LEADERSHIP
We believe that teamwork does, indeed, make the dream work.
Meet the exceptional leadership team, a group of passionate and talented individuals dedicated to revolutionizing education through engaging lessons and cutting-edge technology.
MEET THE CEO
Keeanna Warren, Ph.D
Chief of Executive Operations
Dr. Keeanna Warren is a visionary leader dedicated to advancing educational access through innovation.
As CEO, she oversees administration, educational programs, financial management, and strategic direction. Keeanna prioritizes authentic community engagement and enjoys collaborating with individuals from various backgrounds.
Her passion for research and data drives informed decision-making and continuous improvement.
Outside her professional achievements, Keeanna is a wife and mother of three children: Reid, Levi, and Aira. She loves traveling and creating core memories with her family.
Education:
Ph.D., Indiana State University, Terre Haute, Indiana
M.A.T., Marian University, Indianapolis, Indiana
B.A., Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
Shatoya Ward, a dynamic educational leader, is deeply committed to student success and operational excellence. Her journey began as a science teacher, and she swiftly ascended to leadership roles in charter schools, ultimately becoming the founding principal of PPHS Schweitzer Center in 2016.
As Chief of School Operations, Shatoya oversees the performance and management of multiple schools, ensuring they operate efficiently and effectively.
Her expertise includes team leadership, school culture development, and fostering innovation in education.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Shatoya finds joy in mentoring educators, supporting community initiatives, and cherishing moments with her family. Her commitment to nurturing the next generation of educators is a testament to her passion for education.
Education:
M.S., Leadership Administration, Marian University, Indianapolis, Indiana
B.S., Physical Education, Health and Safety Science, and Biology, Marian University, Indianapolis, Indiana
Shatoya Ward
Chief of School Operations
Krista Primrose, Ph.D.
Chief Academic Officer
Dr. Krista Primrose is a passionate educator and accomplished academic leader dedicated to fostering innovative and equitable learning environments. She has served as a teacher, education professor, and higher education administrator.
As the Chief Academic Officer at Purdue Polytechnic High Schools (PPHS), she leads the implementation of a rigorous and relevant academic vision. With a focus on student success, Dr. Primrose champions STEM-focused project-based learning and personalized instruction to prepare students for the challenges of the 21st century.
Her extensive experience in curriculum design and teacher development informs her commitment to academic excellence and continuous improvement.
She lives in the greater Indianapolis area and enjoys outdoor activities, traveling live music events, and reading.
Education:
Ph.D., Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana
M.S., Olivet Nazarene University
B.S., Manchester University
Laura Cope brings over 25 years of experience to her role as Chief of Exceptional Learners at PPHS. Her career includes classroom teaching, administrative leadership, and serving as a director with the Indiana Department of Education.
As Chief of Exceptional Learners, Laura oversees the Exceptional Learners Program working collaboratively with educators to ensure compliance with legal standards and to deliver high-quality, individualized education plans (IEPs).
Her commitment to creating inclusive and supportive learning environments is matched by her passion for empowering students with diverse needs to reach their fullest potential.
Outside of PPHS, Laura enjoys travel and creating memories with her family.
Education:
Administrator’s License, Marian University
M.Ed., Indiana Wesleyan University
B.S., Indiana State University
Laura Cope
Chief of Exceptional Learners
Lucas Zartman brings nearly 20 years of experience in educational leadership to his role as Principal of PPHS Broad Ripple. Before joining PPHS, he served as Principal of Speedway High School in Indianapolis, where he successfully led the school to receive the National Blue Ribbon Schools Award for Exemplary High Performing Schools, serving primarily an underserved student population.
As the Principal of PPHS Broad Ripple, Lucas dedicates his time creating equitable learning environments that empower students to achieve their post-secondary goals. His innovative approach to leadership and programming inspire self-confidence and academic success.
Outside of work, Lucas enjoys supporting his children's athletic pursuits and spending quality time with his family.
Education:
M.S., Olivet Nazarene University
B.S., Manchester University
Lucas Zartman
Interim Principal of PPHS Broad Ripple
Jacob Pactor is a veteran educator with 20 years of experience in teaching and leadership. Jacob spent over a decade as a classroom teacher, where he connected the curriculum to practical applications. He later served as the Director of Career Services in higher education at his alma matter, Wabash College, guiding students to achieve their professional aspirations.
As the Principal of PPHS Englewood, he is dedicated to empowering students through real-world, project-based learning. He is passionate about fostering student-centered learning environments in which students take ownership of their education.
Committed to preparing learners for success in college and beyond, Jacob enjoys reading and exploring innovative ideas to enhance education in his free time.
Education:
MBA in Educational Leadership, University of Indianapolis
M.A. in English, Butler University
Certificate in Nonprofit Management, Indiana University
B.A. in Political Science, Wabash College
Jacob Pactor
Principal of PPHS Englewood
Justin Zobrosky became an educator driven by his passion to create the kind of classroom he wished for as a student—one that celebrated curiosity and inquiry. As a teacher, he empowered students to guide their learning, earning recognition as an Indiana State Teacher of the Year Semi-Finalist in 2014.
He transitioned to educational leadership by helping launch The Excel Center in South Bend, where he served as its School Director and fostering its collaborative environment.
Now as Principal of PPHS South Bend, Justin is dedicated to re-engineering high school education, preparing students for tomorrow's economy while fostering curiosity and collaboration.
Outside of work, Justin enjoys being a father and husband, and playing baseball with a local amateur team.
Education:
B.S., Secondary Education, Indiana University Bloomington
M.S., Organizational Management and Leadership, Western Governors University
Justin Zobrosky
Principal of PPHS South Bend
Network leadership team
Board of Directors
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Maria Quintana, Chair
Former Executive Vice President and Managing Director, JP Morgan Chase
Maria Quintana is a lifelong community advocate raised on the near east side. A graduate of the IU Kelly School of Business, Maria has extensive public finance experience.
Being inducted into the Kelley School of Business Academy of Alumni Fellows is the latest in a string of accolades, including one of Indiana's highest honors, the Sagamore of the Wabash.
Maria is passionate about providing students with career opportunities.
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Porsche Chisley, Secretary
CEO, Chisley Consulting Group
Dr. Porsche Chisley, CEO of Chisley Consulting Group and Indianapolis native, brings a wealth of expertise in charter authorizing, strategy, and implementation.
Passionate about student success and life-sustaining opportunities, she is committed to ensuring PPHS graduates are both college-prepared and ready to pursue thriving careers.
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Ken Kobe, Treasurer
Retired
Ken served for 26 years as Chief Operating Officer of Barnes & Thornburg.
Prior to joining the firm, he served in various positions in Indiana State Government, including Deputy Director of the Department of Commerce and State Budget Director.
He is pleased to be able to contribute his background in finance and state education policy to the PPHS board.
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Jamal Smith
Executive Director of Government Affairs & Strategic Partnerships at IU Health
A Sagamore of the Wabash recipient, Jamal brings over 20 years of leadership experience in healthcare, community development, and government affairs.
As the driving force behind the Indy Health District, he has spearheaded transformative investments exceeding $500 million to revitalize underserved communities.
Jamal is passionate about leveraging strategic partnerships to address social determinants of health and create equitable opportunities for future generations.
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Gary Bertoline
Emeritus Dean and Distinguished Professor, Purdue University
Dr. Gary R. Bertoline is a distinguished Professor of Engineering Technology at Purdue University. Originally from Michigan, he has lived in West Lafayette, IN, since 1990.
His research interests include STEM education, and he worked with President Mitch Daniels on the startup of PPHS schools.
Gary is passionate about providing innovative learning experiences to high school students, improving educational outcomes, and increasing access to college and living-wage jobs.
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Geoff Fenelus
Advisor
Geoffrey Fenelus is a dedicated educator with over a decade of leadership experience in traditional and charter schools. Starting as a special education teacher, he advanced to roles including principal and founder, creating cultures that empower student success.
His four-step framework prioritizes vision, empathy, and effort, equipping educators to foster thriving environments. As a Transforming School Culture Associate at Solution Tree, he champions academic excellence and holistic development.
Fenelus serves on boards like Teach For America Indianapolis and Purdue Polytechnic High School, advocating for equity and inclusion. A devoted husband and father, he enjoys basketball, cycling, and films.
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John Gipson
Chief of Staff to the Provost and Associate Vice President for Academic Operations, Purdue University
Dr. John Gipson is the Chief of Staff to the Provost and Associate Vice President for Academic Operations at Purdue University, advising Provost Patrick Wolfe and overseeing daily operations.
From Southwest Michigan and the first in his family to earn a college degree, his research focuses on access and achievement in higher education.
Appointed as the primary liaison between Purdue and PPHS in 2021 by former President Mitch Daniels, he joined the Board of Directors in October 2023, chaired by Purdue President Mung Chiang. Dr. Gipson also chairs the governance and nominating committee.
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Dante Cook
Advisor & Coach
Dante Cook and his family are huge advocates for equal opportunity, entrepreneurship, and quality education on the near east side.
Dante graduated from William & Mary, completing three majors while being an All-Conference football player.
Dante coaches hundreds of thousands monthly on YouTube to become better investors, while also coaches Indy youth how to become better athletes and people.
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Shane Hageman
President, Hageman Group
Shane Hageman is President of Hageman Group, a family office that specializes in real estate and agricultural investments.
Originally from Remington, Indiana, Shane has lived in Indianapolis since 2011.
Shane is a first-generation college graduate, a proud alumnus of Purdue University, and passionate about expanding educational opportunities for students.
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Thomas Reives
Director, API Manufacturing Operations at Eli Lilly & Company
Thomas serves as Director of API Manufacturing Operations at Eli Lilly & Company. He is a proud native of Indianapolis, IN.
As a 2008 graduate of Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, he has been engaged in STEM advocacy throughout his career.
Thomas is passionate about preparing youth for success in life through education and brings that passion to the board of PPHS.
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Jay Wasson
Vice President for Physical Facilities & Public Safety, Purdue University
Jay Wasson, VP for Physical Facilities & Public Safety at Purdue University, is originally from Muncie, Indiana.
He brings decades of proficiency in leading cross-functional teams to successful results.
Jay is focused on elevating PPHS experiences so alumni can confidently pursue higher education.
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Jenna Rickus, Ph.D
Vice Provost for Teaching and Learning | Professor, Agricultural & Biological Engineering
Dr. Jenna Rickus is a Purdue alumna with dual B.S. degrees in Food Process Engineering and Biochemistry, she earned her Ph.D. in Neuroengineering at UCLA, focusing on neurotransmitter monitoring.
Her research at Purdue centers on designing systems that mimic cell functions for applications in agriculture, biomedicine, and food safety. Dr. Rickus teaches biosensors, nonlinear dynamics, and quantitative cell biology, preparing students to address biological challenges through innovative engineering approaches.
