Lantern Learning Group Leadership
At Lantern Learning Group, our leadership team brings together decades of experience in early childhood education, operations, finance, and marketing. What unites us is a shared belief: that schools thrive when mission-driven people are empowered to lead with heart and serve with integrity.
We are educators, operators, and strategists—working together to support the schools, staff, and families that make up our growing network.
Geren Anderson
Chief Executive Officer
Geren Anderson, Chief Executive Officer of Lantern Learning Group, brings over two decades of organizational leadership in business and early childhood education. He oversees growth strategy, finance, marketing and sales with a clear vision: to preserve what makes schools exceptional while helping them become stronger and more sustainable. Since opening the first Pillars school in 2009, Geren has led the expansion from a single location to a multi-brand network serving families across multiple states. He holds a BS from Texas A&M University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. Outside of work, Geren enjoys traveling with his family, fishing, and cheering on Texas Aggie Football.
Melissa Anderson
Chief Impact Officer
Melissa Anderson, Chief Impact Officer of Lantern Learning Group, champions the organization’s commitment to Culture, Philanthropy, and Impact. With a career in early childhood education dating back to 2009, she leads initiatives that shape school culture, philanthropic partnerships, and family experience—ensuring the values at the heart of Lantern are reflected across every brand and every school. She holds a BS from Texas A&M University and an MBA from the University of Phoenix. Married to Geren Anderson since 1999, they have two adult children. In her free time, Melissa enjoys traveling, camping, outdoor adventures, and visiting wineries throughout the Texas Hill Country.
Kellie Copeland
Vice President of Finance & Administration
Kellie Copeland, Vice President of Finance and Administration at Lantern Learning Group, provides strategic oversight of the organization’s financial operations, growth initiatives, and administrative processes. With a sharp focus on sustainability and scalability, she ensures Lantern’s growth aligns with its long-term goals. Kellie holds a BBA in Finance from The University of Texas at Austin and brings a strong background in corporate finance and valuation consulting to her role. Married since 1999, she and her husband have two sons. In her free time, Kellie enjoys spending time at the lake, traveling, and scuba diving with her family.
Susan Harr
Vice President of Marketing Operations
Susan Harr, Vice President of Marketing Operations at Lantern Learning Group, leads the organization’s marketing strategy, brand development, and enrollment operations. She works across all Lantern brands to amplify each school’s story, connect with families, and drive mission-aligned growth. With deep expertise in marketing, communications, and scaling organizations for growth, Susan oversees both internal and external initiatives that strengthen brand presence and expand reach into new and existing markets. Her focus is on building strong enrollment pipelines and elevating the visibility and impact of each school within the Lantern network.
Nicole Patrone
Vice President of Operations
Nicole Patrone, Vice President of Operations at Lantern Learning Group, brings over 30 years of leadership experience in early childhood education to her role. She provides strategic support and operational guidance across all Lantern brands, with a focus on leadership development, program quality, and compliance. Nicole’s career has included roles as teacher, School Director, District Manager, and Regional Manager, giving her deep insight into the needs of schools and the teams that lead them. She has successfully supported more than 100 schools across seven states and is passionate about building strong school cultures and delivering exceptional experiences for children and families. In her free time, Nicole enjoys live music, reading by the ocean, and exploring Texas Hill Country vineyards with her family.