Our Leadership

Chris Griffin brings experience in business ownership, financial management, and residential construction to STEPS. After building a successful homebuilding company, he chose to apply his business background to work centered on supporting students and families.

As Chief Financial Officer, Chris works alongside the CEO and leadership team to guide financial planning, budgeting, and organizational operations. He helps align resources with program needs and supports responsible planning for STEPS’ future.

His practical approach to problem-solving and commitment to the organization’s mission help sustain the people, spaces, and services that make individualized education and support possible.

Katie Smith has been part of STEPS since 2009, serving in roles that have given her a broad understanding of its students, staff, and programs.

As Chief Operating Officer, Katie connects organizational priorities with daily operations. She supports leaders, strengthens collaboration, and helps build a workplace where staff have the guidance and resources to serve students effectively.

Her leadership emphasizes a healthy workplace culture, practical problem-solving, and thoughtful improvement.

Kyle Rose brings 36 years of special education experience to his leadership of educational services across STEPS. Having served as a teacher, principal, and director, he understands how strong instruction, skilled educators, and supportive school environments work together to help students succeed.

Kyle holds a master’s degree in special education from Kent State University. As an adjunct professor at Cleveland State University, he helped prepare future intervention specialists for the classroom. His extensive work with the Sanctuary Institute also informs his approach to trauma-informed care and the role of safety, trust, and relationships in learning.

At STEPS, Kyle partners with leaders and educators across sites to strengthen instruction, develop staff expertise, and connect educational practices with each student’s needs. His leadership pairs high expectations with compassionate support, helping teams create meaningful opportunities for academic and personal growth.

Mandy Turk is a board-certified music therapist who joined STEPS Educational Group in 2018. Her experience across multiple roles gives her a practical understanding of the learning and support needs of both students and staff.

Mandy leads training and professional development that help employees strengthen their skills and connect new learning with everyday practice. She emphasizes collaboration, continued growth, and helping staff feel prepared for their responsibilities.

Cheryl Donaldson brings more than 30 years of nursing experience in critical care and pediatrics, including two decades supporting children and adolescents in nonprofit settings.

A graduate of Bowling Green and Tri-C, Cheryl is a member of the National Association of School Nurses and is certified in mental health nursing.

Her work supports a safe, healthy educational environment that recognizes individual medical needs and helps students participate in their school community.

Anthony Liber brings more than 25 years of educational experience to STEPS Academy. His background includes work as a consultant, teacher, and school administrator in programs serving students diagnosed with autism.

Anthony began his career in New England, where he received specialized training in applied behavior analysis. He combines this experience with an emphasis on relationships among students, families, and educators.

As principal, he supports individualized education and a school community where students’ needs are understood and their progress is recognized.

Taylor Simpson has worked in the field of autism since 2016, with experience as an associate teacher, Registered Behavior Technician, and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. She earned her master’s degree in Applied Behavior Analysis from the University of Cincinnati in 2019.

For the past four years, Taylor has provided clinical supervision at STEPS Academy, guiding RBTs and classroom teams in implementing individualized behavioral supports. Her experience connects clinical knowledge with a practical understanding of how children learn and participate in everyday environments.

As Clinical Director of STEPS Institute, Taylor supports individualized treatment and staff development, with an emphasis on meaningful skills, confidence, and greater independence. She values each child’s progress and the opportunity to partner with families and staff throughout their growth.

Christine Zanoni brings more than 30 years of experience as a teacher, school leader, and program director.

Her approach combines strengths-based education, experiential learning, and mindfulness. She emphasizes belonging as a foundation for learning and works to create a community where students feel recognized, connected, and capable.

Christine holds a bachelor’s degree in education from Hiram College, a master’s degree in special education from Kent State University, and leadership credentials from Baldwin Wallace University.

Aaron Muttillo brings more than 20 years of experience supporting children and adolescents in public, private, and nonprofit settings.

A licensed school psychologist, Aaron holds a doctorate in urban education from Cleveland State University. His background includes program leadership and research-based supports for students with diverse learning needs.

At Insightful Minds, he develops and implements a multi-tiered system of supports connecting students’ educational, social-emotional, and wellness needs.

Nicole Gonsalves brings more than 15 years of experience in New York City’s District 75, where she supported students with significant and diverse learning needs.

Nicole holds master’s degrees in both education and school building administration and has extensive experience in curriculum design, instructional leadership, and teacher training and supervision.

Nicole helps educators develop responsive instruction and strengthen classroom practice so students have meaningful opportunities to participate and progress.

Carole Sever brings 30 years of educational experience, including work as a teacher, training developer, and professional development coordinator.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in education, a master’s degree in special education from Kent State University, and leadership credentials from Baldwin Wallace University.

Carole connects curriculum and professional learning with classroom practice, helping educators create engaging learning environments that respond to student needs.

Bryan Holtsclaw is a licensed and certified Occupational Therapy Assistant with more than 10 years of experience in special education.

His work in public and private school settings has supported students with a wide range of learning and developmental needs.

At Willow Farms, Bryan leads a program centered on practical experiences, vocational exploration, and daily living skills. He helps students discover interests, take on meaningful responsibilities, and prepare for participation in adult settings and community life.

Danielle Willoughby brings 15 years of professional experience in the field of autism, alongside her perspective as the parent of a 25-year-old son diagnosed with autism. These experiences inform her understanding of individualized support, family partnership, and the transition to adulthood.

At Willow Farms, Danielle coordinates program development and oversees animal care and training. She helps connect farm routines and equine activities with opportunities for students to build practical skills, confidence, and independence.

As a family liaison across STEPS sites, Danielle supports the intake team and helps families explore programs, ask questions, and understand next steps. She brings both professional knowledge and personal understanding to helping families feel welcomed and supported.