As the executive director, Corey leads a team of passionate professionals dedicated to transforming public education through leadership in chartering schools, overseeing and supporting their operations and evaluating their performance.

Corey was named the executive director of the Center in March 2019 after more than 10 years of service at the Center. He began at the Center as the director of fiscal performance and accountability and also served as one of the Center’s deputy directors. As deputy director, Corey led several areas of the Center including, the charter application process, new school development, general administration, information technology and university relations.

A 2010 graduate of the Michigan Chamber Foundation’s Leadership Program, Corey has been a champion for students during his tenure at the Center, ensuring that the children of Michigan have quality educational options. He was also a member of the 2016-17 National Association of Charter School Authorizers Leaders Program.

Prior to joining the Center, Corey was a certified public accountant with Plante Moran. He has a Bachelor of Science degree and a master’s degree from Central Michigan University, both in business administration.

As deputy director at the Center, Jason is responsible for providing leadership, operating direction and coordination throughout several units of the Center. In this role, he leads the following teams at the Center – Academic Performance and Accountability, Charter Accountability, Data Analysis and Fiscal Performance and Accountability. He also focuses on the Center’s evaluation systems.

Jason began his work at the Center in 2005 as a contract analyst where he worked with schools on initiatives related to academic performance and compliance. He returned to the Center in 2018 and now serves as the deputy director.

Prior to joining the Center in his current role, Jason was a founder and the chief academic officer for a charter public school in Northern Michigan serving a PreK through 12th-grade student population. He also served as vice president at the National Charter Schools Institute, held various roles at the Charter Schools Institute of the State University of New York and has supported the work of schools and authorizers across the country as an independent consultant. Jason began his career in the classroom as a high school social studies teacher. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Northern Michigan University and a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership from Central Michigan University.

As the director of board governance, Orlando leads the Center’s Board Governance and Field Operations units. In his role, Orlando leads a group of professionals that strive to ensure the relationship between the University and the schools it partners with is built upon a shared vision and commitment to providing a quality education for students. He directs the board member recruitment and appointment process. He leads the Center’s professional development initiatives for board members including the Board Development Series and Annual Conference.

He is a 2020 graduate of the National Association of Charter School Authorizers Leaders Program and a 2008 graduate of Leadership Detroit. Orlando frequently presents at the national level on board governance best practices.

Prior to joining the Center in 2003, Orlando worked in other departments at Central Michigan University, including Student Life. He also worked for a non-profit organization in Ohio supporting youth sports. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree and a master’s degree in administration from Central Michigan University.

Laura leads the Office of Academic Performance and Accountability which is responsible for the oversight, support and evaluation of academic performance for CMU partner schools. The office, in accordance with the charter contract, provides expert support to schools that assists in continuous improvement efforts, evaluates schools’ performance and oversees and monitors compliance with the contract and applicable law as it pertains to the educational goal, educational program, curriculum, assessment and special education. Laura also assists in the examination of instructional pedagogy, implementation of school improvement processes and compliance to the charter contract and government regulatory agencies.

Prior to joining the Center, Laura was a building administrator and served as the director of instructional support services for a national charter school management organization. She also worked with the Center for British Teachers, a London-based organization that facilitates school reviews in Europe, India and Asia. She holds certifications as a Cognitive Coach and Immunity to Change Coach and supports schools and business organizations in leading strategic change initiatives. She attended Bob Jones University and Pennsylvania State University with a concentration in elementary curriculum and educational leadership.

Sandra coordinates professional learning opportunities as well as site visits, including Educational Program Review visits, School Support visits and New School Support visits. She is a seasoned school reviewer with expertise in coordinating and collecting evidence on the implementation, delivery and support of a school’s instructional program. In addition to organizing site visits and professional learning opportunities, she also serves as the liaison between the academy and vendors contracted by the Center to conduct Quality School Review visits.

Prior to joining the Center, Sandra was involved with curriculum development, school improvement efforts and oversaw assessment administration at a charter public school. She holds a teaching certificate with elementary and secondary endorsements from the state of Michigan and has worked as a middle school teacher. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Michigan State University and her Master of Arts degree from Eastern Michigan University.

Mandy provides site support to CMU partner schools to strengthen their improvement efforts. Mandy works with schools through the Becoming Data Wise process where she guides schools in establishing a strong data culture while also assisting schools in the utilization of assessment data to foster academic improvement. With the Becoming Data Wise process she also assists schools in identifying a problem of practice as well as effective related teaching practices. Mandy also supports partner schools by serving as a team member for various Educational Program Review visits, School Support visits and New School Support visits.

Prior to joining the Center, Mandy was an education manager for a national management company for private academies and served as both an instructional support services manager and a coaching and learning consultant for a national charter school management organization. She has a Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in elementary education from Western Michigan University. She also earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Grand Valley State University.

Valerie provides academic support to schools to aid improvement efforts. She has strategic and operational responsibility for oversight of Educational Program Reviews, Quality School Reviews and School Support Visits for CMU partner schools. Valerie also facilitates professional learning opportunities in the area of instructional strategies.

Valerie has more than 25 years of experience supporting the charter public school movement. Prior to joining the Center, she served as a curriculum and instruction specialist as well as a coaching and learning consultant for a national charter school management organization. Valerie also was a teacher at two charter public schools. She earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with an elementary education certification, and a Master of Education degree from Grand Valley State University.

Kathy provides oversight and support to CMU partner charter schools in the delivery of special education services. She conducts continuous improvement reviews to assist schools in the delivery of high-quality education for students identified with disabilities and ensures compliance with federal, state and local special education rules and regulations. She serves as a liaison for schools with state and intermediate school district special education staff and communicates with school leadership teams concerning changes in special education rules and regulations.

In the past, Kathy has held several positions in special education throughout the state of Michigan, including school principal, supervisor of quality assurance for the Michigan Department of Education, and executive director of special education for an intermediate school district. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and special education from Northern Arizona University and a master’s degree in educational psychology from Michigan State University.

Jacqueline provides oversight and support to CMU partner charter schools in the delivery of special education services. She conducts continuous improvement reviews to assist schools in the delivery of high-quality education for students identified with disabilities and ensures compliance with federal, state and local special education rules and regulations. She serves as a liaison for schools with state and intermediate school district special education staff and communicates with school leadership teams concerning changes in special education rules and regulations.

Dr. McDougal has over 30 years in education, having served as the supervisor and executive director of special education for 15 years in multiple school districts. She also served in the roles of consulting psychologist, school psychologist, and clinical supervisor. She earned her Special Education Supervisor certification from Grand Valley State University, Master of Education – Education Leadership from Oakland University, Doctorate of Philosophy – Clinical Psychology from the University of Detroit Mercy, Master of Science – Counseling Psychology/Mental Health from the University of Southern Mississippi, and Bachelor of Arts-Psychology/Mental Health from Tougaloo College, Miss.

Candice is responsible for supporting the executive director and ensuring streamlined activities within the Center. She handles the day-to-day management of Center personnel and provides leadership in overseeing administrative functions on behalf of the executive director. Her work with the Center’s staff includes initiatives related to recruitment, retention, evaluation, and professional development.

Prior to joining the Center in 2012, Candice served as the Director of Facilities and Events at Northwood University. She earned a bachelor’s degree in Management from Saginaw Valley State University and a Master of Science in Administration with an emphasis in Human Resources from Central Michigan University.

Jessica is responsible for managing administrative functions, ensuring that all activities are conducted in accordance with university policies and procedures. She also manages the information technology team, setting IT goals and establishing policies to support the strategies outlined by executive leadership.

Prior to joining the Center in 2001, Jessica was a certified public accountant with Plante Moran. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, with a major in accounting, from Central Michigan University.

Lori is responsible for supporting the operational and administrative functions of our office. In her role she serves as our Mount Pleasant office receptionist and collaborates with Center team members on administrative projects.

Prior to joining the Center in 2000, she previously worked in the customer and food service sectors. She is a graduate of Montabella High School.

Judi is responsible for maintaining administrative functions and providing fiscal support in conjunction with the director of administration. She manages employee payroll, employee travel reimbursements, accounts payables/receivables and purchasing functions, along with assisting with the monthly state aid process.

Prior to joining the Center in 1998, she spent 18 years serving the retail, automotive supply-base, and industrial manufacturing sectors. She is a Certified Administrative Professional and is currently a member of the International Association of Administrative Professionals. She has also completed coursework at Montcalm Community College and Central Michigan University.

Bruce is responsible for overseeing the installation, maintenance, and security of software and hardware, ensuring the operational health of both server and virtual server infrastructure. As part of the information technology team, Bruce plays a key role in problem resolution and escalation procedures, contributing to the design and implementation of new technologies and processes to improve the organization’s systems.

Bruce has been with the Center for 25 years. Prior to joining the Center, he worked as an operator and technician of mainframe and minicomputer systems. He also proudly served in the U.S. Navy.

Heather manages and maintains the organization’s databases. As part of the information technology team, she creates and edits reports that play a critical role in transforming data into valuable business insights. She also maintains the data entry program.

Heather has been with the Center since 2007. Prior to joining the Center, she worked as a programmer with Hitachi. She graduated from CMU with a Bachelor of Science in math and computer science.

Martha is responsible for the development of the Center’s board development series, annual conference, and other external events. She develops and enhances working relationships with various organizations and businesses and organizes special events, including logistical set-up and volunteer and student coordination.

Martha has been a member of our team since 2010.

As the director of board governance, Orlando leads the Center’s Board Governance and Field Operations units. In his role, Orlando leads a group of professionals that strive to ensure the relationship between the University and the schools it partners with is built upon a shared vision and commitment to providing a quality education for students. He directs the board member recruitment and appointment process. He leads the Center’s professional development initiatives for board members including the Board Development Series and Annual Conference.

He is a 2020 graduate of the National Association of Charter School Authorizers Leaders Program and a 2008 graduate of Leadership Detroit. Orlando frequently presents at the national level on board governance best practices.

Prior to joining the Center in 2003, Orlando worked in other departments at Central Michigan University, including Student Life. He also worked for a non-profit organization in Ohio supporting youth sports. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree and a master’s degree in administration from Central Michigan University.

Amy is responsible for directing the Center’s functions associated with charter contract accountability, which includes reauthorization, compliance and oversight, contract amendments, teacher certification reviews, site and facilities, educational service provider and lease agreements.

Prior to joining the Center in 2009, Amy served as the chief financial officer and director of leadership development for the National Charter Schools Institute. She also worked as the director of business services for the Michigan division of a charter public school management company and served as the director for oversight and assistant director for finance at the Center. She holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from the University of Maryland.

Jennifer provides assistance in the areas of contract amendments, providing expertise and guidance to schools on the application and amendment processes, required contract documents as well state department and authorizer requirements. In this capacity, Jennifer performs document reviews, coordinates special projects and interfaces with development teams and school personnel.

Jennifer joined the Center in 2004, having previously worked in various administrative roles at Davenport University and William Tyndale College. Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from William Tyndale College.

Nichole is responsible for the review and assessment of certain documentation, ensuring compliance with contract reporting requirements and applicable law through the efficient and effective use of Epicenter. Furthermore, she ensures all charter public schools have a fair and equitable application and enrollment process. Nichole also reviews all educational programs and curriculum to ensure alignment to the requirements of the charter contract for all CMU-authorized charter public schools.

Nichole joined the Center in 2013. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education degree in early childhood studies from Bowling Green State University.

Lisa is responsible for the annual development and dissemination of the Center’s Master Calendar of Reporting Requirements. She coordinates and oversees the Center’s processes regarding school staff review and site and facility reviews. In addition, Lisa coordinates the Center’s complaint process relating to external school parties.

Lisa earned a Bachelor of Science degree in health promotion and rehabilitation and a master’s degree in educational administration from Central Michigan University.

Chris provides leadership in the areas of assessment and evaluation to support school performance and accountability efforts and inform public policy. In his role he ensures that the Center has the information necessary to make data-informed decisions regarding academic school performance and contractual performance. In support of the Center’s partner schools, Dr. White ensures that schools are utilizing current best practices in academic assessment. He is also responsible for ensuring the Center is well positioned to advance using data to inform authorizing practices and to target resources to more effectively determine and improve the performance of schools authorized by CMU.

Prior to joining the Center, he was the associate director of the Ferris State University Charter Schools Office. In his more than 20 years in education, Chris has served in many roles, including middle school teacher, special education coordinator, finance director, school principal, and assistant superintendent. His time in education also includes eight years serving as the principal and superintendent of a charter public school. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Northern Michigan University, a master’s degree in education from Ferris State University, an Educational Specialist degree from Grand Valley State University, and a doctor of education degree in educational leadership from Central Michigan University. He is also a 2022 graduate of the National Association of Charter School Authorizers Leaders Program.

Sherry provides support to CMU partner schools in the area of student assessment. Her primary focus is supporting educators with understanding and applying student assessment data for school improvement solutions. In addition, she also works with schools to develop processes for the administration of assessment programs such as MAP Growth, M-STEP and the PSAT/SAT®. Additionally, Sherry works with schools through the Becoming Data Wise program where she guides schools in establishing a strong data culture while also assisting in the utilization of assessment data to foster academic improvement.

Prior to joining the Center in 2010, Sherry served as a school counselor and assessment coordinator at a charter public school in the Detroit area. Sherry is also a certified 6+ teacher and taught high school in a traditional public school bordering Detroit. She holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary education and a master’s degree in school counseling from Wayne State University.

Vishal is a member of the Center’s Data Analysis team. He is responsible for analyzing academic data to identify trends and insights while creating visual displays to allow for academic data to be reviewed effectively for decision-making.

Prior to joining the Center in 2024, Vishal served as a data analyst graduate assistant at Central Michigan University. In this role, he conducted comprehensive analyses of data, developed interactive dashboards, and applied advanced segmentation techniques in data analysis. Vishal earned a Master of Science in Information Systems, with a major in Data Analytics, from Central Michigan University.

Fred serves as a school lead, providing expertise and guidance to schools on issues related to school operations, governance, general compliance and student achievement. He meets regularly with individual schools, attending board meetings, overseeing site visits and discussing each school’s unique areas of success and opportunity.

Prior to joining the Center, he was supporting school leaders as a mentor and coach. In his more than 40 years in education, Fred has served as a teacher, school principal, adjunct faculty at a university, and director of school leadership for an educational service provider. He has also worked with the National Charter Schools Institute and has an extensive background in presenting at education conferences throughout the country.

Fred holds an associate degree from San Diego City College as well as a bachelor’s and master’s degree in education from Wayne State University. He is a certified school administrator through the state of Michigan and proudly served our country in the United States Marine Corps.

Shawn serves as a school lead, providing expertise and guidance to schools on issues related to school operations, governance, general compliance and student achievement. He meets regularly with individual schools, attending board meetings, overseeing site visits and discussing each school’s unique areas of success and opportunity.

Prior to joining the Center, he served in the role of principal and head of school at several schools throughout Michigan with more than 20 years of experience working in education. He also has an extensive background in presenting to schools and education conferences on a range of topics and best practices. Shawn earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from St. Mary’s College, Master of Arts degree from Marygrove College, and administration certification from Western Michigan University. He is currently completing his Doctor of Educational Leadership program at Western Michigan University.

Jennifer serves as a school lead, providing expertise and guidance to schools on issues related to school operations, governance, general compliance and student achievement. She meets regularly with individual schools, attending board meetings, overseeing site visits and discussing each school’s unique areas of success and opportunity.

Prior to joining the Center, she was the regional vice president for an educational service provider. She has also served in various roles including principal, assistant principal, teacher and counselor at several schools in both Sandusky, Ohio and Detroit. Prior to that Jennifer worked with Detroit Public Schools in numerous roles including chief of staff in the Office of the Superintendent. Jennifer has a Bachelor of Arts degree in French from the University of Michigan, Master of Arts degree in Counseling from the University of Detroit and her teacher certification from the University of Michigan. She also is a certified K-12 school administrator through the state of Michigan.

Craig serves as a school lead, providing expertise and guidance to schools on issues related to school operations, governance, general compliance, and student achievement. He meets regularly with individual schools, attending board meetings, overseeing site visits, and discussing each school’s unique areas of success and opportunity.

Prior to joining the Center in 2024, Craig served as the superintendent and director of human resources at a Mid-Michigan public school district. He was responsible for all aspects of the district, including human resources, instruction, professional development, district budgeting, and fostering a positive school-wide culture. He has also served in various roles, including principal, assistant principal, and teacher at several West Michigan high schools. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education from Central Michigan University and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University.

Cory serves as a school lead, providing expertise and guidance to schools on issues related to school operations, governance, general compliance and student achievement. He meets regularly with individual schools, attending board meetings, overseeing site visits and discussing each school’s unique areas of success and opportunity.

Prior to joining the Center, he was the school leader at a charter public school in Flint. In his more than 20 years in education, Cory has served as an elementary school teacher, school dean, human resources manager and school principal. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in education from the University of Nebraska at Kearney, a Master of Arts in education from the University of Nebraska at Omaha, an Educational Specialist degree in Leadership and Administration from Liberty University, and a doctorate of education in leadership and administration from Liberty University.

Jonathan serves as a school lead, providing expertise and guidance to schools on issues related to school operations, governance, general compliance and student achievement. He meets regularly with individual schools, attending board meetings, overseeing site visits and discussing each school’s unique areas of success and opportunity.

Prior to joining the Center, he was a middle school technology teacher. His more than 20 years working in corporate America in management, human resources and training provided him the experience to move into the role of director of operations with an educational service provider. Jonathan has been the lead project manager on numerous school building and renovation projects. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in education from Kent State University.

Michael is responsible for assessing the financial performance and viability of CMU’s portfolio of charter public schools. Michael leads the Office of Fiscal Performance and Accountability that utilizes analysis of financial performance to provide resources and strategic insight to partner schools related to financial viability. They also ensure partner schools comply with the charter contract as well as public school accounting and finance, through the reviews of audited financial statements, quarterly financial statements and budgets.

Prior to joining the Center, he served as the assistant director of school review and fiscal accountability at the Michigan Department of Treasury. He also served as an instructional practice administrator at Chicago Public Schools and the director of specialized services for a charter public school. He began his career as a high school teacher. Michael earned a bachelor’s degree in history and political science from the University of Michigan, a Master of Arts in sociology from New York University and a Master of Arts in education from National-Louis University.

Suzanne performs oversight duties within the Office of Fiscal Performance and Accountability and assists in assessing the financial performance and viability of CMU’s partner schools. She provides guidance and expertise to schools related to their budgets, quarterly financial statements, audited financial statements and overall financial performance. In addition, she monitors charter schools’ compliance with insurance requirements, reviews educational service provider agreements, financings and leases.

Before joining the Center in 2005, Suzanne worked as a financial analyst. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in hotel and restaurant management from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in business administration from the Illinois Institute of Technology.

LauraLea performs oversight duties within the Office of Fiscal Performance and Accountability and assists in assessing the financial performance and viability of CMU’s partner schools. She provides guidance and expertise to schools related to their budgets, quarterly financial statements, audited financial statements and overall financial performance. In addition, she monitors charter schools’ compliance with insurance requirements, reviews educational service provider agreements, financings and leases.

Before joining the Center in 2021, LauraLea worked as a budget manager for an educational service provider. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration degree in accounting from Grand Valley State University.

Jennifer provides assistance in the areas of new school development and contract amendments, providing expertise and guidance to schools on the application and amendment processes, required contract documents as well State Department and authorizer requirements. In this capacity, Jennifer performs document reviews, coordinates special projects and interfaces with development teams and school personnel.

Prior to joining the Center in 2004, she worked in various administrative roles at Davenport University and William Tyndale College. Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from William Tyndale College.

Jason is responsible for evaluating the impact of state and federal programs on charter public schools and serves as a liaison with governmental agencies, legislative offices, education reform organizations and charter public schools boards. He is a vital part of educating stakeholders on all aspects of charter authorizing and the importance of school choice.

Prior to joining the Center in 2017, Jason served as the director of government affairs for a statewide education advocacy organization. He has also served as a policy advisor focusing on education in the Michigan House of Representatives. He has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Oakland University and a Master of Public Administration from Eastern Michigan University.

Janelle is responsible for planning, executing and evaluating projects related to internal and external communications. She assists the Center with social media, marketing materials, website development and communications publications.

Prior to joining the Center in 2015, Janelle served as a legislative staff member for several state legislators in the Michigan House of Representatives. She has a bachelor’s degree in integrative public relations from Central Michigan University.

Jaida is responsible for supporting the written and digital communication efforts of the Center’s communications unit. She assists with the Center’s communications, social media efforts, publications, and the production of marketing materials that advance the Center’s initiatives.

Prior to joining the Center in 2025, Jaida served as the vice president of communications and social media manager for the NCAA Student-Athlete Advisory Committee in Edwardsville, Illinois. In this role, Jaida developed strategic social media plans, maintained an active presence on social networks, and evaluated social media metrics. She also designed visual content for digital communications projects. Jaida earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Business/Psychology from Southern Illinois University of Edwardsville.

Shanese serves as the director of university and community partnerships leading the vision and development of initiatives that ensure students enrolled in or graduated from CMU partner schools are successful in college, work, and life. She serves as the lead liaison between The Center for Charter Schools and Central Michigan University, leveraging the world-class resources of the university to support the charter schools that the university partners with as an authorizer. Shanese also represents the Center with external partners, including serving as the organization’s liaison in Detroit where she works to build connections between CMU partner schools and the community.

She currently serves as a part-time faculty member at Wayne State University. Prior to joining the Center, she was also an academic advisor at Wayne State University’s Mike Ilitch School of Business. She has also served as an admissions counselor at Davenport University, an enrollment and match specialist with Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Detroit, and a program associate with Michigan State University Extension. Shanese has a Bachelor of Science in Community Development from Central Michigan University and a Master of Business Administration from Davenport University.

Tim oversees initiatives that create and establish enriching connections between CMU faculty and staff and CMU-authorized charter public schools. He has worked in various leadership roles at the Center from special advisor of new initiatives to business services. Tim has worked to create, support, and guide the development and management of many of the Center’s innovative projects. Examples of his current efforts include the Charter School Educator Award, Spirit of the Future scholarship program, and Experience Central campus tour.

Prior to joining the Center in 2003, Tim worked in the legal field in the areas of intellectual property law, corporate law and education law. He has a Bachelor of Science degree from Central Michigan University and a juris doctor degree from the Pierce Law Center, now a part of the University of New Hampshire. He has also been a member of the Mt. Pleasant Public School Board of Education since 2008.

Jesse serves as the associate director of programs and school outreach connecting schools throughout the state with the programming and resources they need to ensure their students will be successful in college, work, and life. He is also a key part of the Center’s programming that welcomes hundreds of middle school and high school students to CMU’s Mount Pleasant campus throughout the school year. Jesse also serves as an ambassador in Detroit, connecting CMU partner schools to partnerships in the community.

Prior to joining the Center, he had over a decade of experience in higher education, youth development, and mentorship. Jesse has held the role of assistant director of admissions, program lead, and more for various organizations. He also currently serves as the Housing and Program Manager for the Black Legacy Advancement Coalition. Co-creating youth programs, fostering post-secondary access, and creating leadership opportunities for future generations have been key achievements in his career. Jesse has a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Criminal Justice from Central Michigan University and a Master of Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University. He also is a certified school administrator through the state of Michigan.

As the Center’s graduate assistant for charter school engagement, Alexandria plays a key role in building community among charter alumni and students. She assists with the planning and implementation of student programs and charter alumni engagement initiatives. She supports student transitions from CMU-authorized charter schools and advises the CMU Charter Alumni Group, while assisting with campus visit programming, including Fire Up for Your Future and Experience Central.

Alexandria has been with the Center since 2024. Before joining the Center, Alexandria worked as a registered behavior technician, delivering one-on-one ABA therapy to individuals with autism spectrum disorder. She is a certified registered behavior technician through the BACB and earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Biology from Michigan State University.