We believe the most generous thing you can do for other people is take care of yourself.
Kathleen is a transformational leader who thrives on turning potential into progress. With more than 15 years of experience in EdTech, SaaS, and nonprofit leadership, she specializes in strategic planning, omni-channel marketing, and organizational growth; aligning marketing and sales to drive sustainable organizational expansion. She taught for six years in Pre-K through 12th grades, and also designed and led educational programs in both online and in-person settings. Kathleen holds an MBA from Southern Methodist University and a Bachelor of Music from Indiana University, a unique combination that fuels her ability to think strategically while understanding the power of creativity and education.
Jillian Pawlowski
Director of Programs & Head Coach
Jillian is a trauma informed certified transformation coach. She specializes in radical self-love, metacognition, consciousness, and the unification of mind and body to help people transform the way they experience themselves and life. Her expertise provides a safe space for clients to grow towards expansive self-love and self-actualization. Her passion for personal and professional growth is the foundation for her calling: to make the world a kinder, more loving place.
Meet the Team
Kathleen Staten, MBA
Chief Operating Officer
Paige Sifuentes is an educator and administrator based in Texas who supports Empowered Educator by managing the systems that keep learning clear, accessible, and running smoothly. With experience in the elementary classroom and a background in music education, she brings a strong sense of structure, pacing, and flow to organizing content, maintaining the website, and supporting the learning platform behind the scenes. Her work focuses on the administrative and technical details that reduce friction for educators and ensure courses, audio resources, and communications are dependable and easy to navigate. Paige holds a Bachelor of Music Education from Texas A&M–Commerce and, outside of work, enjoys exploring Texas, spending time with loved ones, and perfecting a great cup of coffee.
Paige Sifuentes
Digital Learning Operations Associate
Dr. Jen Rafferty
Chief Executive Officer, Founder
Jen’s work began with a realization early in her teaching career: while she was well prepared in content, pedagogy, and philosophy, she didn’t yet understand her students as fully as she wanted to. That question—how people actually learn—led her into cognitive neuroscience and ultimately to a Ph.D. in Educational Psychology. Over time, this research shaped a core belief that now anchors her work: the most generous thing educators can do for their students is to take care of themselves. Jen’s career includes published research, national media features, a TEDx talk, an Amazon-bestselling book for music educators, and a globally ranked podcast. Through Empowered Educator®, she brings the latest research in mindset, leadership, and cognitive neuroscience into practical, human-centered programs that help teachers and school leaders find their voice, sustain their energy, and build long, healthy careers in education.
Leadership & Operations
Jason Herbert is a former public educator and administrator who now supports educators and families through Empowered Educator. His work is grounded in service, faith, and a strong connection to the land. He lives in southwest Michigan with his wife and four children, where he spends time outdoors tending his garden and beekeeping.
Education Partnerships Team
Natalie James is a general elementary music educator and flutist who is committed to helping educators reduce burnout, and increase joy and regulation in their lives.
Polina Mann is an educator and church musician with 13 years of experience in PreK–8 education. She brings a practical, creative approach to designing programs for both online and in-person settings. Her work focuses on supporting sustainable practice for educators.
Tammy Goddard is a former teacher and administrator with 35 years of experience in early childhood and education. Her work centers on resilience, self-care, and sustained practice. She also leads a canine comfort program that supports communities during times of stress.
Christine Bowers is a special education teacher and trauma-informed educator and a proud product of Empowered Educator programming. As a Community Engagement Associate, she helps educators access the same support, connection, and sustainability that shaped her own journey.
Gayle Striar is a school-clinical psychologist with 25+ years of experience specializing in working with children, parents, educators, and schools. Her focus promotes self-awareness, educational advocacy, and emphasizes the value of collaboration and community.
