Administration

Dean, Michelle Wilson

The Dean of the Academy oversees all academic and administrative operations, including overall program management, communications with schools, networking, curriculum development, budgeting, faculty and course selection, staff hiring, and overall supervision. The Dean is also responsible for addressing student needs and collaborates closely with teams managing admissions, financial aid, and the overall student selection process.

Before joining the University in 2021, Mrs. Wilson worked extensively with students and families across suburban, urban, and rural communities throughout the greater Kansas City, Missouri area. She also devoted many of her summers to leading and directing youth camps, programs, and academic enrichment programs.

Dean of JBA/Summer Programs
Assistant Director, The Institute for Academic Outreach

B.S. Human Services, University of Phoenix
M.A. Education and Integrated Learning, Drury University

Director, Allie Wills

As Director of the Academy, Ms. Wills oversees all aspects of the Academy’s day-to-day operations. This includes supervising all co-curricular JBA activities, managing student behavior, and fostering an environment that is safe, healthy, and engaging for all participants. She also oversees communication with families to ensure they are informed and supported throughout the program.

Ms. Wills manages the work of the professional staff and Preceptors to ensure that classes and events run smoothly. During training, she collaborates with the Assistant Director and other ProStaff members to ensure Preceptors are fully prepared for their roles.  During the school year, she works closely with the Dean to review and refine the Academy’s overall programming, including updating policies, procedures, and program adjustments as needed. The Director reports directly to the Dean of the Academy.

B.A. in English, Truman State University
M.A.Ed. in Secondary Education, Truman State University

English Educator, Pattonville High School
St. Louis JBA Director (2025)
JBA Assistant Director (2023 and 2024)
Residential Living Director (2021 and 2022)
Hospitality Director (2020) Preceptor (2018 & 2019)

Assistant Director, Noah Schleicher

As Assistant Director, Mr. Schleicher plays a vital role in the leadership and daily operations of the Academy. Working closely with the Director, he provides supervisory support across all program functions and assumes full oversight of the Academy whenever the Director is unavailable. His work helps ensure that the Academy maintains a consistent, structured, and supportive environment for all participants.

Mr. Schleicher’s primary responsibilities include monitoring and guiding student behavior, fostering a positive and respectful community, and addressing any concerns that arise throughout the session. He also organizes and manages the Academy’s check-in and check-out processes, coordinating logistics with staff, students, and families to ensure smooth and welcoming transitions.  In addition, he assists in the development and facilitation of Preceptor training, where he actively promotes team building and staff bonding to help create the positive, collaborative atmosphere that students know and love. Through this work, he helps ensure that Preceptors are not only well-prepared professionally but also unified as a supportive and cohesive team.

Mr. Schleicher also leads the planning and execution of several weekend activities, creating engaging and memorable experiences that enrich the Academy’s co-curricular program.  Through these efforts, he supports the Academy’s mission and contributes to a safe, well-run, and dynamic environment for all students and staff.

B.S. in Mathematics, Truman State University
M.A.Ed. in Secondary Education, Truman State University
Mathematics Educator, Pembroke Hill High School, Kansas City, MO
JBA Assistant Director (2025), ProStaff at Large (2024),
Preceptor Math, Science, and Business courses (2021, 2022, and 2023)

Student Support Specialist and Consultant

The Student Support Specialist and Consultant plays a vital role in fostering the emotional well-being and overall success of JBA students. As a central resource for support, the Specialist helps ensure that every student feels seen, heard, and cared for throughout their Academy experience.

Before each session begins, the Specialist works closely with Academy leadership and staff, providing targeted trainings designed to strengthen the team’s ability to recognize, understand, and respond to student needs with compassion and professionalism. These trainings help create a supportive environment where students can thrive both academically and personally.

Throughout the program, the Student Support Specialist maintains dedicated office hours, offering students a comfortable and confidential space to seek guidance. Students may visit to discuss homesickness, friendship dynamics, stress, coping strategies, or any concern that may impact their day-to-day experience. The Specialist approaches each conversation with empathy, helping students build resilience and develop practical tools for personal growth.

Beyond daily support, the Specialist is also available in times of crisis or emergency, providing immediate assistance and helping coordinate an appropriate response to ensure student safety and well-being. Their presence offers reassurance to both students and staff, reinforcing the Academy’s commitment to a caring and responsive community.

Through these efforts, the Student Support Specialist plays an essential part in creating a positive, inclusive, and supportive experience for every JBA student.

Pro-Staff

 Health and Wellness Director, Jacob Edwards

The Health & Wellness Director is responsible for overseeing all aspects of student health and safety during their time at the Academy. This includes dispensing medications, providing basic first aid, and supporting students in maintaining healthy habits throughout the program. While not serving as a medical professional, the Director provides the kind of everyday, home-style care and support that a parent or guardian might offer.

To encourage healthy daily practices, the Director often leads optional wellness challenges—such as drinking only water for the day or adopting earlier bedtimes—to promote positive choices and overall well-being.

The Health & Wellness Director, along with a second staff member, also accompanies students to any medical appointments that may arise while they are on campus, ensuring they feel supported and have a familiar adult present during the visit.

Beyond daily care, the Director maintains clear and consistent communication with parents and guardians. Health updates and information are shared through the CampDoc Health Management system, as well as through phone and email when needed, ensuring families remain informed and confident in the support their students receive.

B.F.A in Creative Writing from Truman
M.A.E. in Secondary Education, Truman State University
Pursuing M.A.E. in English Education, Truman State University
JBA Hospitality Director (2025)
Preceptor, Reptiles and Amphibians of MO course, and Monsters course (2024)
Preceptor, Filmmaking course, and Monsters course (2023)
Preceptor, Filmmaking course, and Graphic Novels (2022)
Preceptor, Graphic Novels (2021)

Residential Living Director, Isaac Tune

The Residential Living Director plays a central role in creating a safe, welcoming, and well-organized living environment for all students at the Academy. Responsible for all housing assignments, including student rooms and Preceptor housing groups, the Director ensures that living arrangements are thoughtfully organized to support community, comfort, and student well-being. They also supervise the hall desk and coordinate student check-ins and check-outs for medical appointments or other scheduled needs, ensuring that each student is supported throughout their time on campus.

Beyond logistics, the Residential Living Director manages the day-to-day residential life of students and staff, including coordinating with campus partners for building needs, maintenance, and other operational requirements. They work closely with the Hospitality and Hall Store Directors to ensure that all residential services—from meals to supplies—run smoothly, creating an environment where students and staff feel cared for and supported.

A key part of the role is fostering a sense of community within the residence halls. The Director works to cultivate a positive atmosphere, encouraging student engagement, respect, and collaboration, while also supporting staff as they navigate their responsibilities in housing and residential life. By maintaining strong communication, organization, and oversight, the Residential Living Director ensures that students can thrive both socially and personally in their residential experience.

The Residential Living Director reports directly to the Director and works in close partnership to align residential operations with the Academy’s overall mission and program goals, creating a seamless and enriching experience for all students.

B.S. in Mathematics, Truman State University
Instructor, St. Louis Chess Club
Educator, Fort Zumwalt School District
JBA Alumni
Preceptor, Science of Secrecy (2023)
Preceptor, An “Animated” Course and Monsters (2024)
Preceptor, Elements of Chemistry, and Preceptor at Large (2025)

 Hospitality Director

The Hospitality Director plays an important role in ensuring that the daily living experience at the Academy is smooth, organized, and welcoming for all students and staff. Working closely with the Residential Living Director—and providing coverage whenever they are unavailable—the Hospitality Director helps maintain the essential day-to-day operations that support residential life on a university campus.

Their responsibilities include managing mail services and deliveries, coordinating student laundry schedules, and overseeing the cleanliness of Ryle Hall and student rooms. By keeping these foundational services running effectively, the Hospitality Director contributes to a comfortable and well-maintained environment where students can focus on learning, connecting, and enjoying their time at the Academy.

In addition to residential support, the Hospitality Director assists with various Academy activities and events, helping ensure that programming is supported logistically and runs smoothly. They also collaborate with the Hall Store Director to keep store items stocked, stepping in as a backup whenever needed to maintain continuity of services for students and staff.

Through this combination of operational oversight, collaboration, and student-centered care, the Hospitality Director supports a positive, organized, and community-focused residential experience. The Hospitality Director reports directly to the Academy Director.

 Hall Store Director

The Hall Store Director oversees all facets of the JBA Hall Store—the central hub of activity and resources within Ryle Hall. As the heartbeat of residential life, the Hall Store supports students daily by providing essential items, helpful services, and a welcoming space to stay connected to what’s happening across the Academy.

The Hall Store Director manages all day-to-day store operations, including stocking shelves, tracking inventory, placing orders, overseeing sales, and managing both cash and card reconciliation each day. They also create and promote the popular Hall Store Daily Specials, adding fun and variety to students’ on-campus experience.

Beyond retail operations, the Hall Store serves as a key service center for students. Here, students can check in and out cleaning supplies, vacuums, games, and equipment; pick up paper towels; check the lost and found; and sign up for events and activities. By managing these resources, the Hall Store Director helps ensure that students have the tools and information they need to enjoy a smooth, comfortable, and engaging residential experience.

The Hall Store Director collaborates closely with both the Residential Living Director and the Hospitality Director to support residential operations and maintain consistency across student services. They report directly to the Academy Director.

Co-Activities Directors, Zoe Aldrich and TBA

The Co-Activities Directors play an essential role in shaping the energy, excitement, and community spirit that defines the Academy experience. Together, they plan and oversee the all of the morning, afternoon, and evening activity offerings, creating opportunities for students to explore new interests, build friendships, and discover their strengths outside the classroom.

Even before students arrive on campus. The Co-Activities Directors are planning and developing a diverse offering of athletic, intellectual, creative, and recreational activities, ensuring that every student can find activities that inspire and challenge them. They organize all materials, equipment, and travel logistics, coordinating each detail so that activities run smoothly and safely.

Throughout the program, the Co-Activities Directors train and mentor Preceptors to lead activities with confidence, enthusiasm, inclusivity, and safety in mind. By supporting the staff in creating a positive and inclusive environment, they help cultivate a culture where students feel encouraged to participate, collaborate, and even try something new.

Whether they are coordinating large group events, supervising daily activities, or introducing new offerings, the Co-Activities Directors are helping students make meaningful memories, develop new skills, and form lasting connections within the JBA community.  The Co-Activities Directors report directly to the Director.

Zoe Aldrich

B.F.A. in Creative Writing, Truman State University
M.A., Poetry, (in progress)
JBA Alumni
Preceptor, Writers Craft and Graphic Novels (2022)
Preceptor, Graphic Novels and Preceptor at Large (2023)
Co-Activities Director (2024 and 2025)

 Communications and Social Media Director

The Communications and Social Media Director serves as the Academy’s voice, sharing the energy, achievements, and daily life of the program with families, alumni, and the broader community. Through thoughtful and engaging communication, they help capture the spirit of JBA and ensure that families feel connected and informed throughout their students’ Academy experience.

This role oversees all aspects of the Academy’s external communication, including updates, announcements, and program information. They manage the Academy’s social media presence across multiple platforms, creating content that highlights academic activities, community events, student accomplishments, and the memorable moments that define the JBA experience. From photos and videos to written updates and the JBA Memory Book, the Director works to present an authentic and engaging look into life at the Academy.

The Communications and Social Media Director also provides course-related photography and videos, offering families valuable glimpses into the classroom experience as they explore course options for their students. These visual insights help families better understand the learning opportunities and hands-on experiences offered throughout the program.

In addition to content creation, the Director collaborates closely with Academy leadership and staff to ensure that all messaging is consistent, accurate, and aligned with the Academy’s mission.

By sharing the JBA experience with clarity, creativity, and intention, the Communications and Social Media Director strengthens community connections and helps tell the story of the Academy in a way that is both informative and inspiring. This position reports directly to the Academy Dean.

            Summer 2025 ProStaff Group Photo Session I

Back Row: Sam Mitchell, Isaac Tune (floater), Jacob Edwards, Noah Schleicher, Eliana Steinman, Hannah Vanourney, Nate Pulling (night monitor), and Michelle Wilson  Front Row: Aashish Bhatta, Zoe Aldrich, Rowan Burba, Faria Elkadi, Allie Wills, and Heather Beard (floater)

Summer 2025 ProStaff Group Photo Session II                   

Back Row: Sam Mitchell, Eliana Steinman, Jacob Edwards, Noah Schleicher, Hanna Vanourney, Allie Wills, and Michelle Wilson  Front Row: Rowan Burba, Zoe Aldrich, Aashish Bhatta, Farida Elkadi, Sam Scherff (floater), and Olivia Goodman (floater). Not pictured: Alana Ray, night monitor

Preceptors

Preceptors — one to three per class — are current or recently graduated Truman students who assist the faculty in the class room and work with students in their class.  The preceptors live in the residence hall and also assist the Co-Activities Directors’ during the morning, afternoon, and evening activities.

The majority of our preceptors are nominated by a JBA faculty member to assist in their course and are interviewed individually by the Dean and the Director of the Academy.  They must meet certain academic standards, have a heart for middle school age students, and adhere to certain expectations and standards as set by Truman State University and the Institute for Academic Outreach.  Along with a nomination to the position of Preceptor, students must submit an application, state their reason why they are interested in working with JBA, and provide a letter of recommendation from another campus professor to attest to their work ethic and ability to represent Truman in this role.  It is interesting to note that a large number of our preceptors are also Masters in Education students.

Once a position has been offered and accepted by a Preceptor, they have expectations before the beginning of each JBA session:

• complete a university background check
• attend the spring orientation session
• receive certification in CPR/AED and First Aid training, updating as necessary
• pass a van-driving test administered by Truman’s Department of Public Safety, as well as have a motor vehicle background check to ensure they have no moving violations, to be allowed to assist in transportation of students within campus vehicles
• meet with their faculty member for course expectations and guidelines to help support the faculty member
• three days of preparations, orientations, and trainings by the professional staff and campus departments
• work under their Faculty member for all academic responsibilities
• work under the Directors for all other duties and expectations

Night Monitor

The Night Monitor is a Truman student who provides awake overnight supervision.  While the students and staff are all asleep, the Night Monitor makes regularly scheduled rounds of each floor and throughout the building to ensure students are in their rooms, sleeping and the building is quiet and safe.  Additionally, the Night Monitor carries the academy phone for students to reach them at anytime a need arises.  Truman State University also has its own Police Department that makes regularly scheduled rounds on campus, who is also available for any emergent needs, should one arise during any time day or night.  The Night Monitor reports to the Director.

Faculty

The JBA Faculty Members are responsible for their class content, oversight, and coordination with the class Preceptors.  They schedule each day’s academic activities, monitor each student’s progress, assign study hall, supervise the academic duties of preceptors, as well as working in conjunction with the class preceptors to manage class behavior.  Faculty members also provide feedback to the student and their family at the end of the Session regarding the overall class, and how the student did during the course.  All JBA Faculty members report directly to the Dean of the Academy.  To review the individual faculty bios, please visit the course pages JBA Courses.

2025 Faculty Members Session I

2025 Faculty Members Session II

Recent Academy Graduate Feedback: 

• “Our professor, Dr. Vazzana, was one of the most entertaining and positive teachers that I have ever had.” (Victor, age 15)
• “She helped me develop my graphic novel creation skills and showed me how to do better.” (Kendall, age 13)
• “My professor was energetic and helpful whenever we were feeling stuck or tired.” (Andrew, age 13)