Our Team at Mathnasium of South Virginia Beach

Lauren Martin

Lauren splits her time between teaching math at Princess Anne High School and leading students at Mathnasium. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics from Randolph-Macon College, with a minor in Theater. Her enthusiasm for teaching shines in every session, and she enjoys making math both accessible and fun for her students. 

When she’s not teaching, Lauren spends her time crafting, journaling, baking unique cookie recipes, and relaxing with her cats. She loves helping students discover that math can be creative, expressive, and even enjoyable. 

Rachael Lowell

A Virginia Beach native, Rachael is an alumna of both the Math and Science Academy and Old Dominion University, where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Applied Mathematics. After graduation, she began working in a Department of Defense position but couldn’t step away from her love of teaching math. 

Working at Mathnasium allows Rachael to share her passion for problem-solving while helping students find joy and confidence in learning. Outside the center, she enjoys yoga, beach outings, and spending time outdoors. 

Steve Noffsinger

Steve has spent many years teaching mathematics at both the college level and with students at Mathnasium. His deep knowledge of upper-level math concepts and his engaging teaching style make him a favorite among learners who want to understand not just how math works, but why. 

Outside the classroom, Steve enjoys hands-on hobbies like soap carving and stone skipping—and he’s quick to point out how math applies to both. His curiosity and humor make every learning experience fun and memorable. 

Martha Donoghue

Martha holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering and brings a wealth of experience from her work in manufacturing, design, and computer-aided drafting instruction. She’s also taught at the elementary level and is passionate about guiding students toward confidence in math and problem-solving. 

Outside of Mathnasium, Martha leads a Girl Scout troop, teaches archery and hatchet throwing, and enjoys knitting in her free time. Her leadership, creativity, and calm guidance help keep the center running smoothly while inspiring students to challenge themselves. 

Jim Giordano

Jim's personal experience is outstanding! He received his BS in Chemical Engineering from SUNY at Buffalo, and his MS in Chemical Engineering from Ohio State University. He had not taught math before this, but he did teach Chemistry at both TCC and Norfolk State University. He has a passion for helping animals and is a Licensed Wildlife Rehabilitator and Wildlife Rescuer by the Virginia DWR. Not to mention, he loves sports and plays tennis. He enjoys helping people understand topics, especially math and chemistry, that they otherwise have trouble understanding. That’s why he came here to Mathnasium.

Jane Powell

Jane is a junior in high school at a classical school in Great Neck. She loves gardening, reading, and holding babies. Jane also enjoys traveling and has been to Germany, the UK, and Amsterdam.

Aneesh Desai

Aneesh is a high school senior in the Math and Science Academy at Ocean Lakes High School. He enjoys basketball, playing the violin, and competitive chess. He is also an Eagle Scout in Troop 471. In the future, he would like to go to college to study engineering.

Eli Manuel

Eli is a senior at Ocean Lakes High School who loves working with computers and teaching math. He also loves watching soccer, lifting weights in the gym, and discovering new music. Definitely ask him for cooking advice if you need any!

Nancy Zhong

Nancy is a happy wife, homemaker, and mama of two cats! She is pursuing her master's degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling in order to become a licensed counselor and family/marriage therapist. She enjoys making a genuine connection with people from different cultures and traveling around the world with her husband. She loves exploring all kinds of food, tea, recipes, and also likes riding roller coasters!

Jalen Major

Jalen is a junior biology major pursuing a career in research. In addition to biology, he also loves learning about history and philosophy. He enjoys music including playing the viola and is trying to learn the piano.

Faith Mounce

Faith is an education major focusing on Pre-K to 6th grade. She loves all kinds of music and enjoys playing the violin and piano. She hopes to one day teach in an elementary school either in North Carolina or Virginia.