Tom Quinn, Executive Director

Bringing over 30 years of education experience to Vanguard Tom previously served as the President of the HMS School for Children with Cerebral Palsy in West Philadelphia.  After starting his education career as a teacher at the middle school and high school levels, he also served as the Director of Education for the Walnut Street Theatre in Philadelphia, where he was the author of several plays and worked to make theatre more accessible for audiences leading to his recognition by the Mayor’s Office with the Access Achievement Award in 2015.  Tom is a graduate of Bucknell University and holds Masters degrees in Education from West Chester University and Educational Administration from Gwynedd Mercy University.  He was honored as a Distinguished Alumni for Community Service by Gwynedd Mercy in 2017. He has also served on grant committees for the US Department of Education and the New Jersey Council on the Arts. Tom lives in Rose Valley, PA with his wife Susan and their two children.

Elizabeth Ladd, Chief Financial Officer
Elizabeth determined early in her career that nonprofit accounting was her passion.  She has spent the last 28 years developing her skills and leadership style in the nonprofit arena.  She likes to work cooperatively with all levels of staff and with Board members. Prior to Vanguard, Elizabeth worked at a social service agency assisting people moving from homelessness to self-sufficiency.  She continued to assume additional responsibilities, ultimately becoming the Chief Financial Officer.  Elizabeth received her B.A. in Accounting from Widener University.  In her spare time, Elizabeth likes to spend time with her husband, Steve, and her children, Nick and Shannon, as well as her extended family members.   
 

Victoria Fringer, Director of Information Technology

Victoria is the Director of Technology for Vanguard. She is versed in supporting all things that run on batteries or plug into AC. She values the team approach and appreciates her IT team. Her M.B.A. rounds out her technical skill set and enables her to balance the technology with the business needs of the organization. When time permits, she enjoys taking college courses. She likes things with motors, the great outdoors, exercising, and exploring new ventures. Vicki also volunteers with a local dog rescue, acting as the point person for adoption inquiries and assisting at fundraising events.

Kevin Kane, Director of Development & Major Gifts

Kevin was thrilled to join Vanguard in September 2024. He has 18 years of experience as a dynamic development strategist, renowned for matching impact-driven philanthropists with his organization’s mission-critical needs. Prior to Vanguard, Kevin was the Senior Director of Development at Cohen Veterans Bioscience, Sr. Development Director, Oncology Department at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP), Chief Development Officer and National Program Manager at the American Red Cross, and Development Director at Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation (ALSF). Kevin is a Penn State University alumnus and successful nonprofit executive who is fueled by his desire to transform generosity into hope (and ultimately impact) for those in need. In his spare time, Kevin likes to read, exercise, golf and spend time with his wife, Andrea, and two daughters, Alli and Kendal.

Meredith Nothstein, Director of Compliance and Risk Management

Meredith is the Director of Compliance and Risk Management for Vanguard. Meredith received her BSW from Kutztown University and her Master’s in Human Services from Capella University. She spent the last 16 years of her career in residential services, working with children with special needs and their families. Meredith, along with her husband and daughter, enjoys traveling to Disney World often, visiting Rehoboth Beach in the summer, and spending time with family and friends.

Terrance Randolph, Director of Human Resources

Terrance joined Vanguard in February 2023. With 27 years of experience in Human Resources, Terrance is a seasoned professional known for his expertise in employee relations, communication, and transformational leadership. Terrance has a deep commitment to fostering a workplace culture that values the unique experiences and contributions of each individual. Terrance excels in building trust, facilitating transparent communication, and driving change initiatives that align with both organizational goals and employee well-being. Known for his high regard of people, Terrance strives to consistently deliver HR solutions that enhance employee engagement, performance, and retention, making him a trusted partner in shaping positive and productive workplaces. When not at work, Terrance most enjoys spending time with family, taking neighborhood walks, and hiking in scenic locations.

Thomas Rzepnicki, Interim Head of School / Director of Education

With over 20 years of professional experience and formal education, Tom brings a strong commitment to developing innovative solutions and delivering high-quality educational programming for individuals with diverse needs and abilities, primarily within Approved Private Schools.

Throughout his career, he has served in a wide range of roles within school settings, including maintenance, school security, 1paraprofessional, transportation coordinator, special education teacher, program coordinator, supervisor, and most recently, Assistant Director of Education. This breadth of experience provides him with a comprehensive understanding of school operations and student support.

Tom has previously served as both a board member and contributor with the Pennsylvania Rehabilitation Association, where he has, advocated for the rights of individuals with disabilities and promoting ethical, collaborative practices across the rehabilitation field. In addition, he has worked in a consultative role with the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation (OVR) and supported individuals in accessing assistive technology.

Tom has worked at The Vanguard School and Services since 2021. He lives in Springfield, PA with his wife and two children.

Sheba Simms, Director of Marketing and Communications

Sheba joined Vanguard in 2018. She directs all aspects of marketing and communications for The Vanguard School, Vanguard Recreation Services (VRS) and Vanguard Employment Services. Prior to joining Vanguard, she served in various marketing communications roles in the nonprofit, local government and corporate sectors. She also worked for several years as a marketing consultant for small- to mid-sized businesses across multiple industries.  Sheba earned an M.A. in English and Publishing with a concentration in Digital Design from Rosemont College and a B.A. from Haverford College. In her spare time, Sheba enjoys spending time with her family and friends, recreational running, and traveling.