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Dr. Dana Markham ’18H, President, Pine Crest School
As a former FCIS Board President and longtime Board member, Dana has more than 30 years of experience as an independent school parent, classroom teacher and administrator. In her role as President of Pine Crest School, Dana is known for making decisions based on what is best for students, remaining true to Pine Crest’s tradition and core curriculum and being inspired by innovation. After launching a successful teaching career in the public school system, Dana moved into her first teaching position at Pine Crest. Dana served in many senior leadership roles leading up to the position of Vice President of Academics. She became Pine Crest’s fifth President at an Investiture ceremony in late 2011 and an honorary Pine Crest alumna in 2018. Throughout her full career, Dana has served on many different educational committees and boards and is a published author.
Keri Kolettis, Vice President of Global Innovation and Entrepreneurship
As Vice President of Global Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Pine Crest School, Keri inspires the next generation of innovators and leaders. With 20 years in education, she spearheads the three-year Social Entrepreneurship Fellowship Program, guiding students from foundational learning to launching impactful startups. She oversees four innovation labs and PK-12 innovation and social entrepreneurship curricula while serving as the Science Curriculum Academic Advisor. Keri has expanded university partnerships and industry collaborations, bringing biotechnology and medical technology expertise into education. She has also cultivated entrepreneurial international partnerships and launched the Entrepreneur-in-Residence Program, providing students with real-world mentorship and hands-on learning experiences.
Dr. Lisa Ockerman, Vice President of Academics and Strategic Initiatives
With 30 years of experience in education, she excels at fostering connections across various divisions and disciplines. In her role, Dr. Ockerman supervises curriculum alignment and academic initiatives, including creating original computer science and educational technology curricula for students from pre-kindergarten through grade twelve. She also oversees technology at Pine Crest, collaborating with Computer Science and Technology Specialists and the School's IT Department. Dr. Ockerman has developed a robust professional development program at Pine Crest School, creating signature experiences for educators employed at the School and inviting educators from schools nationwide to learn alongside Pine Crest faculty. Several of her research articles on advancing professional development structures have been published in various publications.
Dr. Kristi Combs, Head of Educational Consulting and Strategic Program Development
With experience in the classroom and supporting educators in private, charter and public schools, Kristi is proud of the contributions she has made to the field of education for over 25 years through the various roles she has held. With a Master's in Curriculum Design and Instruction and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, she has extensive knowledge about pedagogical approaches to instruction and coaching strategies to help teachers leverage their knowledge and expertise to increase learning outcomes and well-being in their classrooms. Kristi's work with emerging technologies, developing dynamic learning spaces and professional development adds to her depth of experience and understanding related to classroom instruction, integration of innovative initiatives and school management.
Dr. Wendy Swanson, Director of Faculty Learning and Recruitment Coordinator
Dr. Wendy Swanson has over 25 years of experience in education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s and doctoral degree in leadership. Dr. Swanson has held various leadership roles throughout her career showcasing her versatility and commitment to educational excellence. In her current role, Wendy leverages her knowledge of curriculum and instruction to work collaboratively across divisions to advance the school’s academic programs. Guided by Pine Crest School’s mission and strategic initiatives, and fueled with a passion for STEM education, Wendy supports faculty in designing and refining curricular experiences for Pre-Kindergarten through grade 12 students.
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Nancy Greene, Vice President of Finance and Operations/CFO
Nancy joined Pine Crest School in June 2018, bringing an extensive depth and breadth of finance and operations experience, including public accounting and healthcare administration. She has served independent schools for the past 30 years. Before Pine Crest, Nancy was the Chief Finance and Operations Officer for The Bolles School in Jacksonville, Florida. Nancy is involved in several state and national associations, including the Florida Council of Independent Schools (FCIS) where she was an active member on the accreditation teams, and the National Business Officers Association (NBOA), where she held a position on the Board.
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Melanie Connors, Vice President of Admission and Head of Boca Raton Campus
Melanie joined Pine Crest in 2015, bringing over 20 years of experience in secondary and post-secondary education and a wide breadth and depth of experience in independent school education. She is integral to our Admission and Boca Raton campus senior administrative teams. Before joining Pine Crest, Melanie worked at Cushing Academy, where she served as Assistant Head of School for seven years, and Dean of Enrollment and College Placement. Melanie’s responsibilities at Cushing included overseeing academics, student life, facilities, food services and athletics—her background and experience uniquely position Melanie to understand the needs and wants of independent schools to ensure success in the competitive landscape.