An experienced nonprofit leader and educator, Deborah is known widely for cultivating the conversations, empathy, and capacity critical to addressing complex challenges. In her role as Executive Director, she leads HFLI’s vision, strategy, and work to advance excellence in education for all by developing dynamic learning environments; new models for teaching, learning and leading, all with HFLI’s signature Deeper Learning by Doing(R) engagement framework; and attention to participants’ wellness through an intentional focus on Shared Purpose, Shared Work and Shared Joy.
Before joining HFLI in 2005, Deborah designed and directed extensive teacher leadership development programs for multiple school systems and served as one of the founding teachers of Henry Ford Academy in Dearborn, Michigan. She earned the distinction of Master Teacher from the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards. Deborah earned three degrees, all from the University of Michigan. When she’s not cheering on her beloved Wolverines (Go Blue!), she enjoys spending time with her family at home in Ann Arbor and South Florida, reading books in various genres, and celebrating special occasions with Carvel ice cream cakes.
