Meet Our Team

Chad Denham

Executive Director

Chad knows firsthand the importance of life lessons and developing skills that are the foundation of countless life tests. His personal challenges as a young man on the south side of Chicago are what have inspired Chad to serve his community. Countless students suffered setbacks throughout the pandemic, and it’s Chad’s focus to help many regain their self-assurance in the classroom and well beyond by combining growth mindset and emotional intelligence in the instruction of every student. Influenced by four decades of Sylvan Learning that have emboldened K-12 students, Chad’s uniquely targeted approach helps instill grit to reach any student’s goal.

Marina Knize

Center Director

Marina has worked in education for almost 20 years with a focus on social and emotional learning. She strives to ensure that every student is positioned for success at Sylvan with an emphasis on learning skills and behavioral development. Marina believes that every child deserves access to an education that meets his/her needs and is personal. She earned her degree from the University of Miami in Marine Science with her graduate work completed at Tulane University. Marina has previously worked for two charter schools in San Diego, a summer camp in Rancho Peñasquitos, an international study abroad organization, and a national education non-profit. She can’t wait to get to know your family’s needs and join in your journey toward its successful future.

Anna is very passionate about education. In college, she worked at the writing center to help other students with their writing. She also spent a semester in Sacramento working under a senator who prioritized students and education. Many of the laws passed during Anna’s tenure were aimed at improving the well-being of students to ensure they are thriving in school. Anna continued her work in education at Sylvan, where she is now the Education Director. Anna helps create and manage each student’s learning plan to make certain they are mastering the key skills needed for success in school and beyond. She also works on advanced reading and writing projects with her high school students to confirm they are ready for the demands of college.