Jim StrouseJim Strouse joined the Open Circle team in July 2011 as the Lead Trainer and Coach. Having worked in public schools, business, and higher education, Jim brought fifteen years of varied training, coaching, and teaching experience to this role. Jim was passionate about making positive change for students, teachers and administrators within education that tap into positive psychology, mindfulness and personal growth.
At Dean College in Franklin, MA, he served as an Adjunct Professor and Academic Coach, teaching the Dean Foundations seminar for incoming students. Jim has also worked as a corporate trainer and instructional designer, secondary school Health teacher, and Peer Mediation Coordinator in the Watertown Public Schools. Jim earned his master’s degree in Adult and Organizational Learning from Suffolk University and his bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Clark University. His two sons are the beneficiaries of the Open Circle Curriculum at their elementary school.
Director of Training & Quality Improvement, National Institute on Out-of-School Time
Thara FullerThara Fuller joined the Open Circle team in July 2018 from the Vermont public school system where she directed the district’s afterschool and summer programs. As an educational administrator, and a former elementary school teacher, Thara understood the tremendous importance of social and emotional learning in educating the whole child. She also brought experience as a coach to individuals and organizational teams.
At the New England Resource Center for Higher Education, Ms. Fuller served as an organizational change consultant to teams of faculty and administrators focused on better supporting underserved students. At Brandeis University, she established the Center for Experiential Learning, a hub for teaching and learning using hands-on projects and real-world experiences. She finds joy in helping create learning environments where young people and adults meaningfully connect in curiosity and respect for each other’s differences.
Senior Scholar
Editor in Chief, Women's Review of Books
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