Posted July 25, 2023 in Articles
We are excited to share that we have some new—and familiar—faces on the school's administration team.
Rama Janamanchi
Upper School Academic Dean
As an instructor at Cuyahoga Community College, Rama first taught Lawrence students enrolled in her classes through the College Credit Plus program. This introduction inspired her to join the high school faculty, where she taught English for eight years and also served as a technology coach. Rama has been a featured presenter at national conferences, was a recipient of an NEH grant through the Folger Shakespeare Library, and was recently selected to be part of The New York Times Teaching Project’s second cohort. She graduated from the National University of Singapore with both a bachelor's and master's degree.
Shanika Lovelace
Head of Upper School
Shanika has been with Lawrence since 2000, working in several roles during that time. She taught middle school math for nine years before serving as the Upper School dean of students for 10 years. After obtaining her principal's licensure at Baldwin Wallace University, Shanika became the director of high school, where she has spent the last four years. Shanika, who holds a Bachelor of Science degree from Ursuline College, brought the evidence-based girls' leadership and empowerment programming, ROX, to Lawrence and served as both a facilitator and coach for six years. She has two boys, Dennis (13) and Cameron (11), and a super special young man, Dakota (Cavapoo puppy).
Joseph Timco
Director of High School
Joseph is excited to join Lawrence and embrace its commitment to fostering students' unique strengths and empowering them to achieve their potential. He brings with him a wealth of educational leadership experience. Joseph's educational journey includes attending the University of Akron, the University of Cincinnati, and Liberty University. He holds bachelor degrees in Sports Medicine and Education, as well as a master's degree in Educational Leadership. Currently, Joseph is a doctoral candidate pursuing a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. Throughout his career, Joseph has had the privilege of holding numerous roles, including head of school, principal, assistant principal, director of athletics, director of development, dean of students, director of admissions, middle school teacher, high school teacher, and coaching experience at various levels, from youth to varsity.
Krista Shorf-Guffin
Director of Middle School
Krista began her career as a music educator with Akron Public Schools after receiving her degree at Ohio Northern University. Working as a music educator for 10 years, Krista focused on engagement and innovation in the classroom, additionally taking on roles as a professional development facilitator, curriculum developer, and technology coach. During this time, Krista obtained her principal's licensure and master's degree through Wright State University. She is excited to get to know the Lawrence community!
Gary Ising
Director of Campus Life
After 12 years of helping Lawrence Upper School students hone their mathematical skills, Gary is excitedly stepping into the role of Director of Campus Life. He coached a total of 24 seasons of Lawrence athletics, including nine with cross country, eight with swimming, and seven with softball. Gary earned a Bachelor of Art in Mathematics from Hiram College.
Greg Donnellan
Director of Enrollment Management
Greg has had the pleasure of serving the Lawrence School community in a variety of ways over the last 16 years. Each of these experiences has prepared him to excel in his current role as the director of enrollment management. Greg leaves behind a positive legacy as the former director of middle school and Middle School Young Entrepreneur Program, and academic coach and music teacher at the Upper School. In addition to serving Lawrence School, Greg is also a board member for Heights Youth Theater and a member of the Educators' Neighborhood cohort with the Fred Rogers Institute. Greg holds a Bachelor of Music Education degree from Baldwin Wallace University and a Master of Music degree from Kent State University, as well as graduated certificates from the University of Cincinnati.
Ruth McLaughlin
Associate Director of Enrollment Management
McLaughlin joined Lawrence in 2018 as a psychologist in the Student Advocacy and Support Services Department. Before Lawrence, McLaughlin worked as a psychologist at the Independence Local School District and North Royalton School District, serving students with disabilities. She began her career as an elementary school teacher at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish School in Cleveland, Ohio. McLaughlin holds three degrees from Cleveland State University: B.S. in Elementary Education ('97), M.A. in Psychology ('08), and Psy.S. in School Psychology ('09). During her free time, Ruth enjoys spending time with her family and gardening.
Taylor Reeves
Director of Marketing & Communications
Driven by empathy and creativity, Taylor possesses a deep understanding of the power of collaboration and the significance of work that generates a genuine impact. Throughout his career, he has diligently refined his skillset in art direction, management, ideation, collaboration, and design. It was during his tenure at Findaway where his passion for creating inclusive and accessible work took root. This passion, driven by a profound desire to contribute to something meaningful, led him to join the Lawrence Pride. As a compassionate leader and creative, Taylor firmly upholds the notion that "a rising tide raises all ships," acknowledging that exceptional work is the result of collective effort. Taylor proudly embraces his Bobcat roots as an alum of Ohio University's School of Art + Design.