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.

Dylan Abell | Academic Administrator

I am honored to serve as Academic Administrator and am dedicated to helping both students and staff reach their fullest potential. Supporting student growth—academically, socially, and personally—is at the heart of my work. I earned my bachelor’s degree at Purdue University in Secondary Education, then my master’s degree at Grand Canyon University in Administration. I bring experience as a Social Studies teacher along with a passion for world travel, which has allowed me to connect with students from diverse backgrounds and inspire them to persevere through the challenges of school. My journey into administration was driven by a desire to make a broader impact and support more students beyond the classroom. Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family and exploring new places around the world with them. I welcome the opportunity to connect—please feel free to reach out if you would like to learn more about my role at MU Prep!

Stephanie Brawner | School Counselor

I am excited to be part of a profession that allows me to support and encourage students every day. I have worked in education for 14 years, including 7 years as an elementary classroom teacher and 7 years as a school counselor. These experiences have given me the opportunity to help students grow academically, socially, and emotionally while building meaningful relationships with families and staff. I earned my bachelor’s degree from Ball State University and my master’s degree from Indiana University Southeast. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my husband and our three children. We call Hanover, Indiana home and love the sense of community that comes with small-town living. As a family, we enjoy traveling and exploring new places whenever we have the opportunity. I look forward to partnering with students and families to help every child thrive and reach their full potential.

Martha Frey | Operations Manager/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!

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 | MS/HS Science

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 | MS/HS Math

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.

Staci Mills | HS Science

I attended the University of South Carolina.  While there, I received my Bachelor’s degree in Biology with a minor in Chemistry. I have worked in the school system for ten years but the last four have been teaching science in middle school. I thrive on helping students reach their full potential.  

In my free time, I love to travel and experience new things. I have been blessed to be able to visit five countries. I look forward to my next adventure.  

Karen Teff | HS Math

I have lived in Minnesota my whole life – about an hour south of the Canadian border. I have been teaching Math 7-12 and college for 35 years, both online and traditional. My husband, Steve, and I love to go four-wheeling and cooking. I have two adult children and one grandson. I also have 13 rescue dogs ranging in age from 2 to 21. I am happy to be at MUPrep where I can share my love of Math and my faith!! 

Elizabeth Brown | 2nd and 3rd Grade teacher

I have a master’s degree from Indiana Wesleyan University and a BS degree from University of Southern Indiana. I have been teaching since 2007; I’m on my 18^th year. Teaching is an opportunity to serve God by serving others. I have played tennis for thirty-five years and pickleball for six. 

Jennifer Schaeffer | Kindergarten and 1st Grade teacher

I earned my Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education from Oakland City University in 2009. I have spent the past 6 years teaching First Grade. 

I love teaching because I love learning! Teaching is a career that is always evolving, and I think it is so exciting to be a part of those changes. I also really enjoy seeing students learn and succeed. It truly is the best profession!  

Fun Fact: I love the sport of soccer! I enjoy watching my two sons play, watching it on tv, coaching, and even playing myself. Some of my other hobbies include fishing, hunting, and being outdoors. 

Stacy Miceli | MS/HS English

I come to MUPREP with a little over 16 years of teaching experience in English and Journalism, grades 5-12.  And within the last five years added Fine Arts to my professional license.  I have taught in both the brick-and-mortar classroom as well as an online classroom, and my focus has always been in college prep and Advanced Placement English Language and English Literature.  In Art, I have taught classes in design principles and in photography.  Personally, my husband and I live in Indiana and are now empty-nesters who have two grown children, plus our two Pugs.   

Sonya Breaux | MS/HS Spanish

HOLA!

My Education Background

Bachelor’s Degree in Spanish–English Teaching

Master’s Degree in Young Adult Education

Specialization in Technology in Education

My Years of Teaching

I have spent 31 years inspiring, guiding, and supporting students through meaningful learning experiences.

What I Love Most About Teaching

What inspires me most about teaching is seeing how challenges can become opportunities for growth. I admire the patience, creativity, and compassion that educators bring to their classrooms every day. Helping students feel seen, supported, and confident in their abilities is what motivates me to give my very best and to always believe in the potential of every learner.

Fun Facts

I am an adventurer at heart! I have gone paragliding, scuba-dived 32 meters deep in the ocean, and traveled to 12 Hispanic countries. One of my greatest passions is helping others and building positive, meaningful connections with people.