Meet the Corps
We proudly introduce the Volunteer Teaching Corps 2009-2010! With a total of 38 volunteers, there are many amazing and exceptional individuals for you to meet. Each month, we will highlight the lives and experiences of a few volunteers, giving you the chance to get to know who is a part of the VTC and where we come from. From each and every member of the VTC, we hope to have you join us next year!
Kelly Birch
Gonzaga University ‘09
Kelly Birch arrives currently from Spain, though has traveled the world throughout her life. Her dual degree in English and Sociology from Gonzaga University has been influenced by many experiences including multiple study abroad programs. Most recently, Kelly studied and served with the Casa de la Solidaridad Program in El Salvador. She was a campus leader through a program called HERO, Gonzaga's Gay-Straight Alliance, and acted as both president and committee chair. Also an active musician in Gonzaga's Symphony Orchestra and Wind Ensemble and Chamber Winds group, Kelly brings her enthusiasm to the fifth grade students of Our Lady of Charity School.
Emily Krunnfusz
Grand Valley State University ‘09
Emily Krunnfusz holds a BA in History from Grand Valley State University and originally hails from Naperville, IL. Her extensive work volunteering in elementary schools during colleges has prepared her well for her classroom. Likewise, Emily's leadership skills have been developed through her work with Relay for Life and the Tabor Hills Health Care Facility. She is looking forward to bringing some of her other skills as volleyball player and playwright to the middle school students of St. Helena of the Cross School while teaching Social Studies.
Erin McBride
John Carroll University ‘09
Erin McBride holds a degree from John Carroll University in Early Childhood Education and is originally from Rochester, NY. Erin has a long history of commitment to education and social justice, most evidenced through her work with Seeds of Hope (Big Brothers-Big Sisters), immersion trips to Ecuador and Florida, and Labre, a program bringing food and fellowship to the homeless of Cleveland, OH. Her classroom experiences at Gearity Professional Development School have prepared her well for the rigorous work ahead of her. Erin brings her enthusiasm to the third graders of St. Frances of Rome School.
Mairi Pearce
Kansas City Art Institute ‘07
Mairi Pearce is originally from Aiken, SC and attended the Kansas City Art Institute, from where she holds a dual degree in Interdisciplinary Arts and Art History. Mairi has had her artwork presented in multiple shows, including the Bachelor of Fine Arts Exhibition, Kemper Staff Show, and Young Americans Exhibition. After graduating, Mairi traveled to China where she taught English for a year. Her experiences in China varied from primary to university level, as well as from urban to rural. Mairi is looking forward to bringing her artistic talent and energy to the second graders of St. John de la Salle Catholic Academy.
Amanda Wirene
Skidmore College ‘09
Amanda Wirene, a Clinton, NY native, holds a BS in Education Studies from Skidmore College. Amanda completed two student teaching placements while in college, one in first and one in fourth grade. When not teaching, Amanda volunteered with the St. James Preschool as a Teacher's Aide. In college, she spent several years on the Skidmore Varsity Women's Crew as well as leading the Skidmore Nutrition Action Council. Amanda's ability to speak in front of groups was helped along by several years with the Skidmore Ambassadors. Amanda brings her energy and dedication to the kindergarteners at St. Barbara School.
