write books one day.
B.A ., Liberal Arts, U of I Champain
M. Ed at University of Arizona
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Sandy Garza
Office Clerk
Sandy Garza
Office Clerk
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "All of our dreams can come true if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Europe
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Rabbits
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I've been very pleased to discover during my time working with the school that AGC practices what they preach.
Sandy was born and raised in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood. Although much of her work experience comes from a business background, her interest in the education world arose from her mother’s home day care. She was also raised in a home that practiced recycling and sustainability methods and therefore loves working with a school that embodies these values as well as making healthy eating choices. Sandy is excited to be a part of the AGC Family.
B.A. in Marketing, DePaul University
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Diane Gavin
Development Committee Member
Diane Gavin
Development Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- The mission and the vision is what drew me to AGC. While attending a evening listening to Sarah Elizabeth speak about her mission and vision for AGC, I knew I had to get involved in some way.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- My favorite memories of AGC so far are visiting the school. I loved visiting with the chickens, observing the garden and the children's permanent smiles.
- Where would you like to visit next?
- I would like to visit New Zealand.
Diane Gavin is a full time mom who believes that changing the way children and adults view the environment is the future of our world.
B.A., Marketing and Interior Design, University of Arizona
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Aggie Gehl
3rd Grade Teacher
Aggie Gehl
3rd Grade Teacher
- What in nature inspires you?
- Its serenity.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Africa
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- A sled
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Lagos, Portugal
Aggie learned about her passion for teaching when she was a homeschool teacher in Costa Rica. She found that she loved observing the students’ curiosity about the world around them. Aggie appreciates the inquiry centered education that happens here at AGC.
B.S. in Economics and International Relations, University of Wisconsin, Madison
M.Ed in Bilingual/Bicultural Education, DePaul University
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Megan Germain
Development Committee Member
Megan Germain
Development Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- Everything they stand for and the alignment with my personal beliefs. At every turn of our tour, I was completely amazed. I have a Flor rug! I cook vegetarian/vegan meals! I’ve always wanted my own urban hens too! I volunteer! Net-positive campus? Way cool – I drive a Chevy Volt and hope to put solar panels on my roof someday. AGC is revolutionizing public education, how could you not want to be a part of that?
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- Holding Puddles the urban chicken.
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Alaska, Rome, Japan, or Aruba
B.S., Journalism, Public Relations, & Political Science, Central Michigan University
M.A., Higher Education & Student Personnel, University of Mississippi
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Karem Gomez
4th Grade Teacher
Karem Gomez
4th Grade Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Luquillo beach.
- What in nature inspires you?
- The sound of the waves.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- A cow
- What do you love most about AGC?
- All of the possibilities.
Born and raised in Puerto Rico, Ms. Gomez has many passions in life; she loves children, teaching, reading, writing and salsa dancing. She recently took a course in writing children’s books and is currently working on two manuscripts for bilingual books. Her hope is that some day she can publish them and integrate them into her teaching at the Academy for Global Citizenship.
B.A. in Teaching English as a Second Language, University of Puerto Rico
M.A. in ESL, Interamerican University of Puerto Rico
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Michelle Ha
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Member
Michelle Ha
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- AGC has an amazing mission, a passionate leader, and so many wonderful people behind the organization--the most inspiring of whom are the kids!
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- Meeting lovely classroom greeters at the school, the chickens in the schoolyard and fellow members of the Development Committee!
- What initiatives have you been involved with at AGC?
- The Rebuilding Education event, Bikes and Beers event, Chefs' Playground and the campaign at IndieGoGo.com/agcdreamschool.
Design Strategy at IDEO
B.S., Art & Design, Management, Massachusetts Institute of Technology
M.A., Architecture, Urban Design, Harvard University Graduate School of Design
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Cassie Green
Cassie Green
- What drew you to AGC?
- Their completely unique and successful way of educating thoughtful, curious and open minded little citizens.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- Gardening with the kiddos, meeting the chickens and eating lunch with the kids while they explained why we need to stop global warming. So amazing!
- What initiatives have you been involved with at AGC?
- The food program and environmental and amazing learning!
Cassie Green is the owner of the sustainable Chicago staple, the Green Grocer. Cassie opened the Green Grocer in 2008 after being frustrated by the lack of quality local and organic options in her West Town neighborhood. The Green Grocer received extraordinary praise from the community and press and has since opened a second location in Dallas, Texas.
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Jim Grossmann
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Member
Jim Grossmann
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- After attending an event where I had the opportunity to meet 10 other Charter Schools, AGC seemed to have the strongest program. I then visited 3 schools and just knew I had found the best.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- The day I toured the school with Sarah Elizabeth, we walked into a classroom and a student just dropped everything to ran up to her and gave her a big hug. I said to myself, "they have something special going on here."
- What initiatives have you been involved with at AGC?
- Event planning (Chefs' Playground) and on-site support.
Medical Marketing Executive
B.A. Business, Marketing & Management, Marietta College
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Amanda Hanley
Board Member, Development Committee, Chefs' Playground
Amanda Hanley
Board Member, Development Committee, Chefs' Playground
- What drew you to AGC?
- While interviewing Sarah Elizabeth as a top green woman in Chicagoland, it struck me how aligned our missions are to advance sustainability, education and opportunity. My husband and I enthusiastically support AGC’s groundbreaking model to develop future leaders – one day at the greenest, most engaging campus in the country!
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- During our first tour, Daisy laid an egg at our feet as the kids were showing us around the garden.
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Kona, Hawaii
Amanda Hanley is the CoFounder and Director of the Hanley Family Foundation, which supports innovative education, environmental and social empowerment initiatives. As an environmental advocate, she serves as a NRDC Global Leadership Council member and NRDC Midwest Council CoChair, Founder of North Shore Green Women and writes for her blog, wren.
M.A., Public Policy & Administration (in progress), Northwestern University
B.S., Northern Illinois University, Business Management
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Erica Hernandez
Spanish Teacher
Erica Hernandez
Spanish Teacher
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "Live as if you were to die tomorrow. Learn as if you were to live forever." - Mahatma Ghandi
- What in nature inspires you?
- Birds inspire me to soar and be free.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Rescued animals.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco Mexico.
Erica is honored to be part of the fascinating community at the Academy for Global Citizenship and is excited to work with students who are dedicated to creating positive change to better our world. Erica plans to attain a Masters of Arts in education leadership with an endorsement in Bilingual Education.
B.A. in Elementary Education, Northeastern Illinois University
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Mert Hilmi Iseri
Vice Chair of the Board and Development Committee Co-Chair
Mert Hilmi Iseri
Vice Chair of the Board and Development Committee Co-Chair
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Where I am.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Billions of years old research and development.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- Seeing children excited about nature and sustainability.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Goats!
Mert Hilmi Iseri is the young turk of design. His journey started off in Istanbul and changed courses completely once he arrived at Northwestern’s McCormick School of Engineering. After graduating with his own degree “Entrepreneurial Design” in the spring of 2011, he is excited to embrace design and entrepreneurship to galvanize a generation into positive change. Currently, he is the CEO and Co-founder of SwipeSense – a company that aims to prevent the 100,000 deaths that occur every year in the US due to Hospital-Acquired Infections.
B.S. Entrepreneurial Design, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University
Co-Founder & CEO, SwipeSense, Inc.
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Jenny Jacobs
Development Committee Member
Jenny Jacobs
Development Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- AGC engages the whole person (mindy, body, spirit, family, academics) to create global awareness in their students which such zest! Undoubtedly, inspiring life- long learning!
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- My charge and I were inspired to help build AGC’s library. Frankly, the idea of meeting the chickens drove her mission to collect books. When we went to donate books, a whole new world revealed itself to her: the incredible things that were happening at AGC. Her smile and enthusiasm were contagious. She is now looking for ways to emulate and implement programs into her school community and I couldn’t be prouder.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The Summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro
A Seattle native, Jenny was drawn to Chicago 12 years ago professionally to support a private family but fell in love with the Windy City’s big city, small town charm; the amazing culture, continual change and so many wonderful venues! By day, she is a Jane of all Trades! Jenny, who prefers “JJ” uses her education background in a fast paced environment to foster the growth and education of the family’s young children, being an integral part of major event planning, staff management and even manages to teach their beloved Havanese, Chica a tremendous amount of tricks! JJ loves to explore and propels herself forward with an obsession for travel; having visited all 7 continents, making special memories and dear friends every where she goes.
B.A., Special Education, Gonzaga University
MEd, Curriculum & Instruction, Seattle Pacific University
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Arathi Jayaram
Kindergarten-2nd Wellness Teacher
Arathi Jayaram
Kindergarten-2nd Wellness Teacher
- Your motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world. -Anne Frank
- What in nature inspires you?
- Symbiosis! While on the surface everything looks seperate and invidual, everything must work together to survive and evolve, like our society.
- What do you love about AGC?
- I often think about what the future holds and since AGC, I feel an incredible sense of hope. These students are the world’s future leaders.
- I wish that I could get everyone in the world to...
- be kinder to themselves, other people, animals, and the earth.
At age 10, Arathi became an advocate for animals, the environment, and humans, and went on to work for several non-profits. She realized she wanted to become a teacher when she taught youth about healthy eating at the non-profit B-Healthy. Her goal as an educator is to teach students in a way that allows them to learn to the best of their ability. Her other interests include art, cooking, reading, Indian culture, and children’s literature, and she even wrote her own children’s book. Arathi also made an animated children’s stop-motion video, and would like to make more.
B.A. in Fine Arts and Sociology, Baldwin Wallace College Bachelor of Arts
M.A. in Early Childhood Education, DePaul University (in progress)
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Ruth Jetton
6th Grade Teacher
Ruth Jetton
6th Grade Teacher
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "Do or do not, there is no try." - Yoda
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- Running
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Rabbits
- I wish that I could get everyone in the world to...
- Solve conflicts peacefully.
Ruth is extremely excited to be a part of the Academy for Global Citizenship team! She was drawn to AGC’s progressive approach to education that fosters collaboration, inquiry, and thinking outside the box. She is also inspired by AGC’s commitment to promoting a global, environmentally aware mindset within its student body. Ruth loves how every AGC classroom is a dynamic place that brings out the unique gifts of its students. She feels that each day is a new opportunity for her to learn along with her students.
B.S. in Sociology, Illinois State University
B.S. in Middle Level Education, Illinois State University
M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction, American College of Education
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Andrew Kaplan
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Co-Chair
Andrew Kaplan
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Co-Chair
- What drew you to AGC?
- I was introduced to Sarah Elizabeth, her team and the school at a USDA/CPS event. When I see a younger professional like Sarah Elizabeth with the vision and drive that she has, it’s hard not to try to get involved. Her vision is brilliant and watching her turn it into action is extraordinary.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- It’s hard not to notice how ‘professional’ the students at AGC are; they take charge of their education and experiences. I love watching them learn about agriculture and seeing them interact with the chickens that live in the schoolyard. I also love watching the student ambassadors in the lunch room place the waste items in the appropriate bin: compost, recycling and landfill.
- What initiatives have you been involved with at AGC?
- All of them- I love supporting AGC has a whole. Bringing new faces to campus is priceless- you never know who will be on the next tour and in what capacity they might become involved with the school. Aside from that, I come from a culinary events background, so I serve as a co-chair the Chefs' Playground event.
Andrew Kaplan is the Director of Rachael Ray’s nonprofit organization, Yum-o! Having grown up around food – both parents had careers in food –Andrew’s young lifestyle involved cooking and an appreciation for food. That lifestyle inspired him to create, with Ray, a charity that celebrates a passion for cooking and shares the culinary world with children. Prior to joining Ray’s team, Andrew worked with the South Beach Wine and Food Festival. During his tenure at the festival, Andrew launched the Kidz Kitchen, a section of the festival dedicated to youth. The event has continued each year since. In his spare time, Andrew enjoys teaching cooking classes for children and photographing food.
A.D., Culinary Arts, Culinary Institute of America
Hospitality Management, Florida International University
Nonprofit Management Certificate, Stanford Social Innovation Review
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Carolee Kokola
Development Committee Member
Carolee Kokola
Development Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- I became involved at AGC through my interest in advancing innovative educational opportunities that promote sustainability and an appreciation for the surrounding community, city, and world. I see AGC as a pioneer that can help stakeholders from other public schools learn to advance holistic approaches to education and health.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- Observing the dual-language kindergarten – teachers and children alike having such a great time during a typical learning experience!
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Lake Baikal: stunning landscape, and the most amazing water and air!
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Cuba
Carolee is an urban planner and sustainability consultant who integrates sustainable strategies into her project work at all scales, from the site to the region. In her personal and professional lives alike, she is dedicated to enhancing urban neighborhoods, and she believes that strong schools are a key indicator of vibrant and healthy communities. She is inspired by the infectious enthusiasm of AGC’s students, teachers, staff, and volunteers, and she is excited to help further the mission of AGC.
Urban Planning + Sustainability Consultant
Master of City Planning, University of Pennsylvania; Bachelor of Arts, Northwestern University
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Ben Kovler
Board Member
Ben Kovler
Board Member
Chief Investment Officer, Kovpac Investment Manager, Kovler Foundation
MBA, University of Chicago, Booth School of Business
BA, Philosophy, Politics & Economics, Pomona College
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Katy Klassman
Development Committee Member
Katy Klassman
Development Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- I focus my volunteer efforts on organizations that support education and the welfare of children. I wanted to support AGC being a model for education in Chicago and well beyond.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- I loved meeting a second grader at my first AGC event two years ago. I was struck by the ease with which she commanded the adult audience and her level of compassion and knowledge about the subject she was telling us about. I also loved that she wanted all of us to do yoga with her in our cocktail dresses and suits.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Florence, Italy and Nosara, Costa Rica
Katy is the owner of The Curated Group and Director of Retail Operations at Flor. She is a frequent participant at TED, the Insight Labs, and UX4Good. A fifth-generation retailer, she has more than twenty years of experience in instructional design and the management of luxury boutiques in the beauty, apparel, home and chocolate industries. She has been an invited speaker at the Kellogg School of Management and The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. She is a co-founder of the !mpact Conference, sits on the board of 826CHI, and has been a Peace Child International Ambassador since 1989.
B.A. History of Art, Skidmore College
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Anna Krzyzanowski
Paraprofessional
Anna Krzyzanowski
Paraprofessional
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "The future depends on what we do in the present." - Mahatama Ghandi
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- My bike! We can go anywhere together!
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- A pot-bellied pig! They are adorable, friendly, and super smart!
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the young students I work with; they are so full of excitement and curiosity. It's contagious!
As a trilingual speaker, Anna believes that learning new languages opens doors to new cultures, new friends, and new resolutions for our global community. She is inspired by AGC’s multi-lingual approach to education and is proud to be part of such a humanistic manner of learning.
B.A. in Psychology, DePaul University
M.A. in Elementary Education, DePaul University (in progress)
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Rosalia Lopez
Special Education Teacher
Rosalia Lopez
Special Education Teacher
- What in nature inspires you?
- Trees inspire me because they are well grounded by their roots and stand up tall despite the different weather and seasons.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- I would like to see a cow. I find the milking process very fascinating and I am sure the students would as well!
- What do you love about AGC?
- AGC cares for the whole well being of the students, staff, communities and the world and sets an example for life in a better world.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The lakefront in Chicago. Running down the lakefront brings me peace and serenity.
Rosalia loves to run and push herself in various physical challenges. She does Crossfit and has finished two marathons. She did Tough Mudder race and even walked up the Sears Tower (Willis Tower) for the SkyRise Chicago race! Rosalia’s goal is to do a race abroad. Her parents are from Mexico and she loves visiting their hometown. She also loves to knit and make scarves for her family, friends, and charities. Recently, Rosalia and her sister knitted hats for orphans in Afghanistan. She is excited to work at AGC!
B.S.in Psychology, Dominican University
M.S. in Special Education, Dominican University
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Brad Manker
5th Grade Teacher
Brad Manker
5th Grade Teacher
- What in nature inspires you?
- The diligence, efficiency and tenacity of leaf-cutter ants, and the mathematical beauty of spider webs and flowers
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Antarctica
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Velociraptors, and if that's not possible, goats.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- AGC has a clear (and exciting) goal for its future, and it is the birthplace of ideas and leadership.
Brad has lived in some pretty exotic locations, including Vancouver, central Japan, and Kuwait, but he keeps getting drawn back to Illinois, his home state. Once an avid vermicomposter, Brad was drawn to AGC because of its commitment to sustainability and international awareness. He is excited to watch the school, and his class, grow, and he feels blessed to be part of such a dynamic team of parents, students, and teachers. In his free time he enjoys writing, (improvisational) acting, doing living history presentations and graphic design.
B.A., Japanese/Business, University of Wisconsin
M.A., Elementary Education, National Louis University
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Maribel Mares
Office Manager
Maribel Mares
Office Manager
- What in nature inspires you?
- Color.
- What is your favorite local food?
- My favorite local food is from AGC's garden - fresh chicken eggs, veggies, and herbs!
- What do you love about AGC?
- In the summer, you can find adults and children under the solar trellis having lunch and intriguing and fun conversation. I love that creative ideas spark everyday and they are realized with passion.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Cows and ducks
A writer, artist, and entrepreneur from the Southwest side, Maribel was drawn to ACG’s green principles rooted in her neighborhood. She acknowledged the need for such education in an urban environment and saw a renaissance dedicated to serving the community as a whole. Maribel leads, supports and organizes unique families and students interested in a unique education. They are learning as a family and embracing a lifestyle in order to impact not only their community, but the world.
At AGC, Maribel created La Pluma Writers Workshop, dedicated to nurturing students who want to develop writing that goes beyond the classroom.
B.A. Northern Illinois University
M.F. A. in Writing, School of the Art Institute of Chicago
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Teresa McQueen-Crawford
Special Education Teacher
Teresa McQueen-Crawford
Special Education Teacher
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- If not now, when?
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- My feet
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- New Zealand
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Any range of mountains.
Radical. Open-Minded. Empathetic. Teresa has been called of these things and embraces them daily. When looking for a position out of graduate school, she scoured the internet for any school that aligned with her beliefs. Thankfully, that search led her to AGC. She instantly fell in love with the mission, interacting with students in a way that best fits them, and teaching healthy eating and sustainability. She has worked on a number of different animal welfare, humanity, and environmental campaigns. It is now a pleasure to get to work on these goals everyday while teaching and learning with her students.
B.A. in American Studies, University of IowaM.Ed in Special Education, University of Illinois at Chicago -
Vanessa Mizel
3rd-6th Wellness Teacher
Vanessa Mizel
3rd-6th Wellness Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Chicago's lakefront bike path.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Spring, it is a great reminder of fresh life and new beginnings.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Unicorns, but I could settle for an alpaca or two.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the community aspect that is brought into the school. There is a sense of pride and family here that I am so excited to be a part of
Before joining the team at AGC, Vanessa worked at Girls in the Game. There, she taught girls all around Chicago the value of sports, health and leadership. Through Vanessa’s involvement in leading and managing various programs, she has seen the benefits of getting children excited to lead active and healthy lives. In addition to leading sports programming, Vanessa has been a lifelong athlete and is excited to share her passion for all sports with the students at AGC.
B.A., Communications and Media, DePaul University
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Jennifer Moore
2nd Grade Teacher
Jennifer Moore
2nd Grade Teacher
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "What we need are more people who specialize in the impossible." -Theodore Roethke
- What in nature inspires you?
- Brilliant sunshine and ocean waves.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- South Africa.
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- Flying
Jenn’s dedication to understanding others is matched by her desire to learn about other cultures. In other words, Jenn loves to travel, meet new people, and have new experiences. Along the way she has visited schools all over the world, worked with educators and students, shepherded leatherback turtle eggs into new nests, earned her National Board Teaching Certification in Literacy, and researched Macaque monkeys in their natural habitat. She lived in Cali, Colombia teaching first grade and just loved it. She has worked as a teacher, coach, and administrator. Jenn is a lifelong learner and enjoys the challenge of teaching.
Ed.D. in Organization Change, Pepperdine University
M.Ed. in Educational Leadership, DePaul University
M.Ed. in Urban Education Reform, Lesley College
B.A. in Early Childhood Education and Family Studies
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John Nix
Chairman of the Board, Finance and Facilities Committee Member
John Nix
Chairman of the Board, Finance and Facilities Committee Member
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Mount Kenya
- What in nature inspires you?
- The incredible beauty and diversity of the natural world, both locally in Chicago and across the globe.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- AGC is an example of an outstanding education that can be provided within a public school system. The daily hard work from the students, teachers, and staff is inspiring.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Alpacas
John Nix is Founder and CEO of Vobal Technologies, LLC, and has been an entrepreneur in the telecommunications/Internet field for the past 15 years. John is an inventor on 10 U.S. patents and 15 patent applications. He founded Go2Call, which was ranked the 22nd fastest growing technology company in North America over a five year period. John grew the company from inception to $20 million a year in revenue. He also received the “Best Bosses” award from Fortune Small Business Magazine. John has served on the board of AGC for the past five years.
B.S. in Physics, Davidson College
MBA, Kellogg School of Management, Northwestern University; Master’s in Engineering Management, Northwestern University
Founder and CEO, Vobal Technologies, LLC.
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Julia O’Grady
Lunchroom Manager
Julia O’Grady
Lunchroom Manager
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- Laugh as much as you breathe and love as long as you live.
- What in nature inspires you?
- To see the sun rising first thing in the morning.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Africa
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Llamas
Julia was born in Ciudad Guzman, Jalisco and came to the US when she was 15 years old. She is now married with four children. Julia started working for CPS in 2004 and later found herself as the founding Kitchen Manager of a little school called AGC.
Ricard J. Daley College
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Scott Perin
Development Committee Member
Scott Perin
Development Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- While working at Hannah's Bretzel, I was introduced me to AGC and immediately impressed with how they turned the traditional school model on its head.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- Visiting the school for the first time and enjoy lunch with the students…and then playing with them outside during recess.
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Iceland
From the Chicagoland area, Scott grew-up in a family where quality food was a central focus. Scott’s father has worked for 50+ years for a local, family-owned grocer and one of his brother’s is a classically-trained chef. Prior to joining Hannah’s Bretzel as Marketing Director in 2009, Scott spent 7+ years in advertising sales and promotions marketing at MTV Networks where he brokered national advertising buys for clients like McDonald’s, Nintendo and Target.
Marketing Director, Hannah’s Bretzel
B.S. Marketing, Miami University
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Anna Phillips
5th Grade Teacher
Anna Phillips
5th Grade Teacher
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the amazing possibilities we are creating with our students and families by pushing the boundaries of what education can be and can mean. I love that there is no limitation to those possibilities, and watching our kids take action to bring each possibility into reality.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Being from Minnesota, I feel I have to be near water at all times. One of my favorite things to do is just walk-- anywhere-- the rocky coast of Grand Marais, up and down the lake shore path in Chicago, all over the beach in Punta Cana, DR...I get my best ideas and inspiration from walking by the water.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, Sweden, Malaysia, Chile, Cuba...the list goes on...
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- A goat!
I grew up in a very small town in North central Minnesota with my parents and younger brother Ethan. I earned a full scholarship to Carthage College in Kenosha, Wisconsin where I studied Communications, Digital Media, and Sociology. Upon graduation I was admitted into the Teach For America program as a 2008 charter corps member in Kansas City, Missouri Public Schools. While in Kansas City I taught third grade and followed my students the next year to fourth grade. The following year I moved to Chicago to teach third grade at AGC, then returned to Kansas City the following year to teach at University Academy Charter School, and finally returned again to Chicago where I have been teaching since. I am so excited to be back in the AGC family and teaching fifth grade! My husband Mark, our two Boston Terriers Oscar and Felix, and I are also very excited for him to complete his Masters in Special Education this year at Loyola University. We spend our free time with our puppies at the dog beach, walking all over the city, and eating lots of food!
B.A. in Communications and Sociology, Carthage College
Masters of Education, University of St. Louis
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Meredith McNamara
Founding Teacher, 2nd Grade
Meredith McNamara
Founding Teacher, 2nd Grade
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- Anything Mark Twain ever said! “I have never let my schooling interfere with my education” or “The man who does not read has no advantage over the man who cannot read.”
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- The Reading Room in the British Museum.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- A flamingo
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love our kids' amazing ideas and the connections they make. I also love how they are empowered to take charge of their own thinking and learning.
Meredith Polley loves school more than any other place in the world, though she has visited many places, and is passionate about encouraging children to begin their school experience feeling the same way. She is adamant that literacy is the gateway to educational success and goes out of her way to make instilling a love for reading a cornerstone of her early education classroom. Perhaps most importantly, as an avid traveller, camper, and hiker Meredith cannot wait to show students a greater picture of the world at large – its beauties, its peoples, and its needs.
B.S. in Journalism and History, Northwestern University; M.A. in Elementary Education, Loyola Marymount University
Reading Specialist program at DePaul University
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Michael Poggioli
1st Grade Teacher
Michael Poggioli
1st Grade Teacher
- What is your favorite local food?
- Basil from the AGC garden.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Japan
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- A pig
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- I'm a fan of biking everywhere.
Being home-schooled with his siblings until high school, Michael internalized the value of a personalized, more human-focused education. He fell in love with Chicago when he moved from his hometown in the northern suburbs of New York City to study Architecture. He then transferred to Stony Brook University to study Psychology, where he researched Achievement Emotions and Secure-Base parenting scripts. Michael loves photography, coffee, Owl City, frisbee, and all things related to nature!
B.S. in Psychology and Sociology, Stony Brook University
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Tina Seaman
Development Committee Member
Tina Seaman
Development Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- AGC’s focus on fostering environmental stewardship, in and outside of the classroom, drew me to the school.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- One of my favorite memories was presenting to the Third Graders on wetlands and biodiversity; we later took a field trip to Bartel Grassland to see migratory birds, and I was gratified to see the students’ excitement to be out in nature and learn about biodiversity.
- What initiatives have you been involved with at AGC?
- Through my involvement in AGC’s development committee, I’ve helped support fundraising efforts that contribute to various initiatives at the school, with a particular focus on environmental education. But more importantly, I’ve enjoyed working with the committee to help advance the campaign to build a net-positive energy campus.
Tina is a Research Associate at Openlands, Chicagoland’s oldest conservation group. She started at Openlands in 2010 with the goal of creating truly sustainable wetlands system. Tina works on local and regional issues ranging from sustainable local food production to water conservation policies as well as collaborates with our development team on grants and other funding opportunities. Tina enjoys spending her free time exploring Chicago’s restaurants and arts scene, as well as being outdoors fly-fishing and surfing.
B.A, International Studies, Boston College;
M.A., Public Policy & Administration (in progress), Northwestern University
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Saskia Gorospe Rombouts
Dual Language 1st Grade Teacher
Saskia Gorospe Rombouts
Dual Language 1st Grade Teacher
- What is your favorite local food?
- AGC pozole.
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- My feet.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- A donkey.
- What in nature inspires you?
- Trees
Saskia’s passion for working with English Language Learners stems from her bicultural background. Having been born in the Basque Country in Spain to a Flemish mother, she attended a Spanish/German dual language school and was raised trilingual. After living in different countries, and working as an educator for many years, Saskia landed at AGC committed to creating a safe and vibrant learning environment where children can be proud of who they are, and can grow fully bilingual and bi-literate.
B.A. in German Area Studies and Linguistics, University of East Anglia, (Norwich, UK)
M.A. in Elementary Urban Education, Long Island University
ESL/Bilingual Education Diploma, Erikson Institute
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Chris Ruder
Development Committee Member
Chris Ruder
Development Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- Environment + Education = I'm interested.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- My first tour-- truly mind blowing.
- What initiatives have you been involved with at AGC?
- I organize the annual Tour de Brew.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Santa Monica, CA.
Whether it be in my personal or work life, I like aligning with programs that challenge the status quo. AGC fits that bill perfectly.
CEO, Spikeball Inc.
B.A., Marquette University
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Berenice Salas Rangel
3rd Grade Teacher
Berenice Salas Rangel
3rd Grade Teacher
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "To be surprised, to wonder, is to begin to understand." - Jose Ortega y Gasset
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Machu Picchu
- What do you love about AGC?
- I love the inspiration that floats in the air - resonating from our families, students, and staff.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Anywhere with family- they are my inspiration.
Berenice Salas is very enthusiastic to be teaching in the Academy for Global Citizenship’s community. Her career goal has always been to teach on Chicago’s southwest side in her own comunidad. In 2004, she backpacked through Southern Mexico and Guatemala to explore the Mayan Ruins and lear about the Zapatista’s indigenous movement. There, she gained knowledge of their multilingual schools, sustainable agriculture, accessible water, and, over all, the power of collective impact.
B.A. in Elementary Education, University of Illinois at Chicago
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Matthew Rochte
Development Committee Member and Finance and Facilities Committee Member
Matthew Rochte
Development Committee Member and Finance and Facilities Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- Building curious minds.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Toronto, Barcelona, or Antigua, Guatemala.
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Australia
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- How well behaved the students are; how engaged they are; and how much they love this school.
Matthew Rochte, is passionate about smart business; he believes sustainability/CSR is fundamentally about smart business and innovation, and that it is most effective when it creates value through cost reductions, strategic advantage, engaged employees, and increased sales. Matthew is an experienced sustainability/CSR consultant working with leaders to navigate the complexities of sustainability, develop a plan, and communicate to engage effectively. In the 90s, Matthew successfully ran and sold a triple-bottom-line manufacturing firm. Since then, he has worked with leaders and leadership teams of large multinationals including McDonald’s Corporation to small manufacturing firms and non-profits.
Sustainability/CSR Consultant
B.A. Psychology, Community Leadership Graduate, Dual Graduate Corporate Coach Training, LEED AP
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Irma Salazar
Spanish Teacher
Irma Salazar
Spanish Teacher
- Where is your favorite place in the world?
- Mexican archeological sites
- What in nature inspires you?
- Oceans.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC Farm?
- Rooster
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- My feet
As a product of Bilingual education in Chicago Public Schools, Irma has devoted her educational career to researching multicultural education. She strongly believes that every child deserves an opportunity for a fair and equal education and that it is the responsibility of every educator to embrace their students’ diversity while helping them develop a positive self-concept.
B.A. in Bilingual/Bicultural & Elementary Education, Northeastern Illinois University
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Kyla Saphir
2nd Grade Teacher
Kyla Saphir
2nd Grade Teacher
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- Dune Acres, Indiana
- What in nature inspires you?
- Urban gardens, like my backyard beds.
- What is your favorite local food?
- Summer peaches
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- Bees.
Born and raised on the south side of Chicago, Kyla has been lucky enough to travel as far away as Africa, South and Central America, and Eastern Europe to teach and explore. She is passionate about working with young people, which she has been doing for 10 years. Kyla fills her days exploring Chicago by bicycle, playing in her garden, and doing yoga – all AGC mission-alligned activities!
B.A. in Anthropology, Scripps College
Montessori Certification
M.A. in Early Childhood Education, Erikson Institute
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Jenni Schneiderman
Expanded Learning & Community Engagement Coordinator
Jenni Schneiderman
Expanded Learning & Community Engagement Coordinator
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- "And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same." - Nelson Mandela
- What is your favorite method of transportation?
- Dancing.
- I wish that I could get everyone in the world to...
- Stand on their heads.
- What do you love most about AGC?
- I love the abundant creativity, spirit of collaboration, and action-oriented culture.
Jenni found AGC two Earth Days ago, when she hopped a Greyhound fresh off a plane from South America.She feels nourished and inspired each day by a community of pioneering educators and determined leaders.Jenni is passionate about participatory community development, intercultural communication, and environmental sustainability. She feels honored to be able to practice these values in remarkable company at AGC. Outside of school, Jenni enjoys practicing yoga, dancing, crafting, traveling, reading, and traveling.
B.A. in Psychology & Spanish Area Studies, Kenyon College
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Rishi Shah
Board Member, Development Committee Member
Rishi Shah
Board Member, Development Committee Member
- What drew you to AGC?
- Visiting the AGC in session and meeting Sarah Elizabeth instantly drew me to the school. I've always had an interest in education and the philosophy with which AGC is run crystallized so many of my core beliefs about how children should be taught.
- What are your favorite memories at AGC?
- When I first visited AGC, we toured the school and then sat down in the cafeteria. Half way through our lunch the bell rang and kids filled the room -- second graders came and sat right next to us and I'll never forget how energetic, confident, comfortable, and yet calm they were. When Sarah Elizabeth asked them why they were eating what they were eating (vegetables), they knew exactly why.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- I just returned from a trip to Paris and enjoyed every bit of it, it might be my favorite city in the world aside from Chicago, of course.
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Some of my entrepreneur friends are building companies focused on space travel. While it won't be next, I would like to get to space one day soon!
Rishi Shah, CEO and Founder of ContextMedia, is a successful media and technology entrepreneur. Rishi has been an entrepreneur since birth, starting a home computer consulting company when he was 12, and later selling it to a large electronics retailer. Rishi started ContextMedia in 2006 to help patients with chronic diseases live healthier through contextually relevant media services. Rishi advises several early stage companies and serves on the Board of Directors of many organizations. Rishi was recognized by Crain’s as a member of their 40-Under-40 class in 2009 and he has founded several non-profit initiatives.
Founder and CEO, ContextMedia
Northwestern University
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Hanna Thomson
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Co-Chair
Hanna Thomson
Development Committee Member, Chefs' Playground Host Committee Co-Chair
- What drew you to AGC?
- The vision, the mission and the people. I felt an instant draw to AGC, an immediate chemistry. After visiting the school and meeting Sarah Elizabeth, I just knew I had to be a part of the vision.
- What initiatives have you been involved with at AGC?
- Event planning: Chefs' Playground, Racquet Club, and Trunk Club events.
- What is your favorite place in the world?
- San Francisco
- Where would you like to visit next?
- Somewhere warm
Hanna Thomson is an image Consultant focusing on services such as closet auditing and organization, shopping your closet, outfit creation, custom color and body analysis, personal styling, personal shopping along with complete makeovers.
B.A., Marketing and Business, University of Colorado
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Helma Wardenaar
Founding Special Education Teacher
Helma Wardenaar
Founding Special Education Teacher
- What is your favorite local food?
- I love fresh mint from the AGC garden; a cup of fresh mint tea makes me smile!
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Galapagos Islands
- What do you love about AGC?
- I love that we are a cohesive community that inspires children and adults to make a positive change in the world.
- What animal would you like to see on the AGC farm?
- I would love to have a horse on the farm because horses can teach us a lot about relationships and care taking.
Before moving to the United States, Helma taught multiple grades with great enthusiasm in the Netherlands. She speaks fluent English and Dutch, conversational German and French, and the Spanish classes she has been taking are starting to show results! Helma is proud to be one of the founding teachers at the AGC, and is currently teaching students enrolled in our Special Education Program. She loves facilitating all children in developing their minds to reach their highest personal goals, and strives to collaborate with parents, teachers, and clinicians to provide the least restrictive learning environment.
M.S. in Special Education from DePaul University;Endorsements in Math, Social studies, Music/Drama
B.S. in Elementary Education, Early Childhood, Endorsements in Social studies, Math, Fine Arts, and PE IPABO University of Amsterdam (the Netherlands)
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August Williams
Lunchroom Staff
August Williams
Lunchroom Staff
- What in nature inspires you?
- The wind.
- Where in the world would you like to visit next?
- Europe
- What do you love about AGC?
- The people.
- I can't imagine my life without...
- My son.
Born and raised in the North side of Chicago, August attended Holy Trinity High School before going on to play Division Three basketball at Blackburn University.
Blackburn University
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Danny Wright
Maintenance Manager
Danny Wright
Maintenance Manager
- Your Motto, Mantra or Quote to live by
- Be true to thyself.
- What in nature inspires you?
- An eagle in flight.
- What do you love about AGC?
- The look on our students' faces in the morning.
- I wish that I could get everyone in the world to...
- Live in peace.
Danny Wright is responsible for keeping our school and grounds environmentally safe and clean for our students, chickens and planet. He enjoys his position at the Academy for Global Citizenship and watching our students with their endless energy and global awareness. Mr. Danny also teaches one of the most popular after-school programs called “Cool Tools”.
Harrison High School
Moraine Valley Jr. College