Education & Background
Dr. Cindy Zurchin brings over 30 years of leadership experience, innovation, and success to her work as a motivational speaker, trainer, and author. Holding a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Duquesne University, Cindy has earned top certifications from renowned leadership programs such as “The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People” from the Covey Institute and “Leading Change” by John Kotter. She also holds certificates in Mindfulness, Chair Yoga, and Yoga for Children, highlighting her well-rounded expertise in both leadership and wellness. Cindy blends academic rigor with real-world leadership experience.
A Proven Track Record
Throughout her career, Cindy has held a variety of leadership roles in education, ranging from Teacher and Principal to Superintendent of Schools. She managed a $62 million budget, 500 staff members and four bargaining units, providing her with firsthand knowledge of the complexities organizations face. Her leadership journey also includes transforming a failing school into a nationwide model of success. By using Blanchard’s principles of leadership and organizational success, Cindy revolutionized the school’s culture, a story that is detailed in her book, The Whale Done! School, co-authored with a foreword by Ken Blanchard.
Her registered trademark, Helping create schools where students love to learn, teachers love to teach, and parents are proud! underscores her commitment to making schools thriving environments for all stakeholders.
Consulting Experience
As a consultant for the Blanchard Institute, the non-profit arm of The Ken Blanchard Companies, Cindy worked closely with educators and parents across the country, restoring trust and building resilience in school communities. Her work in California produced remarkable results, with schools and communities adopting her models for trust and success almost immediately. Cindy’s thought leadership has been featured in Principal Magazine and TribLive.com.
Entrepreneur
In 1988, Cindy founded Cynthia’s School of Dance & Music, LLC, where she uses the arts to build confidence in students from age two to adult. Her studio has been recognized as Pittsburgh’s Favorite Arts Educator and as one of the Best of the Best Businesses in Pittsburgh. Her passion for inclusivity and resilience shines through in her children’s book, Ballerina on Wheels – Amazing Ava’s First Dance Recital, which tells the story of a non-verbal student who uses a wheelchair and achieves her dream of dancing.
Current Role
Today, Cindy serves as an Assistant Professor at Point Park University and leads as CEO of both her consulting firm and Cynthia’s School of Dance & Music. Living in Pittsburgh with her husband, John, and as the proud mother of two grown sons, Cindy embodies the values she teaches—building trust, resilience, and success through actionable strategies.
Why Choose Dr. Cindy Zurchin?
Whether she’s speaking to educators, business leaders, or healthcare professionals, Dr. Zurchin’s expertise, passion, and proven results make her a sought-after keynote speaker and consultant. Her empowering presentations are designed to uplift audiences, inspire change, and provide practical strategies for personal and professional growth.