EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Kim Porco has spent 26 years in education, including 10 years as a school administrator, advocating for students and families. While leading a mentoring program for high school students who were the first in their families to pursue college and faced significant financial barriers, Kim saw a troubling reality emerge. Even after federal grants, loans, and scholarships, her students were still left owing approximately $4,500 per semester, an impossible gap for many families. With limited options to support them, she relied on the generosity of the Mattawan Public Education Foundation, until she and Bill McNulty founded Theresa’s Way Forward. Kim believes there is far too much talent trapped by poverty, and she is committed to building systems that expand access to higher education.

Kim earned a bachelor’s degree in special education from Michigan State University and a master’s degree in learning disabilities from Western Michigan University. She has educational certifications in school administration, special education supervisory and a central office endorsement.

BOARD PRESIDENT

Bill McNulty is a retired Professional Educator of 40 years. During his career he practiced as a classroom teacher, coach, Instructional Supervisor, Middle School Principal, and Associate Superintendent. He also served as an instructor at Western Michigan University and a consultant for The Kellogg Foundation MiddleStart Initiative. He was recognized as a Michigan Outstanding Practicing Principal and a National Distinguished Principal during his career.

A U.S. Army veteran, Bill earned a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education and a Master of Arts in Elementary Education and Educating Disadvantaged Youth, both from Western Michigan University. He is a passionate advocate for educational excellence, equity,and opportunity for all students.

TREASURER

April is a lifelong educator who has used athletics along with relationships she created in the classroom to have a positive impact on her students, families and community.  With teaching experience ranging from kindergarten to postsecondary and a focus on at-risk learners, April believes in the power of education to break cycles of poverty.  

She earned a bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University in elementary and special education.  April holds a Career and Technical Education certificate from Wayne State University and a master’s degree in Educational Leadership from Western Michigan University.

SECRETARY

Ashley is an Air Force Veteran and educator who is committed to expanding opportunities for students and strengthening her community. With 8 years of K-12 experience and prior work at Western Michigan University, she brings a deep understanding of both classroom and post-secondary pathways. Ashley currently serves on district committees focused on student access, belonging, and positive school culture and believes in the power of education, advocacy, and relationship building to transform lives.

Ashley earned a bachelor's degree in business and a master’s degree in special education. She has supported supported Special Olympics and contributes to women’s recovery and unhoused support initiatives reflecting her ongoing commitment to service and behind the classroom.

ADHOC BOARD MEMBER

A graduate of Mattawan High School, where she participated in the Level Up Program, Nicashia is now beginning her junior year at Michigan State University, where she is majoring in Political Science. Since arriving on campus, she has demonstrated outstanding leadership, determination, and commitment to excellence.

Nicashia currently serves as the Vice President of the Black Student Alliance at MSU, where she helps foster community, advocacy, and student engagement. She has also worked for MSU Dining Services since the start of her freshman year and, through her strong work ethic and leadership, earned a promotion to Student Supervisor.

Looking ahead, Nicashia plans to graduate from Michigan State University and attend law school with the goal of becoming a Civil Rights Attorney, where she hopes to advocate for justice and equity.