SEED School
Abbie Collins, kindergarten faculty. Education: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, Lipscomb University. Collins brings warmth, professionalism, and a passion for Christ-centered early childhood education. She is committed to creating a classroom where children feel safe, celebrated, and challenged to grow. With a servant’s heart and a dedication to partnering with families, she is excited to help students develop a lifelong love of learning, thrive academically and spiritually, and deepen their understanding of God’s love.
Christina Smith, Pre-K4 faculty. Education: Master of Arts in Teaching, Trevecca Nazarene University; Bachelor’s degree, Belmont University. Smith has been a valued member of the SEED faculty for the past two years serving as the Pre-K2 and Pre-K3 music teacher. She brings a passion for early childhood education, a nurturing spirit, and a commitment to Christ-centered learning. As both an educator and a Lipscomb Academy parent, she is dedicated to creating a classroom where every child feels loved, encouraged, and inspired to grow academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually.
Josie McLachlan, kindergarten faculty. Education: Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education, Lipscomb University. A recent graduate, McLachlan is passionate about guiding young learners during these important foundational years. She looks forward to fostering curiosity, building strong connections with students and families, and helping children recognize their unique, God-given strengths. Her joyful spirit and dedication to Christian education will be an asset to the SEED school community.
Alyssa Gonzales, Pre-K4 faculty. Education: Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education, Liberty University; Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, University of North Carolina-Wilmington. Originally from New York, Gonzales has loved making Tennessee her home and is thankful to be part of the Lipscomb Academy family. Her educational journey has deepened her passion for teaching young learners and creating a classroom where every child feels safe, loved, and excited to learn.
LOWER SCHOOL
Tessa Irwin, second-grade faculty. Education: Doctorate of Physical Therapy, Belmont University; Master of Arts in Teaching and Elementary Education, Western Governors University; Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Indiana University. Dr. Irwin has been a pediatric physical therapist for the past 11 years. A familiar face on the lower campus, she has served academy students through High Hopes Pediatric Therapy. She brings equal passion for learning and children and has a strong desire to help students grow academically and spiritually. She is excited to guide students as they discover their strengths, help them build confidence, and ensure they feel deeply known and valued.
SOLLY SCHOOL
Amanda Moore, special education faculty. Education: Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education, Western Governors University; certifications in Elementary Education, Special Education, and English Language Learners. Moore brings more than a decade of experience serving students and families in both general and special education. Her background in special needs ministry and disability advocacy has shaped her commitment to providing individualized support and creating a Christ-centered environment where every student and family feels known and valued. Moore and her husband, Justin, met while attending Lipscomb University and are grateful to be part of the Lipscomb Academy community with their three children.
MIDDLE SCHOOL
Emily Bass, sixth-grade ELA faculty. Education: Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Special Education, Lipscomb University; endorsements in Elementary Education, Special Education, Secondary English, Secondary Math, and Christian Discipleship. A graduate of Goodpasture Christian School, Bass brings a strong foundation in Christian education and a passion for helping students grow academically and spiritually. She is excited to begin her teaching career at Lipscomb Academy and serve middle school students through meaningful relationships, academic excellence, and Christ-centered learning. Bass worships at Hendersonville Church of Christ.
UPPER SCHOOL
Jacob Branson, English and world languages faculty. Education: Bachelor of Arts in English Education, Harding University; Bachelor of Arts in French Education, Harding University. Originally from Dallas, Texas, Branson is a recent graduate of Harding University’s Class of 2026. During his time at Harding, he served as a consultant in the university’s Writing Center, helping students strengthen their writing and communication skills across disciplines. He also completed student teaching in English and French for grades 9–12, further developing his passion for language and literature. Branson is excited to help students grow as communicators, think critically, and discover the impact of stories through a Christ-centered education.
Ethan Huffard, world languages faculty. Education: Master of Education in Teaching, Learning and Leading, Lipscomb University; Bachelor of Arts in Spanish, Lipscomb University. Huffard brings 24 years of teaching experience having served at Ezell-Harding Christian School where he was honored as Teacher of the Year in 2016. He served as his school’s service director for many years and has been helping to lead youth trips to Honduras for the last 20 years. A former Lipscomb University soccer player and high school soccer coach, Huffard has dedicated his career to developing students both in and out of the classroom. He is excited to begin the next chapter of his teaching career at Lipscomb Academy and to invest in the next generation of students.
Ezra Lashlee, social studies faculty. Education: Bachelor of Arts in History, Lipscomb University; Bachelor of Arts in American Studies, Lipscomb University. A Nashville native, Lashlee is beginning his first year teaching in which he will combine his passion for history with his love of the Lord. He is an avid enjoyer of the outdoors, as well as an Eagle Scout. He is excited to begin this new journey in sharing the lessons of the past while building relationships with the students of the future.
Amada Lashmit-Peña, math teacher. Education: Bachelor of Science in Mathematics Education, Lipscomb University. Originally from Maryville, Tennessee, Lashmit-Peña brings a strong background in mathematics education and student leadership. While at Lipscomb University, she served in multiple campus leadership roles, conducted research on the impact of children’s literature on math learning through Lipscomb’s Center for Teaching & Learning, and presented her work at student research conferences. She was honored as Miss Lipscomb and received the Carol Hall Student Teacher Award during her senior year. After completing her student teaching, Lashmit-Peña felt called to teach at Lipscomb Academy and is excited to support students through Christ-centered mathematics education.
Nicole Leewarner, English teacher and department head. Education: Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Education Certification, Seattle Pacific University; Master degree candidate in School Librarianship and Instructional Design. Leewarner brings 13 years of experience in English education, developing curriculum, supporting literacy initiatives, and building learning communities in the United States and internationally. During her five years at a private Christian school in Virginia, she created and developed the school’s library program, providing students opportunities to explore ideas and connect through literature. Her global teaching experience has strengthened her appreciation for diverse perspectives and the power of stories to connect people. She is excited to bring her passion for literature and learning to the classroom.
Dr. David Mahfood, science faculty. Education: Doctor of Philosophy in Religious Studies, Southern Methodist University; Master of Arts in Theology, Abilene Christian University; Bachelor of Arts in Physics with a minor in Secondary Education, The University of Florida. Dr. Mahfood has nine years of teaching experience, including high school, university, and seminary level courses. Most recently, he taught philosophy at Lipscomb University. Dr. Mahfood loves getting to know students and helping them grow intellectually and spiritually. He is excited to help students at the academy understand and appreciate the order and beauty of the physical world God has created for us to live in.
Abigail McQueen, English faculty. Education: Master of Science in Marketing, Vanderbilt University; Bachelor of Arts in English, Lipscomb University. McQueen is a Lipscomb Academy alumna who graduated in 2021. During her undergraduate studies, she earned first prize in the formal essay category at the Southern Literary Festival and presented at the Sigma Tau Delta conference. She has also supported English education through assisting with an American Literature course at Lipscomb University and sharing her passion for literature through book marketing. McQueen is excited to return to Lipscomb Academy and begin her teaching career, helping students grow through the study of English and literature.
Dr. Milton Nettles, assistant head of upper school. Education: Doctor of Education in Learning Organizations and Strategic Change, Lipscomb University; Master of Education in Teaching, Learning, and Leading, Lipscomb University; Bachelor of Science in Chemical Engineering, The University of Alabama. Dr. Nettles holds 15 years of experience in education spanning the classroom, school leadership, and higher education. Most recently, he served as Head of Schools at Lighthouse Christian School in Antioch, TN, where he spearheaded an increase in secondary enrollment by 64% over three years, led capital improvement projects totaling over $1 million, and grew dual-enrollment and graduate-education partnerships with several regional colleges and universities to benefit both students and faculty members. Dr. Nettles is a 2018 graduate of the Tennessee Governor's Academy for School Leadership, an associate pastor, and a U.S. Army Chaplain Candidate (1LT). He has been connected with the Lipscomb community for nearly 16 years and is excited and thankful to the Lord for the opportunity to use his gifts to love, serve, and lead at Lipscomb Academy.
Ryan Pitts, Bible faculty. Education: Master of Arts in Intelligence Studies, American Military University; Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Abilene Christian University. Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Pitts has been teaching both voluntarily and professionally for decades providing graduate level instruction for the U.S. Army since 2019 where he earned the 5K Additional Skills Identifier (ASI) for instructors, as well as the Army Instructor Badge, a peer-reviewed award given for proven instructors. Additionally, LTC Pitts was a registered massage therapist for more than twenty years and is continues to be a promoter of preventative and holistic medicine. He is well traveled having lived more than two years abroad which has exposed him to a variety of cultures, languages, and religions. Having trained countless soldiers for combat in Afghanistan and Iraq, mentored young officers for success, and served as a substitute teacher at Lipscomb Academy last year, he is thoroughly excited to be full-time at the academy and contribute to its mission of Christian education.
Kayce Rittman, administrative assistant. Education: Bachelor of Exercise Science, Lipscomb University. Most recently, Rittman worked for a property management company in Brentwood. Previously, she worked at Elite Sports Medicine and Orthopaedic Center in Nashville for 12 years as a billing specialist. Throughout her career, she has learned how to problem solve quickly and the importance of thorough and intentional communication. Rittman is an alumnus of the academy, and Lipscomb holds a special place in her life from the memories she made from her time in school to now having her two daughters at the academy. She is looking forward to meeting the students and families that will be walking through the high school's doors each day. Her goal is for everyone to feel the love and joy of Jesus when they enter the school.
Corey Spivey, Bible faculty. Education: Bachelor of Business Administration, Middle Tennessee State University. Spivey is a passionate preacher, educator, and mentor who has faithfully proclaimed the Gospel of Jesus Christ in family, church, school, and community settings throughout Middle Tennessee and across the country for more than a decade. Over the past four years, he has taught Bible at Ezell-Harding Christian School while serving as Bible department chair. Spivey has a deep commitment to Biblical truth and equipping the next generation of Christ-centered student leaders. Whether preaching, teaching, coaching, or mentoring one-on-one, he is committed to seeing lives transformed by the power of the Gospel. He is excited to bring his gifts to Lipscomb Academy and share his love for Scripture, heart for discipleship, and commitment to exalting Jesus Christ in every area of life.
Mira Wibel, English faculty. Education: Master of Education with certifications in Christian Education and Instructional Coaching, Lipscomb University; Bachelor of Arts in English Literature, Whitworth University. For the past two years, Wibel taught at Lighthouse Christian School in Antioch where she served as high school English and theatre arts faculty. Dedicated to expanding her literature knowledge, during her time as an undergraduate, she studied British literature at Cambridge University in Cambridge, England, through a semester-long study abroad program. Wibel is committed to creating compassionate learning communities where students feel equipped and empowered to be confident, successful communicators for the glory of God. She is excited to bring this dedication and a deep love for the beauty of language to Lipscomb Academy.
Nia Wylie, academic counselor. Education: Master of Accountancy, Business Measurement and Assurance, University of South Carolina; Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, Accounting, University of South Carolina. Wylie brings experience in college and career readiness, academic counseling, and student support. She has helped middle and high school students prepare for future success by providing academic guidance, coordinating mentorship and tutoring services, and leading workshops for students and families focused on college and career pathways. She also brings experience in public accounting as an auditor and consultant. Wylie is excited to support students in building strong academic and spiritual foundations for the future.
ATHLETICS
Chandler Ganick, assistant athletic director for middle and upper schools. Education: Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Business, Lipscomb University. Ganick is a Nashville native with more than 20 years of experience in independent school education. A former member of the Bison baseball program, he has dedicated his career to supporting students through academics and athletics. Most recently, he served at Grace Christian Academy, coaching multiple sports and serving as security director for the middle and high schools. Prior to that, he spent 17 years at Brentwood Academy as a coach, teacher, and academic support specialist. His wife is a Lower School teacher at Lipscomb Academy, and they have three children.
Catherine Goodrum, athletic trainer. Education: Master of Science in Athletic Training, University of Tennessee-Chattanooga; Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology, University of Tennessee-Knoxville. A Nashville native and graduate of St. Cecilia Academy, Goodrum was a multi-sport student-athlete competing in basketball, soccer, and track and field. She is certified by the Board of Certification and licensed as an athletic trainer in the state of Tennessee. She is passionate about promoting the health, safety, and success of student-athletes and looks forward to serving and building relationships within the Lipscomb Academy community.
Leroy Harris, assistant athletic director. Education: Master of Education in Sports Management, Northcentral University; Bachelor of Science in Parks, Recreation, and Tourism Management with a concentration in Sports Management and a minor in Business Management, North Carolina State University. Harris is an experienced educator, athletic administrator, coach, and former NFL player dedicated to developing student-athletes on and off the field. With more than 15 years of experience in education, athletics, and leadership, he has served as an athletic administrator, wellness and fitness instructor, and coach in football, wrestling, baseball, and track and field. A former offensive lineman for the Tennessee Titans and Detroit Lions, Harris played seven seasons in the NFL before transitioning into education. Harris and his wife have three children and are grateful to be part of the Lipscomb Academy community.
FINE ARTS
Beth Davis, band director. Education: Master of Music, Belmont University; Bachelor of Music, Tennessee Technological University. Davis brings 24 years of experience teaching middle and high school band. She has directed beginning band, award-winning concert, marching, and jazz bands, as well as guitar and winter drumline programs. A multi-talented instrumentalist, Davis performs on flute, piccolo, saxophones, clarinet, brass, percussion, piano, and guitar. Her passion for music extends beyond the classroom as she directs the Nashville Flute Choir and performs with several local ensembles, including the Nashville Praise Symphony and Nashville Wind Symphony. In a full-circle moment, Davis first walked the academy halls as a student teacher in 2001 and is excited to return while her Upper School child is part of the Lipscomb Academy community.
Lipscomb Academy (general staff positions)
Jordan Matthews, middle and upper school admissions specialist and assistant head football coach. Education: Master of Arts in Sports Administration, Northwestern University; Bachelor of Arts in Economics, Vanderbilt University. Matthews brings elite athletic experience, leadership, and relationship-building skills to his role working with student-athletes, families, and the community. Selected by the Philadelphia Eagles in the second round of the 2014 NFL Draft, he played 11 seasons as a wide receiver and tight end with the Eagles, Buffalo Bills, San Francisco 49ers, and Carolina Panthers. He remains Vanderbilt’s all-time leader in career receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns and was named a 2025 Southeastern Conference Legend. Matthews and his wife have three sons enrolled in the SEED and Lower Schools and are grateful to be part of the Lipscomb Academy community.
Heidi Wright, academic support tutor. Education: Bachelor of Science in Engineering Mechanics, Lipscomb University. Wright brings more than five years of experience supporting students in math, science, study skills, and engineering courses at Lipscomb Academy and Lipscomb University. Prior to her work in education, she spent more than 10 years as a design engineer and project manager in HVAC and construction industries. Originally from Memphis, Wright has called Nashville home since college and is excited to continue supporting students through academic growth and mentorship.
Change in Position
Emily Eggebrecht, media communications and library engagement specialist. Education: Graduate Diamonds Degree, Gemological Institute of America; Bachelor of Arts in Religion and Society with a minor in Music, Belmont University. Eggebrecht previously served as a full-time substitute teacher in the SEED School and returns this year serving SEED and Lower School students. Since joining the Lower Campus community, she has developed a passion for the role of the library and media program in cultivating curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning. She is currently pursuing a graduate certificate in the Christian Educator Program at Lipscomb University.
John Green, dean of students. Education: Master of Arts in Education +30, Cumberland University; Master of Science, Lipscomb University; Bachelor of Arts, University of Evansville.Green brings 33 years of experience in public and Christian education. Throughout his career, he has taught world history, U.S. history, world geography, Bible, and math while also coaching multiple sports. He has a passion for mentoring students and supporting their academic, personal, and spiritual growth. In addition to his work in education, Green and his wife, Jen, served together in youth ministry and remain actively involved in church leadership, church camps, and mission trips to the Navajo Nation. Green enjoys spending time with his wife, their two sons, and their dog, Hoosier.
Lauren Gregory, art and music for preK-2 and preK-3. Education: Bachelor of Arts with concentrations in Graphic Design and Studio Art, Lipscomb University. A Nashville native and Lipscomb Academy alumna, Gregory has served at the academy for five years in multiple roles, most recently as a Pre-K3 teaching assistant. She also serves as yearbook advisor for the SEED and Lower Schools. Gregory looks forward to inspiring creativity, confidence, and a lifelong appreciation for the arts in her students.
Jessica Kenaston, third-grade faculty. Education: Master of Education in Reading Specialty, Lipscomb University; Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with a concentration in Special Education and a minor in Biblical Studies, Biola University. Now in her sixth year of teaching, Kenaston returns to third grade with a passion for rigorous academics, student inquiry, and creating a nurturing, Christ-centered classroom environment where students can grow academically and spiritually.
Kim Schow, operations coordinator and bookkeeper. Education: Bachelor of Professional Studies in Business Leadership, Lipscomb University. Since joining Lipscomb Academy in 2003, Schow has served in multiple support roles across admissions and athletics. Her deep love for the Mustangs and her commitment to serving her community earned her the 2024 Mustang Spirit Award. Having cherished every role she has held, Schow looks forward to a full-circle moment as she returns to support the operations department. She will continue serving as bookkeeper for athletics while also providing bookkeeping assistance in other areas, including academic support.
Christy Simmons, upper school academic counselor. Education: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology, Lipscomb University; candidate for Master of School Counseling, Lipscomb University. Before stepping into this role, Simmons served as a Pre-K3 teaching assistant at Lipscomb Academy. Her experience working with students and continued study in school counseling have led her to a passion for supporting high school students through academic planning, student development, and postsecondary decisions.
Kelsey Sisk, SEED school instruction and student support. Education: Bachelor of Arts in Science Early Childhood, PreK-3, Harding University. Since joining Lipscomb Academy in 2017, Kelsey has served our junior kindergarten and kindergarten students with excellence, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to Christ-centered education. With 17 years of teaching experience, she brings exceptional expertise to this position. She was recognized as Lipscomb Academy's 2024 Educator of the Year and has also served as the director of Summer Experience, demonstrating outstanding leadership and a deep commitment to our school community.
Scott Tillman, assistant head of spiritual life. Education: Master of Theology, Lipscomb University; Bachelor of Arts in Speech Communication, Lipscomb University. Tillman brings more than three decades of experience in ministry and education. He has dedicated 32 years to Lipscomb Academy as a teacher, coach, athletic administrator, and mentor, while also serving in pastoral ministry for more than 20 years. Throughout his time at the academy, Tillman has taught and coached students, led athletic programs, and supported student growth through character development, leadership, and mentorship. In his new role as assistant head of spiritual life, he will continue guiding students in their faith journey and supporting the mission of Christian education.
Sarah Williamson, fifth-grade faculty. Education: Master of Education, Pepperdine University; Bachelor of Arts in Communications, Abilene Christian University; administrative licensure, Lipscomb University. Williamson has 20 years of teaching experience, including 16 years at Lipscomb Academy. She continues to grow as an educator through professional development and is currently a candidate to become a Wilson Reading System credentialed trainer.
Dana Woodard, director of academic support. Education: Master of Education in Reading Specialty, Lipscomb University; Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education, Lipscomb University. Woodard brings more than 32 years of experience in education, including 22 years at Lipscomb Academy. She has served as a classroom teacher and middle school reading interventionist, supporting students through the Wilson Reading System and targeted academic support. In her role as director of academic support, she helps equip students with the skills and confidence needed to succeed.
ADMINISTRATION
Neal Gossett, director of operations. Education: Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, University of Louisville. Gossett brings more than 25 years of experience leading complex, multi-site operations. Most recently, he served as a senior executive leader at New Day Christian Church in Port Charlotte, Florida, where he led cross-functional operations across three campuses, managed a $5.5 million annual budget, and partnered with community leaders and stakeholders. Prior to New Day, Gossett served in executive leadership at Southeast Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky, overseeing a $33 million operating budget, managing more than 100 staff members, and helping launch five new campuses. He also brings experience managing large-scale facilities and developing strategic initiatives to support organizational growth. Gossett and his wife, Kim, are excited to make Nashville their home and become part of the Lipscomb Academy community.
Dr. James Hutchins, head of school. Education: Doctor of Education and Educational Specialist, University of Alabama; Master of Science in Education, Jacksonville State University; Bachelor of Science in Education, Shorter University. Dr. Hutchins brings 20 years of independent school leadership experience and a passion for Christian education. Read more about Dr. Hutchins’ leadership experience and journey to Lipscomb Academy in this article.