Camp Levine DC Campus: SE Teacher Bios
DC Campus: SE Teacher & Staff Bios
Juan Goodson
Site Director, SE DC THEARC Campus
Juan Marchelle Goodson, currently resides in Charlotte NC. Juan is married to J. Nicole Goodson and they have 2 beautiful and talented daughters and 1 grandson. Juan is an educator at Hornets Nest Elementary School in Charlotte. He also is the Senior Pastor at Restoration Ministries C.O.G.I.C. Juan is a lover of music and the fine arts. He has participated in several chorus’ and performed in musicals. In his spare time Juan is an avid golf player.
Tay Moore
Assistant to the Site Director, SE DC THEARC Campus
Tay Moore is a recent graduate of Louisiana State University where he earned dual degrees in Music and Political Science with a concentration in American Government and Politics. His love for music began as a third grader when he had the opportunity to take his first formal piano lessons through a free after-school program in his rural, southern hometown. As a past member of the National 4-H Council Board of Trustees, he has championed positive youth development and increasing access to opportunity for all youth across the country. Tay has worked for various summer camps in addition to interning with nonprofit organizations and government agencies. When he is not busy getting in “good trouble”, he enjoys spending time with family and friends, volunteering in his church, traveling, exploring new cultures/foods, and listening to gospel and jazz music.
Lauren Lewis
PreK/Kindergarten Teacher Session 1 & 2, SE DC THEARC Campus
Lauren Lanita is a Storyteller, an Educator, a Crafter and a Yoga facilitator with more than 20 years of experience sharing the joy of learning and creating with others. Whether through stories, music movement or art, she believes that the act of creating is a powerful way for everyone to build and maintain motor skills and neural connections, improve communication skills and boost self esteem.
Lauren is a native Washingtonian who enjoys travelling the US telling stories and presenting workshops and professional development programs. She has also created and taught her own storytelling, music and movement program and looks forward to sharing it with as many children as possible.
Lauren is a native Washingtonian who enjoys travelling the US telling stories and presenting workshops and professional development programs. She has also created and taught her own storytelling, music and movement program and looks forward to sharing it with as many children as possible.
Rachel Chen
Piano Teacher Session 1, SE DC THEARC Campus
Currently, she serves as the Core Faculty at the Levine School in Washington D.C. as well as the piano adjunct professor at Northern Virginia Community College (NOVA). Her commitment to education extends to students with special needs, and her recent focus has been on teaching students with autism. As an active member of the Music Teacher National Association (MTNA), Rachel has played pivotal roles, serving as the president of Indiana University’s MTNA Collegiate Chapter. Under her leadership, the chapter launched initiatives such as The Lunch Break Series, Peer Partnership Program, and Keys to the Future Concert Series. Rachel has also presented her academic work at MTNA conferences, addressing topics such as teaching piano to students with Autism Spectrum Disorder. This year, Rachel is on the Board for the Washington DC Music Teacher Association (WMTA) as the Newsletter Chair, actively contributing to the local music education community. Beyond her academic and teaching roles, Rachel is the Co-founder of Musical Time, a community-focused project dedicated to fostering, inspiring, connecting, and mentoring the public through music education and performance. This initiative has showcased five live solo piano performances, interactive concerts, and a six-week summer piano workshop named ‘Music for All,’ delivered by students at the Indiana University Jacobs School of Music. Rachel stands as a dynamic force in the world of classical music, seamlessly blending her roles as an accomplished artist, devoted educator, and advocate for the transformative power of music. She has earned a Doctorate of Music in Piano Performance from Indiana University, a Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance, and a Masters of Music in Piano Performance and Pedagogy from the University of Michigan.
Christine Kharazian
Violin Teacher Session 1, SE DC THEARC Campus
Christine Kharazian is a graduate of Komitas State Conservatory and the Tchaikovsky School of Music in Armenia, studied violin with Prof. Edward Dayan, and Prof. Hrachia Harutunyan, pupils of two famous Russian violinists, David Oistrakh and Leonid Kogan. Her early performance experience includes playing with Armenian National Opera’s Symphony, and a soloist with the Sharakan Ensemble of Armenian TV and Radio. Christine has been an active performer in the area since arriving in Washington DC in 1999. She has performed in concerts at the Kennedy Center, Strathmore Hall, Dumbarton House, the Library of Congress and various Embassies in Washington, among other venues. Musical curiosity led Christine to explore different genres from Gypsy Jazz to Brazilian Choro. As a versatile and adventurous musician she performs often with various ensembles including Orchester Praževica and is the featured violinist of Swansong. An alumna of the Inspired Teaching Institute, she teaches at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts and Sidwell Friends and is a teaching artist with Washington Performing Arts. Christine enjoys experimenting with the merging of art forms, such as theater and music. Christine was cast as the Wind in Quotidian Theatre Company’s 2015 production of Anton Chekhov’s “A Little Trick.” and later in 2016 production of Chekhov’s “The Lady with the Little Dog”. The director Stephanie Mumford, in her adaptation of Chekhov’s short story, devised a part with Kharazian in mind: the violin-playing wife of Dmitry Gurov. Christine’s original composition Valse Astolfi won the 2nd prize of the 2021 Unsigned Only competition.
Rebecca Edmiston
Piano Teacher Session 2, SE DC THEARC Campus
Rebecca Edmiston is a piano instructor dedicated to pedagogy, collaboration, and community engagement. She is currently working on a Doctor of Music degree in Collaborative Piano at Florida State University. A committed educator, she maintains a private piano studio in Tallahassee, FL during the academic year and she is actively involved with Music Teachers National Association. Last summer, she was a PreK teacher at Camp Levine. As a collaborative pianist, she has recently worked at Interlochen Center for the Arts in Michigan and Music on Site, Inc. in Kansas.
Christian Clark
Percussion Teacher Session 2, SE DC THEARC Campus
Christian is a Drummer and Educator in Washington DC. His background includes Music Education, Jazz Studies, DCI, WGI, live performances at stages including Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola & The Kennedy Center, and Howard University. Returning to the civilian world after 4 years of military service, Christian is passionate about the joy of music. He aims to integrate timeless skills of discipline and objective focus with emotional intelligence and expression through rhythm!
Tiffany Strother
Art & Before Care Teacher Session 1 & 2, SE DC THEARC Campus
Tiffany Strother was born and raised in Washington DC. She studied theater arts at the University of the District of Columbia where she obtained her Bachelor’s Degree. She is a mother and works as a Drama teacher in DC. She enjoys writing, dancing, and traveling with her family. Tiffany choreographed and stage-managed a production of 101 Dalmatians Kids in June 2023 and directed Willy Wonka Kids in May/June 2024.
VL Buzdygon
Sports & Games, Snack & Break, After Care Teacher Session 1 & 2, SE DC THEARC Campus
VL is an experienced elementary music teacher with 7+ years in the classroom. They are also a passionate early childhood educator and childcare professional. Musically, you can find VL performing with and supporting the symphonic band, colorguard, and marching band of DC’s Different Drummers. VL looks forward to another exciting, creative, and unforgettable summer with Camp Levine!
Francisco Garcia Rivert
Music+ and Vocal/Choral Teacher Session 1, SE DC THEARC Campus
Fran Revert is a distinguished music educator, composer, pianist, and producer with over 20 years of experience, known for integrating culture and technology into music education. His work spans developing comprehensive music curriculums for all levels and composing and producing music for the animated film “Condorito, The Movie,” which saw significant success in Latin America. His involvement in children’s music, including projects that have earned him a Latin Grammy nomination, showcases his versatility and creativity. Fran’s educational album, “Olé & Play!,” has been praised for its innovative approach to combining music education with entertainment. With a rich educational background from the University of Chichester and Berklee College of Music, Fran excels in music theory, composition, and performance. Based in Gaithersburg, MD, he continues to inspire through his dedication to music education and his significant contributions to the music industry, making a lasting impact on students and audiences alike.
Kate Shrimpton
Music+ Teacher Session 2, SE DC THEARC Campus
Ms. Shrimpton is an elementary school music teacher and high school percussion instructor who grew up in Northern Virginia. She loves connecting music with other subjects and is excited to sing and play instruments with the Camp Levine campers this summer! In her free time, she loves to exercise, bake, and play piano.
Michelle Seaward
Dance Teacher, SE DC THEARC Campus
Michelle Seaward is a professional dancer & actress born and raised in Washington DC she has a Bachelors in Arts and Humanities Vocal Music Performance & Theater Arts from Bethune Cookman University in Daytona Beach Florida. With over fifteen years of experience she started her career at the age of five and became more serious during her teenage years. Traveling with gospel choirs & production companies throughout high school and college. She has done many auditions and performances around the United States. Michelle has an impeccable ability on and off stage to bring characters to life! Most recently she has done stage plays such as ” Grease with A side of Mumbo Sauce” Production Company: DC Black Broadway Script of Chi-Chi leader of a dance gang in high school (September Summer 2022 & 2023) “Dreamgirls” (off Broadway) Script of Lorell Robinson Dancer & Singer (June Summer 2017) She takes pride in creating and personalizing many plays, movies, music videos, and theater performances. She has taught with many dance schools & studios around the DMV! Dance Makers Powered by SMARTS Dance/Drama Teacher (Summer 2021-Present) Houston Elementary School Dance / Theater Teacher (Fall 2013- Present) Excel Academy school for girls Dance Teacher (Summer 2017 -2019) While working with many production and theater companies it has helped to expand her strengths beyond anything she could ever imagine. Michelle is known for her big personality and incredible ability to choreograph and act. Michelle’s goal is to reach audiences of all ages and help bring entertainment and excitement to their lives. Michelle’s motto is “Life is like a stage, you are always performing”.
Gretchen Hill
Clarinet Teacher Session 2, SE DC THEARC Campus
Gretchen Hill is a clarinetist and music educator originally from Flint, Michigan. She is a state certified Music Educator in both Texas and Ohio and has given performances across the United States and in Tainan, Taiwan. In addition to her love for traditional orchestral and wind band playing, Gretchen is a new music advocate and has experience commissioning works by world renowned composers. Critical to Gretchen’s artistic expression is a commitment to community outreach, and she can often be found administrating and performing these types of events with her fiancé Taylor Francis, flutist, in their Verismo Wind Duo. Gretchen holds a master’s degree in music performance from the University of Wisconsin – Madison where she held a Paul J. Collins Distinguished Graduate Fellowship and a bachelor’s degree in music education and clarinet performance from Bowling Green State University. Her primary teachers include Alicia Lee, JJ Koh, Kevin Schempf, and Dr. Spencer Prewitt.
Nathan Wolfe
Trumpet Teacher Session 1, SE DC THEARC Campus
Nathan Wolfe is a DC-based trumpet player who is comfortable in many different musical mediums. He received a bachelor’s degree in trumpet performance from the University of Maryland, where he studied trumpet with Chris Gekker, and explored many styles of music, including Classical, Jazz, Latin, and Funk. He has performed in the DC and NYC areas. As a teacher, Nathan likes to employ a technique-based approach through different exercises and etudes, placing an emphasis on the fundamentals of the instrument. He also likes to give students the freedom to play music they are interested in, with the ultimate goal of forming skilled musicians who are passionate about the music they create. Outside of trumpet, Nathan also plays the piano and enjoys composing electronic works. He also loves cooking, hiking, and dogs.
Nia Potter
Drama Teacher Session 1, SE DC THEARC Campus
Nia Potter is a passionate and multifaceted artist currently pursuing her Bachelor of Fine Arts at Howard University’s College of Fine Arts. Balancing a diverse curriculum, she has gained extensive skills in acting, singing, dancing, and design. Nia’s professional experience includes working as an Assistant Acrobatics Instructor at DanceMakers of Atlanta and currently as a Dance Instructor at CenterCity BrightWood in Washington, DC. In these roles, she has developed lesson plans, provided constructive feedback, and organized performances, inspiring a love of dance in her students. Nia is particularly excited to work with children and has a deep passion for teaching and enriching the youth. Beyond her professional work, Nia is deeply committed to community service and leadership. She serves as a Student Leader at the Chadwick A. Boseman College of Fine Arts. Nia combines her performing talents with her dedication to fostering inclusive communities, hoping to make a meaningful impact wherever she goes.
Carol Anne Bosco
Cello Teacher Session 2, SE DC THEARC Campus
Drawing influence from all kinds of music, Austin-based cellist Carol Anne Bosco plays with a style that is eclectic and diverse. Her musical training includes performance degrees from Florida State University and the University of Maryland. A detour to New Orleans in between provided a chance to explore other styles of music as well. She has performed with the Arlington Philharmonic, Tysons-McLean Orchestra, Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra, and has taken part in the Fontainebleau, Wintergreen, and Duxbury chamber music festivals. Outside of classical music, the gigging scene grants much opportunity for collaboration and expanded techniques – both in playing and arranging. Through the Tiny Desk series on NPR, Carol Anne has performed with alt-J, Billy Corgan, and Meg Myers. For the latter concert, she arranged parts for string quartet. Other artists Carol Anne has appeared with include Jenny Lewis at the Anthem, and Jump Little Children on the Oblivion tour. She has arranged string parts for the session work she does in studios around Austin and DC, as well as for weddings and events. Carol Anne’s principal teachers have included Kenneth Slowik, Evelyn Elsing, Dennis Parker, Michael Kannen, Greg Sauer, and Diana Ligeti.
Lucia Girado
Art Project Teacher Session 2, SE DC THEARC Campus
I am a current MPH student focusing on developing visual arts programs for low-income communities to promote wellness, health, and education. Since 2022, I have been an AmeriCorps member working as a Communications and Outreach Specialist under the Honey W. Nashman Center for Civic Engagement and Public Service at ArtReach GW and have assisted in programming art education courses and art therapy workshops for Wards 7 and 8 of DC.
Tamara Ashton
Enviornmental Arts & After Care Teacher Session 2, SE DC THEARC Campus
Tamara M. Ashton, a second-generation Washingtonian with roots in Alabama, Virginia, and Panama, has a rich background in education, wellness, and community engagement. She has led projects to promote cultural preservation and vibrancy in the city. Working with local non-profits, Tamara has championed sustainable practices and community involvement. As a wellness and food educator, she advocates for health, nutrition, and conscious consumerism. Tamara is dedicated to ensuring everyone has access to healthy food and thriving communities.