MEET CYNTHIA
My academic credentials include a doctorate in education leadership from the University of Pittsburgh, where my research focused on addressing chronic absenteeism and strengthening family engagement in schools. I also hold two master’s degrees in educational administration (from The University of Michigan) and counseling (Geneva College), and a bachelor’s degree in behavioral sciences (from The University of Chicago).
Throughout my professional career I have held a Pennsylvania K-12 Principal and a Supervisor of Curriculum and Instruction certification. I am also a Nationally Certified Counselor and worked as a school-based therapist in a public school for several years.
VISION & GOALS
I envision a Woodland Hills School District where every student discovers their unique path to success. Throughout my career, I've witnessed how truly excellent education transforms lives, and I'm committed to creating learning environments where all our children can thrive. Our schools must prepare students not just academically, but holistically - developing critical thinking, creativity, and the confidence to pursue their dreams.
As your school board representative, I will champion educational excellence that meets each child where they are while challenging them to reach their highest potential. Whether a student's journey leads to college, technical training, or directly into the workforce, my goal is to ensure they graduate with the knowledge, skills and character needed to succeed. I believe in building strong partnerships between schools, families and our community to support every child's growth.
My dedication to educational equity runs deep. I understand that excellence means ensuring all students receive the resources, opportunities, and support they need. Together, we can create a district where achievement gaps close, where innovation flourishes, and where every child leaves our schools prepared to become successful, contributing members of our society. This is my commitment to the children and families of Woodland Hills.
COMMUNITY CONNECTION
As a Forest Hills resident of over 20 years, I've witnessed firsthand how our schools serve as the foundation of our community's strength and vitality. Strong schools create safe neighborhoods, attract new families, support local businesses, and cultivate the next generation of community leaders. I firmly believe that when we invest in educational excellence, we're investing in the future prosperity of our entire region.
My vision is built on collaboration. By bringing together parents, educators, administrators, and community members in meaningful partnership, we can create learning environments where students flourish academically and socially. This collaborative approach ensures our schools reflect our community's values while preparing our children to contribute positively to society.
This collaborative approach ensures our schools reflect our community's values while preparing our children to contribute positively to society. Together, we'll build upon our district's existing strengths to further elevate Woodland Hills as a community where exceptional educational opportunities continue to thrive and evolve for generations to come.
Phone: 412-568-7227
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS AND IMPACT
Professional & Community Leadership
As the Executive Pastor of Bible Center Church in Pittsburgh, I provide spiritual and organizational leadership to the congregation, guiding initiatives that strengthen faith and community engagement. In addition to my pastoral role, I serve as the Executive Director of The Oasis Project, the community and economic development division of Bible Center Church. This initiative is dedicated to transforming lives through education, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.
Educational Initiatives Through The Oasis Project
The Oasis Project has several impactful educational programs, including an after-school and summer youth program that provides academic enrichment and mentorship to students. We also operate an urban farm, which teaches sustainability, nutrition, and agricultural business skills to community members. Additionally, our preschool program ensures that young children receive a strong educational foundation, preparing them for lifelong learning.
Entrepreneurial Ventures Through The Oasis Project
Beyond education, The Oasis Project fosters economic empowerment through various entrepreneurial initiatives. Our transportation company improves mobility options for residents, while our business academy equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills needed to start and sustain businesses. The Own Our Own initiative is dedicated to helping individuals and families build economic independence through business ownership. We also operate Everyday Café, a community-driven coffee shop that serves as a hub for connection, economic development, and local engagement.
Educational Leadership Experience
My career in education has spanned multiple roles and communities. Prior to moving to Pittsburgh, I was a principal in the Ann Arbor Public Schools and the co-founder and principal of Genesis Christian Academy, a faith-based institution committed to academic excellence. After relocating, I served as principal of Pittsburgh Montessori, a PK-8th grade school in the Pittsburgh Public Schools, from 2007 to 2013. My background also includes extensive experience as an elementary school teacher and administrator, shaping young minds and school policies to improve student outcomes.
In addition to my leadership in K-12 education, I have contributed to higher education as an adjunct professor in the teacher education departments at both Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Carlow University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In these roles, I helped train future educators, sharing my expertise in instructional leadership and student development.
Faith & Community Development Work
Since 2018, I have worked as a national trainer and coach for Made to Flourish, an organization dedicated to strengthening the connection between faith and work. In this role, I help pastors and churches integrate economic empowerment principles into their ministries, fostering communities that thrive both spiritually and economically.
Personal Life & Legacy
Beyond my professional and academic pursuits, my greatest joy comes from my family. I have been married for over thirty-seven years and am a proud mother of four adult children. My personal and professional experiences have shaped my deep commitment to education, faith, and community service, and I remain dedicated to creating opportunities for future generations to succeed.
Professional & Community Leadership
As the Executive Pastor of Bible Center Church in Pittsburgh, I provide spiritual and organizational leadership to the congregation, guiding initiatives that strengthen faith and community engagement. In addition to my pastoral role, I serve as the Executive Director of The Oasis Project, the community and economic development division of Bible Center Church. This initiative is dedicated to transforming lives through education, entrepreneurship, and sustainability.
Educational Initiatives Through
The Oasis Project
The Oasis Project has several impactful educational programs, including an after-school and summer youth program that provides academic enrichment and mentorship to students. We also operate an urban farm, which teaches sustainability, nutrition, and agricultural business skills to community members. Additionally, our preschool program ensures that young children receive a strong educational foundation, preparing them for lifelong learning.
Entrepreneurial Ventures Through
The Oasis Project
Beyond education, The Oasis Project fosters economic empowerment through various entrepreneurial initiatives. Our transportation company improves mobility options for residents, while our business academy equips aspiring entrepreneurs with the skills needed to start and sustain businesses. The Own Our Own initiative is dedicated to helping individuals and families build economic independence through business ownership. We also operate Everyday Café, a community-driven coffee shop that serves as a hub for connection, economic development, and local engagement.
Educational Leadership Experience
My career in education has spanned multiple roles and communities. Prior to moving to Pittsburgh, I was a principal in the Ann Arbor Public Schools and the co-founder and principal of Genesis Christian Academy, a faith-based institution committed to academic excellence. After relocating, I served as principal of Pittsburgh Montessori, a PK-8th grade school in the Pittsburgh Public Schools, from 2007 to 2013. My background also includes extensive experience as an elementary school teacher and administrator, shaping young minds and school policies to improve student outcomes.
In addition to my leadership in K-12 education, I have contributed to higher education as an adjunct professor in the teacher education departments at both Concordia University in Ann Arbor, Michigan, and Carlow University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In these roles, I helped train future educators, sharing my expertise in instructional leadership and student development.
Faith & Community Development Work
Since 2018, I have worked as a national trainer and coach for Made to Flourish, an organization dedicated to strengthening the connection between faith and work. In this role, I help pastors and churches integrate economic empowerment principles into their ministries, fostering communities that thrive both spiritually and economically.
Personal Life & Legacy
Beyond my professional and academic pursuits, my greatest joy comes from my family. I have been married for over thirty-seven years and am a proud mother of four adult children. My personal and professional experiences have shaped my deep commitment to education, faith, and community service, and I remain dedicated to creating opportunities for future generations to succeed.
STRONG SCHOOLS, STRONG COMMUNITIES
