Leadership
Meet the Board of Directors guiding Newsom Educational College
Board of Directors
Board of Directors
Meet the individuals who bring passion, expertise, and dedication to our mission.
Blake Newsom, M.S.
President & Chancellor
Founder and visionary leader of Newsom Educational College. Pursuing Ph.D. in Psychology with specialization in Gender and Sexual Fluidity. Author, researcher, and advocate dedicated to transforming higher education for adults with IDD through trauma-informed, inclusive practices.
Kendra Hayes
Secretary
Mental Health Tech and Supervisor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center. Board secretary bringing organizational expertise and a deep commitment to Ne College's mission of inclusive higher education.
Dr. Eeman Salem, Ph.D.
Vice Chairwoman
Doctoral scholar and advocate supporting Ne College's strategic vision and academic governance as Vice Chairwoman.
Dr. Candy Jones-Martorell, Ed.D.
Program Development
Expert in curriculum development and program design, bringing decades of educational leadership to Ne College's degree offerings.
Dr. Michael Fienberg, Ph.D.
Director of Mathematics Education & Curriculum Innovation
Mathematics education scholar driving innovative, accessible curriculum design for adult learners with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Dr. Denisha C. Shah, DO, MPH, Ph.D.
Director of Health, Wellness & Accessibility
Physician and public health expert championing holistic wellness and accessible support services for every Ne College student.
Dr. Tony Schellenberger, Psy.D.
Director of Psychology Education & Curriculum Innovation
Doctor of Psychology and educator shaping Ne College's psychology curriculum to support student mental health and developmental growth.
Dr. Amanda Walker, Ph.D.
Director of Student & Disability Services
Advocate and scholar ensuring every student receives individualized support, accommodations, and a pathway to academic success.
Dr. Adam J. Pyecha, D.Sc.
Director of Faculty Advancement & Mentorship
Doctor of Social Science in Prevention Science and Communications adjunct faculty leading initiatives to support faculty growth, professional development, and mentorship programs.
Debra Ann Matthews, M.A.
Director of Accreditation & Expansion
M.A. from Austin Peay State University. Certified Job and Career Development/Transition Coach. Published contributor to Modernize Your Job Search Letters. 20+ years in workforce development and career transition coaching. Also serves as Communications Adjunct Faculty at Newsom Educational College.