who we are
Ali Hurd
Ali is a world traveler with a passion for cross-cultural collaboration and team development. With a background in education and leadership, Ali has worked across Nicaragua, New York, California, and Mexico, honing her expertise in guiding teams through complex challenges. Ali now specializes in organizational coaching, helping schools, businesses and non-profits create inclusive, data-driven environments. One of her passions is identifying the unique strengths of individuals and channeling them to create cohesive, efficient teams. Outside of work, she enjoys outdoor adventures with her husband and four daughters as well as almost any type of fitness activity.
Dr. Andrea Sande
Andrea is a consultant, executive coach, and trainer with over 25 years of experience in leadership and organizational transformation. With a doctorate in Leadership Innovation and Continuous Improvement, she helps businesses and nonprofits streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and achieve strategic goals. Her diverse leadership background—from serving as a principal to leading a homeowner's association—has sharpened her ability to manage teams and drive organizational growth. Andrea is passionate about meeting clients where they are and guiding them toward success. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling to tropical destinations and spending time with family.
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Missi Thurman
Missi is a seasoned leadership coach, published author, and expert at building data-driven teams with humor and real talk. Known for her relatable coaching style, Missi uses analogies to make complex concepts accessible and actionable. She’s passionate about holding people accountable to their goals while empowering leaders at every level. As president of one non-profit board and management committee chair of another, Missi leads with both heart and humor. Outside of work, she enjoys family time, community involvement, and actively supports kids and families in foster care.
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Dr. Lisa Harlan
Lisa is an experienced leader who brings over 20 years of experience specializing in organizational improvement and team development. She excels in helping organizations implement data-driven strategies to optimize performance. Lisa’s leadership experience and extensive work with teams and strategic planning, equips her to support businesses in building collaborative, high-performing environments. Lisa combines directness with a sense of humor and is known for maintaining strong, relatable relationships. Outside of work, she volunteers at a non-profit focused on empowerment and self-defense for women and girls. Lisa and her husband also enjoy CrossFit and spending time with their two children.
Tessa Reeves
Tessa brings an extensive background in non-profit work and program management to Education Excellence. She enhances organizational efficiency and effectiveness at Educational Excellence. With a passion for fostering positive outcomes, Tessa excels in delivering essential support to both clients and her team, ensuring that projects run smoothly and successfully. She is dedicated to identifying opportunities for improvement and implementing solutions that align with the organization’s mission. In her personal life, she values quality time with her family and is passionate about swimming, actively training with her Masters Swim Team.
Additional Partners in the Work
