Nina grew up in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in a family of educators—her father a social studies teacher and her grandfather the founding principal of the city’s first integrated high school. From a young age, she developed a deep appreciation for how history shapes the present and how individuals can create positive change in their communities.

Her curiosity about the wider world led her to study French and spend a semester in France as an AFS exchange student in high school. After graduation, she took a gap year in Costa Rica, where she fell in love with the outdoors, and the beauty of everyday life in a new culture. She went on to earn a degree in Global Health from King’s College London and developed a lasting love for travel—and tea.

After college, Nina joined Casa de Esperanza in Houston, a post-graduate service program supporting children in foster care. That experience helped her discover her calling to work with young children, introduced her to her future wife, and welcomed her into Texas life.

She earned a Master of Arts in Teaching in Elementary Education with a specialization in ESL, then taught first grade at KIPP in Houston. Later, she led music, art, and play-based enrichment classes for babies, toddlers and families at the Bunny Hive.

Nina is passionate about early childhood education because of the joy, curiosity, and honesty young children bring to the world. Her teaching is rooted in nurturing imagination, confidence, and critical thinking—encouraging children to explore boldly and grow with intention.

Now living in Austin with her wife, Chasee, Nina enjoys bookstores, long walks, coffee shops, and planning future adventures. She’s grateful to be part of the Appamada community and is honored to help create a space where young learners feel known, supported, and excited to discover.

Back to team