Our Staff
Meet the Professionals Behind MarbleJam Center for Arts & Enrichment
All staff are trained in the Nurtured Heart Approach Method
President & Director: Anna Villa-Bager, BS, CPC, CNE, CDE
Anna Bager holds a BS in Dance with an emphasis on Psychology from the State University of New York at Brockport. Anna’s experience in the entertainment industry spans over twenty years in all aspects of entertainment including corporate show production: from initial concept to completion; music and book development, costuming, casting, and choreography.
In the large corporate arena, Anna co-developed and produced national and regional industrial shows for many companies including Johnson & Johnson, Cooper Vision, and Becton Dickinson. She served as a spokesperson and performer with Adidas USA for International Super Shows worldwide. Her portfolio includes an extensive theatrical performance career.
As an original cast member of Jerome Robbins Broadway, Anna performed and assisted Mr. Robbins in the reconstruction of dance pieces from notation and old film archives. Other performance credits include Broadway, International and National Tours, Regional and Children’s Theatre, film and television.
Anna manages the operations of the organization and is responsible for program development and fundraising. She is career planning certified and offers students a genuine and realistic perspective regarding career choices and mastering life skills necessary for success.
Clinical Supervisor Tania Kendrick, MA, MEd, MT-BC, LCAT
Tania Kendrick is a nationally credentialed Board Certified Music Therapist and an NYS Licensed Creative Arts Therapist. She received her Master’s in Music Therapy from New York University.
Tania has completed training in Neurological Music Therapy which is an evidence-based treatment model that uses standardized, research-based techniques to treat the brain using music and rhythm. Tania has also been trained in trauma modalities such as Child Parent Psychotherapy, Family Therapy from the Ackerman Institute, and Vocal Psychotherapy. Tania has clinical experience working with individuals with a range of special needs, and children and families who have experienced trauma and are affected by systems such as foster care, housing and legal systems.
Tania is currently training in Guided Imagery in Music which is a psychodynamic and multimodal (music and art) therapy that supports individuals exploring and further developing their relationship to music as a resource to explore their inner world.
Tania also has a Master’s in Education from Bank Street College of Education and a Master’s in Child Development from Sarah Lawrence College. Prior to becoming a Music Therapist, Tania was a preschool special education teacher in Manhattan and Brooklyn for 15 years.
Art Therapy Professionals:
Art Therapist Sofya Kashirskaya, MA, ATR-BC, LCAT, LPAT, ASDCS
Sofya Kashirskaya is a nationally board-certified Art Therapist (ATR-BC), licensed in both New York (LCAT) and New Jersey (LPAT). She holds a Master’s degree in Art Therapy from New York University and brings over a decade of clinical experience working with culturally, socially, and age-diverse populations across a wide range of settings, including schools, hospitals, residential programs, community-based agencies, and private practice. Sofya is also a Certified Autism Spectrum Clinical Specialist (ASDCS), further strengthening her expertise in supporting neurodivergent individuals.
She is the author of Creative Hearts: Art Therapy on the Spectrum, an instructional art therapy card deck developed for children on the autism spectrum - a practical and accessible tool for therapists, educators, and caregivers working with neurodivergent youth.
Sofya’s clinical style is rooted in the belief that the therapeutic process is most powerful when it is client-led. She draws on the creative process to help individuals access non-verbal expression, support emotional regulation, build resilience, and uncover personal strengths. She is especially attuned to the sensory and developmental needs of her clients, often incorporating play, movement, and tactile art-making techniques. Through a trauma-informed and strengths-based approach, she creates a supportive environment where clients of all ages feel seen, heard, and empowered in their healing journey.
Art Therapist Brian Tepper, LCAT, LPAT, MPS, ATR-BC
Brian Tepper is an artist, sculptor, teacher, and art therapist who believes in the transformative power of the creative process. Making art allows all of us to engage in our own inner resources and express ourselves authentically through various modalities of creativity, while engaging with others and building community. He is a registered, board-certified, and licensed art therapist specializing in working with children and adolescents of various ages and diagnoses for over 25 years. Brian earned a BFA from the School of Visual Arts in 1992, a Master’s degree from Pratt Institute in 1996, and a Master's in Studio Art from the Florence Academy of Art in 2023. In addition, Brian currently serves on the board of the New Jersey Art Therapy Association and is the Conference Chair of the American Art Therapy Association.
Art Therapist & Teaching Artist Kira Scala
Kira holds an MPS in Art Therapy from the School of Visual Arts and is a board certified (ATR-Provisional) and New Jersey licensed (LAAT) Art Therapist. They have professional experience in diverse settings ranging from school environments, summer camps for individuals with developmental disabilities, and substance use treatment centers. Their therapeutic approach is rooted in fostering empowerment and self-exploration through the creative process. They also emphasize the importance of client agency and a strengths-based approach. Kira is skilled in integrating fiber and textile arts (knitting, crocheting, sewing, embroidery, etc.) into their clinical practice to promote distress tolerance, problem solving skills, emotional regulation, and fine motor skills. Kira uses an integrative theoretical stance that draws on principles of DBT, CBT, Motivational Interviewing, and Trauma/Neuro-informed approaches.
Music Therapist & Teaching Artist Jillian Richmond, MT-BC
Jillian Richmond is a board-certified music therapist with a passion for helping others through the creative medium of music. Jillian, a classically trained vocalist, graduated with a bachelor’s degree in music therapy from The University of Miami. Since then, she has worked with a variety of clinical populations including older adults, medically fragile children, and children and adults with disabilities in settings such as clinic-based, self-contained and inclusive classrooms, and in- home. Jillian brings a sensory-based approach to working with neurodivergent individuals and believes that music can be used as a powerful tool for communication, self-expression, and connection.
Direct Support Professional & Music Therapist Mariam Ramos, MT-BC
Mariam Ramos is a specialized instructor with a rich background in private instrumental teaching. She began her musical journey at 13 as a self-taught violinist with a passion for classical music. That passion led her to Montclair State University, where she earned a bachelor's degree in music therapy. By the end of the year, Mariam will be a board-certified music therapist, further solidifying her expertise in the field.
While at MSU, Mariam established her private violin studio and gained professional performance experience. Her expertise extends beyond traditional teaching methods. She uses her improvisation skills and knowledge of alternative learning styles to make music accessible to individuals with diverse abilities.
A talented multi-instrumentalist and polyglot fluent in five languages, Mariam is deeply committed to breaking cultural barriers and fostering community, particularly among Hispanics. Her dedication to her work is rooted in her strong family values and faith, which she credits with enriching her life and guiding her mission to bring the joy of music to everyone.
Music Therapist & Teaching Artist Cedric Dimapilis, BA-MT
Music therapist, educator, and composer, Multi-Instrumentalist Cedric Dimapilis shares his creativity and excitement with Marble Jam! He received his Bachelor's in Music Therapy from Shenandoah Conservatory. Cedric has clinical experience working with individuals with a range of special needs from children and adults. As a music therapist and composer, Cedric has co-composed a toured production called 'A Will to Survive'. 'A Will to Survive' traveled to Washington D.C. during the fall of 2017 to perform at the renowned John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.
As an educator, Cedric has taught a variety of instruments through individual music lessons, bands, middle school and high school guitar.
Cedric has an adventurous and active lifestyle. On September 2020, Cedric participated in a 31 hours and 15 minute ultra marathon to run as many miles as he could. Cedric completed 46.36 miles and plans to run the race again in the near future. He is also an avid music listener and enjoys collecting vinyl. Besides music and running, Cedric enjoys traveling and spending time with his family and friends.
Program Instructors and Directors:
Teaching Artist & Educator Teresa DeFabrizio, MFA
Artist, educator, and creator, Teresa DeFabrizio, is happy to share her enthusiasm and creativity with Marble Jam! Ms. DeFabrizio is a working artist, art educator, art history professor, and illustrator. Her instruction provides in-depth exploration of character design and skill-building in all genres of art.
Artists learn history of this artistic style, its cultural significances, including the styles of Manga and sequential storytelling. Ms. DeFabrizio holds her MFA From William Paterson University, is an NJ State Certified Art Teacher, and a Professor of Art at Bergen and Passaic Community Colleges. She also was part of the original group that started up MANGA NEXT and is a fan favorite for 13 years with the Bergen Teen Arts Festival where Manga 101 is packed. Join us for fun, creativity, and discovery!
Direct Support & Digit Arts Instructor Enzo Tolay
Enzo is a self-professed jack-of-all-trades. A first-generation immigrant of Peru and Chinese descent, Enzo has involved himself in many different fields and industries after graduating from NYU Tisch School of Arts in film. He has also gained plenty of life and work experience through filmmaking, compassionate care specialist, human resources and is a licensed EMT. As a Human Resources specialist, he worked closely with staff at Angels Care in Hackensack, including teaching classes for Home Health Aide trainees and managing clients' meetings. He is acutely aware of patient care sensitivities and enjoys working with the special need's population. Enzo has used his editing, visual and lighting experience from NYU to teach new and up-and-coming streamers on twitch and use his own channel as a hub. He is excited to use this “melting pot” of creativity and insightfulness here at MarbleJam Center.
Digital Arts Instructor Tony Borden
Tony Borden is a producer and creative director in New York City. Originally from Montreal, he studied theatre and media arts at John Abbott College before transferring to NYU's Tisch School of the Arts in 2003. In 2017 he founded the Greenwich Village Social Club providing professional creative services tailored to the needs of small businesses. He is an accomplished screenwriter and playwright, and his short films have played to festival audiences around the country. He lives in Manhattan with his wife and two sons, and the kids want a dog but we’re gonna talk about it.
Fitness Instructor & Nutritionist Maria Trice Jenkins, BA-CPT
Maria Trice Jenkins is an Actor, Journalist and Master Personal Trainer based in NY and NJ. The Mother of three, Maria is the Founder of Any Port in a Storm, a non-profit foundation dedicated to Autism Awareness.
As an Actor, Maria has appeared in feature films, commercials and was cast in the role of a News Anchor in her off Broadway debut in Liz Magic Laser's "Bystander"opening to sold out audiences throughout its run. As a journalist, she was an On Air Reporter for WWOR-TV business news program “In the Black” and continues to do freelance projects.
Her work as a Master Fitness Professional has spanned generations and continues to inspire, motivate, and help clients and their families achieve their goals. Maria's coaching style brings excitement to youth and adults who become motivated to learn about healthy living through great nutrition and keeping up a fitness program that is manageable and fun! Maria holds a BA in Sociology from Wesleyan University.
Music Instructor & DSP Marco DeLucia
Marco DeLucia is a Music Instructor and Direct Support Professional at MarbleJam. Music has been a foundational part of his life since childhood, ultimately leading him to study at Immaculata University, where he earned his bachelor’s degree in music. While there, he also cultivated a passion for building and modifying guitars, amplifiers, and pedalboards.
His musical background began with saxophone in church and school bands and grew to include jazz bands, guitar ensembles, a cappella groups, and choir. During his undergraduate internship, Marco developed and led a successful hip-hop program for clients with special needs, guiding them in creating their own instrumentals, writing original lyrics, and performing for friends and family.
In addition to his performance background, Marco has experience in music production and enjoys integrating audio software into his lessons. He is passionate about helping clients build independence and creativity by learning to use digital audio workstations on their own. Marco believes that music is a universal medium—one that everyone can access and everyone can understand.
Teaching Artist & DramaJam Director Willie Wilson
Willie Wilson has been active in the entertainment field all of his life. He is an accomplished singer, songwriter, teacher, and plays multiple instruments. As a composer and actor, his credits include appearances on Broadway, television, commercials and film. Willie has produced over 100 school musicals through TAG, his theatrical production company. Willie has been employed with MTV, VH1 and Nickelodeon in New York City and is the lead singer of his band ‘The Willies’ a seasoned group of musicians that play locally and beyond. Willie is also the director of ‘DramaJam Theatrical Troupe’ the first Bergen County special needs performance group at MarbleJam.
Art Instructor Pearl Nevill
Yoga Instructor Cristy Sycip, RYT
Cristy May SyCip teaches Yoga, Barre, Pilates, Meditation and CircusYoga to all ages and abilities. She has an associate degree in Business Management and Fashion Design specializing in Evening and Sportswear from FIT, certified in Yoga, Barre, Classical Pilates, Cycle, and Reiki Master through Dorothea Grant, Third degree Black Belt in MMA through TCMA, Sports and Culinary Nutrition through Matthew Kenney, Progressive Ballet Technique and continuing studies in Blue Throat Yoga, Global Bowspring and Rajanaka.
To love life for all its diverse offerings. We consciously align with the totality of nature, recognize our default reactions, and choose to create dynamic harmony for total healing, maximum regeneration, and powerful transformation.
May we magnify exquisite beauty, and extra extraordinary love and experience the many levels of joy from a place of unbounded freedom.
Direct Support Professional & Instructor Shakira Villaquiran, BA, RBT
Shakira Villaquiran earned a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Communication Disorders from Montclair State University. She brings a wealth of experience in therapeutic arts, education, event coordination, and rehabilitation, dedicating her career to fostering personal and creative growth. As a staff member at MarbleJam, Shakira leverages arts-based approaches to empower clients and promote collaboration. Her background as a paraprofessional in education has enabled her to support students in developing academic, social, and life skills, working collaboratively with interdisciplinary teams to address diverse needs. Additionally, her role as a Rehab Aide highlights her commitment to client success, as she assisted therapists in implementing tailored treatment plans and facilitating meaningful progress. Shakira is furthering her education to become a certified and licensed art therapist.
Support and Admin Professionals:
Program Supervisor Rachel Perez
Rachel Perez oversees daily operations, staff coordination, and program quality across the Center’s inclusive arts studios and performances. She brings a strong background in behavioral health, case management, and administrative leadership, with proven expertise in team supervision, client support, and adaptive programming. Her leadership ensures that programs remain accessible, mission-driven, and responsive to the diverse needs of the Bergen County community.
Before joining MarbleJam, Rachel worked as a Registration Coordinator at Asun Star Consulting, managing clinical records, insurance authorizations, and scheduling for a behavioral health department. She previously served as a Supervisor with SERV Behavioral Health Systems, where she monitored staff performance, provided counseling support for individuals with anxiety and depression, and ensured compliance with HIPAA standards. Her experience also includes several years as a Case Manager with Adult Family Health Services, facilitating groups and individual sessions for clients navigating mental health recovery and substance use challenges.
Rachel holds a Bachelor’s degree from Montclair State University and an Associate’s degree from Bergen Community College. Earlier in her career, she gained valuable management and customer service experience in office and retail leadership roles, sharpening her skills in communication, organization, and problem-solving.
Paraprofessional Nancy Valentino, RBT
Nancy has 25 years’ experience working in social services and support services for children in crisis and with special needs including autism spectrum disorders, developmental disabilities, and medical fragilities.
As a case manager and trainer, Nancy has worked with various state agencies and most notably Spectrum for Living, providing travel training to adults with disabilities as well as compliance oversight for facilities and operations. She has managed caseloads of up to 50 individuals and supervised program coordination on all fronts.
Nancy currently works with the Bergenfield School System as a classroom support staffer. She is certified and trained in 3 tier crisis intervention management and ABA in school teaching approaches. Nancy graduated with honors from Middlesex Community College with an associate’s degree in science.
Billing & Services Manager Agaila Peterson, M.S., Notary
Agaila Peterson is a former refugee, women's rights advocate, and former journalist. Agaila holds a B. A. from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and a M.S. from American University, Washington DC in Healthcare Management and handles service coordination and billing. She is also a Public Notary. With her advocacy, case management and healthcare administrative experience she brings passion and commitment to serving others and is thrilled to be a part of the organization's management team. Agaila looks forward to making an impact with her multilingual communication skills among our multicultural families. She is fluent in Spanish, Arabic, and English.
Service Coordinator Sharleen Lee
Sharleen is a graduate of Ramapo College, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Computer Science. During her time at Ramapo, she held several leadership roles—including founder of a student organization, president, and student manager—demonstrating her commitment to community and growth. Sharleen began her journey at MarbleJam Kids as an Administrative Assistant and quickly found a passion for working with clients and contributing to the team. She now serves as a Service Coordinator, continuing to support individuals and families with dedication and care.
Administrator Olga Zuniaga
Administrative Assistant Kanon Ueda
Administrative Assistant Gabriel Varela
Gabriel Varela is an administrative professional with experience in supporting and operating all required tasks at the front desk in a community-focused environment. While working at MarbleJam Kids, Gabriel works to provide a welcoming experience and space for clients, their family, legal guardians, and staff. He believes that through clear and thoughtful communication, everyone will feel comfortable and most importantly, supported.
Gabriel will soon obtain his Bachelor's degree from CUNY Hunter College, with a major in communication and media studies with a minor in journalism. During his time as an undergraduate, Gabriel held a role as a student ambassador at Caldwell University (before transferring to Hunter in 2024), as well as the role of a waiter in the service industry. In both positions he ensured client satisfaction and a smooth work flow both at a restaurant and office. At MarbleJam kids, he enjoys supporting day-to-day operations while also ensuring an organized, welcoming and easily accessibly environment for all clients, family, legal guardians, and staff. He aims to ensure a positive and comfortable community setting that supports engagement and a pleasant experience for all.
Consulting Professionals:
Behavioral Consultant: Diane Berger, MA, BCBA
Diane Berger is a board certified behavior analyst and a certified special educator in both New Jersey and New York. She received her graduate degree in Behavior Disorders – Applied Behavior Analysis from Teachers College, Columbia University. After beginning her career, in 2001, teaching at a private New York preschool serving children with autism and other developmental disorders, Diane worked as an ABA Special Education Itinerant Teacher (SEIT) at a major New York not-for-profit organization for persons with disabilities. Diane has served as president and on the executive board of Special Parents of Teaneck (SPOT), a local influential parent support group, as well as co-president of Teaneck Special Education Parent Advisory Group (SEPAG). An adjunct lecturer in special education research in the graduate program at Queens College, Diane has also guest lectured at Columbia University and presented at the QC Regional Autism Center on Autism Spectrum Disorders Annual Conference (NY). She has conducted workshops for parents and professionals both locally and internationally. Among her professional affiliations are the Association for Behavior Analysis International, the Association of Professional Behavior Analysts, the New Jersey Association for Behavior Analysis, the Council for Exceptional Children and the Division on Autism and Developmental Disabilities.
Media Consultant Kaitlyn Clark
Kaitlyn Clark is the founder of KECPR, a media services company services small businesses and nonprofits around the U.S. After graduating from Syracuse University with a dual major in Public Relations and Political Science in 2023, Kaitlyn has carved her own path in entrepreneurship, prioritizing meaningful projects and strategic brand building.
Kaitlyn has experience in a variety of projects and sectors including business, fashion, and entertainment publicity. However, she has the most experience and passion for non-profit public relations, having started her career with the MarbleJam Center in 2022 as a Social Media Intern.