BOARD OF TRUSTEES
Hilltop Academy operates under the guidance and leadership of a Board of Trustees (BOT). It intentionally seeks to maintain its diversity professionally, racially, and culturally, with members coming from both the greater Hartford and Springfield Metropolitan areas and beyond.
The Board of Trustees ensures all components of the school are in alignment with its vision and mission, providing a means for checks and balances relative to operations, programming, sources of revenue and expenditures. It is through the Trustees' wealth of knowledge and experience from diverse educational and professional backgrounds, and the group's collaborative efforts and partnership, that Hilltop Academy is on target with its operational goals.
More detailed information about our Board members can be found by pulling down on the arrow to the left of each Trustees name.
Gina Martin-Ryan
Founder & Board of Trustees President
BS, Health & Family Life Ed; MS, School Health; CAGS, School Leadership; MA & CT Principal License, MA Superintendent License
"There's a hero that resides within each and every young person. School should be a joyful experience that helps young people believe in and find their inner hero as they journey toward living a life of purpose."
Gina is the visionary behind Hilltop Academy, a school she has been developing for the past 10 years. With over 30 years in education, she has served as a principal, vice principal, student life coordinator, and teacher across elementary, middle, and high school levels in Massachusetts and Connecticut. Her leadership has focused on fostering positive school cultures where students, staff, and families thrive.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Health & Family Life Education from the University of Maine, a Master’s in School Health Education from Southern Connecticut State University, and a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in School Leadership & Administration from American International College. Her passion for nurturing the spirit, mind, and body, engaging with nature, and uncovering each child’s talents and joy shaped Hilltop Academy’s vision and mission.
Outside of work, Gina enjoys hiking, kayaking, gardening, photography, reading, journaling, and playful competition. She and her husband have 3 adult children. They live in Suffield, Connecticut, with their two dogs.
Joseph Trivisonno
Board of Trustees Vice President
Grade PreK-6 School Principal
BS, Movement & Sports Studies; M.Ed, Organizational Leadership; Ed.D., School Leadership; MA Principal & Superintendent License
"Students, staff, and families deserve a dynamic learning environment that truly meets the needs of all stakeholders, beyond academics."
Joe began his career in Springfield Public Schools as a physical education teacher and quickly embraced leadership roles in crisis response, instructional leadership, and school operations. Recognized in 2016 with the Pioneer Valley Excellence in Teaching Award, he completed an educational leadership program in 2017, leading to five years as Assistant Principal across Southbridge, Narragansett, and Monson Public Schools. In 2021, he became principal of Granite Valley School (Pre-K–6) and now serves as principal at Amanda C. Rowe Elementary School in Portland, Maine.
He earned a Bachelor of Science in Movement and Sports Studies from Springfield College, a Master of Education in Organizational Management from Endicott College, and completed the Educational Doctoral Program in School Leadership at Nova Southeastern University. Joe holds Massachusetts licenses as a school principal (Pre-K–12) and superintendent.
Joe is drawn to Hilltop Academy’s mission of creating joyful, engaging, and individualized learning experiences for every student and staff member. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching basketball, traveling, following the New York Jets, and spending time with his family.
David Marsh
Board of Trustees Secretary
Architectural Designer
BS.Arch, M.Arch
"The ideal school will honor the individuality of every child and not shy from exploring alternative career paths and skills."
David’s passion for education and mentoring began in high school, where he experienced firsthand the transformative impact of supportive mentors, including Gina Martin-Ryan. This early experience shaped his dedication to helping students take ownership of their learning and explore their unique talents and paths.
He earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Architecture from Wentworth Institute of Technology in Boston, where he served as a Design Mentor, Orientation Leader, and Teaching Assistant. Since graduating, David has continued to mentor emerging architects as a Thesis Advisor and guest critic, sharing his expertise and fostering growth in others. He currently works as an architectural designer for Reisen Design Associates in Cambridge, MA, focusing on design concepts, client presentations, and sustainable, energy-efficient solutions.
David is drawn to Hilltop Academy’s holistic model of education, which emphasizes individualized learning, outdoor experiences, and meaningful relationships with peers, families, and communities. Outside of work, he enjoys coaching volleyball, sketching and painting, playing volleyball, and staying active at the gym. He lives in Boston, MA.
Tara Asher
Board of Trustees Treasurer
ASD Pre-K Teacher
BS, Major in Biology, Minor in Chemistry & English Literature; M.Ed. Biology; MBA; Master Certificate ASD, MA Moderate Disabilities Licensure
"When a student is true to their own personality, morals/values, and spirit they have more self-confidence and are much more open to experiencing life as it is."
Tara’s passion for education and student well-being stems from her long-standing conversations with Gina about reimagining schools to honor the individuality of every child. She is drawn to Hilltop Academy’s holistic approach, which emphasizes nurturing the spirit, mind, and body, reconnecting students with nature, and making learning engaging through creativity and play.
Tara brings extensive experience in both the biopharmaceutical and education sectors, including 15 years in biotech and 18 years in public education. She has worked as a teacher, grade-level team leader, club supervisor, and school leader, focusing on supporting staff, students, and families while streamlining systems and improving school structures. Tara holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology with minors in Chemistry and English Literature from Western New England College, a Master of Secondary Education in Biology from American International College, an MBA from Western New England College, and a Master Certificate in Autism Spectrum Disorder from Antioch University.
Outside of work, Tara enjoys hiking, kayaking, gardening, reading, hunting for sea glass, and spending time with her husband, two children, dog, and two cats. She is excited to help bring the vision of Hilltop Academy to life and support a school where students can fully embrace their authenticity.
Vilenti Tulloch
Trustee
Co-founder & CEO, Academic Leadership Association
BS, Sociology; MS, Educational Psychology; MA Clinical Social Worker & School Adjustment Counselor Licenses
"There is a need for school to be done differently in order for education to move in a direction that will best serve our youth."
Vilenti is inspired by Hilltop Academy’s progressive programming, which emphasizes movement, play, experiential learning, and engagement with nature. He believes these elements, interwoven with academics, are essential for developing students into thinkers, problem-solvers, and leaders.
Vilenti is the CEO and co-founder of the Academic Leadership Association (ALA), where he mentors youth, leads after-school programs, and develops partnerships with schools, colleges, and local businesses. He has also worked in social work, transitional learning centers, public schools, and domestic violence programs. Vilenti holds an Associate’s degree from Springfield Technical Community College, a Bachelor’s in Sociology, a Master’s in Educational Psychology from Westfield State University, and is pursuing an Educational Doctorate at American International College.
When not working, Vilenti enjoys spending time with his four children, playing basketball, coaching, and video gaming. He lives in Springfield, MA with his wife, children, and their goldendoodle.
Yeselie Tulloch
Trustee
Co-founder & Business Manager, Academic Leadership Association
BS, Criminal Justice; BA, Ethnic & Gender Studies; MBA, Entrepreneurial Thinking & Innovative Practices
"School should be all about the child, meeting each one where they are at."
Yeselie is drawn to Hilltop Academy’s individualized approach, which meets each student where they are and prioritizes their unique needs, talents, and interests. She is committed to supporting programs that foster student well-being and long-term success.
She co-founded the Academic Leadership Association (ALA) with her husband, serving as Business Operations Manager, Mentor, and Trainer. Previously, she worked in social services supporting children and families, including roles with Head Start and Key Program Inc. Yeselie holds an MBA in Entrepreneurial Thinking and Innovative Practices from Bay Path University, a BS in Criminal Justice, and a BA in Ethnic and Gender Studies from Westfield State University.
Outside of work, Yeselie enjoys spending time with her four children, family movie nights, reading, cooking, and attending their children’s extracurricular activities. She lives in Springfield, MA with her family and their goldendoodle.
Julissa Arce
Trustee
Associate Attorney
B.S. Business Law, J.D.
"The traditional curriculum does not give room for all students to process and comprehend information at an accurate pace that represents the workplace environment that students are ultimately striving for."
Julissa is committed to helping students see education as an opportunity rather than an obligation, ensuring learning aligns with real-world skills and individual needs. She is passionate about fostering creative, engaging, and equitable learning experiences. Julissa has a special place in her heart for giving back to her community.
Julissa works in land use and municipal law in Rhode Island, advising clients that include municipalities, school departments, and real estate developers. Her background includes mentoring, tutoring, and teaching assistant roles throughout high school, college, and law school.
Julissa earned her undergraduate degree and law degree in Rhode Island. In law school, she enrolled in a course entitled, "Simple Justice: The History of Brown v. Board of Education" and immediately fell in love with seeing how legal strategy played a pivotal role in changing the educational system as a whole. She began opening her eyes to see how she could do the same in her career. Julissa is eager to see change and growth in today's education, and the mission of Hilltop Academy is education's future!
In her free time, Julissa enjoys spending time with family and friends, exploring coffee shops, and window shopping.
Gwendolyn Rivera Levine
Trustee
Realtor
BS Finance, Real Estate License
"We should educate the child purposefully, while utilizing inclusivity for experiential learning models and connecting the child to seek their purpose outside the classroom walls."
At the mere age of ten, Gwen learned the epochal meaning of education as her family, originally from Ponce, Puerto Rico, left their beloved island to settle in Wilbraham, Massachusetts. She experienced first-hand the hardships of acquiring a new language and assimilating into a nonnative culture which she quickly surmounted.
Gwendolyn is passionate about experiential, inclusive education that prepares students to discover their purpose beyond the classroom. She believes education should be tailored to the individual while fostering personal growth and critical thinking.
Gwendolyn earned a Bachelor’s degree in Finance, graduating Magna Cum Laude from Western New England University. She began her career as a financial analyst and transitioned to real estate, achieving top-tier professional success for over 20 years. She comes from a family of educators and brings a deep appreciation for the transformative power of education.
She resides on a lake in Brimfield, MA with her husband and two rescue dogs. An avid lover of nature, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and participating in her local lakefront community.
"If we teach today's students as we taught yesterday's, we rob them of tomorrow." ~ John Dewey
Kathy Christianson
Trustee
Volunteer Director & Facilitator
BS Human Relations
"...every child should receive an education based upon their strengths, interests, and needs...All schools' #1 priority should be the the clients that they serve- the students."
Kathy is committed to creating educational environments that honor the unique strengths and needs of each student. She believes the current conventional system often fails youth and that alternative models, like Hilltop Academy, are essential for equitable learning.
She brings extensive experience in leadership, management, and education-focused workshops, having worked in the insurance industry and facilitating programs for students, parents, and educators through organizations including the Anti-Defamation League, RE-Center for Race & Equality, and Justice Education Center. Kathy holds a BA in Human Relations from Central Connecticut State University.
Kathy lives in Newington, CT with her husband of 38 years, has two stepchildren, and is a grandmother to three grandchildren. In her free time, she enjoys reading, walking, attending book club, and crafting.
Jaclyn Willemain
Trustee
Licensed Clinical Social Worker
BA Psychology, MSW Social Work
"...education is most effective when teaching to the mind, body, heart, and soul of every learner."
Jackie’s empathy and desire to help others have guided her educational and professional journey. She earned an associate’s degree from Springfield Technical Community College, a bachelor’s in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts, and a master’s in Social Work from Westfield State University. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, recently transitioning from public education where she served for ten years as a School Adjustment Counselor and District Social Worker.
Hilltop Academy's mission to empower students from the very start of their school journey is what inspired her involvement with the Board. She strongly believes in all students having a voice, including having a seat at the decision-making table. She also values integrating the broader community into the school experience from nature to families, to business and local organizations, and other educational institutions into the learning experience. Jackie shares the conviction that education is most effective when teaching to the mind, body, heart, and soul of every learner.
Born and raised in Springfield, Massachusetts, Jackie now resides in Westfield and enjoys traveling, live music, and spending time with family and friends.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
Learn More About Us
Nondiscriminatory Policy
It is our mission to guard and protect the unique individuality of each member of our Hilltop Community- those we serve and lead and those who lead and serve.
Hilltop Academy Inc. admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. It does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national and ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies, admissions policies, financial assistance programs, and athletic and other school-administered programs. The officers, committee members, employees, and persons served by this corporation shall be selected entirely on a non-discriminatory basis with respect to age, sex, race, religion, national origin, and sexual orientation. It is the policy of Hilltop Academy Inc. not to discriminate on the basis of race, creed, ancestry, marital status, gender, sexual orientation, age, physical disability, veteran status, political service or affiliation, color, religion, or national origin.
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Administrative Offices:
P.O. Box 24, West Suffield, CT 06093
Our Mission
Forging a powerful, innovative, and transformative model of education that emboldens and prepares students for life, college, service, trade, and/or career through natural and holistic, simplistic yet rigorous, relevant and engaging learning practices and through the strong ties we build with our families and communities.
Our Vision
Opening opportunities and access for students, families, educators, and communities to experience our model of education which honors the hero in every child on their chosen pathway to a life of purpose.
Hilltop Academy Inc. is a nonprofit, 501(C)3 organization. All proceeds and donations support our tuition assistance and educational programming.
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