Alhan also lived in Eswatini, southern Africa, where she supported HIV prevention efforts by developing systems and training local staff to improve program effectiveness. This experience further showcased her dedication to utilizing education and resources for meaningful community development.
Alhan holds a Master of Science in Business Management and a Bachelor of Arts in Government and International Politics from George Mason University. Her educational background has provided her with a strong business and international relations foundation, which she applies to her work at OSSE.
In her current role, Alhan applies her expertise to manage and enhance the financial aspects of CTE programs. Her career reflects a steadfast belief in the power of education to drive positive change and empower individuals and communities.
Contact: alhan.samimi@dc.gov
Born and raised in Illinois, Andrea has lived in DC since 2012. She earned her master’s degree in Public Affairs Reporting from the University of Illinois-Springfield and her bachelor’s in journalism from Southern Illinois University.
Contact: andrea.zimmermann@dc.gov
Candice holds a Bachelor of Professional Studies degree from the University of Memphis and a Master of Education degree from Middle Tennessee State University. Candice is a member of Association for Career and Technical Education (ACTE), serves as the local chapter, DC ACTE, President, the ACTE National Awards Chair, and was a past leadership fellow. Candice is also a licensed cosmetologist of over 20 years.
Contact: candice.mott@dc.gov
Contact: clifton.martin@dc.gov
Contact: emily.carter@dc.gov
Joe holds a combined Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology-Anthropology and International Studies from Lawrence University, and a Master of Science degree in International Business from Roosevelt University. He also serves as the President-elect of the National Alliance for Partners in Equity (NAPE), is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, a Fellow, and an Associate Director.
Contact: joseph.green3@dc.gov
Previously, as Assistant Principal at PTECH Dunbar in Baltimore City Public Schools, Maisha played a pivotal role in preparing students for careers in healthcare by aligning curriculum with industry demands and ensuring a seamless pathway from high school to college and career success. She implemented instructional frameworks, provided data-driven feedback to enhance teaching practices, designed and delivered professional developments for collegiate staff, and design and implemented a cadre of systems to monitor and support student performance to success.
Throughout her career, Maisha has held various leadership roles and her diverse experience spans master scheduling, budget management, program development, curriculum design and instructional leadership, all rooted in a student-centered approach.
Contact: maisha.wise@dc.gov
Trained to be a reflective practitioner through Trinity University’s Educational Administration program, Monica has spent her career working to improve her craft in an effort to ensure that all students in her sphere of influence receive a quality education. Her passion for lifelong learning is evident in both her practice and her efforts to inspire that same passion in others.
In her most recent role as an Instructional Coach, Monica has leveraged her ability to build strong connections with educators, partnering with them to cultivate their professional growth. She supports teachers in refining their instructional practices and developing the skills needed to elevate student learning outcomes.
Contact: monica.blaqman@dc.gov
Her passion for education has pushed to consistently design and implement innovative learning approaches that cater to the needs of diverse learners. In this role, she has been able to promote not only academic success but also career readiness, as she believes that both are equally important for a fulfilling and prosperous life. Having worked tirelessly with the team to develop training programs that align with current industry demands, providing unparalleled opportunity for students to attain and demonstrate mastery of technical skills.
Through years of experience in education and my commitment to excellence in career and technical education, I am confident in my ability to make significant contributions to the industry, while supporting the professional development of students, instructors, and leaders. As she continues to grow professionally in this field,she remains dedicated to empowering the next generation of learners to achieve their full potential, build fulfilling careers, and make meaningful contributions to society.
Contact: tanya.whitaker@dc.gov