Meet Our Team

Julie Hoyes

Executive Director

Julie is the Executive Director of the Sylvan Learning Centers in Garner, Knightdale, Raleigh, and Wake Forest, NC. A graduate of Appalachian State University and former Wake County Public School System teacher and student, Julie joined the Sylvan team in 2003. She brings a wealth of knowledge, passion for education, and excitement to each Sylvan center. In 2013, Julie was awarded The Sylvan Way award for providing exceptional service to families, creating a positive culture in her team, and being a true example of operational excellence. Julie believes in life-long learning, enjoys having fun with her friends & family (especially her 2 daughters), and loves hearing Sylvan success stories!

Quiniqua Lyons

Director of Education

Quiniqua has been with Sylvan for 11 years and currently oversees the educational integrity of our programs as the Director of Education. “When I started at Sylvan in 2013, I was a junior in college trying to find my purpose. In no way did I think that my purpose would lead me to 11 years of supporting families and their students!” She thrives on helping each child to become a better version of themselves and to succeed to their highest potential. Quiniqua graduated from William Peace University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and from Walden University with a Master’s Degree in Developmental Psychology. “During my duration at Sylvan, I have had the opportunity to work with hundreds of families and students in hopes that I am impacting even just one life. It is joyous to see former students, who are now entering into adulthood, come back to give thanks to us at Sylvan. This goes to show that our staff, as well as myself, are determined and dedicated to these students to win!” When Quiniqua isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her spending time with her partner, Terrence, and bonus daughter Elizabeth; spending time with family, and binge watching old nostalgic shows from the 90’s.

Kristen Picariello

Operations Manager

Mrs. Kristen joined the Sylvan team in October of 2010. As Operations Manager, she ensures that our centers function as smoothly and effectively as possible. Her favorite aspect of Sylvan is supporting students with a learning style tailored to their specific needs. In her free time, Kristen enjoys outdoor activities and spending time with her family.

Josh Noonan is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Wilmington, where he obtained a Master’s Degree in Theoretical Mathematics. He has taught multiple courses in mathematics at Martin Community College for more than five years. At Sylvan, he also teaches a variety of subject areas including our Math Essentials and Academic Reading programs. In his free time, Joshua enjoys practicing martial arts and playing volleyball.