FOUNDER

Hannah Kelly is the founder of Narthex Community of Learners and brings over two decades of experience in education and advocacy to this innovative project.

She began her teaching journey as a 2002 Teach For America corps member, initially licensed as a secondary English teacher and currently licensed in special education.

A graduate in Political Science, Hannah is passionate about the intersection of faith, learning, and community-building. When she’s not in the classroom or writing up the Narthex handbook, Hannah is reading stories to her 6 children, biking to the music of Handel’s Messiah, or picking raspberries in her backyard garden.

BOARD CHAIR

Michaela Flash serves as the inaugural Board Chair of Narthex.

With years of leadership as Senior Warden at St. Philip’s Episcopal Church, President of the Union of Black Episcopalians, and a trainer for the College of Congregational Development, Michaela brings both local and national experience in faith-based leadership.

She is deeply connected to the civic and cultural life of Indiana Avenue and maintains strong relationships with area universities, arts organizations, and nonprofits. A licensed social worker and advocate for mental health, Michaela brings wisdom, compassion, and a visionary spirit to Narthex’s founding board.

BOARD TREASURER

As a third-grade teacher at The Oaks Academy and a former Target executive, Kindra Fillmore blends organizational experience with deep pedagogical insight.

Known for designing systems that support both data-driven growth and student flourishing, Kindra approaches all her work with joy and intentionality. Whether planning field trips or celebrating major milestones with students and their families, she brings love and wisdom to every task.

As a mother and teacher, Kindra is deeply attuned to the practical needs and spiritual growth of young people.

BOARD SECRETARY

Becca Ito is a teacher, artist, and thoughtful communicator who serves as Board Secretary for Narthex.

An alumna of The Oaks Academy, she now teaches Latin there, where she is known for her ability to foster deep, engaging conversations with her fifth-grade students. Becca also manages Prakun Pottery, a studio where she designs work inspired by themes of hospitality and the cultural meaning of food and home.

Her wide reading and reflective spirit shape the development of Narthex’s reading lists and help to ground the school’s curriculum in both beauty and justice.

Sean Pingel joins the Narthex Board bringing both professional expertise and deep personal conviction to our work. An associate with CBRE, Sean offers energy, integrity, and practical insight as Narthex seeks a permanent church home—helping guide the process with wisdom, diligence, and care.

A committed Christian with a genuine love for God and neighbor, Sean is especially gifted in thoughtful dialogue across Christian traditions, strengthening Narthex’s ecumenical vision.

He and his wife, Ruth, are joyfully expecting their first child, and we are grateful to welcome Sean into this season of growth for both his family and our community.