Meet the Marian University Preparatory School Team

Joseph Heidt | Executive Director

Mr. Heidt’s multifaceted roles in education include teacher, coach, curriculum coordinator, and administrator. He previously served as the executive director of K-12 Partnerships with the Marian University Center for Vibrant Schools, chancellor of Marian University’s Ancilla College, and president of the Providence Cristo Rey High school.

Louise Cowell | Operations Manager

Mrs. Cowell has worked in online education with Stride K12 for more than ten years. She started as an advisor at Insight School of Ohio and advanced to related services coordinator and operations manager roles. In 2018, she moved to Indiana Digital Learning School as a student support administrator and in 2021, became the central region program manager supporting the student support administrators in the region.

She is passionate about helping students succeed and supporting teachers, so they have the tools needed to help their students.

Martha Frey | Operations Administrative Assistant/Testing Coordinator

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree from Ball State University. I spent three years working in online education with Stride K12 as an Academic Advisor at Indiana Digital Learning School, where I supported student success in a virtual learning environment. I also gained valuable experience in finance and administration while serving as Accounts Payable for my local school district before returning to Stride K12. What I find most rewarding about working in education is the opportunity to help students reach their full potential and to support teachers in guiding their students toward success.

Fun Fact: I love being outside with my family – whether we’re walking our dogs, camping in new places, kayaking down a river, or cheering at a baseball game. If it gets us outside and having fun together, count me in!

Joseph Roth | Social Studies

With a Bachelor’s Degree in Secondary Education from Indiana University and a focus on Urban Education, I bring a strong foundation in equity and student-centered learning to the classroom. In addition to my academic background, I am also a Gallup Certified Strengths-Based Career Coach, which supports my passion for helping students discover and develop their individual strengths.

I began my teaching career in Chicago, where I taught for four years before transitioning into higher education. My journey took me back to Indiana University, where I served as the Coordinator for Diversity Recruitment and Retention. Later, I returned to Chicago to work as the Manager for Post-Secondary Programs, supporting students in their transition beyond high school. Eventually, I moved back to Indiana to become the Director of Student Life and Leadership and a Career Coach at Ivy Tech Community College. While I valued these roles, I deeply missed the daily growth and energy of the classroom. When the opportunity arose to return to teaching, I embraced it—and I’ve been happily teaching at MU Prep ever since!

One of my favorite things about teachers is their humor and heart. Teachers are some of the funniest, most adaptable people I know, and they consistently go above and beyond because they care deeply about student success. They understand that teaching is about service, growth, and bringing out the best in others.

Outside the classroom, I enjoy a variety of activities that keep me energized and inspired. I coach soccer and am a certified scuba diver. In my free time, you can often find me cooking, traveling, exploring Chicago, gardening, playing soccer, or celebrating holidays with friends and family

Lisa Taylor | Religion and Hybrid Studies

With 19 years of teaching experience, I consider being an educator a true calling from God. That calling began in my first classroom at Saint Mary’s in Rushville, Indiana, and has continued to shape my journey every day since. Though the path hasn’t always been perfect, each challenge has helped me grow into a more faithful and effective teacher.

Now at MUPREP, I continue to find joy in watching students grow—not just in knowledge, but in confidence, character, and curiosity. Whether it’s a kindergartener’s enthusiastic “I love you!” after a test or a quiet breakthrough moment, teaching constantly reminds me of the beauty and purpose in this work.

Outside the classroom, my husband of 34 years and I are building a small farm on three acres of land. We recently hatched eight baby chicks and look forward to welcoming lambs this fall. Our five children—and hopefully their future families—are excited to be part of this next adventure.

Cindy Bracy

I hold a B.A. in Geosciences from Western Governors University and bring over 25 years of teaching experience to the classroom. What I love most about teaching is spending time with my students—laughing, learning, and growing together every day.

A fun fact about me: I’ve traveled to all 48 contiguous U.S. states and five countries, and I love exploring new places whenever I can.

Miranda Burton

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education with a Middle School Mathematics Endorsement from Franklin College. I’ve spent the past four years teaching—two years in 3rd grade and two years in middle school math.

What I enjoy most about teaching is helping students build confidence, especially when they begin to “get” tricky math concepts. Whether through games, visuals, or fresh perspectives, I love finding creative ways to make math click. There’s nothing better than seeing a student realize they can do math!

Fun fact: I’m always up for an adventure! I love to travel—whether it’s a quick weekend road trip or a cross-country journey, exploring new places is one of my favorite things to do.

Dede Grovves

With over 12 years of experience, I’ve taught students from kindergarten all the way through college. One of my favorite things about being part of the education world is the collaborative spirit—teachers are always ready to pitch in and help each other and their students succeed.

Fun fact: I’m also a yoga teacher and a big coffee enthusiast—both keep me energized and balanced throughout the day!

Katie Elliot

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree from Hanover College, followed by a Transition to Teaching Certificate and a Master’s in Elementary Education with a focus on Literacy from Ball State University. Since beginning my teaching career in 2021, I’ve loved sharing my passion for learning and helping students discover that same excitement in the classroom.

Fun fact: I was born in Bangkok, Thailand while my parents were serving as diplomats—a unique start to a lifelong love of learning and exploration!