Meet our Board of Directors

---

Rooted in her upbringing on her grandmother's mountainous Puerto Rican farm, Jessica developed a profound reverence for nature and a passion for education. Moving to New York City, she recognized the importance of bridging her dual cultural worlds.

Drawing from her diverse background, Jessica founded For the People and Kids, Inc., a community-focused nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering children through educational and nature-led programs. We believe in the importance of holistic development, nurturing creativity, and fostering a sense of connection to nature and the community.

Jessica's commitment to experiential, bilingual education creates an enriching atmosphere where curiosity thrives, and connections with the natural world deepen. Her teaching style incorporates hands-on experiences, interactive activities, and a holistic approach that goes beyond traditional classroom settings. By combining language inclusivity with a strong emphasis on S.T.R.E.A.M. disciplines, Jessica empowers learners of all ages to explore, discover, and develop a profound appreciation for the interconnected wonders of the world around them.

Katie Sheehan, formerly a School Psychologist, 

draws from her profound understanding of education and child development.  In addition to her roles within her family and in academia, Katie is also an accomplished fiber artist and an ardent advocate for the arts and environmental conservation. Alongside her husband, Patrick, she has co-founded Hippie Feet Tie Dyes, their own company dedicated to spreading creativity through crafting and fiber arts classes.

Katie introduces young minds to an early appreciation for the environment through hands-on experiences such as tending to her garden and imparting sustainable practices. Her life seamlessly blends the roles of motherhood, her educational expertise, artistic creativity, and her unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship. She is a dedicated educator, a nurturing guide, a creative spirit, and an impassioned champion for a sustainable way of life.

Joe Roman’s career is marked by a strong dedication to finance education and leadership development, providing one-on-one mentoring and consulting.

A cum laude graduate of Harvard University, Joe spent over a decade as a history teacher in NYC, where his innovative teaching methods made a lasting impact on his students. His commitment to education extends into community leadership, showcasing his passion for fostering growth and development.

Joe’s expertise in finance and leadership greatly enriches our finance literature workshops, offering valuable insights and strategic perspectives. His enthusiasm and steadfast support have been instrumental in enhancing our finance programs and providing individualized leadership consulting. We are fortunate to have Joe Roman on our team, as his expertise and passion propel our mission forward with energy and clarity.

 Joe is available for individual consulting work. 

Dr. Michael Garber brings 40 years of experience with the Diamond Method for Music, alongside three decades of leading music outreach programs. His deep scholarly knowledge of Tin Pan Alley music, combined with his teaching experience across a wide age range—from four to ninety-four—adds significant depth to the project.

In addition to his PhD, Michael has training as a dancer and holds a diploma from the Institute for Music and Health (founded by Dr. Diamond), as well as a certificate in the CME program from the Australian National University.

Dr. Mike offers a unique blend of musical expertise and educational experience, along with a steadfast commitment to enriching the creative lives of our learners.

Dr. Sue Carpenter is a seasoned educator with over 45 years of experience, bringing a wealth of knowledge to the project. As an accomplished artist and performer, she has dedicated 30 years to community art-making and studying the Diamond Method for Art and Music. For the past 15 years, Sue has taught future educators how to effectively engage children in the arts.

She holds a certificate in Community Music Engagement (CME) from the Australian National University and earned her PhD with a case study on an inclusive CME initiative in Canberra, inspired by Dr. Diamond’s work and philosophy.

Dr. Sue offers a unique blend of artistic expertise and educational experience, along with a deep commitment to enriching the creative lives of our learners.

Raised in the vast forests of Slovakia, Livia Fleming developed a deep appreciation for nature and the farm-to-table lifestyle while growing up on her family’s farm. Her passion for sustainability and wellness led her to study biotechnology, food, and cosmetic sciences, eventually immersing herself in the world of wild medicinal plants and holistic medicine.

Livia is a lead educator with the Wild Roots Project, a DIG Farm initiative focused on foraging, herbalism, and mycology. She is also an active member of the sustainability committee in the BH district, where she engages students in community service and environmental stewardship, fostering a deeper connection with nature while supporting those in need.

Her creativity and expertise are showcased in Designed by Liv, where she curates unique herbal and holistic products that reflect her dedication to sustainable practices and natural wellness.

Through her diverse work, Livia strives to inspire others to connect with nature, embrace holistic living, and engage in meaningful community efforts that promote well-being for both people and the planet.

Danielle Colavito, the visionary behind Soul Shining Wellness, is dedicated to empowering women to embrace health, wholeness, and the radiance of their souls. As a wife and mother of two energetic boys, Danielle's journey as a mother and her children's health challenges led her to shift her focus and career path. For the past decade, she has devoted herself to helping families achieve wellness and prevention.

Having worked as an event planner for over 15 years, Danielle's transition into wellness and prevention was driven by her experiences and a deep desire to support other families. She is a certified Revelation Wellness® Fitness Instructor, Christian-based Wellness Coach, Urban Farmer, Professional Affiliate with the Juice Plus+ Company, and a dedicated Homeschool Mom. Danielle passionately works with fellow mothers through her diverse skill set, providing guidance and support on their family's wellness journey.

Whether leading invigorating workouts, facilitating women's small groups, or teaching families how to nourish their bodies and cultivate their food year-round, Danielle finds immense joy in witnessing families thrive. Her commitment to empowering others and creating a nurturing community is at the heart of Soul Shining Wellness.

Danielle Colavito's holistic approach to wellness, rooted in her personal experiences, fuels her passion for supporting women and families in achieving optimal health and wholeness. Through her business and ministry, she fosters a space where women can let their souls shine, embracing wellness as a pathway to radiant living.
 

Immersed in the world of yoga since 2011, Nicole Sidman, the creative force behind Anahata Yoga, LLC, teaches with a deep passion and an infectious sense of pure joy. Holding prestigious certifications from Yoga Alliance as a 500-hour Experienced Registered Yoga Teacher (E-RYT) and a Yoga Alliance Continuing Education Teacher (YACEP), Nicole brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her practice.

With a commitment to sharing the transformative power of yoga, Nicole has not only led numerous yoga teacher trainings but has also curated a diverse array of workshops and wellness programs. Her teaching style goes beyond the physical practice, delving into the spiritual and holistic aspects of yoga.

Nicole's philosophy revolves around the profound connection between movement, breath, and our sacred Earth. She emphasizes the significance of staying attuned to one's Divine essence, fostering a journey of self-discovery and inner harmony. In her classes, Nicole inspires others to explore the deeper dimensions of yoga, creating a space where individuals can embark on a transformative and empowering journey. Join Nicole on the mat to experience the fusion of joy, mindfulness, and connection that defines the essence of Anahata Yoga.
 

Anna Mayta, of Mayta Fusion Dance, is originally from Chile and is an accomplished educator, dance improviser, choreographer, and dance artist. She earned her BA in Dance in Education from Empire State College in June 2001. In November 2008, she obtained a certificate to teach yoga from Svyasa Swami Vivekananda Yoga University in Bangalore, India. Recognized for her talent and contributions, Anna received a dissemination award from the Dutchess County Arts Council in Poughkeepsie, New York, in 2006.

In October 2020, Anna was selected for a residency at the Bethany Arts Center in Ossining, NY, where she crafted a solo dance piece advocating for gender equality. Her dedication to amplifying underrepresented voices continued in 2022 when she was granted funding from CREATE to choreograph a piece highlighting the experiences of the Latinx community in Hudson, NY, confronting linguistic prejudice.  Anna Mayta is passionate about teaching and shares her expertise through various mediums. She specializes in teaching Spanish through movement and fusion dance, seamlessly blending African, Classical Indian, Flamenco, Chilean, Modern, and Latin dance styles. Anna serves as an adjunct professor of dance at Columbia Greene Community College in Hudson, NY, and conducts classes throughout the Hudson Valley, NY, and Berkshire area.

In addition to her teaching commitments, Anna directs her dance company, Mayta Fusion Dance, where she continues to inspire and innovate within the dance community.
 

Priscilla Padilla is the founder of Living on Vibrant Energy (L.O.V.E.), a heart-centered initiative dedicated to promoting inclusive, holistic well-being for all walks of life. She is a bilingual (Spanish, ASL), trauma-informed yoga guide, certified children’s yoga teacher, Reiki attuned practitioner, and sound healing facilitator. 
With over a decade of experience in trauma-informed yoga and mindfulness practices, Priscilla offers programs and workshops tailored to individuals of all ages, including children, adolescents, and adults, weaving together elements such as sound healing, breathwork, mindful play, and sensory connection.

Priscilla’s teachings emphasize self-regulation tools, present-moment awareness, and inner empowerment, always rooted in the foundation of self-love. Her multifaceted approach ensures that each experience is personalized, nurturing a safe space for healing, growth, and authentic connection.

In addition to her in-person work, she also shares tools for mind, body, and soul through her Etsy shop, LOVEbyPriscilla, offering resources to support holistic wellness at home.

 Hillary Lavalle brings a rich background in psychology and a deep passion for the arts to our educational team. Originally from Peru, she has seven years of experience working with babies, children, and adolescents, fostering their growth through creativity and expression.

With a love for fine arts, painting, and nature, Hillary designs engaging, hands-on projects that inspire students to explore their creativity while embracing diversity and inclusion. She is skilled in differentiating lessons to meet the unique needs of each learner, ensuring an inclusive and supportive environment where all students can thrive.

Hillary integrates the STREAM approach (Science, Technology, Reading, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) into her teaching, encouraging students to think critically, problem-solve, and make interdisciplinary connections through artistic exploration. By blending science and art, storytelling and engineering, and hands-on creativity, she creates immersive learning experiences that spark curiosity and innovation.

Her dedication to student development, combined with her expertise in both psychology and art, allows her to cultivate a learning environment where young artists can express themselves, build confidence, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the arts and the world around them.

Andrea Lavalle is a young and creative mind with a deep connection to nature, sustainability, and the transformative power of education. She believes that children are the guardians of the future and that when they are given the freedom to explore, experiment, and create, they develop a genuine relationship with the world around them.

Andrea's passion for the environment, recycling, and sustainability has led her to create a living learning space, where every tree, seed, and recycled object tells a story of respect and responsibility for the planet. Through hands-on experiences, children in her programs touch the earth, grow their food, and discover the power of creative reuse—learning that sustainability is not just a habit but a mindset.

She believes in education as an adventure, learning as a sensory experience, and nature as the ultimate teacher. Andrea’s goal is for every child to leave her classes with not only knowledge but also a deep-rooted connection to the land and the desire to be a force for change. " After all, every little hand that plants a seed today is growing the forests of tomorrow."