Meet Our Board of Directors

The Newsom Educational College Board of Directors provides strategic oversight and guidance to this visionary nonprofit organization founded by Blake Newsom in March of 2025. They are dedicated to empowering adults with special needs to live fulfilling, independent lives. At NEC, the Board ensures everyone has the opportunity to pursue their dreams, develop essential life skills, and actively participate in their community.

The Board's mission is to create a supportive, inclusive environment where individuals with special needs can thrive academically, socially, and personally. They aim to equip NEC students with the tools to lead purposeful and independent lives through tailored educational programs, vocational training, and community involvement.

The NEC Board's leadership combines diverse expertise and a shared commitment to hands-on experiences, fostering growth in career readiness, social integration, self-advocacy, and daily living skills. The Board members, the caring staff, and passionate volunteers strive to nurture each student’s potential, building a foundation for lifelong success.

By breaking down barriers and creating opportunities, Newsom Educational College, guided by its Board of Directors, is a beacon of hope and empowerment for special needs adults and their families. Join us in our mission to make dreams a reality!

Blake Newsom, M.S.

President & Chancellor 

Chairman of the Board

Dr. Eeman Salem, Ph.D.

Vice President &

Vice Chairwoman

Kendra Hayes

Secretary

Mel Lane, A.A., CPRS

Community Outreach Coordinator

Dr. Candy Jones-Martorell, Ed.D.

Program Development

Dr. Naomi Cortez, Ed.D.

Director of 

English Education & Curriculum Innovation

Dr. Denisha C. Shah, DO, MPH, Ph.D.

Director of

Health, Wellness, and accessibility

Dr. Tony Schellenberger, Psy.D.

Director of

Psychology  Education & Curriculum Innovation 

Dr. Michael Fienberg, Ph.D.

Director of 

Mathematics Education & Curriculum Innovation

Dr. Amanda Walker, Ph.D.

Director of

Student & Disability Services

Carolina Lacayo, M.A.,BCBA

ABA Special Advisor

About Our Board of Directors

The Newsom Educational College Board of Directors brings together an extraordinary group of professionals, scholars, and advocates who share a united passion for building a brighter future for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Our board is made up of:

  • Worldwide authors whose work has inspired and educated diverse audiences.
  • Ph.D. candidates and doctoral scholars contributing cutting-edge research in psychology, education, and the social sciences.
  • Future social workers and medical doctors (MDs) are committed to serving vulnerable populations with compassion and expertise.
  • Board-certified behavior analysts (BCBAs) leading applied behavior analysis and evidence-based support.
  • Peer recovery specialists who bring lived experience and advocacy to guide holistic approaches to care.
  • Course designers and adjunct faculty with decades of instructional experience, curriculum development expertise, and student-centered teaching methods.

Most of our board members currently serve or have served at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, bringing unparalleled expertise to the mission of Dream College. Others bring valuable academic and professional experience from institutions such as Columbia State Community College and Al-Quds University (Jerusalem), contributing to a strong foundation in community-focused education and workforce development. Together, our Board of Directors provides strategic guidance, academic insight, and community leadership to help Newsom Educational College become a transformative force in higher education for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Contact Us Today

We are here to answer any questions you may have. Reach out to us to learn more about our programs and how we can help you or your loved one achieve their dreams.