Dr. Stefan Bean has dedicated the past twenty-eight years to serving Southern California communities and students as a teacher, principal, and school administrator. In June 2024, the Orange County Board of Education unanimously appointed him as Orange County’s 12th superintendent of schools, a position that dates back to 1889. From July 2022 through June 2024, Dr. Bean served as the executive director of the Irvine International Academy. Prior to this, he worked for Aspire Public Schools in Los Angeles for nearly twelve years, progressing through roles as lead principal, associate superintendent and superintendent. In the latter role, he oversaw eleven schools serving students from transitional kindergarten through grade 12.

His educational qualifications include a bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern California, a master’s degree in educational leadership from Loyola Marymount University and a doctorate in educational administration from California State University, Fullerton. Dr. Bean’s personal experiences as an English language learner and a student with a disability have deeply influenced his educational philosophy. He has expressed a particular passion for supporting English learners and marginalized students. During his college years, Dr. Bean met Janet Soares, whom he married in 2000. They raised four children and were deeply involved in work and ministry. Dr. Bean credits Janet, who tragically passed away in 2020 after a battle with cancer, as a significant source of support throughout his life and career.

Connect with Stefan:

linkedin.com/in/drstefanbean

drbeanoc@proton.me

www.liftedtolead.com

Dr. Kathy Nash has dedicated twenty-five distinguished years to supporting students in her career in education. Her experience spans various roles, including elementary teacher supporting special education, English learners, and gifted and talented students. As an elementary and middle school principal, she served in Title 1 schools, driven by a passion to empower leaders to serve marginalized youth. Her commitment to fostering potential continued as a Title 1 coordinator for English learners and as a teacher on special assignment, where she inspired and empowered her staff. Her exceptional contributions were recognized with the titles of Teacher of the Year in Corona Norco Unified and ACSA Principal of the Year in Chino Unified. Academically, Dr. Nash holds a Multiple Subject Teaching Credential, CLAD Certificate, Administrative Services Credential, a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, and a Doctorate Degree in Organizational Leadership. With her doctorate, she served as an adjunct professor, serving on a dissertation committee, and as a course developer for Brandman University (Umass Global) in extendededucation.

Beyond her administrative and teaching roles, Dr. Nash has significantly influenced educational policy. As a State Legislative committee member for ACSA on human resources and curriculum and instruction, she advocated for practical educational laws. She continues to make an impact through her published educational articles for ACSA, the Principal’s Network, and LinkedIn. Adding to her diverse background, Dr. Nash was a small business owner before entering education, bringing a unique perspective to Lifted to Lead.

Connect with Kathy:

linkedin.com/in/dr-kathy-v-nash-5a63219a

or kathynash16@gmail.com

liftedtolead.com