Success Academy Administrators
John Waters
Director of Academics
John Waters is a distinguished educator with over a decade of experience, currently serving as the Director of Academics at Success Academy. He has significantly contributed to the academic success of students in St. Paul Public Schools and Chicago Public Schools.
John holds a Bachelor's degree in Elementary Education from DePaul University and a Master's degree in Urban Education from National Louis University. His ten+ years of teaching in St. Paul and Chicago laid a strong foundation for his career.
Before joining Success Academy, John led the Math department at an international school in Dubai. This experience enriched his perspective on global education practices and reinforced his commitment to academic excellence.
Currently, John is enrolled in a principal licensure program at the University of Minnesota and plans to seek a PhD in Educational Leadership, highlighting his dedication to continuous growth and leadership in education.
Outside of his professional life, John enjoys traveling, hiking, reading, and staying active through running and exercise.
John Waters remains a passionate advocate for high-quality education, leveraging his diverse experiences to drive academic success and inspire students and educators at Success Academy.
Ahmed Hudle
Director of Operations
Ahmed Hudle, Executive Director of Operations at Success Academy, brings over dedication and experience in the charter sector. Growing up in Minnesota, Ahmed has held roles such as Dean of Students and Campus Director, demonstrating his commitment to positive learning environments. Now, he oversees operations at both Success Academy sites, leveraging his various degrees in Business and Education to enhance the school's efficiency and quality.
Outside of his professional role, Ahmed enjoys family time, sports, and traveling. His dedication to guiding students toward their full potential, both academically and personally, is central to his work. Ahmed's unwavering commitment to Success Academy reflects his belief in the transformative power of education, inspiring and shaping the future of our school community.
Safiyo Hassan
Campus Director, St. Cloud
Safiyo Hassan, driven by a profound passion for education, serves as a Campus Director, where she diligently oversees daily operations, adeptly manages staff, and ensures the delivery of top-tier education.
Her journey began with the attainment of a bachelor's degree in elementary education, propelling her into a fulfilling role as a first-grade teacher. While she cherished her time in the classroom, Safiyo recognized her potential for broader impact and transitioned into an administrative position, aiming to enrich the community of St. Cloud through her contributions.
Her dedication to professional growth led her to pursue a master's degree in K-12 administration, and she currently pursues a specialist degree alongside her superintendent degree.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Safiyo finds solace and rejuvenation in hiking, indulging in literature, and exploring new destinations through travel.
Mariah Epps
Campus Director, Bloomington
Mariah Epps is the Campus Director of Success Academy Bloomington, bringing eight years of dedicated teaching experience at Success Academy to her role. She holds a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Education from the University of Minnesota, providing a solid foundation for her impactful career in education.
Mariah is known for her innovative teaching methods and her commitment to fostering academic excellence. Her ability to create a nurturing and engaging learning environment has significantly contributed to the school's success.
In her personal life, Mariah enjoys reading, going on walks, and spending time outdoors. She treasures moments with her family, including her husband Nick and their new baby, Lianna.
Mariah's professional expertise and personal warmth make her a beloved leader at Success Academy, where she continues to inspire and drive excellence.