Our Team
Genesis has a dedicated leadership team that works tirelessly to serve the unique needs of our students and educators.
With decades of experience and dedication to the Genesis mission, our leadership teams strives for excellence.
Maryellen Bucci
With more than 25 years of experience in special education, Ms. Bucci brings exceptional leadership, expertise, and a deep commitment to serving students with diverse needs in her role as Executive Director. She served as Principal of our Rutherford Academy campus from July 2021 through June 2026, where she cultivated a positive school culture, strengthened collaboration among staff, and ensured the delivery of high-quality educational programming.
Before joining our organization, Ms. Bucci spent more than a decade as Principal of Easter Seals Academy in Illinois. In that role, she provided strategic leadership, oversaw program operations and budgeting, and implemented data-driven initiatives that enhanced both student achievement and staff performance. Her previous experience as a Program Coordinator and Behavior Consultant further reflects her extensive expertise in behavior analysis, staff development, and individualized programming for students with complex needs.
Ms. Bucci holds a Master of Education in Administration and Leadership from National Louis University and a Master of Arts in Counseling Psychology from St. Xavier University, where she graduated with a 4.0 GPA. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from St. Xavier University and was inducted into the Psychology National Honor Society, Psi Chi, in recognition of her academic excellence.
Promoted to Executive Director in July 2026, Ms. Bucci provides strategic leadership for the organization, guiding its continued growth while advancing its mission of delivering exceptional educational services. She is committed to fostering innovation, empowering staff, and ensuring that every student receives the individualized support and opportunities they need to succeed.
Terry Adams
Co-Founder, Genesis Learning Centers
Chairman of the Board
President of the Corporation
Melissa Adams
Co-Founder, Genesis Learning Centers
Board Member
Megan Pyle
Principal
Genesis Academy
Nicole Bailey
Manager of School Services
Rutherford County Teen Learning Center
Jean Chambers
Homebound Coordinator
Genesis Learning Centers
Kerry Tucker
Assistant Executive Director
Genesis Learning Centers
Kelly Mays
Manager of Human Resources
Genesis Learning Centers
Patty Higgins
Manager of Finance
Genesis Learning Centers
Amy Portier
Principal
Rutherford Academy
Pam Byrd
Director of TLCs
Montgomery County Teen Learning Center
Mary Williams
Homebound Coordinator
Genesis Learning Centers
Miguel Morera
Director of Infrastructure
Genesis Learning Centers
Jason Pyle
Manager of Health and Safety
Genesis Learning Centers
