Our Team
Dela Ghasemzadeh - Fours Teacher
Hi, my name is Dela Ghasemzadeh. I have been working in early childhood education for over 11 years and am currently pursuing my degree in Early Childhood Education at the University of Cincinnati. I also have a background in biology, which helps me bring curiosity and exploration into the classroom.
Before joining IHCNS, I spent 11 years teaching at a local preschool and one year as a Montessori teacher. I am passionate about creating a warm, nurturing environment where children feel safe, supported, and excited to learn through play.
Outside of the classroom, I enjoy spending time with my family and reading.
Molly Martin - Director
Molly graduated from Miami University receiving her Bachelor of Psychology and completed certification at Georgetown University in Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health. All of her children have graduated from IHCNS and appreciates the experiences they had while attending preschool here. She hopes that all students gain a deeper understanding of themselves and a love for learning through their play. Having a fun, safe, and respectful learning environment is a top priority. She loves spending time with family, going on hikes, watching soccer games, yoga, and reading books.
Beth Pisciotta - Fours Teacher
Beth Pisciotta, Fours Lead Teacher, joined IHCNS staff in 2019. Beth holds a Master’s degree in Elementary Education from Northern Kentucky University. Prior to coming to Indian Hill Church Nursery School Beth taught Kindergarten for several years.
Winifred “Wini” Robertson - Twos Assistant Teacher
Wini, Assistant Teacher, joined IHCNS staff in 2019 with 5 years experience in preschool education. Wini completed her work study at Indian Hill Church Nursery School. She has been an assistant in our Twos, Threes and Fours Programs. She is also a graduate of Indian Hill Church Nursery School. She is patient, kind and creative and in her free time she enjoys hiking.
Lindsay Athota - Rising 5’s Assistant Teacher
I am a graduate of the University of Dayton and practiced as a Physician Assistant at UC Medical Center for 10 years. Both of my boys are IHCNS alumni. I enjoy reading and traveling with my family.
Diana Cullen - Threes Assistant Teacher, 4 Day
Diana graduated from Kent State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. She has many years of preschool and childcare experience. Diana loves spending time with her family, hiking, practicing yoga, running, and singing.
Mavis Yang - Fours Assistant Teacher
My name is Chuan Yang you can also call me Mavis. and I am so excited to join the team this year! I have a Bachelor's Degree in Environmental Art Design. My goal is to creating a supportive and engaging environment where all children can grow and shine, where they feel safe to express themselves and where they are treated with respect and feel valued. I’m looking forward to a great fun year learning and growing together! I like to go on hikes, workout, spend time with my husband, two daughters and friends.
Debra Hatfield - Threes Lead Teacher, 4 Day
Debra Hatfield joined the Nursery School staff in 2024. Deb received her degree in Early Childhood Education from the University of Cincinnati. She has been in the Early Child Education field for eighteen years. Her philosophy follows the findings of Piaget which is learn through play. She creates an environment where a child feels supported and encouraged to grow. In her spare time, Deb likes to hike and travel to new places. Deb looks forward to spending time with her children and grandchildren, as well as her husband of 34 years.
Lisa O’Brien - Threes Assistant Teacher, 3 Day
Lisa O’Brien is the Assistant Teacher in our Three Year Old program that is 3 days a week. Lisa brings with her many years of early childhood education experience and has a passion for working with young children. She enjoys soccer, spending time with her family, and being outdoors!
Allison Elliott - Two’s Lead Teacher
Jessica Gates- Fours Assistant Teacher
Jessica began her teaching career in Italy, where she discovered her passion for working with young children and helping them grow through learning and play. She has spent the last 18 years tutoring children and supporting their academic and personal development with patience, creativity, and care.
She lives with her husband, Marco, and their two children, Leonardo (13) and Giulia (11). Outside of the classroom, she enjoys running 5Ks with her children and traveling with her family, creating new memories and adventures together.
Emma Zizza - Rising 5’s Teacher
Originally from Boston, MA; Emma obtained a bachelor’s degree in Speech-Language Pathology from the University of Alabama in 2019. Following her bachelor’s degree Emma completed a post baccalaureate teaching licensure program with a focus in early childhood education. Prior to IHCNS Emma spent two years as a teaching assistant at a local preschool in Boston. In her free time Emma enjoys spending time with her family, skiing, and is an avid reader.
Nancy Griga - Threes Lead Teacher, 3 Day
Nancy joined IHCNS in 2022 as Assistant Teacher to the Threes. Nancy is a native of Canton, Ohio, but has made Cincinnati her home with her husband, 2 children and 2 labs. She attended the Art Institute of Pittsburgh, earning a degree in Interior Design. After her 18-year design career, Nancy stayed home during her children’s earlier years, volunteering at their school and parish. GS troop leader for 9 years, teaching Sunday School and chaperoning field trips were a few of her favorite experiences. Nancy’s family volunteers together on many service projects and were blessed to have fostered three babies. Older kids and fewer school volunteer opportunities presented an open door for her to start working with children in Preschool, something she’s always wanted to do! Her goal is to utilize her volunteer, parental and life experiences to help the students have fun learning while blossoming into the best versions of themselves. Nancy enjoys baking, reading, exercising, sports, and outdoor activities.
Nellie Haverkos - Extended Day Teacher
Nellie is a mother of two, one IHCNS graduate and one current student. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a Master of Science in Family Studies and Social Work from Miami University. Prior to becoming a mom, Nellie was a social worker in various roles serving children in the Cincinnati area and managing a longitudinal research study examining non-cognitive barriers to children’s academic success. Throughout her professional career and role as a mom, Nellie has been especially interested in the growth and development that takes place during the formative preschool years and its impact on social and academic foundations.
In her free time, Nellie enjoys attending her kids’ extracurricular activities around the community.