Executive Management
Amy Radochonski
Highlights
Amy Radochonski, President of College Living Experience, oversees the program planning of CLE supports and services. With an extensive background in the field of education, a key aspect of Amy’s focus is the creation, development and implementation of procedural standards across all service areas throughout the country. As devoted advocate and supporter of young adults with disabilities, Amy believes all individuals should have an opportunity to reach their greatest level of independence.
Amy carries a Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies with an endorsement in Special Education and a Master’s in Educational Leadership with an emphasis in Behavior Analysis from University of Oregon.
I recently learned: Cleaning your house with toddlers is like brushing your teeth while eating Oreos
My boss says I’m: tenacious
The best thing about this place is: CLE is the most dynamic educational setting I have been involved in because student experiences are game changing. We constantly evolve so we can meet their needs. We have been influencing the way that students, their families, and the community look at disability rights and that has been phenomenal witness.
My Favorite quote(s): Do what you love. Love what you do.
Ric Kienzle
Highlights
Ric Kienzle, Vice President of Operations for College Living Experience, has a background in management and education with a passion for student success. Ric oversees the operational components of the individual CLE centers and corporate offices, with a focus on technological advancement and overall budget efficiencies. His past experience as a Director of the Rockville Center (for 9 years) gives him a unique vantage point that allows him to view operations holistically to best meet the needs of the students, staff, and organization.
Ric originally joined CLE in 2011 as the Director of the Rockville Center in the Washington, D.C. area. Prior to joining College Living Experience, Ric worked in Residential Education supporting at-risk youth and families through campus-living administration and legislation advancement. Ric has a Masters degree in Education and a Bachelors in Management and Marketing, in addition to a Certificate in Human Services Administration.
There is such a need for comprehensive support services for the our type of students. I have seen so much growth over even short periods of time, so it’s rewarding to witness first-hand the impact of CLE supports! It’s a privilege to serve these students, families, and staff to help our youth succeed in life!
People think I’m obsessive about: Running and being outside
I dream to be: A faster runner
I love that my colleagues: are such wonderful, caring, energetic, enthusiastic, focused on the support and growth of our students AND each other
My Favorite quote: Every note counts, has meaning, and makes up the song.
Most people don’t know: How much I love working and serving with others.
I recently learned: I have a lot to be thankful for (after visiting Honduras on a mission trip.)
Stephanie Deker
Highlights
Stephanie Deker serves as the Assistant Vice President of Outreach and Development for College Living Experience. Throughout her career, she has pursued her mission to help others find the right resources and fit they need to thrive in education and behavioral health. Her life has been enriched by those who think differently of every age. Stephanie’s professional and personal experience navigating the unique challenges facing students and families with exceptionalities drives her to share students’ capabilities and the opportunities that await them with the right support. She believes experience builds confidence, which reveals capability.
Stephanie met Stephanie Martin, President of CLE, when she moved to Nashville in 2016 while working on a non-profit project. Stephanie was impressed with CLE’s team and extensive supports and began consulting for them in 2017. She permanently joined the company in 2018 as National Director of Admissions and Outreach and was then promoted to Assistant Vice President of Outreach and Development. She graduated from Lewis University in Illinois, where she double majored in Psychology and Human Resource Management and where she developed her passion for those who think differently.
The team and the supports that CLE has assembled encompasses best practices in all areas into one complete package for the students and the employees. They are continually evaluating and adapting to ensure that we can all thrive.
People think I’m obsessive about: New Orleans and Southeast Louisiana, where I grew up and learned many life lessons
I love that my colleagues: are supportive, unwavering in their commitment to their work, and that they get my unique stories and metaphors (or they at least tolerate them)
My Favorite quote: Never give up
Most people don’t know: I roller skate in my house to unwind and remind myself of the joys of childhood
Important lesson learned: You can plant yourself wherever you land in life. Whether you grow or not, is up to you.
Jennifer Johnson
Highlights
Jennifer Johnson, Senior VP of Growth & Development, supports the expansion of CLE into new markets and new funding sources. Jennifer is able to leverage her breadth and depth of knowledge in multiple industries to support CLE’s goals, and has a strong passion for the industry, having come most recently from the K-12 ASD space.
A Midwesterner at heart, Jennifer honed her business acumen at The Ohio State University while earning her BSBA. Beginning in the realm of Finance, she supported organizations of various sizes within Civil Engineering, Software Development, Manufacturing, Non-Profit, and Interior Design industries. She served as the Director of Finance, Operations, HR, and later Data, for a national behavioral health provider for over 6 years and found a passion for the industry. Having met the Executive team at CLE, she was excited to provided consulting services to CLE before joining the executive team in September 2023 as the Senior VP of Growth & Development.
The overwhelming need for supports for individuals with ASD keeps me focused on contributing in meaningful ways to those who provide that support. I’m so excited to support CLE in those endeavors. Everyone at CLE is fully committed to our students and it’s an honor to work with such competent and dedicated people who excel for our students every day. If you can work anywhere, why wouldn’t you work for an organization that makes the world a little sunnier every day. That’s CLE.
People think I’m obsessive about: Data, seriously. Or serious data. Either way.
I recently learned: I need a LOT more sleep that I thought I did. And also, that I have an obsession with data.
I love that my colleagues: Are as passionate about making a difference in this space as I am, and that they are wicked smart. I am continually sharing and learning in equal measure. That is a rare find.
My Favorite quote: Work smarter, not harder; We’re done making good excuses for bad behavior; Don’t be afraid to ask the question
Most people don’t know: I LOVE to cook and entertain.
Important lesson learned: I’m more resilient than I thought, and that I need my friends when things are tough, and that doesn’t equate to failure – rather it equates to strength. I can do the hard things.
Directors of CLE Locations
Contact Us