Our Leadership
Leadership at The Center for Lifelong Learning embodies the cultivation of versatile and enduring skills that transcend specific knowledge domains. We are committed to fostering both interpersonal and intrapersonal growth, empowering individuals to excel in lifelong learning and adapt to evolving challenges.

Maddie Urban
Administrative Coordinator and Academic Coach
- murban@wheatonacademy.org
Maddie Urban joined the Wheaton Academy Institute in 2024 as the Administrative Coordinator for the Center for Lifelong Learning after teaching high school English for six years, 5 of which were spent at Wheaton Academy. She is passionate about the learning process and excited to support learners at all stages of life in her role with the Center.

Holly Taritas
Student Success Coach
- htaritas@wheatonacademy.org
I joined Wheaton Academy Institute in 2022 after twenty-seven years in education. I’m excited to be on a team with others to advance lifelong learning and support the mission of Christian education with Best Practices. I believe the purpose of Christian education is to be transformational for His Glory.

Valerie Gregersen
Test Preparation Program Coordinator
- vgregersen@wheatonacademy.org
Valerie (Val) Gregersen joined The Center for Lifelong Learning as the College Admission Test Preparation Coordinator, bringing 28 years of educational experience to her role. She leads ACT and SAT prep group classes and provides one-on-one coaching for the math portions of both tests as well as the ACT science section. Val believes in the transformative power of guided practice and finds great joy in helping students improve their scores and achieve their educational goals beyond high school.

Terry Huttenlock
AI Learning Coordinator and Academic Coach
- thuttenlock@wheatonacademy.org
Dr. Terry Huttenlock joined the Center for Lifelong Learning in 2024. With a background in instructional technology, research, and student support—including work with ESL learners and assistive technologies—Dr. Huttenlock is passionate about helping students grow academically and personally.
As the Center’s AI Learning Coordinator, she has dedicated significant time to researching, exploring, and improving the use of our AI LLM system, TrekAI. Dr. Huttenlock leads hands-on instructional workshops, equipping students and teachers to use TrekAI effectively and ethically, empowering learners to harness technology as a tool for growth and success.

Phil Strzalka, JD
Director of the Wheaton Academy Institute
- pstrzalka@wheatonacademy.org
I joined the Wheaton Academy Institute with more than 25 years of experience as an attorney and a management consultant developing and implementing people and operational solutions within higher education institutions and other not-for and for-profit organizations across the country.
Coaches for every subject
From Middle School to Adult Learners, we have coaches available to help in every subject area. Take a look at our amazing team and book your next appointment today!