“The direction in which education starts a person will determine their future in life.”
- Plato
Michael Corbelle |
Co-Founder and Educational Consultant
Michael leverages his extensive network of relationships with admissions directors, faculty, and coaches nationwide to offer expert educational consulting services. With years of experience in student placement and a deep understanding of the educational landscape, Michael is uniquely positioned to guide your family through the admissions process. As a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultant Association (IECA), he brings credibility and expertise to every consultation.
With a lifelong passion for athletics, Michael draws from his successful high school and college hockey careers to support student-athletes in achieving a balance between academics and sports. He understands the transformative impact of combining rigorous academics with athletic pursuits, particularly in boarding school settings, and is dedicated to helping students find the right fit.
Before co-founding Cairn Educational Consulting, Michael spent over a decade working in independent schools. His most recent role was as Director of Outplacement at Aspen Country Day School, where he guided 8th-grade students through the placement process. He also has experience as a teacher, advisor, and hockey coach at Taft School and Northwood School, providing him with a well-rounded perspective on educational consulting.
Michael holds a Master of Education in Learning and Teaching from Harvard University and a Bachelor of Arts in Government and Legal Studies from Bowdoin College. Residing in Colorado with his wife, Lizzy, and their dog, Brutus, Michael enjoys the many outdoor activities the Rocky Mountains have to offer. For personalized educational consulting, contact Michael at michael@cairneducationalconsulting.com or (518) 859-0269.
Alex Ince | Co-Founder and Educational Consultant
Alex's unique perspective as a former admissions gatekeeper, combined with her strong advocacy skills, makes her an exceptional educational consultant. Her deep knowledge of independent schools and established relationships with admissions directors enable her to expertly navigate families through the complex admissions process.
Alex's expertise extends beyond working with families across the U.S.; she also has extensive experience assisting international families seeking enrollment in independent boarding and day schools.
Before co-founding Cairn Educational Consulting, Alex served as the Director of Admissions at The Frederick Gunn School (formerly The Gunnery), a renowned New England boarding school in Washington, Connecticut. During her decade-long tenure, she guided countless families through the admissions process and personally interviewed nearly 1,000 students. Her dedication to student success began early in her career as an attorney with the United States Environmental Protection Agency, where she mentored underserved youth in New York City, helping them gain new experiences and build confidence.
Alex holds a Juris Doctor from Vermont Law School and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Science and Political Science from Barnard College, Columbia University. She is a Professional Member of the Independent Educational Consultant Association (IECA). Alex resides in Litchfield County, CT, with her husband, two sons, and two dogs. In her free time, she enjoys hiking, meditating, birding, and listening to the Foo Fighters.
For expert educational consulting services, reach out to Alex alex@cairneducationalconsulting.com or at (917) 747-7925.
Sara Lynn Leavenworth | Educational Consultant
As an experienced educational consultant, Sara Lynn channels her passion for working with students and families by identifying their unique needs and strengths. She then expertly guides them through the extensive array of independent day and boarding schools to find the best fit for their educational journey.
Sara Lynn has dedicated her entire career to working with adolescents, beginning as a social worker for at-risk youth in Waterbury, CT. Her extensive experience in independent schools started in 1997 when she became an administrator at the Park School in Brookline, MA.
Over the next 20 years, Sara Lynn served as the Director of Admission and Financial Aid at four prestigious independent schools in Connecticut, including her alma mater, Westover School, as well as Forman School, The Frederick Gunn School, and Cheshire Academy. In these roles, she managed the recruitment, selection, and retention of students in grades 9-12 and PG, always collaborating closely with families to understand their child’s educational journey and determine the best next steps.
Sara Lynn holds a bachelor’s degree from Hobart and William Smith Colleges and a master’s degree in social work from the University of Connecticut. She has presented at numerous conferences hosted by The Association of Boarding Schools (TABS), the Enrollment Management Association (EMA), and the Independent Educational Consultants Association (IECA). Additionally, she served as Co-President of Western Connecticut Boarding Schools for eight years, further solidifying her strong relationships with admissions officers across various schools.
In addition to her professional experience, Sara Lynn is currently navigating the challenges and joys of raising two high school-aged boys who are actively balancing academics and athletics. She remains deeply involved in her local community, serving on boards and advisory committees for nonprofits. When she’s not working, Sara Lynn enjoys spending time outdoors and can often be found on the sidelines of her children’s games.
Zach Zavalick | Educational Consultant
Zach holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and Education Studies from Wesleyan University in Middletown, CT. His journey into the world of independent boarding schools began as a student at the Loomis Chaffee School in Windsor, CT, where his passion for education and athletics was first ignited.
Before joining Cairn Educational Consulting, Zach built a strong foundation in the boarding school community, most recently serving as the Assistant Director of Admission at Proctor Academy in Andover, NH. He also worked in Admissions at The Taft School in Watertown, CT, and taught at Brewster Academy's Royal Thai Scholar Summer Program, where he prepared international students for their time at top-tier boarding schools and helped them secure admission to prestigious universities.
Zach has always valued athletics as a key part of his life and understands what it takes to compete at the highest levels. During his time at Wesleyan University, he was part of the team that won the NCAA Men's Lacrosse National Championship in 2018 and the NESCAC Championship in 2017. After his collegiate athletic career, Zach served as the Head Boys Lacrosse Coach at Proctor Academy and as an Assistant Boys Lacrosse Coach at The Taft School, in addition to coaching Boys' Basketball and Boys' Soccer during the off-season.
With extensive experience as an admissions officer, advisor, teacher, dorm parent, and coach, Zach is uniquely qualified to guide your family to the ideal educational environment. His in-depth knowledge of boarding schools, combined with specialized expertise in lacrosse programs, ensures a perfect fit for your child, where they will thrive and achieve success.
Zach currently resides in Denver, CO, where he embodies the adventurous spirit of the Rockies. In his free time, you can often find him hiking, mountain biking, or skiing.