Marina Kammershell
Board Member

Marni Kammersell is a neurodivergent researcher, writer, and consultant who supports families in creating neuro-affirming learning environments. Her doctoral research focuses on family resilience and how autonomy-supportive environments foster growth and well-being. With over 15 years of experience in alternative education, Marni draws on both research and lived experience to support neurodivergent youth and their families. Learn more at wanderingbrightly.com.

Melanie Hayes
Board Member

She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a focus on Twice Exceptionality, a Masters of Arts in Gifted Education, a Masters of Arts in Marriage and Family Therapy, a California Teaching Credential, and a licensed LMFT. Melanie has over 25 years of experience teaching, mentoring, coaching, and advocating for 2e persons. She won the Innovations 4 Entrepreneurs National Award for her work using adaptive technology for twice exceptional students, and the Jefferson Award in recognition of her contributions to the 2e community. She also received SENG’s Educator of the Year Award for her groundbreaking work in educating gifted and twice exceptional children.

Melanie is a certified SENG Model Parent Group Facilitator and supports parents to help them develop their parenting skills. She also works with various other professional associations, such as the IECA, where she serves as the Affinity Group Co-Chair for Gifted/Talented and Twice Exceptional. You can read her book, We Tried Normal at no cost on Medium and find her latest book Being Twice Exceptional on Amazon.

Bobby Bardenhagen
Board Member

As the Director of Educational Technology at the Athenian School, Bobby Bardenhagen brings over 18 years of experience to the evolving role of technology in the classroom. His approach is grounded in authentic use, prioritizing tools that allow students to solve problems creatively and collaboratively.

Bobby is deeply committed to integrating assistive technology, ensuring that the digital environment is flexible enough to support diverse learning styles. This passion for practical, hands-on tech extends to the school’s maker space. When he isn’t managing the broader educational technology strategy, Bobby can be found tinkering alongside students, helping them leverage fabrication tools to turn their ideas into reality.