County Teachers of the Year 2025-26
2025-26 County Teacher of the Year Awards Ceremony
Atlantic County
Christa Delaney
Environmental Science Teacher at Egg Harbor Township High School in the Egg Harbor Township School District
Christa Delaney holds two bachelor’s degrees in environmental studies and teacher education from Stockton University and a master’s degree in professional science in environmental studies and sustainability from Unity College. She is currently pursuing a doctoral degree in curriculum and instruction from the American College of Education. For the past twenty years, Christa has taught at Egg Harbor Township High School. Under her leadership, the school has received the Green Ribbon School Award, the EcoSchools Green Flag Award, and recognition from Sustainable Jersey for Schools. She was honored with the Governor’s Environmental Excellence Award in the teacher-led category and received an honorable mention for the Presidential Innovation Award for Environmental Educators. Christa serves as a lead building representative for the Egg Harbor Township Education Association and advises the New Jersey Science League’s Environmental Science and Environmental Action Club. She also chairs the Health and Safety Committee and serves on the district’s equity team. Christa has been a panelist for numerous climate education programs and was interviewed by New Jersey Public Radio (NPR) for her pioneering use of New Jersey’s climate change standards. She also led the district’s STEM Bus initiative. Christa is known for her passion for environmental education and her dedication to blending experiential learning with academic rigor.
Bergen County
Aarti Mallya
Science Teacher at Pascack Hills High School in the Pascack Valley Regional High School District
With over twenty-five years in education, Aarti Mallya brings deep expertise and a passion for empowering students. After thirteen years as the District Supervisor of Science and Technology Education in the Pascack Valley Regional High School District, she returned to the classroom to reconnect with students. She earned her Ph.D. from Columbia University, where she authored a dissertation on expanding science learning beyond the classroom and co-authored an inquiry-based science and nutrition curriculum. Aarti currently teaches AP Biology, Honors Research in Molecular Genetics, and freshman biology. In her Research in Molecular Genetics course, she collaborates with the Waksman Institute of Microbiology at Rutgers University and mentors students in conducting original research submitted to the North Jersey International Science and Engineering Qualifying Fair. She also mentors aspiring educators as a Clinical Faculty Member at Montclair State University. A former researcher in oncology and cardiovascular pharmacology, Aarti brings real-world relevance to her science instruction. She creates opportunities for students to engage with science in the broader community by organizing field trips, mentoring research projects, and leading conservation trips to Costa Rica. Aarti advises the Science National Honor Society, Medical Club, and Research Club. As a frequent presenter at local and national conferences, and a certified Wellness and Life Coach, she is committed to helping students thrive academically and personally.
Burlington County
Sean Hoggs
Senior Aerospace Science Instructor at Northern Burlington County Reg. High School in the Northern Burlington County Reg. School District
Sean Hoggs holds a doctoral degree in Teacher Leadership from Wilmington University, a master’s degree in human relations from the University of Oklahoma, a bachelor’s degree in workforce education and development from Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, and two associate degrees from the Community College of the Air Force. A U.S. Air Force veteran commissioned in 2002, Sean has served globally in numerous leadership roles. As an educator, youth advocate, and mentor, he has made a profound impact locally, nationally, and internationally. He has been honored with awards including Ten Outstanding Young Americans, United States Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps Instructor of the Year, the Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal, the NJ Meritorious Service Medal, and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Lifetime Legacy Award. A sought-after speaker and published author, Sean champions education and innovation for youth. His groundbreaking doctoral research was featured at the Carnegie Summit on Improvement Science in 2022, where he presented before the U.S. Secretary of Education. From serving our nation in the military for over 24 years, to teaching in the public sector at the collegiate and high school levels, these experiences have coalesced within Sean and has given him a philosophy and a foundation that equips him to be an outstanding educator that molds young minds and prepares students for the challenges of life upon graduation.
Camden County
Heide Kowalski
English Language Arts Teacher at Ann A. Mullen Middle School in the Gloucester Township School District
Heide Kowalski holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and a minor in German from Ursinus College, where she competed in Division III gymnastics. Her international experience includes five years in Germany, where she worked and taught, shaping her innovative teaching approach. She earned a master’s degree in science education from Rutgers University and is completing her supervisor certification at Rowan University. Her expertise in science and English has resulted in being selected for grants, such as the Educator’s Institute on Biodiversity and the Kennedy Center’s Changing Education Through the Arts program, a grant dedicated to arts integration. Throughout her career, Heide has fostered partnerships between educators and the community to provide hands-on opportunities for students to partake in environmental initiatives such as building a rain garden with South Jersey Land and Water Trust and planting trees for Arbor Day with the Shade Tree Commission. Heide also serves as an instructional team leader, a mentor, and a champion of implementing Restorative Practices and Mullen’s “CARE” values of collaboration, accountability, respect, and empathy. In Heide’s classroom, every student is valued, respected, and heard. Her classroom is a place where every student finds a safe haven where they feel welcomed, valued, and respected, a place where their voices are heard, and their unique strengths are celebrated.
Cape May County
JoDee Sattazahn
Spanish Teacher at Lower Cape May Regional High School in the Lower Cape May Regional School District
JoDee Sattazahn earned a bachelor’s degree in Spanish from Brigham Young University and a master’s in Spanish from California State University at Sacramento. She also holds a New Jersey supervisor certification. JoDee spent a year teaching middle school Spanish at Rumrudee International School in Bangkok, Thailand, in 2003. She returned to Lower Cape May Regional High School, where she continues teaching today. In 2006, JoDee initiated the school’s dual credit program, which now offers thirty-eight courses. Not only have her students had great success passing the Seal of Biliteracy Exam and AP Spanish Language and Culture exam, but they have also learned an appreciation of another culture and have made a personal connection to the world around them. She serves on the School Leadership and Intervention and Referral Committees and advises the Spanish Honor Society, which promotes language learning and community service. JoDee’s influence expands beyond the classroom as she continuously advocates for English Language Learners. Many of her students have become first generation college students. JoDee’s passion for teaching cultures provides a path for students to envision themselves in different roles and professions, discover unique opportunities, and reach beyond the limitations of their circumstances. She provides students with the tools to become vehicles of change as global citizens and to have a positive impact in the world.
Cumberland County
Tiffanie ThrBak
Special Education Teacher at Cherry Street School in the Bridgeton City School District
Tiffanie ThrBak began her educational journey at Rutgers University, later earning a master’s degree in education from Drexel University and a doctoral degree in educational leadership from the University of Phoenix. She launched her career in 1993 as a paraprofessional at Cherry Street School in the Bridgeton Public Schools, later becoming the district’s Homeless Liaison. She coined and advocated for the term “Students in Transition” to replace “homeless students,” promoting dignity and inclusivity. A certified school social worker and special education teacher, Tiffanie has passionately supported students with academic and behavioral challenges. She also serves as a New Jersey Education Association Educational Professional Development Consultant, helping educators across New Jersey enhance their practice. Tiffanie leads initiatives such as holiday drives, school talent shows, the Black Lives Matter at Schools Week of Action, and a county-wide Pre-Juneteenth Freedom Walk-Ride. She curates cultural programming honoring Native American, Hispanic, Asian American, and Pacific Islander, and Black history, fostering a deep understanding of identity and equity. Her unwavering advocacy supports both academic excellence and community empowerment. Tiffanie wants to be part of a young person’s resilient community, helping them build the confidence and skills needed to break the cycle of poverty and trauma and, in turn, inspire others to do the same.
Essex County
Andrew Vander Horn
Social Studies Teacher at Cedar Grove High School in the Cedar Grove Township School District
Andrew Vander Horn earned his bachelor’s degree in historical studies and secondary education from Moravian College, followed by a master’s degree in education from The College of New Jersey, graduating summa cum laude. Now in his eleventh year of teaching, he has served Cedar Grove High School since 2019, instructing academic, honors, dual credit, and Advanced Placement (AP) history courses. His students consistently achieve academic excellence, where his AP class boasts a 100% pass rate, with 75% earning perfect scores of 5. One of his proudest accomplishments was to help bring the Kean University Holocaust, Genocide, and Modern Humanity course to his school. Within this course, it launched the “Pay It Forward” initiative, which includes the annual “Orange Invitational” fundraiser, raising over $5,000 each year for causes like homeless veterans and pediatric cancer patients. In addition to teaching, Andrew is a state championship football coach, girls’ basketball coach, and advisor to Key Club and Rho Kappa. He is also the Key Club advisor, further demonstrating his devotion to helping others and developing student leadership. Andrew leaves a positive and lasting impact on others by simply being kind, compassionate, and driven by a genuine desire to help those around him. This humility and selflessness are at the heart of everything he does, and they inspire those who work with him to do the same.
Gloucester County
Sandy Fitzpatrick
Kindergarten Teacher at Birches Elementary School in the Washington Township School District
Sandy Fitzpatrick earned bachelor’s degrees in elementary education and sociology from Rowan University and holds a Teacher of Reading certification. She is a passionate and dedicated early childhood educator who has spent over a decade nurturing young learners. Her journey began in first grade classrooms in Medford Township before she found her passion teaching kindergarten at Birches Elementary School in Washington Township. As a child, Sandy sometimes found it difficult to stay still and focused in the classroom. This personal experience has given her valuable insight into diverse learning needs. These early challenges now help her support all students with love and care. As a Google Certified Educator and Seesaw Ambassador, Sandy integrates technology to foster connection and engagement. She has received grants to support cross-grade projects focused on self-regulation and collaborative writing. Her contributions to curriculum development in writing, English language arts, and health reflect her belief in joyful, developmentally appropriate learning. Sandy’s teaching philosophy centers on the idea that every student deserves a personalized, relevant, and supportive learning experience. Through engaging lessons that value every student’s voice and abilities, she works hard to create a classroom where students are empowered to be their very best.
Hudson County
John Palsi
Culinary Arts Teacher at County Prep High School in the Hudson County Schools of Technology
John Palsi brings more than two decades of real-world culinary experience to the classroom. A European-trained chef and educator, he holds a master’s degree in finance, another master’s degree in educational leadership from Saint Peter’s University, and a bachelor’s degree in business management from Fairleigh Dickinson University. John previously served as Executive Chef at Schering Plough and the Helmsley Park Lane Hotel in New York City and owned Restaurant Essence in Wallington, New Jersey. For the past twenty-four years, he has taught at County Prep High School, guiding students to success in competitions like Family, Career and Community Leaders of America and SkillsUSA. His commitment to service is demonstrated through community initiatives such as preparing annual Thanksgiving meals for local group homes and cooking for Jersey City Youth Foundation events. He helped launch the school’s food truck program and the Montgomery Grill outdoor kitchen, offering students immersive experiences in food prep, customer service, and culinary techniques. John is also an adjunct professor at Fairleigh Dickinson University. His dedication blends professional excellence with a heart for mentorship and community service. John demonstrates an unparalleled commitment to student success, utilizing innovating and effective instructional practices that cater to diverse learning styles. His classrooms are vibrant, engaging spaces where students feel empowered to experiment and ultimately succeed.
Hunterdon County
Caroline Mann
Special Education Teacher at Round Valley School in the Clinton Township School District
Caroline Mann holds both a bachelor’s degree and a master’s degree from the University of Delaware. Since 2005, she has served the Clinton Township School District, teaching math in both general and special education settings across grades 3 to 8. As a Green Team Leader, Caroline led the district’s Sustainable Jersey initiative, empowering students to tackle environmental issues through anti-idling campaigns and food waste audits. Her efforts helped multiple schools attain bronze and silver certification. She presented her findings at the Alliance for New Jersey Environmental Education Conference and secured grants for school garden restoration. Beyond the classroom, Caroline has actively participated in school committees, served as an emergency responder, and chaperoned numerous school events. A true leader, she embraces community connections and the partnership of all stakeholders to promote a positive school environment for all students by facilitating partnerships across classrooms, schools, and community organizations so that children of all ages, abilities, and backgrounds within the district can effect positive changes within the school environment. Her engineering projects integrate cross-curricular content and often include animals and nature. Her classroom philosophy, where “mistakes are inevitable” and learning is celebrated as a journey rather than a destination, promotes a growth mindset, encouraging students to embrace mistakes and explore solutions.
Mercer County
Shakida Faniel
Special Education Teacher at Joyce Kilmer Intermediate School in theTrenton Public School District
Shakida Faniel earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in teaching from Georgian Court University. She holds certifications in K–5 elementary education, K–8 special education, and supervisory and leadership credentials. Shakida began her career at the Children’s Center of Monmouth County, working with students with autism. She then served as a long-term substitute teacher in the Neptune and Asbury Park School Districts, gaining valuable experience across multiple grade levels. For the past fourteen years, she has taught at Joyce Kilmer Intermediate School, where she works with students from kindergarten through eighth grade. A key contributor to school life, Shakida serves as the Pep Squad advisor, advises other various school functions, and is part of the attendance team. Known for her dependability and passion, she supports school climate initiatives and steps in wherever needed. Outside of school, she serves on the board of Asbury Park’s American Youth Football and Cheer Organization and volunteers with Everybody Eats. She is also a real estate agent and residential aide for Youth Consultation Services, where she supports teen girls facing trauma-related challenges. Shakida’s compassionate leadership, dedication, and energy have made her a beloved educator and community advocate. She leads by example, demonstrating that education is not just about imparting knowledge but about nurturing the potential in every individual.
Middlesex County
Pamela Eng
Third Grade Teacher at Lincoln Elementary School in the Edison Township School District
Pamela Eng holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from Rider University and a master’s degree in teaching from Rutgers University. She began her teaching career at Lincoln Elementary School, where she also completed her student teaching, and has proudly remained there since 2015. Pamela is committed to fostering academic, social, and emotional growth in her students. As co-chair of the Community Service Committee, she has led numerous initiatives, including food drives, support for local families, and fundraising for the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. She also established a Free Little Library to increase access to books and promote literacy. Known for bringing learning to life, Pamela incorporates hands-on STEM projects, including 3D printing, into her classroom to spark creativity and collaboration. She organizes school-wide literacy events such as the Tournament of Books and The Masked Reader, sparking a love of reading. Her teaching philosophy is rooted in the belief that education should be engaging, inclusive, and transformative. She fosters a classroom environment where all students feel valued, empowered to explore their interests, and connected to the world around them. What sets Pamela apart as an educator is her ability to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and nurture a love for learning. She believes in the power of community and teaches her students that by working together, they can make a meaningful difference.
Monmouth County
Gillian Ober
English as a Second Language Teacher at Park Avenue Elementary School in the Freehold Borough School District
*This was the teacher’s position at the time of the award; she currently teaches at Freehold Intermediate School.
Gillian Ober holds bachelor’s degrees in Hispanic Language and Literature and English Language and Literature from Boston University, and master’s degrees in teaching from Monmouth University and curriculum and instruction from Western Governors University. She was recognized with the 2019 New Jersey Department of Education’s Distinguished Clinical Intern Award. Gillian teaches high-intensity ESL to 5th graders at Park Avenue Elementary School, working with newcomers and students with interrupted formal education. As team leader, she fosters collaboration among staff and helped establish a partnership with Starbase, a nationwide initiative where students gain exposure to STEM careers through various field trips to a local military base. Beyond the classroom, she teaches at Monmouth University and Georgian Court University, preparing future educators to meet the needs of diverse learners. Her scholarly work includes published research and national conference presentations on topics such as artificial intelligence in multilingual education and inclusive instructional strategies. A former teaching fellow in Thailand and Spain, Gillian brings a global perspective to education. She believes that multilingual learners are assets to their communities and ensures her students are empowered, respected, and positioned for success. She creates a supportive environment by incorporating various opportunities for teacher input, valuing diverse perspectives and fostering a sense of shared ownership in decision making.
Morris County
Natasha Tyjer-Mendez
Fourth Grade English at Riverdale Public School in the Riverdale School District
Natasha Tyjer-Mendez earned her bachelor’s degree in cinema studies with a minor in elementary education from the University of Pennsylvania. She has taught for sixteen years in Newark, Jersey City, and Orange, and currently serves at Riverdale School. Her diverse roles include teaching grades 3 to 5, leading a middle school math intervention program, and working as a K to 4 instructional math coach. She helped raise test scores in a failing school, instituted and organized a Math Family Game night and High Honors Breakfast, co-founded an athletics department, created and coached two dance teams and a soccer team, has mentored teachers and student teachers, and has led various professional developments, including co-presenting at the New Jersey Charter School Conference. Natasha also has a love for dance, which has led her to working closely with the Riverdale music and theater teachers, choreographing routines for concerts and theater nights. At Riverdale, she serves on the School Improvement Committee and Math Expeditionary Team. Her classroom is a joyful, inquiry-driven space where students are respected, supported, and inspired to lead. Natasha’s incorporation of various games and activities helps bring joy and inquiry during daily lessons. Through her motto, “Strive for Greatness,” Natasha empowers her students to advocate for themselves and thrive in school and beyond.
Ocean County
Jacqueline Castellano
Biology Teacher at Brick Township Memorial High School in the Brick Township School District
Jacqueline Castellano holds a bachelor’s degree in biology from Saint Peter’s College and a second bachelor’s degree in clinical and medical laboratory science at the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey. After a career in hospital transfusion services, she found her calling in education. For the past twenty-four years, Jacqueline’s been sharing her real-world experience with the thousands of students that enter her classroom at Brick Memorial High School. In her classroom, science comes alive. She connects scientific concepts to real-world experiences, from osmosis experiments to organ donation education through the New Jersey Sharing Network. Her inclusive approach has tripled enrollment in the Advanced Placement Biology program. She founded the Pre-Med Club and contributes to numerous school and district committees, including the School Improvement Panel, Spirit Committee, and National Honor Society Faculty Council. Jacqueline’s leadership earned her the 2024 “Teachers Who Rock” award and District Teacher of the Year honors. She is always developing new labs and activities for her classes using her creative abilities to not only give her students a better learning experience, but she is also very willing to share all these creations, making teaching easier for her colleagues. Her love for science and her students shines in every lesson, making her a pillar of excellence in the classroom.
Passaic County
Alyssa Bitar
Engineering and STEM Teacher at Manchester Regional High School in the Manchester Regional High School District
Alyssa Bitar holds a bachelor’s degree in biology and second bachelor’s degree in secondary education from William Paterson University, along with a master’s degree in science curriculum and development from Concordia University. She is certified in both biology and chemistry and holds multiple endorsements through Project Lead the Way in engineering. Since 2014, Alyssa has built the engineering program at Manchester Regional High School from the ground up. She developed a multi-year curriculum that blends project-based learning, computer aided design, and real-world design challenges. Her students earn certifications, build portfolios, and engage in collaborative problem-solving that prepares them for STEM careers. Alyssa is a published co-author in scientific journals and provides professional development in her district. She mentors early-career educators, advises the Science and STEM Clubs, leads STEAM Nights, and organizes a Summer STEM Camp that promotes student leadership and hands-on learning. Her classroom mascot, a bearded dragon named Darwin, is a beloved classroom companion who helps create a welcoming and engaging environment for all students. Alyssa is defined by her commitment to innovation, inclusivity, and positivity. Her classroom is a hub of curiosity, collaboration, and connection, where every student is supported in becoming a confident problem-solver, critical thinker, and future-ready changemaker.
Salem County
Robert Fitzpatrick
English Language Arts Teacher at Penns Grove Middle School in the Penns Grove-Carneys Point Regional School District
Robert Fitzpatrick earned a bachelor’s degree in secondary English education from Temple University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Cabrini University. He is currently pursuing his doctoral degree in educational leadership at Wilmington University and working toward his superintendent certification. With sixteen years of experience in public education, Robert is known for his commitment to advocacy and civic engagement. He was selected by the Carnegie Foundation to present at the 2022 Educational Summit in San Diego, where he shared his research on equitable access through improvement science. Robert has held multiple leadership roles, including 21st Century Community Learning Center Site Coordinator, Vice President and Negotiating Chair of Penns Grove Carneys Point Regional School Education Association, and a Public Education Partnership grant writer. His grant writing efforts have led to valuable partnerships with organizations such as Rutgers Performing Arts, Philadelphia Flyers, Sixers, and Phillies, and Broadway productions. In recognition of his selfless service, he received the Civilian Gold Medal for Valor from the New Jersey State Police Benevolent Association. He teaches his students to strive for excellence, to love reading, and to respect each other, and he teaches his colleagues to give their best for their students, to wear a smile, to have faith, and to remember that the storms of life can often produce beautiful opportunities.
Somerset County
Kiran Masud
English Language Arts Teacher at Hillside Intermediate School in the Bridgewater-Raritan School District
Kiran Masud earned a master’s degree in education from Rutgers University. She is a passionate and reflective educator who views teaching as a journey of purpose and transformation. Kiran leads her classroom, affectionately dubbed “Masudians”, with empathy, curiosity, and purpose. Her teaching philosophy centers on curiosity, challenging norms, and the belief that travel is one of the greatest forms of learning. She prioritizes creating safe spaces for diverse voices, embracing discomfort for growth, and building a strong work ethic. As the advisor of the Roots and Shoots program, recognized by Dr. Jane Goodall, she helps students support service projects in Kenya and Tanzania while promoting service and empathy. With over eighteen years in education, Kiran has been a Fulbright Scholar, authored the book “Savaal: The “i” in Racism”, taught peace education through the United States Institute of Peace, and engaged in interfaith initiatives with the Interfaith Center of New York summer institute. She is currently a National Education Association Global Classrooms Fellow, researching global education and connecting communities across borders. As a Fellow, Kiran sees this role as a continuation of her mission to reimagine education as adaptive, representative, and deeply human. She believes that even amidst uncertainty, meaningful change is happening, and she’s determined to be part of it. Through her work, she remains committed to building a world where all students are seen, heard, and valued.
Sussex County
Amy Stevens
English Language Arts Teacher at Byram Intermediate School in the Byram Township School District
Amy Stevens earned a bachelor’s degree in English from Albright College and a master’s degree in instructional leadership from Centenary College. Since 1995, she hastaught English Language Arts in Byram, where she is known for her leadership and commitment to student success. Amy has served as a student council advisor, cheerleading coach, and 8th grade advisor, organizing major events such as the Washington D.C. trip and graduation. She has taken on many leadership roles such as 8th grade team leader, teacher mentor, writer of the language arts curriculum, the Climate, Culture, and School Safety Committee, grade level representative for the Byram Education Association, and instructor of workshops for Ed Camps within the district. Amy is a lifelong learner who regularly attends workshops, including Google trainings, the Annual Conference on Reading and Writing, and Innovative Designs for Education. She has always been a firm believer in the saying “It takes a village to raise a child.” Amy strongly believes that the student is most successful when the student, parents, and teacher work as a team. Parental encouragement, interest, and support at home can make a big difference in student progress. Her approach to teaching is not just about the lessons taught in the classroom but also the extensions of those lessons beyond the classroom walls. Amy is not only preparing students for high school, but to also be outstanding and active members within their community.
Union County
Karen Carey-Lynch
English Language Arts and Gifted Education Teacher at Roselle Park Middle School in the Roselle Park School District
Karen Carey-Lynch earned her bachelor’s degree in general science and her master’s degree in education from Dowling College. She has dedicated over thirty years to education, joining Roselle Park Public Schools in 2003 as an English language arts teacher. Karen is certified in Gifted and Talented education and currently teaches both English language arts and gifted education classes. To stay current with teaching methodologies, she actively engages in professional development and incorporates STEAM and project- based learning into her curriculum. She recently rewrote the gifted and talented curriculum and serves as advisor for the National Junior Honor Society. Her community service initiatives strengthen school-community ties and model good citizenship for students. Karen continuously enhances her skills through postgraduate coursework and is deeply committed to professional growth. Her dedication extends beyond academics, as she prepares students for future challenges and instills values of good citizenship. Karen believes that exceptional educators prioritize care and respect for their students, fostering meaningful connections and trust before engaging in academic content. She adapts her teaching strategies to accommodate the diverse needs of her students, creating a supportive environment where they can celebrate successes and learn from setbacks. Her approach serves as an inspiration to fellow educators aiming to make a lasting impact on their students’ lives.
Warren County
Laura Wojick
Computer Science and Information Technology Teacher at Phillipsburg High School in the Phillipsburg School District
Laura Wojick earned her bachelor’s degree in decision science from Rider University and a master’s degree in educational technology from The College of New Jersey, along with supervisor and principal certifications. She transitioned from the business world into education via the alternate route program and has taught computer science at Phillipsburg High School for twenty-five years. As an Advanced Placement Computer Science and Cisco Academy Instructor for two decades, Laura has worked hard to constantly update and bring innovative technology trends to the classroom. She is currently expanding her expertise in artificial intelligence through coursework at Carnegie Mellon University and participation in the Educational Advances in Artificial Intelligence 2025 symposium. Laura co-advises the Technology Student Association, founded a Girls Who Code chapter, and mentors high school students through outreach programs for middle schoolers. She was recognized with the 2022 National Center for Women and Information Technology Aspirations in Computing Educator Award. As a steering member of Garden State Cyber, she helps develop free cybersecurity curriculum and training for New Jersey teachers. Her passion for teaching is evident in the innovative ways Laura engages her students, instilling a love of learning and fostering an environment where every student feels supported and encouraged to succeed.