Meet Our Team of Leaders
Where families grow, lead, and learn—together.
At Apogee New Jersey, our team of passionate guides and mentors co-lead the learning experience alongside families.
Chris Della Fave
Owner/Director/ Educator
When Chris Della Fave and his wife Andrea—lifelong educators with over 40 years of combined experience—set out to reimagine education for their sons, Dean and John Rocco, they discovered their vision didn’t exist locally. They weren’t just seeking a school, but a place where learning is personal, purposeful, and led by families—not systems. They dreamed of an environment where children and adults grow through real-world experiences, mentorship, and a focus on character, leadership, and lifelong learning. That vision became Apogee New Jersey—a center where education is shared across generations, and community becomes the classroom.
Matt Beaudreau
Co-Founder
Matt Beaudreau is a nationally recognized educator and speaker committed to redefining what it means to learn and lead in today’s world. With a background in school leadership and a passion for student agency, Matt has spent his career championing education that is hands-on, purpose-driven, and rooted in real-life application. As a founder within the Apogee network, he advocates for a family-first model that empowers parents, mentors, and communities to take an active role in the learning journey. Through his speaking and mentorship, Matt inspires audiences across the country to embrace a future where education is not confined to the classroom—but woven into everyday life.
Tim Kennedy
Co-Founder
Tim Kennedy is a U.S. Army Special Forces veteran and accomplished professional fighter known for his grit, discipline, and commitment to service. His experiences on the battlefield and in the arena have shaped his belief that real education happens through action, challenge, and responsibility. As a founding force behind the Apogee movement, Tim brings those principles into the world of education—guiding young people to develop strength of character, leadership, and life readiness. At Apogee, he helps families and learners move beyond passive learning, emphasizing mentorship, resilience, and the pursuit of excellence in every area of life.
THE PHILOSOPHY
GET INSPIRED
“It is hard to fail, but it is worse never to
have tried to succeed.”
–Theodore Roosevelt-
