Staff

Jennifer Kim,
Director		 jenniferk@ccdc.edu Tahera Kabulzad taherak@ccdc.edu
Arsida Rexhepi arsidar@ccdc.edu Wend Tsai wendt@ccdc.edu
Bruno Moraes brunom@ccdc.ed Winny Alizadeh winnya@ccdc.edu
Jennie Choi jenniec@ccdc.edu Young Kim youngk@ccdc.edu

Instructors

Dr. Manohari Rasagam

  • Degree/Certificates: Ph.D., M.A., and B.A. in English, and TESOL
  • Hobbies: Traveling, reading, and social work
  • Languages: English, Bahasa Malaya, and Portuguese

“Learning never exhausts the mind.” – Leonardo da Vinci

A professional with over 20 years of teaching experience in the areas of English, literature and TESOL. I have a strong commitment to the development of students and believe in service with accountability, integrity, strong communication, and interpersonal skills.

Yasaman Ghazanfari

  • Degree: Ph.D. in Linguistics
  • Hobbies: Reading, hiking, and traveling
  • Languages: English and Persian

“Learning never exhausts the mind.” – Leonardo da Vinci

Teaching, to me, stands as one of the most enriching vocations, especially when it involves imparting knowledge of a foreign language. It’s akin to unlocking the gateway to an entirely new realm—a world brimming with distinct cultures, lifestyles, and ways of thinking. My journey into teaching commenced promptly after university graduation, and since then, I’ve dedicated myself to instructing English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and English as a Second Language (ESL) to individuals spanning all age groups.

My current role at Columbia College, where I teach VESL (Vocational English as a Second Language), has bestowed upon me a remarkable opportunity to traverse alongside a diverse cohort of students. Their backgrounds, rich with diversity, contribute to a vibrant learning environment, one that I’m deeply grateful to be a part of. As I guide my students through the intricacies of language acquisition, I’m continuously learning from them in return. Their
insights and perspectives enrich not only their educational journey but mine as well.

Kaitlyn DeJong

  • Degrees/Certificates: B.A. in English and Secondary Education, certifications in many areas including English as a
    Second Language, Advanced Literature, Grammar, English Language Arts, and Composition.
  • Hobbies: Spending time with family, sewing, writing poetry, spending time outside
  • Languages: English and Spanish

“Teaching is the greatest act of optimism.” – Colleen Wilcoxi

Over the course of my career, I’ve had the pleasure of teaching diverse age groups, spanning from elementary school children to middle schoolers and adults in ESL classes. Leveraging students’ life experiences, I strive to present content in a manner that resonates with their everyday realities, making learning accessible and engaging.

One of my core convictions is the profound importance of ensuring that every student feels valued, capable, accepted, and celebrated for their unique qualities. This passion fuels my dedication to education, propelling me to empower students with the knowledge and confidence they need to thrive.

Tracey Stinger

  • Degrees/Certificates: B.A. in Mass Communications, A.S. in Social Sciences, and TESOL
  • Hobbies: Traveling, gardening, and interior design
  • Languages: English

A professional with over 15 years of teaching experience in the areas of English, Language Arts, and TESOL. I have a strong commitment to helping every generation succeed and it is a privilege helping build the future.

Christina Sapp

  • Degree: M.S. in Early Childhood Education, M.S. in Higher Education with major in Integrative Studies and TESOL
  • Hobby: Reading, traveling, journaling
  • Language: English

“Education is the most powerful tool which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela

I have been an educator for over twenty years. In my professional role I have taught all levels of students from
elementary school through college. Currently I work with students at the secondary level as well as college level. In
my free time I enjoy traveling, spending time with my family, and journaling.

Armanda Cabej
Degree: M.A. in Bilingual Education. TESOL certification.

Antonio Lima
Degree: M.A. in Bilingual Education. TESOL certification.

Arsida Rexhepi
Degree: M.S.C. in Foreign Languages. TESOL certification.

Ciin Lun
Degree: M.B.A in Business Administration. TESOL certification.

Guzainuer Tuerxun
Degree: M.A. in English. TESOL certification.

Shamima Nasreen
Degree: M.A. in Professional Studies in Education. TESOL certification.

Tahera Khavari
Degree: M.A. in Teaching English as a Foreign Language.