St. Louis, MO – The Innovative Technology Education Fund (ITEF) is pleased to announce the addition of three distinguished new members to its Board of Directors: Joseph P. Komos, Maren Mellem, and Dr. Kendall Ware. Each brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to enhancing educational opportunities through innovative practices. The new members officially begin their terms on May 28, 2024.

Joseph P. Komos is the Vice President of Administration at St. Louis University High School and a seasoned leader in educational administration and finance. His extensive background in both the private sector and academic institutions equips him with unique insights into the effective integration of technology and administration to enhance learning environments.

Maren Mellem, the Executive Director of the  Webster Groves School District Education Foundation, has been a staunch advocate for public education and children’s welfare. With a robust legal background and significant non-profit leadership, Maren’s expertise in trauma-informed policies and child welfare will guide ITEF in fostering educational innovations that are both equitable and accessible.

Dr. Kendall Ware, an educator and non-profit leader, brings over 14 years of experience in mathematics education and higher education leadership. Dr. Ware’s dedication to increasing the success of underrepresented students in STEM fields aligns with ITEF’s mission to transform educational practices through technology.

Charmaine Smith, CEO of ITEF, expressed her enthusiasm about the new board members, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Joseph, Maren, and Kendall to our board. Their diverse expertise and shared commitment to innovation in K12 education will undoubtedly empower ITEF to push the boundaries of educational excellence. With their guidance, we look forward to expanding our impact and continuing to explore creative ways to engage and inspire both students and educators.”

The Innovative Technology Education Fund is committed to supporting projects that integrate innovation into the learning process, believing that technology can significantly enhance the educational experience and outcomes. The addition of these three board members is a significant step towards advancing ITEF’s vision of a more inspired, informed, and inclusive educational landscape.