Dr. Tracy McNelly is an Associate Professor and chair of the Education Department at Saint Vincent College. Prior to entering her career in higher education, Tracy taught secondary English and journalism. Following her teaching career, she began a long career in school administration. Her areas of research include media literacy education, PK-12 literacy, and the impact of technology on literacy skills.   

Katie Katkich is a passionate high school English teacher and Slippery Rock University alum entering her fifteenth year in the classroom. Holding a Bachelor of Science in Secondary English Education and a Masters of Education in Special Education for grades 9-12, she specializes in creating culturally-sustaining, student-centered learning environments that encourage movement, creativity, and mindfulness. Katie has pioneered initiatives like "Wellness Wednesdays" to integrate mindfulness into education and is a dedicated advocate for using spoken word and slam poetry to amplify student voices. She currently teaches English 11, Composition and Literature III, AP Language and Composition, and AP Literature and Composition at the Western Beaver County School District. In addition to her work in the classroom, Katie organizes the Beaver County Schools Poetry Slam Competition, helping students to explore the power of performance and self-expression. Her innovative teaching practices and commitment to fostering student growth extend to her leadership in the Beaver County School Poetry Slam Competition, which emphasizes community building through poetry. She holds a deep commitment to fostering inclusive, engaging learning experiences that prepare students for success in college and beyond.