NCCDA 2026-2027 Executive Board
President
Deborah Sgro, MS. PMP, CCSP
Founder and Principal, Beyond the Glass Ceiling, LLC
Deborah Sgro is a Certified Career Service Provider (CCSP) from the National Career Development Association with a private practice, Beyond the Glass Ceiling, LLC. Her practice provides specialized career guidance to technology and business professionals at all levels to create and execute strategies for skill development and career advancement. As a former senior technologist professional, Deborah worked on Wall Street for over 40 years developing technical solutions to achieve the strategic and financial objectives for BNY Mellon, New York Stock Exchange, and American Stock Exchange. Deborah holds two master’s degrees from Stevens Institute of Technology, one in Computer Science and another in Technology Management. She is certified as a Project Manager Professional (PMP), and an Agile Professional from the Project Management Institute (PMI). She is on the Board of Advisors for Women in Big Data, and runs the Global Mentoring Initiative for that non-profit professional organization. Deborah frequently speaks at professional conferences and corporate events on topics about career development and the skills needed for future career success.
Past PresidentKaren Ingram, Ed.D., NBCT 
Dr. Karen Ingram is a National Board-Certified Teacher (NBCT) with over two decades of experience in the educational field. Her background includes a broad range of working in education – from the elementary classroom to the collegiate level. In addition to classroom experience, she has served in multiple leadership roles including district CTE Coordinator, school improvement team, Regional Coaching Coordinator, Regional Coaching Champion, Regional CTE Administrator’s Group Treasurer and as a school district’s Lead Career Academy Director. Ms. Ingram’s prior experience includes serving in Wake County Schools, Raleigh, NC, where she was selected as one of only two NBCTs from the district to participate in the “Standards-Setting Session” for the CTE discipline. She was also selected as the first Teacher of the Year for the City of Medicine Academy during the 2008-2009 school year. Dr. Ingram holds an undergraduate degree in Organizational Management from St. Augustine’s College, a Master’s Degree (M.Ed.) in Business and Marketing Education Curriculum and Instruction from NC State University, a Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Educational Leadership – Learning, Design, and Technology from UNC-Charlotte, and a K-12 Administration license earned at Gardner Webb University. Dr. Ingram loves to read, conduct research, travel, watch old movies and spend time with friends and family in her spare time. President-Elect & Conference ChairRamchandra (“Ram") Athavale, M.Ed., GCDF, CCSP, NCC
Ram comes from the world of Engineering and Information Technology. He is from New Orleans, but has lived in the Triangle area for over 30 years. He has worked in private industry, and in academia as an instructor, tutor, and advisor. Over the years, he developed a passion for helping students with career development. In 2021, he graduated with a M.Ed. in College Counseling and Student Development from NC State University. In his spare time, he enjoys hiking, watching hockey (Go Canes!), and spending time with family and friends. TreasurerMatt Thomas Senior Career Coach, Guild
With over 15 years of diverse experience as a career coach, I’ve had the privilege of guiding individuals from all walks of life through meaningful career transitions. My journey has taken me through a variety of industries—civil engineering, math education, non-profit workforce development, healthcare education, and ed tech—all of which have shaped the well-rounded, empathetic coaching approach I bring to my work today. Currently, I serve as a Senior Career Coach at Guild, where I support working adults in navigating education and career pathways that align with their goals. I'm a Global Career Development Facilitator (GCDF) and a Certified Digital Career Strategist (CDCS), with professional memberships in NCDA and PARWCC (in addition to NCCDA) Originally from Pittsburgh, I spent time in Los Angeles and Denver before making North Carolina home three years ago. I’ve fallen in love with the state’s natural beauty and spend much of my downtime hiking, camping, and traveling with my wife. Whether on a trail or in a coaching session, I’m always looking for ways to explore, connect, and help others move forward with purpose. Connect with me on LinkedIn! I’m excited to be part of the NCCDA community and to continue learning and growing alongside passionate professionals in the field. linkedin.com/in/matthewjthomas4/ SecretaryTannelaine Wilson District Work-Based Learning Coordinator/Special Populations Coordinator, Moore County Schools
The mission driving my career is the establishment of inclusive learning environments that promote comprehensive readiness for college and careers. Within this sphere, I've been acknowledged for my contributions to career and technical education, having received multiple proficiency awards. My leadership extends to project management and advisory roles, where my input is instrumental in enhancing the school's instructional programs and fostering a nurturing school culture. linkedin.com/in/mrstannelaine/ |
Communications (Website & Email Chair)
Natalia Silva Harwood, M.Ed., CDF
Assistant Director for Health Professions Advising, Duke University
Natalia began her advising career over 25 years ago. Before setting foot in the United States, she worked at a US Cultural Center located in the northern part of Brazil where she advised local students on the process of studying abroad, and supported American students participating in an Amazon Studies Program coordinated by the School for International Training. Once in the US, Natalia navigated the American educational system as a nontraditional college student, eventually completing a master’s degree training in counseling from The George Washington University. Her professional passion lies on guiding young adults to develop strategies that best leverage their undergraduate education towards meaningful and sustainable working lives.
During her 13 years at Duke, Natalia has worked with thousands of students and alums who went on to medicine, psychology, and other health professions. Her working with college students focuses on advising on academic choices, extracurricular and professional training, networking strategies, interview practice, and motivation. Before coming to Duke, Natalia served as instructor and advisor at Durham Technical Community College.
In addition to career management advising, Natalia is curious about trauma-informed mindfulness practice, self-determination theory of motivation, Internal Family Systems, new approaches in teaching practices, and AI revolution in the workforce. She also enjoys reading, singing, and comedy (stand-up and improv).
Natalia’s nontraditional educational path is comprised of an associate’s degree from Durham Technical Community College, a bachelor’s of science of management from Phoenix University, and a master’s of arts in education and human development from The George Washington University.
Membership & Recognition Co-Chairs
Laura Maldonado, PhD., NCC
Senior Research Associate, Advance CTE
Dr. Laura G. Maldonado is a research-practitioner with over two decades of experience in higher education, non-profit, and government spaces. Her higher education experience includes work at research universities, liberal arts colleges, and community colleges. She spent more than a decade working in career services reporting under student affairs, academic affairs, and advancement units.
Laura currently serves as a senior research associate with Advance CTE. In this role, Laura directly supports state policy resources and initiatives. She uses her writing and facilitating skills on a daily basis to strengthen connections between individuals, organizations, and systems.
Laura earned a Doctorate of Philosophy in Educational Leadership, Policy and Human Development from North Carolina State University, a Master of Education in Counselor Education from Clemson University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Muhlenberg College. She is a nationally certified counselor committed to advocating for the career trajectories of all learners.
linkedin.com/in/lauragmaldonado
Francis Ahn, M.Ed., CDF
ACA Instructor, Humanities Division, Central Piedmont Community College
I am a creative and dedicated educator with 20+ years of experience in secondary and post-secondary education. I specialize in career and college exploration, student success, and program coordination, with a strong passion for helping students achieve their goals. I am skilled in problem solving, workflow organization, and cross-functional collaboration. My background spans teaching, management, career counseling, and student counseling across both business and academic settings.
I am always looking to connect with fellow educators and student-focused professionals.
linkedin.com/in/francis-ahn-m-ed-cdf-45207630/Mary Francis Sadler
Job Title, Organization
Bio
Government & PR Co-Chairs
Amy Policastro Schroeder, M.Ed., GCDFI, FCDI, SCDAI, CCSP, MBTI, TC
Education Consultant - Career Development, North Carolina Department of Public Instruction NCDA Government Relations Committee Member
Amy has over 15 years of education experience, and over 10 years in the Business Sector with Human Resources, Publishing, and Corporate Education and Development. She has a background teaching Graphic Communication Industrial Technology in the 6-12 (NJ), Community College of Morris (NJ), and Illinois State University (ISU).
Amy currently serves as the Career and Technical Education (CTE) Career Development Consultant for the NC Department of Public Instruction where she provides leadership, professional development, curriculum development, consultation, and advocacy to the NC Career Development Coordinators (CDC), CTE Directors, and other stakeholders to ensure NC students are career and college ready. She is certified NCDPI National Career Development Association's "Facilitating Career Development" (FCD) licensure course instructor for new NC CDCs.
linkedin.com/in/amypsbethedifference
Elizabeth Bartell, M.Ed., GCDF, NCC, NBCT-R
Career Development Coordinator, Central Academy of Technology & Arts
Elizabeth has been an educator for over 20 years. She is a National Board Certified Teacher Renewed (in school counseling), has her Global Career Development Facilitator license, National Certified Counselor license and earned her Masters degree in School Counseling from Winthrop University. She started her career as a school counselor serving elementary, middle and high school students and then transitioned into the Career Development Coordinator (CDC) position continuing in Union County Public Schools in Monroe, NC for the past 10 years.
Elizabeth assisted in planning the CTE Spring CDC/SPC SW Regional mini conference from 2021-2023, was selected as the CTE SW Regional CDC Champion for 2022-2023 and also served on the NCDPI CTE Honors Review Team fall of 2023. Additionally she has participated at the CTE Summer Conference for CDC’s as a presenter and session facilitator. She became a member of NCCDA three years ago and thoroughly enjoyed the professional development offered along with the opportunities to network with other career development professionals. Elizabeth joined the NCCDA conference planning committee to help organize the spring 2024 conference and is now in her second year as the co-chair of the National Career Development Month Committee.
In her spare time, Elizabeth enjoys singing, music, theater, reading and traveling! She is originally from Florida, is a huge Florida Gator fan (UF is her undergrad alma mater), has 4 children and one grandchild!
Community Outreach Co-Chairs
Johnette Smith
Career Coach, Wake Technical Community College
Johnette Smith is a seasoned Career Coach at Wake Technical Community College, boasting over five years of dedicated experience in guiding individuals through the intricate landscape of career exploration and professional development. Leveraging her wealth of knowledge, Johnette adeptly assists prospective, enrolled, and alumni students in assessing career possibilities and establishing concrete professional goals.As a stalwart figure in higher education, Johnette is committed to fostering opportunities that translate aspirations into tangible achievements, dismantling misconceptions, and overcoming barriers that hinder educational attainment and career advancement.
Beyond her career coaching endeavors, Johnette is a staunch advocate for victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. Serving two consecutive terms as a North Carolina Domestic Violence Commissioner Board Member, she played a pivotal role in advocating for survivors statewide. Her responsibilities included approving court-ordered DV Intervention programs, meticulously evaluating services, policies, and programs designed to support survivors, and advocating for the implementation of innovative initiatives.
When she isn't tirelessly advocating and coaching, Johnette indulges her passion for travel and history, immersing herself in the rich tapestry of each destination she visits. A proud native of North Carolina, with roots in historic New Bern, Johnette currently calls Cary, NC home, having earned both her Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration and her Master of Business Administration degree before settling in the area.
Tim Lubic
Librarian, Central Piedmont Community College
Tim Lubic has worked as an educator and librarian for over 20 years. Currently a Librarian at Central Piedmont Community College, his career spans K-12 and higher education, including over a decade in the San Francisco Bay Area before moving to Charlotte in 2020. He holds a Master of Arts in Teaching and a Master of Library and Information Science.
With nearly two decades dedicated to public education, Tim is passionate about equity and inclusion, ensuring everyone has the opportunity to thrive through access to education and community resources. This commitment is reflected in his service on the board of The Progress XChange, his work as a mentor with Wayfinders and as a volunteer with Feeding Charlotte. He also served on the founding team of Niner University Elementary at UNC Charlotte, where he established the school’s library and worked to improve digital access for families. Tim values collaboration and steady communication, with a focus on making complex systems more accessible to everyone.
Outside of work, Tim enjoys traveling, reading, baking, gardening, and exploring the mountains on hikes with his dog.
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-lubic/
National Career Development Month Chair
La Vera Brown, PhD, NCC, LCMHCS, CTI, CFMHE
Founder, Second Chapter Mastery™ & Verity and Vision, LLC and
Professor at Liberty University
Bio
Pipeline Ad-Hoc Committee Co-Chairs
Dr. Regina Gavin Williams
Assistant Professor of Counselor Education and Director of the Career Counseling Program, North Carolina Central University
Dr. Regina Gavin Williams is an Assistant Professor of Counselor Education and Director of the Career Counseling program at North Carolina Central University. She is a licensed clinical mental health counselor (NC), qualified supervisor (NC), national certified counselor, and a licensed school counselor (GA). She is the 2023 recipient of the Ella Stephens Barrett Award for Excellence in Professional Leadership (North Carolina Counseling Association). Her research focuses on the college and career readiness, adult self-sufficiency, and mental health of youth in foster care, with a secondary research focus related to the intersection of career development and diversity. Her role as a mom inspires her advocacy work on the community stakeholder advisory board for a UNC-Chapel Hill study entitled, ACURE4Moms. Dr. Williams was also appointed by NC Governor Roy Cooper to serve as the Chair of the North Carolina State Youth Advisory Council.
linkedin.com/in/regina-gavin-williams-ph-d-ncc-lcmhc-qs-6a0a04102
Deborah Sgro, MS. PMP, CCSP
Founder and Principal, Beyond the Glass Ceiling, LLC
Deborah Sgro is a Certified Career Service Provider (CCSP) from the National Career Development Association with a private practice, Beyond the Glass Ceiling, LLC. Her practice provides specialized career guidance to technology and business professionals at all levels to create and execute strategies for skill development and career advancement. As a former senior technologist professional, Deborah worked on Wall Street for over 40 years developing technical solutions to achieve the strategic and financial objectives for BNY Mellon, New York Stock Exchange, and American Stock Exchange. Deborah holds two master’s degrees from Stevens Institute of Technology, one in Computer Science and another in Technology Management. She is certified as a Project Manager Professional (PMP), and an Agile Professional from the Project Management Institute (PMI). She is on the Board of Advisors for Women in Big Data, and runs the Global Mentoring Initiative for that non-profit professional organization. Deborah frequently speaks at professional conferences and corporate events on topics about career development and the skills needed for future career success.
Continuing Education Committee
Jamie Johnson, MS Counseling, NCC, CCC
Counselor/Owner, Paths2take Consulting
Jamie’s passion is helping others find their purpose/passion. She loves helping others navigate through the career development process. She has been in the field of Career Development for over 30 years. She has worked in business, education and non-profit settings helping others with their career/life development. She received her Master’s in Counseling from the California University State, Northridge in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling and her Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communications. She is a Certified Career Counselor (NCDA) and certified in the Strong Interest Inventory and a MBTI Master Practitioner. She runs her private practice in Career Counseling, Paths2take, part-time and works full-time as a Career Advisor for the University of Phoenix.
On weekends, she spends her time serving as a Cantor at a Messianic Jewish Synagogue and plays percussion in the praise and worship band. She loves animals and is currently rescuing feral kitties from the streets of Kannapolis. She has three kitties, Max, Prince, and Tigger (rescued from the streets) and Rami a Straight Egyptian Arabian.
linkedin.com/in/jamiejjohnson
Cindy Haeck, M.Ed., NCC, LCMHC, CCC, FCD-I
Career Coach, Wilmington Career Counseling
Cindy has 20+ years of experience as a high school and community college counselor, career development coordinator, academic and career advisor, as well as non-profits. She routinely volunteered to serve on school improvement, SACS accreditation, student success committees and other initiatives designed to promote a quality educational experience for students and staff. Since retiring from the State of NC, she has been engaged in part-time private practice as a career coach in Wilmington, NC. She continues to be passionate about supporting and empowering students and adults in creating their best life story, whether choosing a college or identifying occupational fit.
She completed the M.Ed. in Counseling (Agency and School) at North Carolina State University and B.S. Psychology at Central Michigan University. As a lifelong learner, she completed the NCDA Career Development Facilitation Instructor training in 2022 and remains active in several professional and community organizations. She’s meets monthly with the NCDA Private Practice constituency group, and attends local, state, and national conferences that focus on mental health and career development.
Traveling, quilting, crafting, yoga, swimming, walking, biking, wine tasting, coffee with friends, family gatherings at the beach and her grand dog round out her days!
linkedin.com/in/haeckconsulting
Katie Peterssen, M.Ed., NCC, LCMHC-A
Program Director, MMS Career Services, Duke University Fuqua School of Business
Katie Peterssen has more than 15 years of experience helping individuals explore pathways and strategies to meet their career and academic goals. An expert in career and professional development, she has a knack for recognizing and cultivating strengths in individuals and within teams. Katie has served in various leadership roles on the NCCDA board, including as President from 2020-2021, and is certified to facilitate the EQ-i 2.0 and EQ 360 assessments. Katie serves as the Program Director for MMS Career Services at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business and as Co-Founder of Ignite Career and Leadership Development, LLC. She has lived up and down the East Coast, earning her BS in Information Design and Corporate Communication from Bentley University and completed her MEd in Counselor Education at North Carolina State University. Published in 2023, Katie co-authored, An Innovative Approach to Career Counseling: Theory and Practical Application.
linkedin.com/in/kpeterssen