Leadership

Leader patternonly 1

  • Fred Franson, Co-founder and CEO

    Fred Fransen, Co-founder and CEO

    Fred’s career has been dedicated to improving the ability of people around the world to live prosperous and free lives by increasing their educational opportunities. Fred earned a Ph.D. in Social Thought from University of Chicago.

  • Lisa Roberts, Senior Vice President of Initiatives

    Lisa Roberts, Chief Philanthropy Officer

    Lisa has spent her career guiding fundraising and development for nonprofits. An adjunct professor at Indian River State College, Lisa earned an MBA from Jacksonville University and a bachelor’s degree from University of North Florida.

  • Julie Smitherman, Director of Content Management

    Julie Smitherman, Vice President of Programs

    Julie was a high school social studies teacher for eight years before joining Certell to help craft its social studies curriculum. Julie earned a master’s degree in economics from George Mason University, and a bachelor’s degree in social studies teacher education from Purdue University.