Meet Our Team
Patricia Jennings, PhD
Patricia (Tish) Jennings, M.Ed., Ph.D., is a Professor at the University of Virginia and an internationally recognized expert in social and emotional learning (SEL) and mindfulness in education. Her large-scale, federally funded, school-based research focuses creating supportive learning environments by promoting student and educator flourishing.
Jennings led the development of CARE, a mindfulness-based program proven to enhance teacher well-being, classroom interactions, and student engagement. She co-authored Flourish: The Compassionate Schools Project, a CASEL-recognized SEL and health curriculum.
Jennings was a member of the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Promoting Healthy Mental, Emotional, and Behavioral Development in Children and Adolescents, where she contributed to the committee's 2019 consensus report. She has received several awards including the Joseph E. Zins Distinguished Scientist Award For Outstanding Contributions to Action Research in Social and Emotional Learning from the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) in 2024. With numerous books, chapters, and peer-reviewed articles, Jennings has shaped SEL scholarship globally. Earlier in her career, she spent 22 years teaching and founding a Montessori preK-5 school.
Patricia Jennings, PhD
Patricia (Tish) Jennings, M.Ed., Ph.D., is a Professor at the University of Virginia and an internationally recognized expert in social and emotional learning (SEL) and mindfulness in education. Her large-scale, federally funded, school-based research focuses creating supportive learning environments by promoting student and educator flourishing.
Jennings led the development of CARE, a mindfulness-based program proven to enhance teacher well-being, classroom interactions, and student engagement. She co-authored Flourish: The Compassionate Schools Project, a CASEL-recognized SEL and health curriculum.
Jennings was a member of the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Promoting Healthy Mental, Emotional, and Behavioral Development in Children and Adolescents, where she contributed to the committee's 2019 consensus report. She has received several awards including the Joseph E. Zins Distinguished Scientist Award For Outstanding Contributions to Action Research in Social and Emotional Learning from the Collaborative for Academic, Social, and Emotional Learning (CASEL) in 2024. With numerous books, chapters, and peer-reviewed articles, Jennings has shaped SEL scholarship globally. Earlier in her career, she spent 22 years teaching and founding a Montessori preK-5 school.
Marvin Thielk, PhD
Marvin is a lifelong explorer of ideas, a curious mix of data scientist, NLP wizard, and computational auditory neuroscientist who’s never met a challenge he didn’t want to unravel. With a PhD in Neuroscience from UC San Diego and a double major from Berkeley, he’s always been driven by that early spark—the kind that turns questions into wild experiments and everyday problems into opportunities for discovery.
From his early days at Google, where he dived into anomaly detection and built sleek web interfaces, to leading cutting-edge AI projects at Workhuman and Elsevier, Marvin’s journey has been anything but ordinary. He’s the founding NLP engineer who’s deployed apps for millions, and a research leader who’s collaborated with prestigious institutes like the Salk Institute and UCL. Along the way, he’s bagged awards for both his innovative AI creations and his knack for inspiring others through teaching.
Marvin’s work is a blend of playful curiosity and serious expertise—a balance of deep technical know-how and a genuine love for guiding bright minds. Whether he’s mentoring a team of fellow innovators or tinkering with generative models and biologically inspired AI systems, his approach is as refreshing as it is groundbreaking. He’s all about turning complexity into clarity with a dash of humor and a lot of heart.
Now, with a MicroMBA under his belt and a career filled with achievements that speak louder than words, Marvin is excited to bring his eclectic mix of skills and enthusiasm to the team. He believes that real progress comes from questioning the norm, celebrating failures as learning moments, and always keeping the spark of curiosity alive—because, at the end of the day, that’s what truly drives innovation.
Marvin Thielk, PhD
Marvin is a Senior NLP Research Leader and a Full-stack Computational Auditory Neuroscientist with deep expertise in machine learning, natural language processing (NLP), and computational neuroscience. His work focuses on large language models (LLMs), deep learning, and biologically inspired AI systems.
Marvin holds a PhD in Neuroscience with a specialization in Computational Neuroscience from UC San Diego, where he studied high-dimensional neural representations, sensory processing, and AI-driven modeling of perception. He earned his bachelor’s degree from UC Berkeley, double-majoring in Computer Science and Applied Mathematics, graduating with Honors in both disciplines.
His career has spanned both research and industry, with experience at Google, Workhuman, and the Salk Institute. At Google, he focused on anomaly detection and large-scale data monitoring, applying machine learning techniques to improve system analysis. His neuroscience research, conducted at the Salk Institute, UC San Diego, and Smith-Kettlewell Eye Research Institute, explored sensory perception, motion processing, and neural signal decoding, blending computational models with biological systems. At Workhuman, he led teams in NLP, unconscious bias detection, and AI-driven feedback systems, applying machine learning to real-world human interactions.
Marvin’s ability to bridge neuroscience, AI, and NLP allows him to approach technical challenges from an interdisciplinary perspective, using biological principles to shape artificial intelligence. He thrives on discovering unexpected connections between fields and designing innovative solutions that push the boundaries of how machines learn and process information.
Allison Behar
Ali is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW84547). She earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Pennsylvania and completed her Master’s in Social Work at New York University’s Silver School of Social Work. Her early career began in the foster care system, where she developed a deep commitment to supporting individuals facing life’s challenges.
With over a decade of experience, Ali has held positions in both private practice and esteemed clinical settings. She worked at UCLA’s Achievement, Behavior, Cognition (ABC) Program, providing comprehensive mental health services to children aged 6–12 to promote emotional and behavioral health. She also served at the Mind Health Institute in Los Angeles, an integrated mental health clinic offering advanced psychiatric and psychological services, and worked at Therapy Lab.
Ali has expertise in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based practices.
Legal Disclaimer: Although Ali is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, her services through Mulholland and Marzy are provided solely in the capacity of a life coach, not as a licensed therapist. Life coaching is not a substitute for therapy, medical treatment, or mental health services. Individuals seeking clinical therapy or medical support should consult a licensed mental health professional in their state.
Allison Behar
Ali is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW84547). She earned her bachelor’s degree at the University of Pennsylvania and completed her Master’s in Social Work at New York University’s Silver School of Social Work. Her early career began in the foster care system, where she developed a deep commitment to supporting individuals facing life’s challenges.
With over a decade of experience, Ali has held positions in both private practice and esteemed clinical settings. She worked at UCLA’s Achievement, Behavior, Cognition (ABC) Program, providing comprehensive mental health services to children aged 6–12 to promote emotional and behavioral health. She also served at the Mind Health Institute in Los Angeles, an integrated mental health clinic offering advanced psychiatric and psychological services, and worked at Therapy Lab.
Ali has expertise in various therapeutic modalities, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), and mindfulness-based practices.
Legal Disclaimer: Although Ali is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in California, her services through Mulholland and Marzy are provided solely in the capacity of a life coach, not as a licensed therapist. Life coaching is not a substitute for therapy, medical treatment, or mental health services. Individuals seeking clinical therapy or medical support should consult a licensed mental health professional in their state.
Sam Sugarman
Sam was told to sit still and learn like everyone else. ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder, the doctors said. Plot twist: Maybe forcing every kid to learn the same way was the real problem.
From recording studios to performing, he went on to write and produce on Childish Gambino's "Awaken, My Love!" and tour with Glover's band, performing everywhere from Madison Square Garden to Coachella. His work grew into film and television, contributing to projects like Trolls and Avatar, while also developing TV shows and serving as music director for 88rising.
In 2020, he co-founded an AI virtual animation studio, excited by how technology could tell better stories. Having two young children opened up a new chapter. Watching them begin their journey of discovery made him reimagine what learning could be—not just today, but in the future.
Sam Sugarman
Sam was told to sit still and learn like everyone else. ADHD and Oppositional Defiant Disorder, the doctors said. Plot twist: Maybe forcing every kid to learn the same way was the real problem.
From recording studios to performing, he went on to write and produce on Childish Gambino's "Awaken, My Love!" and tour with Glover's band, performing everywhere from Madison Square Garden to Coachella. His work grew into film and television, contributing to projects like Trolls and Avatar, while also developing TV shows and serving as music director for 88rising.
In 2020, he co-founded an AI virtual animation studio, excited by how technology could tell better stories. Having two young children opened up a new chapter. Watching them begin their journey of discovery made him reimagine what learning could be—not just today, but in the future.
Ben Reicher
Benjamin Reicher is an animator, CG supervisor, and technical director with over 16 years of experience in the animation and visual effects industry. Throughout his career, Reicher has contributed to numerous projects, including The Mandalorian (2019), Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017), Pokémon: Detective Pikachu (2019), Venom (2018), Terminator: Dark Fate (2019), and Free Guy (2021). He graduated from the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), where he studied from 2012 to 2016.
He is the founder and creative director of Valor Cat Studios, an independent animation studio dedicated to pushing the boundaries of storytelling, technology, and visual artistry. Through Valor Cat, Reicher has directed and produced original animated content that has been featured in over 50 film festivals worldwide.
Ben Reicher
Benjamin Reicher is an animator, CG supervisor, and technical director with over 16 years of experience in the animation and visual effects industry. Throughout his career, Reicher has contributed to numerous projects, including The Mandalorian (2019), Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle (2017), Pokémon: Detective Pikachu (2019), Venom (2018), Terminator: Dark Fate (2019), and Free Guy (2021). He graduated from the California Institute of the Arts (CalArts), where he studied from 2012 to 2016.
He is the founder and creative director of Valor Cat Studios, an independent animation studio dedicated to pushing the boundaries of storytelling, technology, and visual artistry. Through Valor Cat, Reicher has directed and produced original animated content that has been featured in over 50 film festivals worldwide.
Erica Estrada
Erica Estrada is a versatile animator, comedian, and puppeteer with a rich background in animation and visual effects. She has worked at leading studios such as DreamWorks Animation, MPC, Digital Domain, and The Mill, contributing to a variety of high-profile projects. She was also part of the animation team for The Croods: Family Tree (2021), bringing beloved characters to life through her expertise in animation.
Beyond her work in animation, Erica is an active puppeteer and performer, having worked with the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, where she blends her skills in movement, storytelling, and character performance. Her ability to seamlessly transition between digital animation and live puppetry makes her a unique creative force in both industries.
Erica Estrada
Erica Estrada is a versatile animator, comedian, and puppeteer with a rich background in animation and visual effects. She has worked at leading studios such as DreamWorks Animation, MPC, Digital Domain, and The Mill, contributing to a variety of high-profile projects. She was also part of the animation team for The Croods: Family Tree (2021), bringing beloved characters to life through her expertise in animation.
Beyond her work in animation, Erica is an active puppeteer and performer, having worked with the Bob Baker Marionette Theater, where she blends her skills in movement, storytelling, and character performance. Her ability to seamlessly transition between digital animation and live puppetry makes her a unique creative force in both industries.
Juan Diego Lugo
Juan Diego Lugo is a game programmer. He specializes in creating engaging gameplay systems, sophisticated animations, advanced AI, VR programming, and robust multiplayer networking. His career includes key contributions to AAA game development, where he has played an integral role in crafting immersive and high-performance gaming experiences.
Juan holds a Bachelor of Science in Game Development from Full Sail University. He also studied Civil Engineering at the Universidad de Puerto Rico, showcasing his strong foundation in problem-solving and technical disciplines.
With expertise in C++, C#, Unreal Blueprints, and a wide range of game development tools, Juan continues to push the boundaries of interactive and real-time virtual environments.
Juan Diego Lugo
Juan Diego Lugo is a game programmer. He specializes in creating engaging gameplay systems, sophisticated animations, advanced AI, VR programming, and robust multiplayer networking. His career includes key contributions to AAA game development, where he has played an integral role in crafting immersive and high-performance gaming experiences.
Juan holds a Bachelor of Science in Game Development from Full Sail University. He also studied Civil Engineering at the Universidad de Puerto Rico, showcasing his strong foundation in problem-solving and technical disciplines.
With expertise in C++, C#, Unreal Blueprints, and a wide range of game development tools, Juan continues to push the boundaries of interactive and real-time virtual environments.
Noah Bowers
Noah Bowers is an Emerging Technologies Developer based in Cleveland, Ohio, with over a decade of experience in Interactive Media and Game Development. A passionate advocate for the Unreal Engine, Noah has built cutting-edge Virtual Reality applications for esteemed clients such as The Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, Reliability First, HyperSpaceLights, and Nestle Purina. His work spans across healthcare, finance, and entertainment, pushing the boundaries of real-time 3D visualization and immersive technology.
Noah Bowers
Noah Bowers is an Emerging Technologies Developer based in Cleveland, Ohio, with over a decade of experience in Interactive Media and Game Development. A passionate advocate for the Unreal Engine, Noah has built cutting-edge Virtual Reality applications for esteemed clients such as The Cleveland Clinic, University Hospitals, Reliability First, HyperSpaceLights, and Nestle Purina. His work spans across healthcare, finance, and entertainment, pushing the boundaries of real-time 3D visualization and immersive technology.