Dwight Carter is a nationally recognized school leader from Central Ohio and has been an educator for 27 years. Because of his collaborative and innovative leadership, in 2010 he was inducted into the Jostens Renaissance Educator Hall of Fame. He was also named a 2013 National Association of Secondary School Principals Digital Principal of the Year, the 2014 Academy of Arts and Science Education High School Principal of the Year, the 2015 Ohio Alliance of Black School Educators Principal of the Year, and a 2021 Columbus Afrocentric Early College Sankofa Emerging Leader Award winner. He is currently an administrator with Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools.

He is the co-author of three books: What’s In Your Space? Five Steps to Better School and Classroom Design (Corwin, 2015), Leading Schools in Disruptive Times: How to Survive Hyper-change (Corwin 2017), and the second edition of Leading Schools in Disruptive Times (Corwin, 2021). His most recent book, Be GREAT: Five Principles to Improve School Culture from the Inside Out, was published by IMPress in 2022. Additionally, he has contributed to several educational books and articles.

Want to talk to Dwight? He can answer all your questions about using Renaissance. Email Renaissance@jostens.com and we’ll connect you.

Alysia Samborsky

L’Anse Creuse, Michigan

Alysia has devoted over 23 years to L’Anse Creuse High School, serving as a science teacher, volleyball coach, associate principal and now principal. Rooted in strong relationships and high expectations, she leads with a student-centered philosophy that ensures every individual feels valued, supported, and empowered to succeed. Guided by the school’s motto Show Up, Stand Up, Never Give Up, she champions a positive, inclusive culture that recognizes students for their academics, character, and contributions, while preparing them to graduate confident, capable, and ready for life beyond high school.

Get in touch with Alysia! If you live near L’Anse Creuse and want to connect with Alysia or other Renaissance educators in your area, email Renaissance@jostens.com and we’ll connect you!

Melissa Chase

L’Anse Creuse, Michigan

Melissa loves to build school culture, champion people, and develop leaders. As an English teacher, volleyball coach, and club sponsor, she always valued relationships, but getting involved with the Jostens Renaissance community the last few years has deepened her passion for building positive school culture.  In her current role as an assistant principal at L’Anse Creuse High School North, she thrives when she is empowering others, drawing the best out of them, celebrating the power of a unified team, and planning special events that create lasting memories for staff and students. She leads with the belief that true change is created through consistent, intentional expressions of kindness, joy, and hope toward those around her.  

Get in touch with Melissa! If you live near L’Anse Creuse and want to connect with Melissa or other Renaissance educators in your area, email Renaissance@jostens.com and we’ll connect you!

Roxanne Laird

New Paris, Ohio

Hi, I am Roxanne Laird from National Trail High School in Ohio, and I am excited for this opportunity to expand my love for making schools a better place to be by leading my district and surrounding schools. I teach High School FCS and Renaissance, and advise our Senior class, FCCLA, Student Council and Renaissance club. I strive to help everyone in our school to be their best. I love the energy of the Jostens Renaissance Global Conference along with what Jostens Renaissance programing provides and I hope to keep it alive in our district. I have been involved in various activities within my community for over 25 years. I also love to spend time with my family, travel, and look at the simple things in life as the most important!

Get in touch with Roxanne! If you live near New Paris and want to connect with Roxanne or other Renaissance educators in your area, email Renaissance@jostens.com and we’ll connect you!

Tricia Phelps

Newark, Ohio

Tricia is a Health and Physical Education teacher at Licking Valley High School in Newark, OH and has been Renaissance adviser there since 2008. Currently Tricia’s school district has a Renaissance Program at the high school, middle school and elementary levels.  With the help of a supportive administration and a participating district they have been recognized with the Renaissance Platinum School of Distinction for 2023, 2024 and 2025.  Tricia was named 2023 Jostens Renaissance Educator of the Year. In her spare time, she enjoys running, walking and spending time with family.  She is a mother of two sons who participated in Renaissance while in high school.  Tricia says, “I look forward to being a Renaissance Ambassador for the 2025-2026 school year. Together we can do this!  We are all in the field of education to help others, and this is no exception. Reach out to say hello – lets work together!” 

Get in touch with Tricia! If you live near Newark and want to connect with Tricia or other Renaissance educators in your area, email Renaissance@jostens.com and we’ll connect you!

Erin Young

Marshall, Wisconsin

Erin is a passionate Health Education teacher at Marshall Middle/High School in Marshall, Wisconsin. She is a proud graduate of the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point and holds a Master of Education degree from the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse. Dedicated to the health and wellness of both her students and colleagues, Erin also serves as a leader of the “Cardinal Crew” and the Middle School Leadership Crew at Marshall. Both programs are rooted in the Jostens Renaissance framework, focusing on teacher morale, academic achievement, and character development. With nearly 20 years of experience coaching various sports at multiple levels, Erin is always ready to step up with confidence and make a meaningful impact— both on and off the field. Known for her ability to connect with students from all walks of life, Erin uses her wide range of interests to support and celebrate what makes each student unique. Her vibrant energy and positive outlook have earned her recognition in the classroom, at school events, and within the coaching community. Erin has played a key role—alongside others—in cultivating a strong, positive school climate and culture at Marshall. Under this collective leadership, Marshall High School has received the Platinum School of Distinction Award two years in a row, and Marshall Middle School has earned the Gold School of Distinction Award. Outside of school, Erin enjoys playing softball, pursuing her personal health goals, and spending quality time with her family. 

Get in touch with Erin! If you live near Marshall and want to connect with Erin or other Renaissance educators in your area, email Renaissance@jostens.com and we’ll connect you!