Meet Our Team

Christiana is our Enrollment Coordinator. She graduated from the University of Minnesota, Morris with a Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, having also minored in Biology. Christiana loves working for Sylvan because she truly values education and knows that having the right tools to academic success early on can open so many doors for the future. Watching and helping kids close their learning gaps is one of the most fulfilling jobs one could ever have. When Christian is not at Sylvan, she enjoys traveling, eating lots of food, and playing with her dog, Minnie.

Emmanuel Saye

Senior Area Director

Emmanuel has a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration. He finds making a difference in the lives of the youth the most valuable aspect to his role with Sylvan Learning Centers. When he is not working with Sylvan, Emmanuel enjoys spending quality time with his family.

Julie Balzum

Director of Education

Julie oversees the educational integrity of our programs, managing and training our team of tutors in Coon Rapids. As a graduate of the University of Minnesota-Morris with degrees in English and Music, Julie brings a wealth of knowledge to Sylvan of Coon Rapids. She enjoys working with kids and learning their unique perspectives on the world. When Julie isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her reading, stamping, card-making, cross-stitching, and playing piano.

Olivia Snyder

Area Director of Operations and Education

Olivia is our Area Director of Operations and Education. She works with all our Twin Cities centers to maintain operational and academic excellence. Olivia has been with Sylvan for 5 years and holds a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Bethel University. Prior to working at Sylvan, Olivia taught 1st grade in Minneapolis. She is passionate about education and building confidence in all students. When Olivia is not at Sylvan she enjoys reading, watching soccer, and playing board games.