Meet our team

Kelly Fernandez believes that every child deserves an education that recognizes their unique strengths, interests, and potential. Her own educational journey began at Rivendell School in Arlington, Virginia, where a learner-centered approach encouraged curiosity, independence, and whole-child development from kindergarten through eighth grade.

Today, as President of The Learning Quest, Kelly works to advance educational approaches and systems that empower learners to chart their own paths to success. She is especially passionate about helping families, educators, and communities create environments where young people can develop agency, purpose, and a lifelong love of learning.

Kelly earned both her undergraduate degree in Health Systems Management and her master's degree in Health Policy from George Mason University. She spent more than a decade in Washington, D.C., leading communications and public affairs efforts on healthcare policy and advocacy and currently works in communications at Leidos, supporting military health initiatives that serve service members, veterans, and military families.

As the parent of four children in Fairfax County Public Schools, Kelly brings both personal and professional experience to her advocacy for learner-centered education. She has previously served on her local PTA board and Fairfax County Public Schools' Health Advisory Committee.

Mary Pat Schlickenmaier, Ed.D.

Catechist

Dr. Mary Pat Schlickenmaier retired as an elementary school principal after twenty-one years. A graduate of Loyola College, Mary Pat began her career by teaching high school chemistry, physics, and bioethics. She then moved to teaching junior high science, math, and computer technology before becoming a principal. Mary Pat holds a master’s degree from the University of Virginia in School Administration and Supervision, a Post-Master's Certificate in Educational Leadership, and a Doctor of Education degree from the University of Phoenix. She has a Post Graduate Collegiate license from the State of Virginia with endorsements in Administration and Supervision, preK-12. She is currently mentoring first-year principals, is an adjunct in the education department at George Mason University, and is a Practicum Supervisor for the University of Phoenix. Mary Pat also has both first- and second-level certification in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and an Advanced Catechist Certificate from the Diocese of Arlington. Mary Pat advises us on school management and our faith identity, and she leads our optional after-school catechesis program.

"Integrity – Humility – Mission."

— Her personal motto

Belén has a BA in International Relations. She lived in India and the Philippines just after graduating, where she volunteered for three years in health and education projects. Upon her return to Argentina, where she is native, she joined Red Solidaria as a volunteer and international aid coordinator. She worked as a journalist and program manager at La Nación newspaper foundation in Buenos Aires, to later become Social Media information specialist at the US Embassy in Buenos Aires. She acted there as Liaison Officer with other sections and became Grant Officer representative. She was selected to become HelpArgentina's Executive Director to help expand fundraising opportunities abroad for NGOs from other Latin American countries, and successfully transitioned the organization into PILAS, Portal for Investment in the Latin American Social Sector. From there she moved on to working at a new media startup, RED/ACCION, as Engagement Editor and Membership coordinator. She was a Senior Communications consultant with The Global Initiative for Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.

Dr. Jauregui is an education innovator, program and curriculum designer, and interdisciplinary thinker. With a PhD in Sociology and a background in design, she integrates academic and creative methods to develop tools that support educators and enhance learning environments. She contributes to designing innovative education programs, and collaborates to apply effective practices in real-world settings. Given her eclectic background, she offers a broad perspective on educational challenges. Her work is guided by a focus on innovation, inclusion, and the belief that education should help individuals reach their full potential.

As a mother of a gifted daughter and a non-verbal autistic son, Dr. Jauregui is deeply familiar with navigating unconventional paths. She has provided valuable advice and emotional support to parents of newly diagnosed children with autism. Additionally, she co-founded Acton Academy Falls Church, an innovative school that empowers students to take charge of their own learning journey.