Ann Menna
Ann Menna is a highly accomplished educator, consultant, and mentor with more than 45 years of experience in educational leadership. As the founder of IHAVEAMINUTE.COM, she provides expert consulting, coaching, and mentoring services for school administrators, teachers, and district leaders at all levels. The name of her company was inspired by a common question she heard throughout her career, “Do you have a minute?” reflecting her approachable nature and commitment to providing meaningful guidance. Ann’s career spans a range of roles including Teacher, School Counselor, Vice Principal, Principal, and College Professor, as well as consultant and mentor to new administrators. Her areas of expertise include leadership development, professional growth, classroom management, and team building, all grounded in a practical, compassionate, and results-oriented approach.
Ann was recently featured in San Diego Voyager magazine, where she shared her inspiring professional journey from Philadelphia to San Diego and beyond. Her story highlights a legacy of perseverance, integrity, and dedication to improving education for students and professionals alike. Having worked with a broad spectrum of school communities, from urban to suburban settings, she brings a deep understanding of the diverse challenges and opportunities within education. Through IHAVEAMINUTE.COM, Ann continues to help educators and leaders strengthen their confidence, refine their leadership skills, and achieve measurable success in their schools and organizations.
Deeply committed to lifelong learning and personal growth, Ann’s educational philosophy emphasizes student engagement, empathy, and the power of mentorship. She remains dedicated to developing strong, confident educational leaders who positively influence their teams and communities. Outside of her professional work, Ann maintains a focus on health and wellness through yoga and weightlifting, reflecting her belief in balance, resilience, and the importance of investing in both personal and professional well-being.
• United States International University, San Diego - M.Ed
• West Chester University of Pennsylvania - BS
What do you attribute your success to?
I have learned to bring my authentic self to each and every supportive opportunity that needs my assistance. It is through this voice that my mentees feel the most comfortable to trust and believe in me supporting their needs. My persistence to do the right thing, not the most popular thing, in any situation has garnished many positive results. Making change in any environment is not easy to accomplish. By involving all the stakeholders, both positive and negative, warrants a much better product at the end of the day.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Listen to your gut! This advice has served me in both my personal and professional life. Any time I did not adhere to this advice, I had to tell myself....next time....listen to your gut!
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
When the going gets rough, and it will, keep going. Do not give up or give in. If the dream is in your heart, do not let anyone or anything stop you from achieving it. After all, the dream is in your heart, not theirs.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The biggest challenges I see in the field of education is that we continue to maintain the status quo. Education has not evolved enough to compete with the changing times. We are reluctant to try new ideas or create new visions because of the threat of failure. But I say, so what if it doesn't fail? It just may work!
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty, integrity and fortitude are my greatest strengths. At the end of each day, I ask myself, "Who did you help today"? "What worked" or "What didn't"? "How can I be better tomorrow"? Being honest with yourself and others will garnish success each and every time.