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Meet Our Teachers

Our global classrooms are led by world-class teachers who are passionate about educating the leaders of tomorrow.

Our Faculty of Excellence

Our academic faculty have been rigorously vetted and thoughtfully selected for their inspiration, engagement and proven track record of outstanding student results. Their dedication, depth and passion for teaching inspires and builds confidence in students. Plus, they all believe in the importance of online learning for the future of education.

Our fully registered teachers are based around the world, including in New Zealand, the UK, Europe, the US, and beyond. They bring over 20 years of teaching experience. They have:

  • Tutored National Olympiad teams;
  • Taught students that achieved the Top in Country and/or in the World for relevant subjects;
  • Taught students that have been accepted in the world’s top universities including Oxbridge and Ivy League;
  • Educated students with perfect scores for the SATs, and more.
CGA Teaching Staff
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Voices of CGA Teachers

Get a glimpse into the transformative power of an online education. Find out what our teachers have to say about teaching and learning at an online school, and the impact they've seen it have on their students.

Meet Our Teachers

International GCSE and A Level Teachers

Vikki Adams - English

Hi! Welcome to CGA. My name is Vikki Adam and I am an English teacher currently based in NZ.

I began my teaching career nearly twenty years ago here in NZ. I taught NCEA English (Levels One to Three) and Social Studies for six years. I then moved to Brunei Darussalam where I taught AS and A Level English for twelve years up until I moved back to NZ in December 2020. Although I really loved teaching in Brunei, I am glad to be home and very excited to be joining CGA!

I have a BA with a double major in Literature and History, a Graduate Diploma of Teaching and an MA in Teaching English as a Second Language. I also have a CELTA, a DELTA and I am an IELTS examiner. Recently, I was awarded the English Speaking Union Award for Teachers for 2020 from Victoria University.

I love learning and I love teaching. I particularly love teaching when my students are motivated, enthusiastic, willing to think critically and who wish to challenge themselves. Does this sound like you?****

I look forward to meeting you and I wish you all the best for your studies.

Suzanne Stacy - English

Suzanne Stacy is CGA’s English teacher.

Emily Fitzgerald - English

Emily Fitzgerald is CGA’s English teacher.

Barb Jeffcott Geris - English

Barb Jeffcott Geris is CGA’s English teacher.

Hazel Matthews - English

Hazel Matthews is CGA’s English teacher.

Jessica Goddard - English

Jessica initially graduated from The University of Reading with a BA (Hons) and has subsequently completed a PGCE, PD Diploma studying English Language in Education and a MA (Education).   Her passion for studying continues as she completes another Masters degree in Children’s Literature. 

Jessica has an extensive career in the classroom most recently as a Head of English at a middle school in Windsor, UK. Before this she has taught at a number of schools across the UK. 

Jessica joined CGA teaching the International GCSE and AS courses.

John Heselton - Mathematics

Introduction video

Welcome to Crimson Global Academy!

My name is John Patrick Heselton, and I am a UK trained mathematics teacher based in New Zealand.  With a background in engineering, I enjoy bringing STEM based activities into my academic and extra-curricular programmes. Here at CGA, I teach Mathematics across a range of levels where I share my interest in puzzles and problem solving.

I received my Bachelor's in Computer Engineering and spent several years in engineering before completing a post-graduate course in Project Management and moving from the field to the project office. After about ten years, I retrained completing my PGCE Mathematics and Masters in Education. While I currently teach the Pearson Edexcel syllabus, I have also taught UK, CIE and NCEA systems. 

Thanks for taking the time to read my profile! I hope you will join me in "Crushing it with Crimson!".

Kerry McClennan - Mathematics 

Kerry joins CGA after a varied career teaching in many international schools.  Kerry has taught in Malaysia, Oman, Monaco and Scotland. 

Kerry has a creative flair for producing mathematics resources and produces these for commercial companies.

Kerry has a Bachelor of Science majoring in mathematics and secondary education. 

Kerry is an IB examiner for mathematics. 

Morris Tuffery - Mathematics

Morris has had an extensive teaching career after graduating with a Bsc (Hons).  Morris, until recently,  taught Mathematics at Macleans College in Auckland for many years leading a number of courses including the International GCSE and the Further Mathematics programme. 

Before arriving at Macleans College Morris taught at both boys and girls schools. He also  had a period as a Lecturer at Manukau Institute of Technology.

Internationally Morris has taught in Australia and the United Kingdom.

Morris joined Crimson Global Academy part time in 2021. 

Personally outside of his family he has a strong interest in natural medicine.

Raymond Hines - Mathematics

Hello all. I am Ray Hines and I am a mathematics teacher based out of Auckland, NZ. I have been with CGA for a short time, but I have been teaching mathematics for 20+ years. I earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy from Slippery Rock University of Pennsylvania and a Masters in the Art of Teaching Mathematics from the University of South Carolina (both in the US) and have taught mathematics at the middle school, high school and university level.

I have lived in New Zealand for the past  12 years, teaching at Avondale College, McAuley High School, Saint Kentigern College and now obviously Crimson Global Academy.

When not teaching, I love cooking and baking (I used to own my own bakery/cafe and I make killer cinnamon rolls), love hiking with my wife and dog (Nitro), and love reading. I have just begun my journey with CGA and have much to learn, but I am excited to work with such enthusiastic learners; teaching is much more rewarding when the students care!

Kornel Nagy - Mathematics

Video introduction

Welcome to all CGA students! I trust that you are excited about your next step on your journey of education, and I am looking forward to meet you all.

My name is Kornel Nagy, and I am a mathematics / physical education teacher. I was born in Budapest, Hungary, and that is where I completed my studies at ELTE University. Since then I have taught in a number of different schools, some with Cambridge, others with IB curriculum. In 2010 my family and I moved to Auckland, and that is where I reside currently.

At CGA I am going to be teaching some International GCSE and some Pre - IGCSE Mathematics classes.

Mathematics is a beautiful subject, but it can also be challenging. Hard work, patience and perseverance will be rewarded. I believe in the importance of good student - teacher relationships and I encourage my students to ask questions, make sure you gain understanding of the topic at hand.

I am looking forward to being on this learning journey with you and I wish you all the best for your studies.

Jack Su - Mathematics

Hello everyone!  My name is Jack Su and I am a Mathematics Teacher based in Auckland, New Zealand. I am very excited to become part of the CGA team. 

I studied at the University of Auckland and completed my Bachelor's degree and GradDip here. I've taught at three different schools throughout my careers, and have tutored students across many different levels, always helping them to achieve the best that they can do. I am going to be teaching part time IGCSE Mathematics, and looking to teach some AS and A2 as well in the future.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy playing basketball with my mates and partaking in eSports, specifically watching and playing League of Legends. I have coordinated eSports teams for High Schools, many of them becoming semi finalists and finalists of their respective games.

Thanks for taking the time to read my profile!  I’m looking forward to getting to know you and wish you the very best for your studies at CGA.

Callum Stoner - Mathematics

Teacher in Charge of Mathematics, Greenwich

Hello and welcome to CGA. My name is Callum Stoner and I am based in the Midlands of the UK. I have been a Mathematics teacher since graduating from Durham University (1st Class Hons.) in the last millennium, so I have plenty of experience under my belt, with nearly twenty years of running a successful Mathematics department in my previous post. I have taught all ages and all ability levels in my career, from 11 year olds to 18 year olds, GCSE, IGCSE, A level, Further Mathematics, STEP. As well as holding a Masters degree in Mathematics Education,  I am also a Team Lead Examiner for Cambridge Assessment International Education (CIE), so have an insight into what it takes to achieve the marks in a mathematics exam. I look forward to being your guide on your mathematical journey at CGA.

Natasha Wildy - Mathematics

Welcome to all my students, I am looking forward to supporting you to achieve the best that you can in your Mathematical studies.

My name is Ms Natasha Wildy and am an experienced and enthusiastic Mathematics teacher with over twenty years of teaching experience Mathematics both within the UK and overseas. Over my teaching career I have taught all A Level modules; IGCSE and GCSE Mathematics as well as Further Mathematics and Statistics GCSE. The range and scope of Mathematical pathways for students helps to ensure that they are stretched and developed in ways to intellectually challenge them but also to prepare them for any career path that they wish to pursue.

I am an applied Mathematician as I completed my B(Eng) in Mechanical Engineering from De Montfort University and worked in industry before becoming a teacher. As an advocate for STEM I love to bring the real world into my teaching and extra-curricular activities.

I look forward to getting to know you all and wish you all the best for your studies at CGA.

Janet Leeke - Mathematics

Introduction video

Hello and welcome to CGA. I am sure you are all very excited about starting your educational journey with us; I am really looking forward to meeting you and teaching you Mathematics.

My name is Janet Leeke and I have been teaching Mathematics for 26 years in the UK. I have taught in three, quite different schools, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. In my most recent school,  I was fortunate to teach many overseas students and have been inspired by their strong work ethic and ultimate successes.

I was born in Liverpool but studied in Leicester. After graduating, I spent 18 months working in London for a financial company, this offered me invaluable experience before starting my teaching career. At my previous schools I have run the UK Maths Challenge, a country wide competition for the brightest Mathematicians. I have also been very much involved in extra curricular activities as I feel they have such a big part to play in developing students’ whole school experience.

I am sure we will meet very soon, and I look forward to working with you and providing you with everything you need to maximise your potential.

Richard Green - Physics

Introduction video

I am originally from a small town called Llangollen in North Wales. I studied Physics at Cardiff University and then on completion of my teacher training I started my career at a grammar school in the south of England. After four years I realised my ambition to work abroad and moved to Qatar to teach at Doha College, a British curriculum international school.

Three years later I moved to Dubai to Repton School to become their founding Head of Physics, where I completed  a decade of service. On returning to the UK I taught Physics at a high achieving 6th Form College. It was here that I had my first experience of teaching online and I leapt at the opportunity to join CGA, having realised the benefits of online learning to students in terms of making increased progress and the opportunities it affords to develop a deeper understanding of Physics. I am now based in Liverpool and I am excited to be able to teach and connect with students across the world.

Jonny Beaver - Physics

My name is Jonny Beaver and I am really excited to be teaching Physics at CGA :). 

This is my first year at CGA. Prior to this I was Academic Coordinator and Physics teacher for nine years at Wellington International School in Dubai. I have also taught at Muscat International School in Oman, the British International School in Istanbul for 2 years and a range of schools in New Zealand.

I am always looking for new and innovative ways to teach and take a keen interest in the changing world of education. Every class has students with a variety of learning styles, so it is important to reach out to students with a variety of media and teaching methods. As a trained Physical Education teacher I really believe in a “hands on” approach to students learning. I also believe in this data – rich world that we must use data to our advantage. It gives a wonderful insight into the students’ abilities in a class and allows differentiated lessons in order to engage all students at the level of their ability and in the way they learn. Lastly to ensure a complete “world citizen” it is so important for students to be involved in extra – curricular activities as this teaches them social and emotional skills.

In my spare time I enjoy exercise of any sort. I am a keen surfer and swimmer, I also enjoy road cycling, running, touch rugby, snowboarding and hiking.

Christi Brasher - Physics

Welcome to all CGA Students!  I hope that you are looking forward to this very exciting opportunity for your education, and I’m looking forward to teaching you Physics. 

My name is Christi Brasher, and I am a teacher of Physics with CGA with nearly 10 years’ experience in both independent (selective) and state funded (non-selective) educational settings in the UK.  Prior to teaching I had a successful 15-year career as a Principal Hydrologist working in Flood Risk Management, as a mathematical modeller and project manager.  I am a positive, enthusiastic person by nature, always seeking out the best in people.  My biggest attribute as a teacher is building, positive, trusting relationships with my students.               

I completed my Bachelor of Science and Master of Science degrees from the College of Engineering at the University of Colorado, USA, specialising in Physics, fluid dynamics and Mathematical modelling of hydrological and hydraulic systems.  I completed my teacher training at the University of Bath in the UK.  I have lived in the UK for over 20 years.  

My passion for Physics started at 17 years old when my teacher inspired me to compete in a national Physics competition called the ‘Olympics of the Minds’ in the USA.  I competed against 1000s of teenagers and qualified for the finals in Washington DC.   Since then I have loved Physics! Now I am fortunate to be a teacher of Physics, and as a teacher my main objective is to inspire students to achieve as much as possible during their education by providing them with as many opportunities to help them achieve their goals.  I have tutored students to gain places at Oxbridge and other Russell Group universities.  I have also helped my students prepare for the British Physics Olympiad national competition here in the UK.

When I am not teaching (or tutoring) I love sailing, running, hiking, swimming, bodyboarding, cycling and camping.  I regularly race my Laser dingy at my local sailing club and occasionally compete in national regattas.  I enjoy playing the piano and listening to music - you can always find me listening to Mozart when planning my lessons and playing classical music to my students when they are completing various activities, either in the classroom or online setting.  I love solving puzzles too.  I enjoy looking after the environment and learning about various plants and animals, and growing vegetables in my allotment.

Thanks for taking the time to read my profile!  I’m looking forward to getting to know you and wish you the very best for your studies at CGA.

Emily Hall - Physics

Kia ora, my name is Emily, I completed my BSc in Computer Science and Physics at University of Northern British Columbia in Canada, and spent some time working as a software engineer for the North American sawmill industry. I moved to Dunedin to attend the University of Otago and gained a BA in Education and a Bachelor of Secondary Teaching. I taught Physics in Balclutha and Dunedin while completing a Masters’ degree with a thesis on teaching Physics through Karate. I have worked in outreach at the University of Otago for many years.

I am very passionate about Physics and making Physics accessible to everyone. Often students get lost in the maths and jargon and don’t realise Physics is in everything they see and do. I’m particularly interested in Biomechanics and the Physics of sports.

 I have competed nationally and internationally in karate and now run my own  local dojo. I have a huge passion for fitness and love to do any physical activity, especially swimming, tramping, crossfit and of course, karate.  

Claudia Guiss - Biology

Introduction video

Hello to all the CGA community! My name is Claudia Guiss, and I was born in southern Brazil, in a city called Curitiba. 

Since I was a child, I have always been interested in nature. After completing my bachelor's degree in Biological Sciences by the Federal University of Paraná (UFPR), I worked as an associated researcher at CEM-UFPR in the Benthos Laboratory, working mainly with Ecology of salt marshes and mangroves. During that time, I also obtained my Master's Degree in Zoology (PRPPG-UFPR).

During my studies, I learnt about the unique fauna and flora of New Zealand, which fascinated me. I immigrated with my family in 1996.

I have taught Science and Biology both in Brazil and New Zealand, in the public and private sectors. I have always been interested in technology and e-learning and, I am very excited to join the CGA team. 

Rodney Cook - Biology

Hi! Welcome to CGA.

My name is Rodney Cook, I am a biology teacher living in the beautiful Waikato.

I earned my bachelor’s degree in the US while on an athletic scholarship to Idaho State University. After returning home I earned my Teaching Diploma from the University of Auckland. I have been teaching Science and Biology for over 15 years and have taught at schools Orewa College, Auckland Grammar School, and Berkeley High School (South Carolina, US).

The continuity of my teaching career has diverged into other areas at times. I have been a professional tennis coach intermittently over the years and in 2018-2019 was the science curator at the Waikato Museum, Te Whare Taonga O Waikato.

Tennis is an enduring passion of mine and a sport I continue to compete in and coach to others. I have helped train young players to earn athletic scholarships overseas and won the occasional national title and World Masters title.

Jamie Robinson - Biology

Hi CGA Students! Welcome to our world. I am Dr Jamie Robinson. I look forward to meeting you and getting you as interested in biology as I am. I am based in Canada but I am originally from England, where I taught for many years. I studied Natural Sciences and specialised in Zoology at Cambridge University before completing a PhD in Palaeontology in London. I also trained as a teacher in London.

I love all aspects of biology from the micro to the macro and the all encompassing wonder of evolution by natural selection. Away from biology (at least partly!) I love canoeing, kayaking, snowshoeing and generally anything out in the wild.

If you are studying biology I hope to see you soon in our CGA lessons.

Nick Salmon - Chemistry

Introduction video

Kia ora to everyone at CGA!  I hope you all as excited as I am about working together to produce results that you can be proud of

My name is Nick Salmon. I have an Engineering degree from a UK university and from there I went on to obtain my PGCE in Science. I taught Science for 7 years in the UK before I moved to NZ in 2004.

I spent 14 years at Westlake Boys High School teaching GCSE and A level Chemistry. For several years I was also the Y11 dean. During my time at Westlake, I spent time as the teacher in charge of rowing and water polo and coached several rugby teams.

For the last 3 years I have been a full-time coach of a swimming squad that included Olympians, NZ Champions and NZ record holders.  

I personally enjoy a challenge but am also motivated by helping other people work towards their goals. Swimming and Rowing are two of the most demanding sports to train for, but they produce people with exceptional personal attributes. The GCSE and A level pathway are also particularly challenging, but this allows people to realise their true potential.

As a competitive person I have high standards and expectations of my pupils as I understand the hard work that needs to be done to be successful. I have returned to teaching as l believe that CGA provides me with an exciting opportunity to work with motivated pupils to achieve outstanding results.

Away from teaching, I will continue to be coaching an exceptional young lady who I hope to qualify for the 2024 Paralympics in Paris. I swim most days and I competed at the last World Masters Games gaining 3 medals.

Thanks for taking the time to read my profile.

Jana Errington - Chemistry

Hi, I am Jana Errington. I have a Science degree from a UK university followed by the PGCE in Science. I have worked in the UK and the Czech Republic prior to moving to New Zealand.  Having worked in schools that offer NCEA, IB diploma, CIE and now Pearson Edexcel I have inspired, motivated and mentored lots of students who have been fortunate enough to gain entrance into top US and UK universities including Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, and Yale . 

I set high standards for myself, as well as for all the students I teach. My current goal is to develop life-long and resilient learners, who have both knowledge and skills to take them towards achieving their dream, with Chemistry as their passion.

I enjoy watching my kids play their various sports. When I finally get to have time for myself I relax by watching classic murder mysteries, drinking coffee and  eating Whittaker's  chocolate. 

You have chosen well! Chemistry is regarded as the central science as it overlaps with both Biology and Physics, and it is by far the most interesting without being too difficult!

Julie Martin - Chemistry and Physics

Greetings, I am Julie Martin, a dedicated Science educator at CGA in the UK. Hailing from Wales, I earned my Chemistry degree from Cardiff University and underwent teacher training at Bristol University. With 22 years of global teaching experience spanning the UK, China, and New Zealand, I specialise in international GCSE Sciences and AL Chemistry, encompassing CIE and Pearson Edexcel curricula. 

I firmly believe that the study of Science serves as a powerful catalyst for nurturing analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. It is through Science that we unravel the mysteries of the universe and elevate our comprehension of the world that envelops us. I am committed to fostering a dynamic learning environment that stimulates intellectual curiosity and promotes the pursuit of knowledge.

**
**I currently live in Wales and I’m enjoying exploring and rediscovering all of the beautiful (and historic!) landscapes with my daughter.  I am very proud to teach with CGA and look forward to the opportunity to engage with a diverse cohort of students hailing from every corner of the globe.

Jessica Jay - Psychology

Jessica has had a varied career that has involved multiple and varied job types.  After graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Psychology Jessica has worked as a Research Psychologist, Human Resources Manager, Conservation Assistant and an Occupational Therapy Assistant. 

Prior to joining CGA Jessica worked as the Head of Psychology at a prestigious boarding school in Surrey. 

Jessica has a strong interest in fitness and has a Fitness Instructors Award from the World Amateur Body Builders’ Association.  She is continuing some part time study with a Diploma in Hypnotherapy.

Amelia McKenzie - Business and Economics

Introduction video

My name is Miss McKenzie and I am an Economics and Business teacher at CGA. I studied at Otago University and gained a Bachelor of Commerce majoring in Economics and minoring in Geography. I then went on to complete my Master of Teaching and Learning endorsed in secondary education, also at Otago University. Since then I have been the Teacher in Charge of Economics at a large coeducational school in Wellington and have been teaching commerce at CGA. I love cooking, swimming, running and going to the beach!

Paul Langdon - Business and Economics

Kia ora. My name is Paul Langdon and I am a Business and Economics teacher at CGA. I live on the Whangaparaoa Peninsula which is a 40 minute drive from Auckland City. I am surrounded by beaches which are very nice, especially in summer. 

I gained a Bachelor of Management Studies degree from the University of Waikato majoring in Marketing. After working in various marketing roles for 7 years I decided to become a teacher. I have been teaching for 22 years including a stint as Head of Commerce, at my previous school, Wentworth College.

I enjoy the flexibility of working from home and the small classes at CGA allow me to really get to know my students, which I think is a huge advantage over many other schools.

My main interests, outside of school, are sporting related. Apart from spending time with my family and walking our new energetic dog, I enjoy playing golf and squash at a reasonably competitive level.

Nadia Delorme - Business and Economics

Welcome to all CGA students!

I am looking forward to meeting you in September 2021 in Economics and Business lessons.

My name is Nadia Delorme and I am an Economics and Business teacher based in the UK. I have been teaching at universities and in international schools in Finland, Egypt, Cyprus, France and in the UK. As a Sixth Form Coordinator, one of my roles covered areas such as careers and university applications. I enjoy organising cross curricular events such as escape games, enterprise days.

I have Master Degrees in Business and Management and a PGCE in Business Education. I am delighted to join CGA as I particularly enjoy digital learning with all the opportunities it offers to bring interactions in the digital classroom. 

I am looking forward to meeting you and getting to know you. I wish you all the best at CGA.

Edie Griffiths - Business and Economics

My name is Miss Griffiths and I can't wait to get to know you and see you flourish at CGA.

I am a Business and Economics teacher here at CGA and am based in the UK. During my career I've worked in a range of educational settings, from an private international school, to an education centre for a British ski team. The purposeful inclusion of technology within the classroom has always been a keen interest of mine. I regularly complete courses in this area, deliver training, as well as using EdTech tools to assist my students in making excellent progress. As a result I am a Microsoft Innovative Educator Expert, a position awarded by Microsoft for educators who effectively use technology for better learning and student outcomes.

When I am not teaching I like to spend as much time as I can outdoors, I've recently completed the Camino de Santiago. When at home I live near the lake district, therefore I am always hiking, paddle boarding, running etc. Thanks for taking the time to read my profile. See you in the classroom!

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Michael Caley - Commerce

My name is Michael Caley and I am a Commerce teacher currently based in the UK. 

I qualified as an Economics and Business teacher in 2007 and have had various teaching

roles across multiple countries. I recently returned to the UK after spending 12 years

teaching Economics and Business in a top academic school in Auckland. During my time at

the school I was fortunate to hold leadership responsibility as Head of Faculty Commerce for

six years, focusing on improving academic performance while building well-rounded,

confident, capable students. I held further responsibilities as Deputy House Leader,

Scholarship Coordinator and the teacher representative on the Board of Trustees. 

I have a BA (Hons) in Business and Economics and completed my master’s in Secondary

School Leadership last year at Victoria University, Wellington. When I am not teaching, I

enjoy the outdoors, especially playing and watching sports. I also like to travel and find time

to explore new cultures. 

I am excited about the prospect of teaching at CGA and look forward to meeting you all.

Emily Fitzgerald - History and English

Introduction video

My name is Miss Emily Fitzgerald and it is my pleasure to be working with you as you broaden your education with CGA in 2021!

I will be your History and/or English teacher this year. I hope you are as excited as I am for the incredible learning you will do. You will travel in time and place, explore life-changing events, step into others’ shoes, consider the complexity of humanity, form your own opinions, and experience the wonder of words.

I am joining you from Melbourne, Australia. I completed my Bachelor of Arts - with a double major in History and Italian - and my Master of Teaching (Secondary) - with my methods History, English and Italian - at The University of Melbourne. I was luck enough to spend almost a year as an exchange student in Italy, where I developed my passion for other languages, culture, and travel. It was during university that I fell in love with tutoring, and I soon realised what career I could see myself doing for the rest of my life! I have taught at two very different schools in Melbourne, and now I can’t wait to begin teaching at CGA.

Thank you for reading my profile, and I very much look forward to meeting you!

Jenny Smith - IT

Meet Jenny Smith, CGA’s IT Teacher! The success of Jenny’s students in all areas of computer science and IT reflects her teaching expertise. From Top in New Zealand and the World in the Cambridge International Exams to winning the Codeworx Challenge, Brightsparks, Code Club, and NZ Programming Contest, Jenny has guided her students to success both in the classroom and beyond. She looks forward to doing the same at CGA!

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