Meet our leadership team

Completing his thirty-fifth year as an educator, Rich has worked with young adults in a variety of settings throughout his career. After four years immersed in boarding school life at the Culver Academies, Rich transitioned to the Northwest and spent ten years at the Overlake School in Redmond and then at Seattle Academy in Seattle. At those schools, he taught history, led outdoor education trips, developed curriculum, and contributed to many co-curricular efforts at each school. Rich joins Willows Prep most recently from Seattle Prep where he served on the administrative team for nine years. In that role, he supported teachers in the classroom, participated in admissions, coached the Varsity lacrosse team to numerous state championship appearances, and worked with the student government. During that time, Rich was also the President of Board of Trustees at Woodinville Montessori School, helping them develop a new high school. Rich studied history as an undergraduate at Northwestern University and earned a master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction at University of Washington’s School of Education. Most recently, he obtained a Certificate in School Management and Leadership through a joint program of the Harvard Graduate School of Education and Harvard Business School. Rich met his wife Erin while teaching at Overlake. Rich and Erin have three children: Simone (32) Lucy (22) and Jacob (20). As a family, they enjoy trips to the Oregon coast, alpine skiing, musicals, and occasional whitewater rafting trips.

Mary Ewart serves as Associate Head of School and Director of Learning at Willows Preparatory School, now in her fourth year in this role. With experience as a middle and high school math teacher and Assistant Professor of Education, Dr. Ewart brings deep expertise in instructional strategy and teacher development. She holds a B.A. in Liberal Studies from CSU Stanislaus, an M.Ed. in Teacher Leadership from Seattle Pacific University, and an Ed.D. in Curriculum, Teaching, Learning, and Leadership from Northeastern University.

Dr. Ewart believes that every child has the potential for greatness, and works to build strong partnerships between learners, families, and educators. Her leadership philosophy emphasizes knowing each student deeply, identifying their strengths, and creating holistic, authentic learning experiences that challenge students to exceed their own expectations. Dr. Ewart is passionate about supporting teachers in developing research-based instructional practices that foster deep understanding and prepare students for meaningful futures.

Kia duNann serves as Director of Student Life at Willows Preparatory School, where she oversees and supports student leadership, athletics, clubs, counseling, social-emotional learning advisory, and coordinates domestic and international travel experiences for students in grades 5-12. She brings over 15 years of educational leadership experience, having served as Principal at Anacortes Middle School, Assistant Principal in both Snohomish School District and Lake Washington School district. From 2020-2022, Kia also served as Associate Professor at Northwest University, teaching Law and Ethics to aspiring principals. She holds a B.A. in Education with a Special Education Teacher Credential from Gonzaga University and an M.Ed. in Educational Leadership from Seattle Pacific University, where she also earned her Principal Credential.

Kia believes that every student deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported, and that strong school culture is built through authentic relationships, student voice, and a commitment to equity. Her leadership philosophy centers on empowering students to shape their own school experience through servant leadership. She works closely with student senators and leaders to strengthen community, champion student ideas and initiatives, and create meaningful opportunities for connection both on campus and through travel experiences. Kia supports faculty through partnership, clear communication, and building systems that allow teachers to focus on student learning and development. Known for her collaborative and solutions-oriented approach, Kia leads with an open-door policy grounded in trust and follow-through. She is passionate about creating environments where students discover their strengths, develop leadership skills, and grow into thoughtful, engaged citizens.

Kenta Sueyoshi brings a decade of dedicated service to Willows Prep, where he has spent the past two years as the School EdTech Specialist while continuing to teach IB Diploma Programme Mathematics and Chemistry. With a strong foundation in the sciences, Kenta holds a B.S. in Chemistry with a minor in Mathematics and Interdisciplinary Honors from the University of Washington.

As EdTech Specialist, Kenta plays a vital role in shaping how technology enhances learning at Willows Prep. He carefully researches and evaluates educational software, then works alongside teachers to integrate these tools effectively into their classrooms. This work ensures that technology serves as a meaningful bridge to deeper student engagement and understanding, rather than simply a digital add-on.

Guided by the belief that education should nurture creativity, critical thinking, and adaptability, Kenta approaches both his specialist role and classroom teaching with a focus on developing well-rounded learners. He is passionate about unlocking the intrinsic motivation within each student, fostering a love of learning that extends far beyond the classroom walls. Through thoughtful integration of technology and research-based instructional practices, Kenta empowers both teachers and students to thrive in an ever-evolving educational landscape.

Margaret Marks serves as Director of Admissions at Willows Preparatory School, where she leads the school’s admissions process and works closely with prospective and incoming families. In her role, she is responsible for guiding families through every stage of the admissions journey, from initial inquiry to enrollment, while ensuring a welcoming, transparent, and thoughtful experience.

With a strong focus on relationship-building and communication, Margaret is committed to helping families understand the mission, values, and programs of Willows Prep. She works collaboratively with school leadership, faculty, and staff to support enrollment goals while maintaining a student-centered and community-driven approach to admissions.

Margaret believes that choosing a school is an important and personal decision, and she strives to make the process clear, supportive, and individualized for each family.

Corey Lowell serves as Director of Operations at Willows Preparatory School, where he oversees campus operations, facilities, safety, and strategic initiatives that support the daily experience of students, faculty, and families. He leads campus systems, event coordination, and long-term planning to ensure a safe, efficient environment where teaching and learning can thrive. Corey brings a diverse background in education, athletics, and operations, with experience in team development, program management, and organizational leadership. He holds a Master’s degree in Sports Administration and Leadership from Seattle University and a Bachelor’s degree in Economics with a focus in Business Management.

Corey believes a strong school culture is built through clear systems, communication, and meaningful relationships. He is committed to supporting faculty and staff by removing barriers and creating an environment where educators can focus on student learning and development. Known for his collaborative and solutions-oriented approach, Corey works closely with the school community to ensure a responsive and supportive experience for students and families. Outside of work, he values time with his family and is actively involved in his children’s athletic pursuits, which continue to shape his belief in the importance of connection, consistency, and opportunity for all students.