Jo Ann Mattson
Jo Ann Mattson joined STAIR-Annapolis in March 2022 after serving for six years as Executive Director of The Light House in Annapolis. A former elementary school educator and passionate community advocate, Jo Ann understands the importance of strong literacy skills in improving a child’s chances for academic success. She believes that reading opens up new worlds of possibility and promotes empathy and understanding. Jo Ann lives in Homewood in Annapolis and enjoys spending time with her family and her dog, Gatsby. She is an avid knitter and loves to listen to books as she knits!
Jeannie Heimann
Jeannie came to STAIR-Annapolis as Program Manager in June of 2022 after spending more than 25 years in the education industry. Her experience as a classroom teacher, program director and curriculum developer make her well suited in her role to ensure consistent and quality program delivery across all STAIR sites. Jeannie is a true lover of children’s literature, and helping children develop the skills they need to fall in love with reading is at the core of her work with STAIR-Annapolis. A life time Annapolitan, Jeannie attended Anne Arundel County Public Schools from kindergarten through twelfth grade! She lives in Annapolis with her husband. She enjoys spending time with her 3 sons and 2 dogs, reading, theater, and relaxing at the beach.
Malena Ruland
Malena first joined STAIR-Annapolis as a twice-weekly tutor at our Mills-Parole location, and she brings this valuable experience to her work as Volunteer Coordinator. Malena is responsible for managing a roster of more than 250 volunteers, arranging tutor workshops, recruiting and training new volunteers, and serving as a critical support for volunteers. Malena grew up in a bilingual Spanish-speaking household surrounded by books and understands how important it is for children to become stronger, more confident readers. She lives in Crownsville with her husband and enjoys reading, going to the beach, and spending time with her three children.
Sue Coughlin
Sue joined the STAIR – Annapolis staff in July of 2023. Her 32 years of experience in education as a reading specialist and special educator are the perfect match for the position of Instructional Support Specialist. Sue is excited and honored to share her love for reading with the students, tutors and staff at STAIR. She has a passion for literacy and finds joy in motivating young readers to discover their learning styles and build their love for reading as they climb the literacy ladder. Sue lives in Annapolis with her husband and enjoys spending time with their two daughters exploring beaches, traveling, reading, and taking long walks.
Alice Drayton
Alice joined STAIR-Annapolis in October 2025, bringing with her more than 20 years of teaching experience and a deep passion for helping students grow as readers and thinkers. Throughout her career, she has led community initiatives such as annual philanthropic drives and has always focused on empowering young people. With a background in curriculum development, volunteer coordination, and student-centered instruction, Alice is passionate about the belief that strong reading skills open doors to lifelong success. She is proud to support STAIR’s students and to work alongside its dedicated volunteers in making a meaningful impact throughout Anne Arundel County. Alice lives in Annapolis with her husband and two children. She enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, cooking, and reading.
