Leadership

Staff

Jennifer Petrie, Interim Director

Jennifer Petrie

I’ve spent my career working in a variety of roles within Jowonio; from a teacher’s aide to special education teacher, clinical liaison, and now assistant director. Each experience has shaped my passion for inclusive education and the belief that all children deserve to learn in environments where they feel valued and supported.

I earned my Master’s in Early Childhood Special Education from Syracuse University, along with Certificates of Advanced Study in both School Building and District Leadership (Le Moyne College) and Assistive Technology (George Mason University). I’m especially drawn to Universal Design for Learning and love working with educators to create classrooms where every child can thrive.

Kate Smith, Assistant Director

Kate Smith

I have worked in special education and early childhood for 25 years, working as a special education teacher for Jowonio and other programs for a number of years before completing my Educational Leadership program and returning to Jowonio as assistant director and UPK program director. I love supporting Jowonio’s staff, developing meaningful professional learning opportunities and contributing to a positive and innovative working environment.

Board of Directors

Executive Committee

  • Liz Dwyer
    President, member since 2023, current Jowonio parent
  • Jakia Durham Kelly
    Vice President, member since 2024, current Jowonio parent
  • Michelle Hammerle
    Treasurer, member since 2020, parent of Jowonio alum
  • Adrian Bayardi, staff representative, member since 2019, parent of two Jowonio alumni
  • Gretchen Dillon, member since 2026, current Jowonio parent
  • Sarah Longley, member since 2025, friend of
  • Nick Malone, member since 2021, parent of Jowonio alum
  • Chad Norton, member since 2024, Jowonio alum
  • Michelle Olevano, member since 2024, parent of Jowonio alum
  • Robin Peterson, staff representative, member since 2026
  • Katie Rey, member since 2018, parent of two Jowonio alumni
  • Michael Rey, member since 2018, parent of two Jowonio alumni
  • Jaime Riley, member since 2025, current Jowonio parent
  • Nicole Schuster, member since 2022, current Jowonio parent
  • Will Staton, member since 2026, current Jowonio parent

Ex-Officio Board Members

  • Bob Pandori, Financial Manager, parent of 2 Jowonio alumni
  • Jennifer Petrie, Interim Director
  • Kate Smith, Assistant Director, parent of Jowonio alum