Girl Arise
Educate a Girl
Empower a Nation


EXECUTIVE TEAM
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Dr. Anne Muli, Founder and CEO of Girl Arise, stands as a beacon of transformative leadership, innovation, and social impact across multiple disciplines. Armed with a Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership (PhD) from the University of Phoenix, an MBA in Accounting from Dallas Baptist University, and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Africa Nazarene University, Dr. Muli brings unparalleled expertise to every endeavor. Her exceptional leadership has been recognized through numerous accolades, including the prestigious Leadership and Character Award by Africa Nazarene University. She is also a respected member of the International Leadership Association, demonstrating her global influence and commitment to excellence.
As a passionate advocate for girl-child education, Dr. Muli has dedicated her career to breaking down barriers that prevent girls from accessing quality education. Through Girl Arise, she has led groundbreaking initiatives that empower girls to pursue their dreams, bridging gaps in access and equity across educational systems. Her work reflects an unwavering belief in the transformative power of education to uplift individuals, families, and communities. Dr. Muli’s leadership extends beyond advocacy; she is a strategic visionary who understands the systemic challenges faced by girls in education. She has spearheaded innovative programs addressing cultural, economic, and infrastructural barriers, ensuring that girls not only attend school but thrive academically and socially. Her ability to mobilize communities and foster cross-sector collaborations has resulted in sustainable solutions that continue to impact lives positively.
In addition to her work in education, Dr. Muli has been actively involved in community and social development projects both locally and internationally. Her initiatives have empowered underprivileged communities, provided resources to marginalized populations, and fostered a culture of inclusivity. As a transformational leader, she inspires others to embrace compassion and action, making her a voice of hope for countless individuals.
Dr. Muli's legacy is one of relentless commitment, visionary leadership, and unshakable dedication to the cause of gender equality in education. Her work serves as a call to action for others to join the movement, ensuring that every girl has the opportunity to learn, grow, and contribute to a better future. Through her expertise, passion, and resolve, Dr. Anne Muli continues to redefine what it means to lead with purpose.
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Dr. Linda J. Gutsch is a distinguished leader in education with an extensive academic and professional background. She holds a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Elementary Education from Kansas State University, a Master of Arts (MA) in Curriculum and Instruction, and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies, both from the University of Denver.
Dr. Linda is a retired faculty member of the University of Phoenix, where she contributed significantly to the Masters in Educational Administration Program and the School of Advanced Studies as a Dissertation Chair and committee member. Her contributions include curriculum development for the College of Education and the supervision of student teachers. As an Educational Consultant, she has made an impact in the areas of Staff Development and School Improvement, serving as a facilitator for initiatives like Critical Friends Groups and the Learning Network.
A passionate advocate for women in leadership, Dr. Linda’s doctoral research, A Study of Women Elementary School Principals’ Perceptions of Gender Issues, underscores her commitment to advancing gender equity in education. She has brought her expertise to international platforms, including presenting at the International Education Conference at Oxford University in England. Her notable achievements also include being selected as a Fulbright Memorial Scholar to Japan, participating in a principal exchange in New Zealand, and serving as a principal at exemplary elementary schools in Kansas and Colorado.
Dr. Linda is a dedicated member of Phi Delta Kappa, an international association for professional educators, and continues to inspire through her advocacy, scholarship, and leadership in education.

Dr. Melissa Varley is a visionary leader in education, with a career spanning over 20 years and a proven track record in educational administration and curriculum development. As the Superintendent of Florham Park School District, she oversees the strategic direction and operations of three schools serving 1,100 students. Her prior role as Assistant Superintendent of Sparta School District allowed her to manage Curriculum and Instruction for five schools, impacting over 3,500 students and overseeing key initiatives such as Common Core implementation, PARCC standards, and instructional leadership.
Dr. Varley’s expertise extends to her role as Curriculum Director for three school districts, where she supervises over 150 direct reports. She is well-versed in contemporary educational methodologies, including Understanding By Design, the Common Core, and Differentiated Instruction, underscoring her ability to create impactful learning environments. Her collaboration with Johns Hopkins University in designing Curriculum and Leadership courses highlights her contributions to advancing educational practices on a broader scale.
In addition to her administrative accomplishments, Dr. Varley serves as a mentor to 12 doctoral students at the University of Phoenix, fostering the next generation of educational leaders. Her dedication to professional growth reflects her commitment to shaping the future of education.
Dr. Varley brings her extensive leadership experience to Faith International, where she oversees the administration and strategic establishment of the girls' school and School of the Blind. Her contributions include curriculum development and the creation of inclusive, high-impact educational programs that embody her dedication to equity and excellence in education. Dr. Varley’s work exemplifies a lifelong commitment to empowering learners and driving transformational change within education systems.

Dr. David Waldman is an Expert Educator, International non-governmental leader, Advocate for the girl-child, Columnist, Publisher, and Children book author, Dr. David Kenneth Waldman is a Social entrepreneur and recognized expert in Education, Public policy, Sustainable educational development for girls affected by Poverty and Gender Justice.
In 2002, Waldman founded an International nongovernmental organization, 501c3, called “To Love Children Educational Foundation International Inc. (TLC)” which is also registered as an NGO in Uganda and Kenya. In 2006, TLC attained Special Consultative status to the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.
Waldman has a PhD from Walden University in Public Policy and Public Administration specializing in International nongovernmental organizations. Waldman has a Master’s Degree in International Relations from Golden Gate University 2001 and a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Queens College 1976.
Dr. Waldman spoke at the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women at the UN Headquarters in New York and has Written and Oral statements which have been accepted by the High Level Panel Economic and Social Council of United Nations on the topic of Educational Development for Girls.
Waldman has Written Statements to High Level Segment of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) which were distributed to all participants of the ECOSOC High Level Segment and translated into the six official UN languages. In addition, Waldman has Written statements to the Eonomic and Social Council of United Nations, at it's Substantive Session on 25 July 2010. Recently he was asked to speak at the First International Day of Women and Girls in Science at the United Nations in New York.
Waldman is the Author and Publisher of 'Healthy and Smart' a HIV/AIDs Prevention Curriculum for Youth. He is also an author and publisher in the 'The Global Child Journal', UN written statements, and Peer reviewed scholarly articles as well as several children books and a Cartoon titled 'Just for Today'.
Dr. Waldman is a key advisor to the board.

Dr. John Peed has been involved in education for the past 50 years, as a teacher, an administrator, and a lifelong learner. He holds a Bachelor of Music Education, a Master of Music in Conducting, a Master of Arts in Educational Leadership, and a Doctor of Arts in Conducting. He has long been a staunch supporter of equal rights for women and other marginalized groups. Having retired three times, he is now currently teaching high school as Director of Choirs and Theater at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School in Montgomery, AL.
Dr. Peed is honored to be selected to the Board of Directors of Girl Arise and looks forward to assisting in its development