Genevieve C. Friend
Founding Board Member, Treasurer, Secretary
& Business Administrator
The largest room in the world is the room to learn and grow!
Growing up on the East Coast in New York and Connecticut, I experienced firsthand that learning is not always a straightforward journey. Throughout my early school years, I often struggled to grasp concepts and found myself simply getting by. It wasn't until late in high school that I was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD), helping me better understand the challenges I had faced.
Determined to build a stronger educational foundation, I completed a postgraduate year focused on strengthening essential academic skills. I then attended Landmark College in Putney, Vermont, where I earned my Associate's degree. It was there that I truly learned how to learn. Through self-reflection, perseverance, and discovering strategies that worked for me, I gained the confidence and skills to recognize my full potential.
My educational journey continued as I earned a Bachelor's degree in Business Administration and a Master of Science in Management, graduating with honors. Professionally, I have applied my education and experience across a variety of industries, including hospitality and guest relations, executive administration, office management, construction and proposal development.
My passion for education took on an entirely new meaning when I became a mother of three. What began as an unexpected adventure in homeschooling quickly became one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I discovered a love for creative, hands-on teaching and the freedom to adapt lessons to each child's individual needs, interests, and abilities.
As both a parent and educator, I firmly believe there is no "one-size-fits-all" approach to learning. Every child deserves the opportunity to discover their strengths, build confidence, and experience success in their own way. Just as I continue to teach and guide my children and students, they continue to inspire me to learn and grow alongside them.
Outside of education, I have a lifelong love of animals. I have welcomed numerous dogs, cats, and 4 horses over the years. Currently my children and I foster and helped find loving forever homes for nearly three dozen cats and kittens. Animal rescue and welfare remain especially close to my heart.
As a cofounder of Golden Star Educational Services, I am proud to combine my business experience, personal educational journey, and passion for individualized learning. Working alongside Alyssa, I am committed to creating an environment where children feel supported, encouraged, and inspired to discover just how much they are capable of achieving.