Meet Dr. Harris

Dr. Stephanie Nelson-Dennis believes deeply in a fundamental truth: "No matter how much pedagogy we know, no matter how many degrees we have, unless our students know that we care, they will not learn from us." This conviction drives her work as Director of Academics at Gilman School in Baltimore, Maryland, and as an Adjunct Professor at Towson University.

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Born and raised in Scotch Plains, New Jersey, Stephanie's journey in education spans over three decades of passionate dedication. As a first-generation college student herself, she understands firsthand the transformative power of educators who believe in their students. This understanding led her to become the inaugural recipient of Franklin and Marshall's Most Influential Teacher Award—a recognition that reflects her deep commitment to making every student feel seen, valued, and capable.

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Dr. Nelson-Dennis specializes in supporting students with ADD/ADHD, partnering with them and their teachers to implement research-based strategies that strengthen executive functioning skills. She creates pathways for students to successfully navigate the complex landscapes of learning in both public and private/independent school settings, always with an eye toward each student's unique strengths and potential.

Her academic credentials include a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Northeastern University in Boston, a Master's degree from Coppin State University, and a Bachelor's degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC). Her doctoral research explored how Principal Servant Leadership influences new teacher retention in urban public schools, providing educational leaders with evidence-informed strategies to support teachers in some of our nation's most challenging—and most important—learning environments.

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As a passionate advocate for African American students and their families in academically rigorous independent schools, Dr. Nelson-Dennis understands the nuances of navigating these spaces. Through her private practice, Stephanie Dennis & Associates, she provides personalized one-on-one coaching (both in-person and virtual) for high school students in grades 9-12, meeting each student where they are and helping them discover their own path to success.

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Above all, Stephanie is a proud mother of two amazing children—her "suns" and dream-releasers—who remind her daily why this work matters. She brings the same care, dedication, and belief in potential to every student she serves, knowing that when students feel genuinely supported, there is no limit to what they can achieve.