Nancy Finelli, Ed.D., LBA-NJ
Dr. Nancy Finelli, Ed.D., LBA-NJ, is an accomplished educational leader specializing in special education and teacher development. With over two decades of experience, she currently serves as the Site Supervisor for a program she helped create at The Phoenix Center for Rehabilitation and Pediatrics, where she coordinates medical and educational teams to ensure students with complex medical needs continue their learning. Her work involves collaborating with school districts, supervising providers, designing tailored curriculum materials, and facilitating professional development for educators and behaviorists, all with a focus on fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments.
Nancy’s career began in special education within the community where she grew up, teaching children with autism and other diverse needs. Over the years, she expanded her expertise to children with complex medical conditions, creating programs that integrate medical care with education. Her most notable achievement is the program she developed at The Phoenix Center, which has provided countless students with access to education despite significant medical challenges. Throughout her career, she has emphasized evidence-based practices, authenticity, and flexibility in systems to ensure that every child receives meaningful support and the opportunity to thrive.
A lifelong learner, Nancy holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, Administration, and Policy from Fordham University, where her dissertation focused on defining quality and designing organizational systems to support students in medical settings. She is a Board Certified Behavior Analyst and holds multiple New Jersey Department of Education certifications, including Supervisor and Principal certifications. Outside of her professional life, she is a devoted mother who enjoys traveling with her family, particularly to the Jersey Shore, and actively supports organizations providing resources for children with autism and complex medical needs.
• Board Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA)
• Supervisor Certification
• Principal Certification
• Elementary Education Certification
• Special Education Certification
• Licensed Behavior Analyst
• Fordham Graduate School of Education - Ed.D.
• Hospital Educator and Academic Liaison Association
• New Jersey Principals and Supervisors Association
What do you attribute your success to?
I like to joke that my ADHD plays a role, but I truly believe my success comes from staying constantly in motion and nurturing my curiosity. I approach everything with a creator’s mindset and a continual desire to learn, which keeps me engaged, innovative, and always moving forward.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women entering this industry is: don’t try to do it all alone. Build a strong support system, be confident and secure in yourself, and remember to fill your own cup first. Ask for help when you need it, and trust that the technical skills will develop over time—you don’t have to know everything from the start.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
The complexity of education and healthcare systems is both a challenge and an opportunity. Successfully creating systems that support and guide people requires buy-in from many stakeholders, and organizational readiness for change can vary. At the same time, there’s a tremendous opportunity to scale programs that work and connect with other areas of need nationally, ultimately making a meaningful difference in individual experiences.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that guide me in both my work and personal life are authenticity, a genuine passion for what I do, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Locations
NRESC
Wyckoff, NJ 07481