MEET THE TEAM
Marni Lebowitz
813-259-6415
Marni Lebowitz has over 16 years of experience in grants development and management, early childhood education, developmentally appropriate practice and assessment, teacher education and training as well as lecturing and consulting. During her tenure at Hillsborough College, Marni has secured and managed over $5M in grant funding to help cultivate innovative childhood education programs that provide targeted early literacy intervention, multi-generational literacy approaches, materials to strengthen the home-school connection and professional development to child care providers and families in Hillsborough County. In addition, she teaches college level courses in the early childhood departments at both HC and Nova Southeastern University and is a certified trainer in multiple assessment tools. Her graduate degrees include an M.S. in Child Development and Education and an Ed. S. in Early Childhood Development with a concentration in curriculum and instruction. Marni has also consulted and collaborated on many state and local initiatives including the United Way’s Early Learning Campaign, Helios Early Childhood Education Theory of Change, Early Learning Community Conversation – 2K – Get in the Race and she is affiliated with several early childhood professional organizations (NAEYC, AACC, Zero to Three, NEA).
Denise Pullano
813-259-6474
Denise Pullano has over fifteen years of experience in early childhood education. Denise has a B.A. in Marketing from Florida State University and a permanent staff credential (C.D.A.) from Hillsborough Community College. She has worked for the Children’s Board as a consultant, conducting early learning assessments such as the Kaufman Survey of Early Academic and Language Skills (K-SEALS) and the Early Literacy Skills Assessment (ELSA). Denise also served as a monitor for the VPK Program in Hillsborough County. For the past 13 years, Denise has worked for HC as an Early Childhood Specialist and Trainer. She is now a Campus Grants Officer and manages the CALM and ELM teams. Denise provides county-wide training to early childhood teachers in developmentally appropriate practices with a focus on early literacy and social-emotional strategies. She has also taught early childhood classes for the Early Childhood Professional Certification Program at HC.
Laura Villalobos
813-259-6555
Laura Villalobos is a dynamic communication professional with a passion for community engagement. She earned her B.A. in Communication from The University of Tampa in 2014, where she first honed her skills in social media management while working with a local small business. During this time, she also expanded her creative portfolio as a photographer with Lifetouch Preschool Portraits. Laura’s career trajectory took a pivotal turn when she joined myON, where she led efforts to promote a countywide literacy campaign in partnership with multiple community organizations in Hillsborough County. This experience sharpened her expertise in public relations, community outreach, and digital marketing strategies. In 2016, Laura furthered her education with an M.A. in Strategic Communication from American University. She thrives on immersing herself in projects that align with her passions and is driven by a deep commitment to overcoming challenges. Her determination is rooted in her family’s immigrant experience, which instilled in her a profound respect for hard work and perseverance. Currently, Laura contributes her skills and dedication to the Early Childhood Department at Hillsborough College, where she works across several programs, including CALM, ELM, and QEES, to foster growth and development in the early childhood community.
Kellie Hales
813-259-6456
Kellie Hales has been a literacy coach with Early Literacy Matters (ELM) for over 10 years. She has worked in early childhood education over 30 years as a teacher and administrator. She obtained 20 credits in Human Services from Elon College in North Carolina and obtained her C.D.A. and Director’s Credential from Hillsborough College in 2009. Kellie has an A.S. in Early Childhood from Hillsborough College and a B.S. in Early Childhood Education from the State College of Florida. Kellie served as the Director of the Lowry Park Zoo Preschool for six years. During that period, she wrote and received a grant for a nature playground, developed a science-based curriculum and hosted the Hillsborough College Early Childhood Professional Credential (ECPC) program. Prior to her move to Florida, Kellie created the “Planet Earth Science Club,” a private program for preschoolers that brought animals into the classroom to enrich children’s knowledge about earth and our co-existence with its animals. Kellie’s passion remains teaching children to value our earth, our environment and its animals through literacy activities.
Natasha Williams
813-259-6595
Natasha Williams has over 16 years of experience in the early childhood education field. She began her studies in business and marketing at Concordia University in Montreal, Canada and finished with an A.S. degree in Early Childhood Education from Hillsborough College in 2015. She holds a staff credential (C.D.A.) from Nova Southeastern University. The transition from business to early education occurred in 2001 when Natasha, who had worked in retail, was offered a preschool teacher position in a private school in Brandon, FL. She realized immediately that her true passion is working closely with children and families, building strong relationships and home-school connections to ensure optimal child development and learning. In successive years, she became a lead VPK teacher and ultimately a Preschool Specialist—overseeing curriculum and activities center-wide while teaching a VPK class of her own—at a private preschool in South Tampa. Natasha has been working as a Literacy Specialist for Early Literacy Matters (ELM) where she has provided on-site support to early childhood teachers and has delivered weekly small group literacy intervention to “at risk” three and four year-old children. She is also part of the CALM team in a similar role, with her years of experience using Conscious Discipline in the classroom.
Sue Dye
813-253-7379
Sue Dye is a passionate educator and advocate for early learning. Sue has an A.A. from the University of Florida and a B.S. in Elementary Education from the University of South Florida. With her previous teaching experience as a kindergarten and first grade teacher, she understands all of the duties associated with administration and management of the classroom; preparation of lesson plans, securing resources, motivation of students, evaluation and monitoring of progress, interaction with administrators and working with other teachers. At ELM, Sue holds the Early Literacy Trainer & Special Projects position in which she teaches preschool aged children in under-served communities early literacy strategies (print concepts, alphabetic principal, phonological awareness and comprehension). She enjoys creating and implementing tools or books to enhance and support each child care center’s curriculum as well as the use of songs, poems and finger play to support a literacy rich environment in each classroom.
Rachel Kummelman
813-253-7071
Rachel Kummelman has over 12 years of experience in early childhood education. She graduated from Florida Gulf Coast University in 2018 with her B.S. in Child and Youth Studies and most recently earned her M.Ed. in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of South Florida. Her passion for working with young children began early, starting her career with the YMCA in their summer camp program for at‑risk youth. Throughout college, she taught VPK full time and supervised curriculum development for her childcare center. Rachel is dedicated to enriching the lives of children, families, and educators through project‑based learning practices and social‑emotional teaching. She currently serves as an Early Childhood Specialist for the Conscious Awareness Learning Model (CALM) and ELM, preparing young children for Kindergarten in under‑served communities throughout Hillsborough County. Additionally, she trains early childhood educators in county‑wide professional development sessions, manages social media for QEES, and coordinates community outreach events.
Jourdain Cole
813-253-7389
Jourdain is a graduate from the University of Florida’s (UF) College of Agriculture and Life Science with a B.S. in Family, Youth, and Community Science. She also obtained a specialization in Nonprofit Management and a Minor in Communication Studies. Throughout her time at UF, Jourdain developed a passion for Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and began to apply her knowledge to all other areas of involvement. She participated in an organization at UF where she worked directly with children and family ambassadors from the local children’s hospital. Jourdain also worked for an afterschool program in Gainesville that focused on character development and early literacy skills. Although quite different, interacting with children and families from both areas taught Jourdain lessons in compassion, effective listening, and kindness. Jourdain is back to the CALM and ELM team after participating in a summer internship with the programs and is eager to continue to learn and grow. Her passion for early childhood development and the principles of Conscious Discipline® makes this position with CALM and ELM a dream job!
Naomi Santiago
813-253-7443
Naomi Santiago is an Early Childhood Trainer with the Quality Early Education System (QEES) and has over 25 years of experience in early childhood education. She is passionate about supporting educators and helping create high-quality learning environments where young children can thrive. Before joining QEES, Naomi served as a lead preschool teacher, where she developed expertise in creating engaging, play-based learning experiences that support all areas of child development. Her classroom experience provides the foundation for her work coaching teachers and facilitating professional learning. Naomi earned an A.S. in Early Childhood Management from Hillsborough College (HC) and a B.S. in Early Childhood Development from Saint Leo University. She began her journey at HC as an intern with the Early Literacy Matters (ELM), Conscious Awareness Learning Model (CALM), and QEES programs, where she discovered her passion for coaching and professional development. Today, Naomi partners with educators to strengthen instructional practices, literacy-rich environments, and teacher-child interactions through coaching, training, and ongoing support. She is committed to empowering educators with practical, research-based strategies that positively impact children, families, and the early learning community.
Yaritza Serrano
813-253-6458
Yaritza Serrano has over 4 years of experience working in the education field. She began her studies at Hillsborough College where she got her associate degree in Liberal Arts and continued her education at the University of South Florida receiving a bachelor’s degree in General Studies with a concentration in educational foundations. Throughout college, Yaritza worked for the Hillsborough County Public Schools after care program, HOST, and served as a teacher intern at Cimino Elementary School. She also interned at Hillsborough Community College with the Quality Early Education System (QEES), Early Literacy Matters (ELM) and the Conscious Awareness Learning Model (CALM). These experiences of assisting teachers and children throughout the county developed her passion for early childhood and the education field. Yaritza found her home with HC and QEES as an Early Childhood Trainer & Special Projects where she gets to fulfill her passion of helping teachers throughout Hillsborough County grow as instructors.
Chloe Bogdajewicz
813-259-6412
Chloe has over five years of experience in the field of education. She graduated from Florida State University with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a master’s in Curriculum and Design. With her previous experience as a first‑grade teacher in Hillsborough County, Chloe understands the importance of a well‑prepared lesson that incorporates social‑emotional learning to set students up for success even after they leave the classroom. Throughout her time at FSU, Chloe interned at several schools in the Tallahassee area and worked as a social media content creator for the Florida State University Office of Faculty Development. Chloe has always been passionate about teaching and creating a positive learning environment for both students and educators. She brings her valuable skills to the CALM and ELM team as an Early Childhood Specialist, where she is dedicated to supporting meaningful learning experiences. Chloe is excited to collaborate with families and teachers to help young learners grow with confidence and curiosity.
Haley Janeda
Haley Janeda is a curious, energetic, and enthusiastic individual who is also a passionate advocate for children. This passion is demonstrated by her non-profit work at Champions for Children where she spent 5 years educating children about child abuse, bullying, personal safety, and racism. She also worked in Early Childhood Comprehensive services preparing children for Kindergarten and has volunteered at Boys & Girls Clubs to help at-risk youngsters. Haley is a graduate from the University of South Florida with a degree in Theatre Performance. She is a fast learner, with a keen sense of humor and an indomitable work ethic. She brings her considerable skills to the CALM and ELM team as an Early Childhood Specialist.
813-253-7771
Amy Rowe
813-253-7122
Amy Rowe has over 20 years of public health experience with children and adults. Over the years, Amy has worked with the birth to 4-year-old population in various roles. Amy is a graduate of Florida State University with a Bachelor of Science in Child Development. Amy completed an internship with Head Start and was a special needs preschool teacher for The Florida Easter Seals Society. Amy also worked on raising awareness and promotion to the public of Pediatric Palliative Care during her time at Lifepath Hospice. As a family service coordinator/case manager for Early Steps, Amy worked closely with children and families to align children ages birth to three with appropriate services. Amy is so excited to join this dynamic team as a CALM and ELM coach. Working with children and teachers on social emotional well-being and early language & literacy skills is a true passion and brings great joy to Amy.
TreBora Morales
TreBora Morales is an 11-year Army veteran, educator, and community advocate. Born and raised in East Tampa, she dedicates her time to supporting inner-city neighborhoods, helping others overcome challenges like those she once faced. While still a senior at Brandon High School, TreBora joined the Army National Guard and went on to serve as a Non-Commissioned Officer. During her service, she began her post-secondary studies at Hillsborough College before transferring to the University of South Florida, where she earned a B.A. in Long-Term Care Administration, a B.S. in Health Sciences, and an M.A. in Sustainable Business. She is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Sustainability Education at Prescott College, focusing her research on helping Black Americans confront fears and traumas that hinder deeper connections with nature. An avid paddleboarder, fisher, hiker, and birdwatcher, TreBora has witnessed firsthand the disparities in outdoor recreation. As a lifelong learner of the natural world, she takes joy in guiding young learners to develop reverence for the environment. TreBora is also the proud parent of two elementary-aged boys, one of whom has an autism spectrum disorder diagnosis. Her parenting journey inspired her training in early literacy as a foundation for lifelong learning and development. Since 2021, she has worked at Hillsborough College, and in 2024 she joined the Early Childhood Department, where she integrates literacy and sustainability into early learning experiences with the Early Literacy Matters program.
813-253-7163
Jennifer Rivera
813-253-7117
Jennifer Rivera is a dedicated Speech-Language Therapist with broad experience supporting individuals across the lifespan in homes, schools, and clinical settings. Her path in human services began with internships in domestic violence agencies, childcare centers, and community programs, leading to an associate’s degree in counseling and human services from Hillsborough College (HC). Inspired by her early work, she developed a passion for supporting children and families, especially those navigating developmental disabilities. She earned her bachelor’s in communication sciences and disorders from the University of Central Florida (UCF) in 2016, while also exploring her love for performance arts, circus arts, yoga, and gymnastics. Jennifer has served as a case manager, speech therapist, family resource specialist, and inclusion support specialist, and is certified as an Infant Toddler Developmental Specialist through University of South Florida’s (USF) Early Steps Program. A single mother and passionate advocate, Jennifer blends her clinical skills and creative interests to build holistic, engaging support systems for children and families. She currently serves on the board of the Purple Playas Foundation and contributes to the ELM program at HC as an early childhood trainer and coach providing early literacy intervention at family child care homes countywide.
Melinda Adams
813-253-7154
Melinda Adams brings over two decades of experience in education, working with learners ranging from preschoolers to college students. She earned her B.S. in Elementary/Early Childhood Education from Florida Southern College, followed by an M.S. in Educational Leadership. After teaching kindergarten and first grade, she went on to complete her Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with a cognate in Early Childhood Education from the University of South Florida. Throughout her career, Melinda has taught in the School of Education at the University of South Florida, the University of Tampa, and Hillsborough College, where she prepared future educators with a strong foundation in child development and instructional practices. Her professional passions include early literacy, play-based learning, developmentally appropriate practices, and children’s literature. Melinda is excited to bring her knowledge, enthusiasm, and love of teaching to the QEES team, where she looks forward to supporting both educators and the young children they serve.
Susanne Gonzalez
813-259-6442
Susanne is a dedicated early childhood educator with more than 30 years of experience serving children from infancy through age 12. Throughout her career, she has served as a Lead Toddler Teacher, VPK Teacher, Childcare Coordinator, and Preschool Director, providing her with extensive experience in child development, curriculum implementation, and educational leadership. She holds an Associate of Arts Degree in Liberal Arts with a concentration in Early Childhood Education, a CDA-E Credential, a Florida Director Credential, and an Emergent Literacy Micro-Credential from the University of Florida Lastinger Center for Learning. Her strong educational background, combined with decades of hands-on experience, allows her to create nurturing, developmentally appropriate learning environments where children feel valued, supported, and inspired to learn. As an Early Childhood Trainer with the CALM and ELM teams, Susanne brings her wealth of classroom and leadership experience to support and empower early childhood professionals. She is passionate about sharing best practices, mentoring educators, and helping teachers build high-quality learning environments that foster children's growth and success. Known for her compassionate leadership and genuine love for children, Susanne is committed to partnering with families, supporting educators, and fostering a lifelong love of learning in every child she serves.
Beth McClain
813-253-7198
Beth McClain is an Early Childhood Specialist for CALM and ELM at Hillsborough College. Her career in early childhood education began over 30 years ago as an elementary school teacher with a concentration in Fifth Grade and Kindergarten. She has also worked individually with students, tutoring in reading, math, and writing skills. She earned her Bachelor of Arts and Sciences degree from Florida State University and completed master‑level coursework in Child Psychology from The University of South Florida. Beth is excited to bring her positive energy to CALM and ELM to promote social and emotional growth as well as academic success in the classroom. She is deeply committed to creating learning environments where children feel supported, confident, and eager to explore. Beth believes that strong relationships with students, families, and educators are the foundation of meaningful early learning experiences.
Kendall McClain
813-253-7766
Kendall McClain is an educator committed to supporting young children and the professionals who serve them. She earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Florida State University and has extensive experience working with children of varying needs and abilities through years of nannying and caregiving. In 2024, Kendall completed a six‑month internship with Hillsborough College’s CALM, ELM, and QEES programs, where she developed a strong interest in early childhood workforce support and high‑quality learning environments. Motivated by the meaningful work happening across the community, she returned after graduation to continue contributing to these efforts. She now serves as an early childhood trainer with HC’s CALM and ELM programs, supporting educators in implementing responsive, relationship‑based practices. Enthusiastic and relationship‑driven, Kendall excels at connecting with children, families, and educators. She is committed to fostering engaging learning experiences, encouraging creativity, and helping young learners build the foundation for long‑term success.