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Jeremy Adams
College Counselor
jadams@catsboston.com
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Jeremy Adams

College Counselor
jadams@catsboston.com

BA, Modern Culture and Media, Brown University
MAT, English Education, Boston University

Jeremy Adams has over 17 years experience teaching World Literature, English, ESL, and ACT/SAT Prep and assists with the Global Scholars Program. Prior to joining CATS Academy, Jeremy taught English for 10 years in Florida, Nevada, and his home state of Massachusetts. He gained his TEFL certification in 2017 so that he could teach ESL at several language schools. Jeremy received his B.A. in Modern Culture and Media from Brown University and worked as a freelance music critic from 2005-2014, writing for publications such as RollingStone.com, The Boston Globe, The Boston Phoenix, and Las Vegas Weekly. In time, however, he realized teaching and working with kids were his true callings, and he earned his M.A.T. in English Education from Boston University in 2012.

Belinda Anglin
Residential Life: Co-Head of House
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Belinda Anglin

Residential Life: Co-Head of House

Belinda is a Co-Head of House.

Kent Archer
Department Chair/Visual Arts
karcher@catsboston.com
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Kent Archer

Department Chair/Visual Arts
karcher@catsboston.com

BFA, School of Visual Arts, New York

Kent Archer brings to CATS his experience as a working arts professional alongside his passion for teaching. He teaches the fundamentals of art and helps students build portfolios for college admission. Kent has taught art courses at the School of the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston, Sacred Heart High School in Kingston Massachusetts and numerous local art centers. Kent has worked professionally in the field of comic books since 2005 when he co-launched the popular webcomic − Dr McNinja. His work has been published by Archie Comics, IDW Publishing, Dark Horse Comics, and Topps Trading Cards. Kent attended the received his BFA in Cartooning from the School of Visual Arts. For more info on Kent go to: kentarcher.com

Indy Atkinson
Residential Life: Co-Head of House
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Indy Atkinson

Residential Life: Co-Head of House

Indy is a Co-Head of House.

Peter Bard
English Department Chair
pbard@catsboston.com
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Peter Bard

English Department Chair
pbard@catsboston.com

BA, English Literature, University of Connecticut
MS, Education, Eastern Connecticut State University

Peter Bard holds a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature from the University of Connecticut and a Master of Science in English Secondary Education from Eastern Connecticut State University. He has been at CATS Boston since 2016 and became the English Department Chair in 2022. Prior to CATS, Peter worked for Summit Educational Group, a private tutoring company based in Massachusetts, and he taught English at Rockville High School in Vernon, CT. He is currently pursuing a second master’s in mathematics education from Harvard University, which he hopes to complete during the summer of 2023.

Darren Belleveau
Residential Life: Co-Head of House
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Darren Belleveau

Residential Life: Co-Head of House

Darren is a Co-Head of House.

Philip Brichacek
Residential Life: Co-Head of House
pbrichacek@catsboston.com
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Philip Brichacek

Residential Life: Co-Head of House
pbrichacek@catsboston.com

Philip Brichacek is a Residential Life: Co-Head of House.

Aaron Bourque
Visual Arts Teacher
abourque@catsboston.com
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Aaron Bourque

Visual Arts Teacher
abourque@catsboston.com

Aaron John Bourque brings nearly a decade of experience in higher education, as well as over a decade of fine art and commercial art making, to the classroom. Bourque’s instruction blends technical skill building with creative problem-solving approaches. He teaches digital art including Photography, Graphic Design, Video Production, as well as CSVPA Portfolio. Bourque has taught at all levels – from community-based education for adults and teens, to graduate students at the University level. He holds a Master of Fine Art from Tufts University and the School of the Museum of Fine Art, Boston. He also holds a Bachelor of Art in Intellectual History from Keene State College. His fine artwork has been exhibited nationally and internationally, notably at the Swiss Architecture Museum. As an Architectural Photographer, he has worked for major brands, through VRX Studios, including Hilton, Wyndham, Radisson, Country Inn and Suites, as well as for Berkshire Hathaway. You can see more at www.aaronjohnbourque.com

Brenda Bowen
World History
and US History & Law Teacher
bbowen@catsboston.com
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Brenda Bowen

World History
and US History & Law Teacher

bbowen@catsboston.com

Doctorate, Suffolk University Law School

Leila Bradley
Biology Teacher
lbradley@catsboston.com
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Leila Bradley

Biology Teacher
lbradley@catsboston.com

PhD, Developmental Neurobiology, National Institute for Medical Research

Dr. Leila Bradley has had a genuine passion for the Biological sciences since her childhood in England. Like many CATS students, she has travelled extensively in pursuit of her academic and research goals. She earned her doctorate in Developmental Biology at the National Institute for Medical Research in London. She then went on to do her post-doctoral training in Developmental Neurobiology at the Whitehead Institute, MIT. Leila then joined the faculty of University College London. With a desire to turn her efforts toward treating human disease, she returned to the United States to embark on a career in drug development for neurological conditions such as spinal cord injuries, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis and Multiple Sclerosis. Ten years ago, after two decades in medical research, Leila turned her attention to education, with the goal of inspiring young minds and instilling in them a similar love of the Biological sciences.

Danielle Brown
English Literature Teacher
dbrown@catsboston.com
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Danielle Brown

English Literature Teacher
dbrown@catsboston.com

BA, English Adolescence Education, SUNY New Paltz
MA, English Literature,

As an English Literature teacher at CATS Academy Boston, Danielle passes on her passion for literature to students every day. She teaches Grade 12 AP Literature and British Literature. Before coming to CATS, Danielle graduated as valedictorian from SUNY New Paltz, earning her Bachelor’s Degree in English Adolescence Education and a minor in Psychology. She went on to work in a wide-variety of education-related jobs such as college-level Composition Instructor, Writing Assistant for business undergraduates and graduates, content writer and researcher, and Communications and Data Coordinator for WISE Services while pursuing her Masters in English Literature. Her diverse experiences at the secondary and post-secondary level have prepared her to work with domestic and international students today.

Mary Carroll
Math Department Chair &
Math Teacher
mcarroll@catsboston.com
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Mary Carroll

Math Department Chair &
Math Teacher

mcarroll@catsboston.com

BA, Mathematics, Carleton College, Minnesota. MA, Liberal Studies, Reed College, Oregon

Mary Carroll is the Chair of the mathematics department. She works with teachers to provide a challenging math curriculum to suit the needs of all students. She also teaches Multivariable Calculus Honors, AP Statistics and Honors Statistics. Prior to joining CATS Academy, Mary taught high school mathematics in Costa Rica, Turkey, Spain and the Dominican Republic, as well as the US. She has a Master’s degree in Liberal Studies from Reed College in Oregon and an undergraduate degree in mathematics from Carleton College in Minnesota.

Dean Chin
Science Department Chair
dchin@catsboston.com
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Dean Chin

Science Department Chair
dchin@catsboston.com

After completing his Bachelor of Science Degree in Physics from Bridgewater State University, Dean worked in various local Massachusetts public school systems before coming to CATS Boston. With his vast teaching experience, he became the Chair of the Science Department. Dean prides himself in always being in tune with the needs of the students of CATS Boston. He makes sure all the students are set on their proper Science education track based on the respective student’s skills and desires. Along with being the Department Chair, he teaches CP Physics as well as General Science, instructing those courses with a hands-on interactive approach.

Dr. Mustapha Coker
Math Teacher
mcoker@catsboston.com
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Dr. Mustapha Coker

Math Teacher
mcoker@catsboston.com

Dr. Mustapha Coker, teaching his second year as a math teacher at CATS Academy. He has been teaching math and English as a Second Language (ESL) in Middle and High School students in and around Boston for the past 10 years. He teaches Integrated Mathematics I and II, and Algebra II Mathematics. He is also an assistant soccer coach and assistant to the Athletics Director in everything soccer. He actively recruits drummers for drum circle performances. He completed his PhD this year in Education Leadership and International Policy Analysis study at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. He speaks diverse African dialects, conversational French, (currently learning Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, Arabic). His dissertation research looked to understand further how English language learners or speakers of other languages learn mathematics in English only Mathematics classrooms through Cultural Activity Theoretical Lens. He has his Master’s degree in Education with special focus on teaching Elementary, Middle and High School Mathematics. He received his undergraduate degree in Political Science and English Literature at the University of Massachusetts, Boston. He also received certification in computer science/programming from New Horizon Computer School in Boston. Dr. Coker claims to have inherited his “Happy Gene” from his mother who never stopped smiling😊

Ryan Daniels
ESL Teacher
rdaniels@catsboston.com
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Ryan Daniels

ESL Teacher
rdaniels@catsboston.com

Mr. Daniels grew up in the small town of Hingham, which is in the picturesque suburbs just south of Boston. He had always had a fascination with travel, history, different cultures, and languages. After graduation from high school, he attended Eastern Nazarene College in Quincy MA. Graduating in the year 2000 with a B.A. degree in History. During his studies there, he enrolled in the school’s Romanian studies program. As a result, this led to many overseas adventures. First living in Romania for half a year doing humanitarian work. Then 5 years in Hangzhou, China, teaching English as a Second Language. Upon his return to the United States, Mr. Daniels Earned is MED Degree in 2010 at Eastern Nazarene college and worked in the Global Pathways program at Northeastern University helping students with their English and study skills in preparation for university life. In 2015 he accepted a position as an ESL teacher at CATS Academy Boston and has been there ever since.

Justin De Santis
Math Teacher
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Justin De Santis

Math Teacher

Justin De Santis is a Math teacher specializing in discrete mathematics, proof writing, and game theory. He is also the coach of the CATS Boston Ultimate Frisbee team. Originally from Albany, New York, Justin is entering his ninth year at CATS Boston. Prior to joining CATS Justin spent five years living in Maine earning a bachelors degree in mathematics from Colby College and subsequently working as a high school math teacher, math team advisor, and tennis coach at Lee Academy. When not delivering inspiring math classes Justin can be found on campus enjoying a meal in the dining hall, working on his disc golf putting at the practice basket, or tossing an Ultimate disc by the soccer field. “As a math enthusiast, I feel so fortunate to be a part of the incredibly passionate and dedicated faculty here at CATS. I could not be more grateful to be given this opportunity to impart the wisdom of a subject I love to those who will sculpt the future of our world."

Dan Doherty
History Department Chair
ddoherty@catsboston.com
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Dan Doherty

History Department Chair
ddoherty@catsboston.com

BA, History & American Studies, Connecticut College
MSC, History, University of Edinburgh

This is Dan’s eighth year at CATS Academy and 1st as the History Department Chair. Dan also teaches AP U.S. History and US History Honors. Dan also serves as a part-time dorm parent and previously coached JV soccer, served as a House Dean, and ran the academy’s after-school acoustic band program. He received his BA in History & American Studies from Connecticut College in 2010 and completed his Master of Science (MSc) degree in History from the University of Edinburgh in 2016. Currently, he is working on his PhD in History part-time through Durham University in the UK. His research explores anti-abolitionist violence in Northern states during the pre-Civil War era (1840-1849).

Sam Donovan
Visual Arts Teacher
sdonovan@catsboston.com
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Sam Donovan

Visual Arts Teacher
sdonovan@catsboston.com

BA, Fashion Design, Parsons, New York

During his degree, Sam focused on sustainable design techniques such as zero waste pattern drafting, which he used designing his thesis. While at Parsons, he interned for numerous designers and design companies, including Anna Sui, Gap, and Eileen Fisher, where he contributed zero waste designs to the company’s cut and sew line. Immediately upon graduating school, Sam was recruited to participate on Project Runway, where he placed 1st runner-up. He would later compete on an AllStar edition of the series. Sam has freelanced for Macy’s and the Hamburg-based sustainable denim line Bridge & Tunnel, and now designs for private clients.

Peter Fanning
IT Support Technician
pfanning@catsglobalschools.com
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Peter Fanning

IT Support Technician
pfanning@catsglobalschools.com

Peter is the IT Support Technician at CATS Academy.

Jason Feldstein
Science Teacher
jfeldstein@catsboston.com
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Jason Feldstein

Science Teacher
jfeldstein@catsboston.com

BA, Physics, Brooklyn College
BA, Film and Television, Tisch School of the Arts
MA, Cinema Studies, New York University

In the past Jason has taught Honors and CP Physics as well as Honors and AP Statistics. He currently teaches Honors Physics and AP Physics C Mechanics as well as running the film club. Before joining CATS Academy Jason Feldstein completed a Bachelor's Degree in Physics at Brooklyn College. He worked for two years as a Physics Tutor at the Brooklyn College Learning Center. Prior to his Physics degree, Jason obtained a Bachelor's degree in Film and Television from the Tisch School of the Arts as well as a Master's degree in Cinema Studies from New York University.

Kathryn Ferrera
World History Teacher
kferrera@catsboston.com
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Kathryn Ferrera

World History Teacher
kferrera@catsboston.com

Kathryn Ferrera is a second year teacher at CATS Academy and currently teaches World History I and World History I Honors. She is a graduate of Salem State University's 4+1 program where she earned her bachelors in History in 2019 and masters in Secondary Education in 2020. During her undergrad at Salem State University, Kathryn assisted her professor in the creation and implementation of the Massachusetts Social Studies Standards. She is well versed in local Massachusetts history and Ancient Cultures.

Kadijah Figarsky
Math Teacher
kfigarsky@catsboston.com
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Kadijah Figarsky

Math Teacher
kfigarsky@catsboston.com

BS, Mathematics, Keene State College
MS, Mathematics, University of Connecticut Storrs

Khadija Figarsky joined CATS Academy in the fall of 2017. She teaches both Algebra II CP and Integrated Mathematics. Before joining the CATS faculty she worked in the field of neuroscience research at an NYU School of Medicine affiliated institute. Khadija started teaching math in graduate school, where she was a teaching assistant and adjunct faculty member, teaching numerous college-level courses. Khadija has lived on three continents, and she is fluent in three languages — English, French, and Arabic. And having studied and lived abroad, she is familiar with the unique needs of international students. Khadija holds an MS in Mathematics from the University of Connecticut Storrs and a BS in Mathematics from Keene State College. She is excited to be working with such a dynamic and diverse international student population at CATS.

Cheryl Gardner
English Literature Teacher
cgardner@catsboston.com
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Cheryl Gardner

English Literature Teacher
cgardner@catsboston.com

BA, English Literature, Stonehill College
MA, English Literature, Boston College

Prior to joining CATS Academy, Cheryl Gardner worked as a private tutor at The Fluency Factory in Cohasset, Massachusetts, specializing in literature, composition and test preparation. Before her role as a private tutor Cheryl taught Literature and Composition at Boston College. Cheryl has over twenty years’ experience as an educator, working with students to improve their comprehension and ability to respond to complex texts. Cheryl received her BA in English Literature from Stonehill College and her MA in English Literature from Boston College.

Garrett Gleason
Performing Arts Teacher
ggleason@catsboston.com
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Garrett Gleason

Performing Arts Teacher
ggleason@catsboston.com

Garrett Gleason is an American guitarist and composer who has toured internationally with orchestras, theater productions, and original bands. Gleason performed extensively as the multi-stringed instrumentalist for the first North American tour of The SpongeBob Musical, throughout Europe with the Boston Show Band, and with The American Pops Orchestra in venues such as the Lincoln Center in NYC and the Centro de Bellas Artes in San Juan. As a guitarist, he performed as an opener for Harry Connick, Jr. and has played guitar for stars such as Hamilton’s Chris Jackson, Chicago’s Paolo Szot, The Book of Mormon’s Nic Rouleau, Godspell’s Morgan James, and Company’s Many Narayan. As a composer, Gleason has released 12 studio albums independently as well as through American labels Akar Music and TAR, and he continues to release multiple works each year. Gleason has collaborated and performed with artists such as Sanjay Mishra (of Jerry Garcia fame), Broadway composer Adam Guettel, and many others. While living in Washington, D.C. The Washington Post celebrated Gleason as “one of the city’s most versatile guitarists, able to slide between traditional rock, jazz and out-there improvisational rock with ease” (2018). Gleason is thrilled to teach a variety of music courses and direct music ensembles at CATS Academy Boston.

Calla Gudheim
ESL Teacher
cgudheim@catsboston.com
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Calla Gudheim

ESL Teacher
cgudheim@catsboston.com

Calla is a ESL Teacher.

Amber Gunther
Vice President of Operations and External Affairs
agunther@catsboston.com
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Amber Gunther

Vice President of Operations and External Affairs
agunther@catsboston.com

Amber is the Vice President of Operations and External Affairs at CATS Academy. Amber brings a varied background to education having lived and worked in an international environment for over 15 years; working at a private school in New York in various roles, covering admissions and human resources. Amber raised her two children in Saudi Arabia, yet both attended boarding schools in the US. This is one of the reasons she understands the importance and benefits of a global education. Amber believes that at CATS she can introduce prospective students and families to the advantages of a CATS education. She takes great pleasure in meeting future students and seeing them through their educational journey. Amber also works closely with the student ambassadors and social media students to help them develop future leadership opportunities.

Britani Gunther
Assistant Director of Admissions
bgunther@catsboston.com
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Britani Gunther

Assistant Director of Admissions
bgunther@catsboston.com

B.S. Northwestern Oklahoma State University “I am passionate in creating an academic and residential environment that is supportive to every students’ individual needs as CATS prepares the next generation of global leaders” GO CATS!

Ping He
Residential Life: Co-Head of House
phe@catsboston.com
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Ping He

Residential Life: Co-Head of House
phe@catsboston.com

Ping is House Parent.

Cary Herer
Marketing Manager /Head Prep Basketball Coach
cherer@catsglobalschools.com
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Cary Herer

Marketing Manager /Head Prep Basketball Coach
cherer@catsglobalschools.com

Cary is in his second season at CATS Academy. He handles all things marketing from the website to social media and all marketing communications related to CATS Academy Boston. Cary is also the Head Boy's Basketball coach.

Hannah Hilliker
Math Teacher
hhilliker@catsboston.com
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Hannah Hilliker

Math Teacher
hhilliker@catsboston.com

Hannah is a Math Teacher.

Maureen Holland
French teacher
mholland@catsboston.com
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Maureen Holland

French teacher
mholland@catsboston.com

A.B.--English Literature; French, Mount Holyoke College
M.A.--French Language and Literature, Miami University of Ohio
A.B.D.--French Language and Literature Boston University

Prior to joining CATS Academy/Boston, Maureen taught both English and French at the High School and University levels--including Moses Brown School in Providence and, most recently, the University of Rhode Island. She is currently an ETS Reader for AP French. Besides teaching, Maureen has worked in publishing and has also worked as a free-lance writer/photographer. In her spare time, she enjoys walking with her beloved beagle, Shuggie. She also enjoys choral singing with the Worcester Chorus, who will be performing at Carnegie Hall this October!

Jonathan Johnson
Assistant Director of Admissions
jojohnson@catsboston.com
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Jonathan Johnson

Assistant Director of Admissions
jojohnson@catsboston.com

Jonathan is the Assistant Director of Admissions.

Ana Kinsley
Assistant Residential Life/ Receptionist
akinsley@catsboston.com
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Ana Kinsley

Assistant Residential Life/ Receptionist
akinsley@catsboston.com

Ana is a Assistant Residential Life and School Receptionist.

Lucy LaValle
ESL Department Chair
llavallee@catsboston.com
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Lucy LaValle

ESL Department Chair
llavallee@catsboston.com

MA, English & Spanish, Moscow State Linguistic University.

Prior to joining CATS, Lucy LaVallee worked in numerous public and private schools, teaching intensive English language programs to school students and business executives. In addition to teaching, Lucy worked as an interpreter at various international shows, translating and interpreting for numerous businesses including providing voice-over translation of CNN news for a cable company. Lucy has been with CATS Academy Boston since day one. She started the English as a Second Language program and designed and ran the first High School Preparation Program at CATS. In addition, Lucy worked in numerous summer language programs including summer programs in Harvard University and Middlebury College, and summer STARTALK programs. Lucy got her MA in English and Spanish from the Moscow State Linguistic University where she also studies Latin and Russian. She received a Fulbright-Hays award (US Department of Education) and studied linguistics at the Moscow State University (MGU).

Michael Levine
English Literature Teacher
mlevine@catsboston.com
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Michael Levine

English Literature Teacher
mlevine@catsboston.com

MA in Creative Writing from Boston University
MFA in Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis
BA in English from the University of Illinois at Springfield
BA in Psychology from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale

Michael Levine brings 22 years of experience teaching English and Creative Writing to CATS Academy Boston, where he has served as Purple House Dean, a dorm parent, and faculty advisor for The Griffin Review—the CATS Academy student literary magazine. This will be Michael’s 9th year at CATS. In previous incarnations, he taught English and served as 10th Grade Dean at Community School of Naples in Naples, Florida and as English and Arts faculty at Gann Academy in Waltham, MA. Michael holds a BA in Psychology from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, a BA in English from the University of Illinois—Springfield, an MFA in Creative Writing from Washington University in St. Louis, and an MA in Creative Writing from Boston University, where he won an Academy of American Poets Prize. Michael has poems published in several notable journals, and was the 1997 Springfield, Illinois Poet of the Year. He is passionate about poetry and enjoys reading, writing, playing and listening to music, puns, going to museums, cheering on Boston sports teams, walking, playing disc golf, cooking and eating amazing food, and going on adventures with his two daughters.

Travis Liquori
Performing Arts Director
tliquori@catsboston.com
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Travis Liquori

Performing Arts Director
tliquori@catsboston.com

MM in Music Education, Boston University
BM in Music Education, Berklee College of Music, Boston

TJ Liquori is a music educator and musical theatre composer from the greater Boston area. He is currently the Performing Arts Director at CATS Academy Boston, teaching music courses and music directing the annual musical. He holds graduate and bachelor’s degrees in music education from Boston University (M.M.) and Berklee College of Music (B.M.). Previously, TJ taught elementary school music for Woburn Public Schools, and he worked as a teacher and administrator for the performing arts team at The American School in Switzerland’s summer programs. TJ sings and plays both trumpet and piano. He is an avid musical theatre composer, having been commissioned to write musicals performed at The American School in Switzerland, Woburn Public Schools, CATS Academy Boston, Children’s Stage Adventures, The REV Theatre Company (formerly Merry-Go-Round Youth Theatre), and Auburn Players Community Theatre, where the Theatre Association of New York State awarded him Meritorious Achievement in New Works Development for a musical he co-wrote, Sketch.

Ellen Llani
Chemistry Teacher
ellani@catsboston.com
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Ellen Llani

Chemistry Teacher
ellani@catsboston.com

Ellen is a Chemistry Teacher.

Dominique Lomax
Math Teacher
dlomax@catsboston.com
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Dominique Lomax

Math Teacher
dlomax@catsboston.com

BA, Mathematics Willamette University
MAT, Mathematics, Willamette University

Prior to joining CATS Academy, Dominique taught at a school in China for three years. Here she taught AP Calculus and Pre-calculus. Once returning to America she worked at various schools that had an international student body or an international focus. Dominique comes to CATS Academy with four years’ of teaching international students both in China and America. She understands how to support international students as they learn, not only mathematics, but the English used in mathematics. Dominique received her BA in Mathematics with a minor in Chinese Studies from Willamette University and her MAT from Willamette University's School of Education.

Joseph McFarland
ESL Teacher
jmcfarland@catsboston.com
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Joseph McFarland

ESL Teacher
jmcfarland@catsboston.com

BA, English, UMass Amherst. EdM, Secondary Education, Boston University

Joe McFarland works in the ESL department, developing reading, writing and TOEFL skills; including presentation skills and pronunciation practice. Prior to joining CATS Academy, Joe worked for five years overseas, teaching at language schools in Korea, China, Japan, and Russia. He taught for two years at private schools in Connecticut and for 14 years at public high schools in Massachusetts (teaching English literature, writing courses and ELL courses). His experience has included; running language departments and serving as a liaison for teacher exchange with China. Joe received his BA in English from UMass Amherst and his EdM in Secondary Education from Boston University.

Eileen McMahon
STEAM Teacher
emcmahon@catsboston.com
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Eileen McMahon

STEAM Teacher
emcmahon@catsboston.com

BA Literature/Theater, Bennington College. Ed.M. Learning Design, Innovation, and Technology, Harvard University Graduate School of Education

Eileen McMahon teaches electronics, coding, and 3D and 2D design and fabrication classes. She is a seasoned educator who has taught technology classes at Harvard University, UMass Boston, UCLA and the American Film Institute as well as in K-12 public school classrooms in Massachusetts including in Lexington, Cambridge, and Chelsea. She also designed and produced Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in technology related subjects for MIT. Ms. McMahon worked as an independent multimedia producer and designer specializing in children's media for National Public Radio (NPR) and public radio stations WGBH, and KCET as well as for Disney, SONY, Paramount, Universal Studios, CBS, NBC, Activision, and others. She has been involved in the Maker/FAB Lab movement for over 10 years. After starting Boston Makers, a successful Boston based maker space, she worked for The FAB Foundation which supports and connects digital fabrication labs (aka FAB LABS) around the world.

Samuel Moody
Spanish Teacher
smoody@catsboston.com
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Samuel Moody

Spanish Teacher
smoody@catsboston.com

Samuel Moody is a Spanish teacher.

Berta Nahra-Harb
Health, Professional Communication & History Teacher
bharb@catsboston.com
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Berta Nahra-Harb

Health, Professional Communication & History Teacher
bharb@catsboston.com

BA, Early Childhood Education, Boston University
MA, Physical Education & Major in History, Central Michigan

Before joining CATS Academy, Berta Nahra Harb worked for nine years at Newton Country Day School as the Physical Education teacher. Prior to that she lived in Australia for three years where she taught several different subjects at St.Catherine's school in Sydney. Being born in Beirut Lebanon, Berta has a great understanding of how it feels to be an international student. Berta has a Master’s in Physical Education and a Major in History from Central Michigan. She also earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Boston University.

Will Newman
Math Teacher
wnewman@catsboston.com
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Will Newman

Math Teacher
wnewman@catsboston.com

B.S. Chemistry with Psychology minor, Virginia Tech M.S. Chemistry, University of Connecticut M.A. Teaching, College of New Jersey Ph.D. Science Education, Purdue University

Will is a math teacher and house parent. Over his career, he has taught a variety of subjects in mathematics, science, and education at the high school and university levels. With experience at rural, suburban, urban, charter, private, and public schools, Will brings a wide breadth of experience to CATS Academy Boston. In addition to teaching, he has worked in administrative roles as a team leader, department chair, grade dean, and residential life director. His love of teaching and working directly with students brought him back to the classroom full-time. He has a personal commitment to learning and describes himself as “addicted to knowing more about everything.” When not teaching or working in the dorms, he enjoys spending time at museums and animal parks, reading, surfing the web, water-color painting, and most importantly, spending time with his dog, Peluche.

James O’Brien
English Literature Teacher
jobrien@catsboston.com
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James O’Brien

English Literature Teacher
jobrien@catsboston.com

BA, English Literature, Middlebury College

James O’Brien holds a Bachelor’s of Arts in English Literature with a concentration in Creative Writing from Middlebury College. Before returning to his home state of Massachusetts, James worked in both finance and test preparation in San Francisco, California. After working as an English teacher and Assistant Director of Communications at his high school alma mater, St. Sebastian’s, James joined CATS Academy in 2013. James teaches Test Prep, English Literature, and Creative Writing at CATS. He also coaches the boys junior varsity basketball team.

David O'Donnell
Social Science Department Chair
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David O'Donnell

Social Science Department Chair

BA, History, Boston College
MA, Modern History, Oxford University
Higher Diploma in Education from Trinity College Dublin

David O’Donnell is dedicated to helping each student prepare for university. He supports entrepreneurship and learning outside the classroom, serving as advisor to the CATS DECA club for business, and the CATS Scholars Program for outstanding students. David came to CATS Academy after three years in China as an exchange teacher and education consultant; he has ten years’ experience teaching at US high schools and 13 years’ experience as a stock market researcher. David says “Students at CATS Academy Boston have a real warmth and generosity with each other. Teachers are committed to challenging and supporting students.” A graduate of Noble and Greenough School, David received his BA in History from Boston College, Massachusetts, an MA in Modern History from Oxford University and a Higher Diploma in Education from Trinity College Dublin.

LaMar Owen
Assistant Director of Residential Life
lowens@catsboston.com
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LaMar Owen

Assistant Director of Residential Life
lowens@catsboston.com

LaMar is the Assistant Director of Residential Life

Lena Park
Residential Life: Co-Head of House
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Lena Park

Residential Life: Co-Head of House

U.C.Berkeley, BA English, Postgraduate studies at Oxford, UK

Lena is a Co-Head of House as well as an ESL Instructor and enjoys music, snow-skiing, and travel.

Mark Phelan
Visual Arts Teacher
mphelan@catsboston.com
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Mark Phelan

Visual Arts Teacher
mphelan@catsboston.com

MFA, Painting, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth
BFA, Printmaking, University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth

Mark is a multidisciplinary artist who lives and works in Southeastern. Massachusetts. His work encompasses a variety of media including painting, printmaking, sculpture, and installation. He teaches painting, drawing, printmaking, and sculpture in the CSVPA program at CATS Academy Boston. Prior to working at CATS, Mark taught at University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth and Massachusetts College of Art and Design. He has a MFA in Painting and a BFA in Printmaking from the University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth. Mark exhibits his work regularly in galleries in New England and in public installation locations, and it is in the archived collections of University of Massachusetts, Dartmouth and Massasoit Community College, and in private collections around the world. For more information on Mark, go to markphelan.art

Nicole Pisano-Gomes
English Literature Teacher
npisano-gomes@catsboston.com
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Nicole Pisano-Gomes

English Literature Teacher
npisano-gomes@catsboston.com

Nicole is an English Literature teacher at CATS Academy.

Noel Radcliffe-Marrs
Director of Administration
nradcliffe-marrs@catsboston.com
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Noel Radcliffe-Marrs

Director of Administration
nradcliffe-marrs@catsboston.com

Noel is the Director of Administration.

Devyn Rogers
STEAM Teacher
drogers@catsboston.com
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Devyn Rogers

STEAM Teacher
drogers@catsboston.com

During the school year, Devyn spends his time teaching students the various methods and practices on how to develop software. He teaches three different levels of computer science, Intro to Programming, AP Computer Science, and Software Engineering. These courses explore topics such as algorithm development. Database management, web design, and the software development lifestyle. Outside of the classroom he also runs the Coding Club, which students have entered a national app building competition. He also shows the students in the Coding Club how to properly design video games. Devyn’s teaching experience started while in college, where he was in charge of running many leadership workshops and conferences. Prior to arriving at CATS, he had recently received his degree in Computer Science with a specialty in Software Engineering and was doing freelance work. Working as a freelance developer gave Devyn a chance to discover new and exciting ways he could put his knowledge to use. He has been a part of teams to develop videos games and applications that help manage influencers manage their social media following. Outside of the world of programming he enjoys doing graphic design and video editing. In his free time he is an avid gamer, who is involved with the local competitive gaming scene, and considers himself to be a professional binge watcher.

Rebecca Roihl
College Counselor
rroihl@catsboston.com
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Rebecca Roihl

College Counselor
rroihl@catsboston.com

BA, Wesleyan University
MEd, Cambridge College

Prior to joining CATS Academy, Becky Roihl was the Manager of Tutor and Teacher Services at Summit Educational Group. She hired and trained new tutors and teachers and kept them updated about the latest trends in standardized testing. She also educated parents about college admissions requirements and helped students achieve higher SAT and ACT scores. Becky has a master’s degree in school guidance counseling from Cambridge College and a BA in psychology from Wesleyan University. Becky completed a year-long guidance internship at Watertown High School, where 40% of the students are English Language Learners.

Carolyn Seman
Residential Life: Co-Head of House
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Carolyn Seman

Residential Life: Co-Head of House

Carolyn is a Co-Head of House.

Kathleen Sheridan
Head of School
ksheridan@catsboston.com
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Kathleen Sheridan

Head of School
ksheridan@catsboston.com

Kathleen joined CATS Academy Boston in 2016 and has held several positions, including Registrar and Dean of Academics. She has over 30 years’ experience in education and holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master of Science in Educational Leadership and Management. Before joining CATS Academy Boston, Kathleen held various academic leadership roles, including Principal, Curriculum Writer, Grants Coordinator and Community Relations Director in the US. Kathleen is also a member of the Massachusetts Teachers Association. Kathleen is committed to ensuring students excel and achieve academic success.

Christina Torns
Dean of Academics and Registrar
ctorns@catsboston.com
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Christina Torns

Dean of Academics and Registrar
ctorns@catsboston.com

Christina is the Dean of Academics and Registrar at CATS Academy and currently teaches World History: Global Conflicts which focuses on acts of mass violence and genocide in the 20th Century and an Introduction to Philosophy elective course. Christina attended the State University of New York at Stony Brook and received three undergraduate degrees in the fields of History, Philosophy and Religious Studies. She then went on to study at the University of Georgia and received a Master’s Degree in History and Religion. Her graduate field research was conducted in the Middle East and she spent time as an undergraduate studying in Europe and Australia where she worked in a Vietnamese Buddhist Monastery. Before coming to teach at CATS Academy, Christina taught both high school and college for six years, and also taught English in the Czech Republic. Christina is the former head of the History Department prior to her new role.

Daniel Underwood
History Teacher
dunderwood@catsboston.com
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Daniel Underwood

History Teacher
dunderwood@catsboston.com

Daniel Underwood is a History teacher.

Annabel Wall
Theater Teacher
awall@catsboston.com
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Annabel Wall

Theater Teacher
awall@catsboston.com

Annabel Wall is an educator and artist with a passion for experiential learning, movement technique, and the theatrical arts. In May of 2022, she earned her Masters of the Arts from Emerson College in Theatre Education and Applied Theatre. She possesses a thorough understanding of the Massachusetts State Standards, the UbD template, and experiential learning techniques. She has worked in professional and community theatre settings as a choreographer, teaching artist, director, designer and performer for over a decade. In her free time, Annabel enjoys exploring multiple areas of movement and performing arts including musical theatre dance, yoga, skiing, and bouldering. She is so excited to get moving with CATS Academy!

James Wilkins
Director of Athletics and Activities
jwilkins@catsboston.com
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James Wilkins

Director of Athletics and Activities
jwilkins@catsboston.com

BA, Communication, College of Mount Saint Vincent MS, Sport Leadership, Endicott College

James started at CATS as the Weekend Activities Coordinator in November of 2016. Spending his first year at CATS working to provide students and staffers with fun and exciting trips to attend on the weekend, James was able to build connections with the student body, faculty and staff. In August of 2017, he took over as the Director of Athletics & Activities. Continuing to build those relationships, James has worked hard to provide opportunities for members of the CATS community to experience a wide range of after school activities. James has also been working on developing CATS’ athletics program, which is currently a full member of the New England Preparatory School Athletic Council (NEPSAC). James earned his Bachelor of Arts in Communication from the College of Mount Saint Vincent in 2015.

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