Dr. Maria Orlando has been involved in the field of education for more than 35 years as a K-12 classroom teacher, administrator, and an instructor and mentor in higher education. She currently teaches at both the graduate and doctoral levels, with a focus on action research and leadership and management. Dr. Orlando maintains an affiliation with several professional organizations, including the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development and the United States Distance Learning Association, and has worked in an advisory capacity with the Information Technology Advisory Board in the St. Louis Archdiocese and Education Advisory Committee at St. Charles Community College.

Dr. Orlando received a Missouri Mayoral Proclamation for Educational Excellence, and was awarded the National Association of Secondary School Principals/National Middle School Association/National Association of Elementary School Principals Salute to Leadership Award. Under her leadership, her school was twice recognized as a Blue Ribbon School, and received the National Catholic Educational Association Blue Ribbon School of Distinction Award.

A native of St. Louis, she earned her bachelor’s degree in education and a master’s degree in educational administration from Lindenwood University. Dr. Orlando earned her doctorate in educational leadership from Maryville University. Dr. Orlando devotes some of her time to philanthropic organizations that serve the needs of students in the St. Louis area. She also enjoys travel, photography, gardening, and spending time with her family.