MEET OUR TEAM
Our team is dedicated to creating innovative learning solutions and maximizing educational opportunities in Kansas. Get to know more about us!
Nancy Kohman
Teaching Assistant
Wichita NE DCP
Nancy is the Learning Coach for the STAR program at the Orion Diploma Completion Program in NE Wichita. She has an Associate of Science degree from Cloud County Community College in Travel/Tourism and Management. Nancy is married to Steve; they have two daughters and a son. She enjoys attending her kids’ activities, walking, reading and spending time with family and friends.
Danille Kubick
Administrative Assistant
North East
Danille works with adult students. She has been working in the education field since 2004. Danille’s hobbies include scrapbooking, working out, and watching soccer and basketball.
Shari Mills
Teacher
Belle Plaine
Shari is the Program Director/Teacher for Orion at Belle Plaine, an Adult High School Diploma Completion Program in Belle Plaine, Kansas. She has a Bachelor of Science in Education degree from Emporia State University with Endorsements in Early Childhood Education and English for Speakers of Other Languages, PRK-12. She has been working in the field of education since 1984. Shari’s hobbies include her favorite three “G’s” — Grandchildren, Gardening, and Greg (her husband).
Kris Misak
Assistant Executive Director/CFO
Clearwater
Kris is in her 20th year as the Assistant Executive Director/CFO for Orion Education and Training. She is SPHR & SHRM‐SCP certified, has a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a master’s Degree in Management and Leadership. She has been the leading force behind the wellness program and has been involved in the program since its inception in 2007. Kris is involved in the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM), Kansas Association of School Business Officials (KASBO) and the Clearwater Chamber of Commerce, where she has served as President, Vice‐President, Secretary and Board Member.
In her free time, Kris enjoys spending time with her family (12 grandchildren and one on the way) and friends, traveling and spending time outside.
Dr. Brad Pepper
Executive Director
Clearwater
Brad is the Executive Director of Orion Education & Training. He brings over 25 years of experience in the education realm, both classroom and administrative, to our organization. Brad earned his master’s degree and doctorate at Wichita State University and is now — yes, Dr. Pepper! He is fortunate enough to be able to work with the most amazing staff here at Orion and looks forward to coming to work every day! His greatest passion of all though is his family and spending time on new adventures with them on a daily basis.
Joani Purdy
Director of Virtual Education & Program Design
Wichita NE DCP
Joani is the Director of Virtual Education and Program Design at Orion. She has been an educator and technology enthusiast for over 25 years. Earning a bachelor's degree in Business and Computer Education from Kansas State University and a master's degree in Instructional Design Technology from Emporia State University. She currently serves on the Orion Strategic Planning Team and is a member of the Kansas State Department of Education's Charter and Virtual Education Advisory Council.
Joani loves learning new tech tools, traveling, walking, and spending time with her husband, two daughters, and pet schnauzer, Gus!
Joann Staats
Teacher
El Dorado
In 2006 my husband and I moved our family from Binghamton, NY to El Dorado, KS. I became a classroom teacher five years later, and worked in that capacity for eleven years. This is my second year with Orion, and I am so happy to be here! I have a passion for connecting with students and seeing them excel both academically and emotionally.
Join our Team!
Want to join a dynamic team dedicated to innovative learning solutions? Take a look at our current job opportunities and apply today.