SEMINOLE, Fla. (May 18, 2020) — Learning Independence for Tomorrow (LiFT) announced today that Shawn Naugle has been named as their new Executive Director. Naugle will officially assume this new leadership role immediately, overseeing both LiFT Academy and LiFT University Transition Program.
Naugle, a former United States Air Force Academy Cadet, comes to LiFT with 12 years of experience in children and family services. This most recently includes his position as Regional Executive Director of Children’s Home Society of Florida, where he led 150 employees serving more than 2,500 children annually across the Suncoast Region.
“It is a true honor to have been selected as the Executive Director for LiFT,” said Naugle. “Not only will we continue to provide quality education for our students with neurodiversities to excel in their academics, we want to prepare them to thrive as the next generation of community leaders. I believe LiFT can be the model for children’s education and success throughout our community, our state, and our nation. We plan to offer bold, innovative solutions through enhanced community partnerships, increased services, and more available options for our students and their families. I would like to encourage and welcome all to join the LiFT Family, where together we will do amazing things.”
Naugle supersedes LiFT co-founder, Kim Kuruzovich, who will continue to serve as Vice Chairman of the organization’s board of directors to ensure a successful transition.
“Shawn’s unique background in family services, early education, and children’s advocacy will take LiFT to greater heights,” said LiFT co-founder and Chairman, Keli Mondello. “This leadership change was an intentional piece of a 3-year plan to strengthen and expand what our team has built. The LiFT family couldn’t be more excited for Shawn’s leadership through this next chapter of our organization’s growth!”
Naugle holds a Masters of Public Administration Degree from Strayer University, where he graduated first in class, and a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology from the University of Denver.
###
About Learning Independence for Tomorrow
LiFT is the vision of passionate mothers who wanted an educational program that focused on independent outcomes for their own children with neurodiversities. In 2012, Kim Kuruzovich and Keli Mondello had a vision. Inspired by their daughters, they set out to create an inclusive and accepting environment where children would be free from bullying so they would have the peace to learn and grow. Today LiFT boasts an enrollment of 130(+) students and three educational programs. LiFT Academy serves Kindergarten through 12th grade; LiFT University Transition Program, is a four-year post-secondary transition program for students who have completed high school, but desire continued academics, career readiness, and intensive life skill training. LiFT Adult Day program offers continued learning and employment skills while promoting social enterprise.
As a recognized leader in the landscape of special and inclusive education, LiFT is committed to providing exceptional and equal opportunities in education, employment and life experiences for ALL!
(727) 258-7659
info@liftacademy.org
www.liftacademy.org
13400 Park Boulevard, Seminole, Florida 33776