SEPTEMBER 1, 2024

One of the best parts of a brand new school year is welcoming new students and families to Nightingale. Equally as delightful, is welcoming our new professional community members.

This year we are excited to welcome 31 new professional community members to Nightingale. Coming to 92nd Street from a variety of different backgrounds, these new professional community members bring with them years of real-world experience and are excited to continue Nightingale’s mission of inspiring students to be joyful learners who have the intellectual depth and the courage to be critical thinkers, compassionate citizens, and agents of their own lives.

Please join us in welcoming this wonderful group! Meet our new professional community members.

ADAM ALSAMADISI

Computer Science Faculty

Adam comes to Nightingale from The Loomis Chaffee School, where he taught statistics and environmental science for three years. Prior to Loomis, Adam served as a postdoctoral researcher at the U.S. Forest Service, where he built data-driven models to prioritize forest management activities. Adam is looking forward to bringing his expertise with data science, programming, artificial intelligence, and academic technology integration to the Upper School. While earning his PhD at the University of Tennessee Knoxville (UT), Adam taught classes in human and physical geography, including geographic information systems (GIS). He also taught technology classes at The Buckley School of New York City while completing his dissertation. Adam also earned an MS from UT and a BA from Rhodes College in Memphis, Tennessee. He is moving back to New York City with his wife, Cicely Upham, and their daughter, Carmela. When not tinkering with tech tools, Adam enjoys going to the theatre, throwing vases on a pottery wheel, and throwing doughs in front of his pizza oven.

ELIZABETH ANOFF

Director of Auxiliary Programs

Elizabeth is Nightingale’s director of auxiliary programs, where she manages the operational success of extracurricular programming such as Thinkery, Hobbyhorse, and busing. Elizabeth holds a BA in economics from SUNY Oswego and a certificate in social impact management and leadership from the Institute for Nonprofit Practice. Elizabeth previously worked at Coney Island Prep, where she led family and community engagement efforts, created its first after school program and managed operational responsibilities, such as busing and budget management. Outside of work, Elizabeth enjoys hanging out with her friends and family, in addition to being an avid reader, sneaker connoisseur, and music lover.

MATTHEW CARDONA

Physical Education Faculty

Currently finishing up his master’s in health education from Lehman College, Matthew comes to Nightingale with six years of physical education experience. He has taught and coached at different schools across Westchester county, and has coached volleyball at the varsity level. Matthew also has a bachelor’s in physical education from SUNY Brockport. In his free time, Matthew enjoys playing basketball and volleyball, and swimming. During summer months, he loves traveling, with some of his recent destinations being Hawaii, Dubai, Mexico, Italy, and Greece.

DELFIN “DEL” CINTRON

Director of Building Operations and Capital Management

Delfin joined the Nightingale community in April 2024. He has been in similar operations leadership roles for 20 years at Columbia University, American Express (CBRE), Democracy Public Schools, as well as Cooke School and Institute. Delfin has been a member of the International Facilities Management Association for 19 years, served on the Executive Board of the IFMA NYC Chapter, and obtained his CFM (Certified Facilities Management) and FMP (Facilities Management Professional) certifications in 2009/2010. In his free time, Delfin loves spending time with his wife, son, and three daughters. He enjoys traveling, cooking, golf, and a good day of fishing.

NOELLE COMYN

PE/Athletics Leave Replacement

In her early years, Noelle competed at the highest levels in both Ladies Gaelic Football and Camogie; experiences that instilled an appreciation for teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, and laid the foundation for a passion for athletics. Born and raised in Ireland, Noelle explored a wide range of sports, including soccer, basketball, and boxing. Noelle coached the Class V–VI lacrosse team, MS soccer team, and varsity soccer team last school year. Prior to Nightingale, Noelle coached for The Hewitt School, the Manhattan Soccer Club, and more.

JAIDYN COOK

Lower School Faculty

Jaidyn is a third year teacher from Dartmouth, Massachusetts. After graduating from Kenyon College with a psychology and environmental Studies double major, she moved to New York City to pursue her career in education. Jaidyn realized her passion lies in working with elementary school aged children, and began substitute teaching and filled a leave replacement position Class III and Class IV at Nightingale. Outside of school, Jaidyn enjoys playing soccer and crocheting.

SAMEERA ASAD COOPER

Science and Math Faculty

A career change teacher, Sameera originally studied textiles and previously worked in the fashion industry. Her passion for science—particularly chemistry—drew her to an academic direction. Sameera earned an honors BS in textile science from University of Manchester Institute of Science and Technology. Since 2020, Sameera has been teaching in the United Kingdom. Last year, she moved to NYC from London and has been thoroughly enjoying getting to know such a fabulous city, in particular the food and cultural scene.

JULIANA COVARRUBIAS

Robotics Coach

Juliana joins the Nightingale community as a robotics coach for the school’s FTC team, Nighthawk Robotics. Juliana recently graduated from MIT with a bachelor's in mechanical engineering and art & design. She moved to New York this fall to start an MFA in industrial design at Parsons School of Design. Previously, she interned at Tesla and conducted research in labs across MIT. In her free time, Juliana loves making all types of things, from sewing dolls to coding video games.

SHAKEEM DAWKINS

Security Department

Shakeem joins Nightingale’s evening security team. In his previous role, Shakeem worked at a public school as a school coordination agent with the NYC Police Department. He attended LaGuardia Community College, City University of New York. In his free time, Shakeem enjoys traveling to new places and is a big sports fan, particularly keeping up with the Knicks & The Mets.

ANTON DEDVUKAJ

Facilities Department

Anton studied engineering and business administration at Mercy College, Westchester Community College, and Saint John’s University. He began his career working as a janitor and eventually became the property manager on the Upper East Side. Most recently, Anton worked at Columbia University Medical Center. In his free time, Anton enjoys traveling with his family and building advanced technology vehicles, like water powered motorcycles or carbon fiber musical instruments.

LOUISE “LULU” DIPAOLO

Assistant Kindergarten Teacher

Lulu recently graduated from Rollins College with a bachelor's degree in elementary education. Before joining the Lower School team, Lulu spent several summers working at an all-girls sleep-away camp in the Adirondacks. There, she taught sailing and swimming and served as the waterfront director. Her love for sailing extends beyond camp, as she enjoys spending her free time on the water.

CHARLOTTE-LUELLA DURKEE

Visual Arts Faculty

Charlotte-Luella joins the Nightingale community as an assistant art teacher. A native New Yorker, she attended LaGuardia High School. With a background in theatrical design and animation, Charlotte-Luella fell in love with art education after co-teaching a stop motion animation course for 8-15-year-olds at Andy’s Summer Playhouse in New Hampshire. Since then, Charlotte-Luella has taught after-school and private art lessons all around the city, for children and adults. Charlotte-Luella completed her undergraduate studies at the New School. She is currently working toward her master’s in art education at City College. Charlotte-Luella lives in Jersey City with her girlfriend.

JAMEEL FREEMAN

Director of College Counseling

Jameel is excited to join the Nightingale community after 11 years at the Ethical Culture Fieldston School in Bronx, NY. After graduating from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Jameel worked in the admission offices of UNC-Chapel Hill, Bentley University, Johns Hopkins University and Princeton University. After almost 15 years of working in undergraduate admissions, Jameel went to the "other side of the desk," serving initially as an associate director of college counseling before being promoted to director of college counseling at the Ethical Culture Fieldston School. In his free time, Jameel enjoys being a dad, personal chauffeur, and biking companion to his son, Parker, and daughter, Madeline. Jameel and his wife, Jeanine, also enjoy exploring restaurants, attending concerts, and pursuing physical fitness activities together.

AUDREY GAVITT

Lower School Aide

Audrey is a recent graduate of Mount Holyoke College where she received a BA in anthropology and dance. She is excited to be coming to Nightingale after teaching dance in her hometown of Dallas, TX.

IDARA HANSEN

English Faculty

Idara joins Nightingale’s Upper and Middle School as an English teacher. She is a passionate educator motivated by her love of learning and her desire to spark intellectual curiosity in her students. She holds an honors bachelor's degree in African American interdisciplinary studies from Wesleyan University and an honors master's degree in education from the University of Pennsylvania. Idara thrives in fostering a collaborative and student-centered learning environment in her English classroom. Technology plays a crucial role in her approach, allowing her to create dynamic curricula and learning experiences that spark joy in her students. Idara has also held positions as a curriculum facilitator for the juniors and seniors at her previous school as well as an advisor. Her dedication extends beyond academics, demonstrated by her experience as a sprint coach in track and field and a volleyball coach. These roles further exemplify her commitment to fostering teamwork, resilience, and a love for lifelong learning in students.

CAMILLE HAYES

Lower School Faculty

Camille is thrilled to be returning to Nightingale as an associate Kindergarten teacher. She previously worked at Nightingale in the role of Lower School aide. Camille has a background in theater arts, and has worked with companies such as the Metropolitan Opera and the California Shakespeare Theater. She holds an MFA from the Columbia University School of the Arts and lives in Inwood with her wife, Megan.

MARGARET HERRITY

Math Faculty Leave Replacement

Margaret graduated cum laude from Kenyon College and received her graduate degree in movement analysis from the Laban/Bartenieff Institute of Movement Studies. Margaret looks forward to working at Nightingale and bringing her thirty years of math teaching experience, most recently at The Chapin School. She enjoys helping students build self-confidence as mathematicians, plus learning how to see math in the world around them. She has presented at both the National Math & Social Justice Conference: Creating Balance in an Unjust World and the Museum of the City of New York's Teaching Social Activism Conference.

MICAH KRAJCA

Lower School Faculty

Originally from Dallas, TX, Micah happily settled in New York City this fall. He brings a genuine love for education to the Class I classroom. With over five years of diverse teaching experience, including time as a senior high school teacher at Plano West Senior High School, he’s found a special joy in working with younger learners. He holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Texas A&M University-Commerce. Outside the classroom, Mr. K sings with several choral ensembles and serves as a church musician.

ASHOK KUMAR-WAIRAWEN

Maintenance Mechanic

Ashok comes to Nightingale with over six years of field experience and project management. In his most recent role, Ashok served as a senior HVAC technician. Prior to that, Ashok worked at Phantom Surveillance System Sales and Installation as a CCTV service technician.

JENNIFER LANE

Lower School Faculty

After subbing at Nightingale last year, Jennifer joins the community this year as a Class II associate teacher. Most recently, Jennifer worked as the associate for choristers and music at the Church of the Heavenly Rest. Previously, she worked as a K–12 music teacher in Missouri and Connecticut and as an Episcopal church choir director at two parishes in Connecticut. Excited to return to her roots in girls' education, Jen earned her AB from Bryn Mawr College in music and English, her MPA from Columbia University, and her MS in music education from University of Bridgeport. In her free time, Jen enjoys reading, cooking, music, concerts, delicious food and traveling. Jennifer lives in Washington Heights with her family and two dogs.

SARAH MADAUS

Associate Librarian

Sarah joins the community as the new library associate. She's currently enrolled in Pratt Institute's master of library and information science program and has a bachelor's degree in journalism from Temple University. Her first role in magazine journalism and summer role as a girls camp counselor led her back to her childhood passions for teaching, reading, and libraries. Outside of her full-time role, Sarah is also a cycling instructor at Equinox and a freelance writer for Architectural Digest, Allure, and InStyle. When she's not at work, you can find her putting together jigsaw puzzles, tending to her plants, watching 90s movies, and dancing to house music.

KELLY MYERS, RN

School Nurse

Kelly is an experienced nurse with a multi-faceted career spanning 24 years. Kelly spent 11 years serving as a school nurse at Pace Academy, a selective independent school in Atlanta, GA. She then pursued an opportunity at Atlanta's nationally-renowned Shepherd Center, where she developed expertise in cognitive impairment and concussion care at Shepherd's Complex Concussion Clinic. Most recently, Kelly served at an outpatient neurology clinic at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, where she provided care to children in a specialized pediatric practice. Kelly is a dual-degree professional, with a BS in nursing from Georgia Baptist College of Nursing and a BA in mass media communications (with a French minor) from Denison University. Kelly enjoys running, reading, and volunteering at The Ronald McDonald House, and spending time with her husband and three adult daughters who all live in the city.

RACHEL RODRIGUEZ

Science Faculty

A native New Yorker and former science researcher, Rachel took her love for science communication and transformed it into a career in education. Most recently, Rachel served as a middle school lead science teacher at Success Academy Schools for three years. Prior to that, she was a writer and mass media fellow for Inside Climate News. Rachel earned a BS in ecology and environmental policy from Rutgers University and a MS in ecology from the University of Notre Dame. Some of her hobbies include film photography, writing, and spending time with her cat.

NOAH REINHARDT

Interim Director of Academic Affairs

Noah joined Nightingale this spring after 25 years in New York City independent school education. He began his teaching career in the fall of 1998 at The Hewitt School as an assistant to the mathematics department. He then moved to The Packer Collegiate Institute as a Middle School math teacher, eighth grade advisor, and grade-level coordinator. In 2004, he became Packer’s Director of Middle and Upper School Admissions. Noah left Packer for one year to serve as the Director of Enrollment at The School at Columbia, and then returned to Packer in 2008 to lead its Middle School. Noah served as Packer’s Middle School head for 13 years, taking on assistant head of school responsibilities for his final two years in that role. In 2021, Noah was appointed as head of The Blue School, which he led until its closure in June 2023. Following its closing, Noah continued to work with the board to ensure the school’s legal, financial, and organizational dissolution, supported The Harvey School in its work with admissions and financial aid, and partnered with a former colleague to facilitate DEI training and support for independent independent school faculty, leadership teams, and board of trustees across the northeast. Noah is excited to continue his work at Nightingale this year to deepen and develop the systems and structures that support the school’s K–12 academic program.

CANDACE REMBERT

Performing Arts Faculty

Born in Detroit, Michigan, Candace began studying the violin at the age of three and was taught by her mother Venus Rembert, a string specialist. At the age of six Candace began studying with members of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra (DSO) Derek Francis and later Marguerite Dene. Candace also participated in the DSO youth ensembles, Boston University Tanglewood Institute, and the Sphinx preparatory program and competition. During her studies with the Sphinx program, she began to notice the unfortunate lack of classical musicians of color in orchestras. To resolve this issue, she began working with Sphinx founder Aaron Dworkin to help educate and incorporate different opportunities for young musicians in the Detroit public schools. Candace went on to attend Ohio Wesleyan University where she studied with Columbus Symphony member David Niwa. Although Candace makes it her goal to diversify the classical music scene, she also loves to inspire people through performances. She has had the privilege of performing at several venues such as The Music Hall in Detroit, Detroit’s Orchestra Hall, Opéra de Baugé in France, and Seiji Ozawa Hall in Lenox, MA. Candace earned her master of music degree and advanced certificate from New York University’s Steinhardt School, where she studied with Metropolitan Opera Orchestra concertmaster Laura Hamilton.

SAMANTHA SMART

Lower School Aide

A proud Texan, Samantha joins the Nightingale community as a Lower School aide. Samantha graduated from Louisiana State University. In her free time, Samantha is a writer and traveler, foodie, and Francophile.

JIWON SONG

Visual Arts Faculty

An artist, art educator, and curator based in New York City, Jiwon seeks ways to cultivate each student’s beautiful uniqueness through art, network with artists worldwide, and curate meaningful exhibitions to share untold stories with the world. Jiwon celebrates transparency, playfulness, confidence, and fun found within children's intuitive process of making and storytelling. Most recently, Jiwon taught Kindergarten at Saint Ann's School in Brooklyn for three years. Prior to her role at Saint Ann’s, Jiwon worked at the Waterfall Mansion & Gallery NYC for five years where she managed the breadth of international contemporary artists and numerous exhibitions. Since 2013, she has developed a sustainable art education model for marginalized communities in Kenya and organized a team every summer as a director of the Art Education Program at Mtree. She holds a BFA in painting and a master’s in art teaching from Maryland Institute College of Art.

CHRISTINA TOBAJAS

Computer Science Faculty

Christina joins the Nightingale community as a Middle School computer science/STEM teacher. Christina holds a BA in Spanish language and literature from Columbia University. Podéis saludar! Most recently, Christina was a Middle and Upper School computer science teacher at The Dalton School. A lifelong New Yorker, Christina loves photographing her friends and family, and working on Maker projects both in and outside of school.

ISABEL VELAZQUEZ-ACERO ’14

IT Support Specialist

Sarah Whalen is thrilled to be joining the Nightingale community as a Middle and Upper School English teacher. Most recently, she taught seventh and eighth grade theatre and English at The Blue School, following several years of teaching ninth and eleventh grade English at both Poly Prep and Kingswood Oxford. Sarah majored in both English and theatre at Skidmore College. After a few years of acting in Off-Broadway shows, she decided to use her energy for good and pursued a master’s in the teaching of English at Teachers College. It was through this pursuit that Sarah confirmed what she already knew: studying English gives students and teachers an opportunity to learn more about their shared humanity, and is thus fundamental in making the world a more loving, generous, artful, communicative, and humane place.

ANNA MARIE WONG

Upper School Administrative Assistant

Anna Marie comes to Nightingale from Omnicom Health Group, where she worked in the human resources department as a learning and development specialist, where she gained experience in project management, data analysis, and marketing. Anna has a bachelor of business administration from Adelphi University. In her free time, she enjoys reading, baking, and thrift shopping.

BETSY WRAY, RN

School Nurse

New to NYC from Virginia, Betsy comes to Nightingale from VCU Hospital where she worked in both neurosurgery and neonatal ICU. Prior to becoming a nurse, Betsy taught kindergarten for several years all across the country, specializing in ESL. Betsy earned a BA in psychology and a post-baccalaureate in elementary education from Houston Christian University, as well as a BSN from Shenandoah University. In her free time, Betsy loves running, anything outdoors, baking, concerts, and spending as much time with family and friends as possible.