Who We Are
ESTEEM Group Inc. was founded in 2012. In 2018, a new board came together to revitalize the organization, define a renewed mission, and build sustainable programs that would guide ESTEEM Group Inc. into the future.
Today, our mission is simple and powerful: to empower students through education, engagement, and motion, while instilling important social emotional learning skills to help students thrive physically, mentally, socially and emotionally throughout their lifetime.
Inspired by this mission, we created The E.S.T.E.E.M. Group, a program designed to support students of all ages—from PreK through college—across Western Pennsylvania. Our curriculum is diverse, developmentally appropriate, and built to meet students where they are while challenging them to grow.
Using music and movement, we guide students as they:
- Learn to be supportive teammates
- Strengthen their social skills
- Build a sense of belonging
- Boost their self-esteem
- Discover leadership abilities
- Communicate with confidence
- Practice respect and etiquette
- Grow as individuals and community members
Meet the Team
Gena Melago
Executive Director
Lead Teaching Artist
Gena Melago, MS, has spent her life “in motion.” Beginning with ballet and gymnastics in childhood, she went on to captain her high school dance team and later trained in Latin and Ballroom dance under the guidance of champion dancers and world-class adjudicators Terry and Rozana Sweeney. Throughout her school years, she was also active in sports, including basketball and volleyball.
Gena’s love of learning naturally grew into a love of teaching. With a Master’s degree in Instructional Leadership, Education, and Training from Robert Morris University, and certifications in Adult and Youth Mental Health First Aid, she brings a strong educational foundation to her work. As a Prevention Specialist with Pittsburgh Mercy, she discovered how music and movement could transform a classroom—building confidence, connection, and understanding among students.
Today, Gena continues to share that passion through her leadership with ESTEEM Group Inc. She believes deeply in the ability of music and movement to transform connections, build community, and help students discover who they can become. Gena is committed to helping students see themselves and each other in new, empowering ways through the art of movement.
Her favorite quote—“The best memories are those you never planned on having”—reflects the heart of her work. Gena hopes that everyone who crosses her path leaves with memories that uplift, inspire, and help shape them into the person they are meant to be.
Michael MacConnell
Chairperson
Mike MacConnell has dedicated over 20 years to education and youth development. Currently teaching special education in the Verona area, he has also completed his Master’s in School Counseling. Throughout his career, Mike has worn many hats—including Youth Minister, Vacation Bible School Director, and advocate for youth in the foster care system—reflecting his lifelong commitment to helping young people grow and thrive.
Outside the classroom, Mike has pursued his passion for Ballroom and Latin dance for over twelve years. He competes, mentors, and shares his love of dance with his two children, Jake and Elijah. As a proud dad, accomplished dancer, and devoted educator, Mike is excited to bring the vision of ESTEEM Group Inc to life across the Pittsburgh area, inspiring students through movement, learning, and community.
Susan Hill
Treasurer
Susan Hill brings over 40 years of experience in finance, with deep expertise across both for-profit and nonprofit sectors. Known for her thoughtful guidance and collaborative approach, she is always eager to contribute where she can and ensure the best outcomes for all involved.
Outside of her professional work, Susan enjoys spending time with her granddaughters and relaxing outdoors with a good book.
Jenny Gadd
Secretary
Jenny Gadd is our newest board member. She recently retired from the Pittsburgh Public Schools after more than 35 years of service. She has a Master’s in Reading and Language Arts. She is also a National Board Certified Teacher, Middle Generalist. She spent most of her career teaching 3rd and 4th grades but has also been a reading coach and interventionist. Jenny coordinated her school’s participation in our programming for the last 6 years. She now volunteers at our summer camps and pop-up events. She regularly volunteers at her last school and is active in the PTO. She also volunteers at a local cat rescue. She loves crafting and making cards for all occasions. She is an avid reader, Lego fan, and jigsaw puzzler.
Rozana Sweeney
Board Member
Rozana Sweeney was born in Croatia and raised in Germany, where she began dancing at the age of five. Over 15 years, she became a junior and youth German Ballroom and Ten Dance Champion, later earning the title of German Amateur Ballroom Champion and representing Germany in major European and World competitions.
After turning professional, Rozana and her partner consistently ranked among Germany’s top Latin and Ballroom couples, including a second-place finish at the 1989 European Ballroom Championship in Belgium. Following a move to the USA in 1990, she competed nationally and internationally, achieving Rising Star Champion and Open Latin Finalist titles, before transitioning to American Smooth competition, placing in the top 12 in the US circuit.
Since retiring from competitive dance in 2003, Rozana has dedicated herself to teaching and mentoring. She co-founded Art & Style Dance Studio in Pittsburgh, developed successful youth and adult programs, and helped establish ballroom dance clubs at CMU, Penn State University, and Point Park University. She has served as a teaching artist for Dancing Classrooms Pittsburgh, faculty member at Point Park University, and, as a certified NDCA and US National Judge, was named a World Class Adjudicator for the USA in 2016.