Our Team

Lynda Cowin Nijensohn, visionary founder and CEO of InSightIQ, brings a unique blend of academic and business expertise to the world of educational consulting. With degrees in Philosophy and Math from Dartmouth College, as well as a Masters in Secondary Education from Fairfield University, Lynda has spent years guiding students and families through the complexities of middle and high school courses, dual enrollment, and college admissions, including Florida-specific programs.

 

Her personal journey underscores a deep understanding of both public and private sectors. She successfully guided her daughter through the Florida public school system, helping her rise from a class rank of 132 to valedictorian in a class of nearly 800. Through strategic navigation, her daughter also earned a BA from UCF while still in high school completely free, and is now continuing her academic journey at an Ivy League school. Lynda has additional first-hand experience in the private sector, with her son's enrollment and success in the International Baccalaureate (IB) program, further showcasing her ability to navigate diverse educational landscapes.

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What sets Lynda apart is her unique ability to merge educational expertise with business acumen and coding skills, crafting models that reveal hidden opportunities. Whether in middle school, high school, or beyond, Lynda's strategic thinking and hands-on approach empower students to excel at every stage of their educational journey.

Mariana Nijensohn is a trailblazing academic achiever who serves as an Application Strategist for InSightIQ. At just 18 years old, Mariana became the first student in Windermere High School's history to graduate as valedictorian while simultaneously earning a BA in English - 3.99 GPA - from the University of Central Florida (UCF). Her educational journey spans private and public schools, community colleges, and universities like the University of Florida, UCF, Arizona State, University of Arizona, and Valencia College, and now the University of Pennsylvania, where she was accepted through early admissions.

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With her diverse background and strategic approach, Mariana is uniquely equipped to guide high school students through the college application process. She excels at helping students craft compelling personal statements, identifying unique ways to present their stories and enhance their applications. Whether students are pursuing traditional academic paths or seeking guidance in their studies, she offers personalized support based on her extensive expertise in English, writing, and academic success.

 

Known for her strong writing skills and her ability to balance a demanding academic schedule with competitive dance, Mariana brings a well-rounded perspective to her role. Now embarking on her next academic chapter at the University of Pennsylvania, Mariana's journey is a testament to the power of strategic planning and perseverance. At InSightIQ. she is committed to helping students unlock their potential and achieve their educational goals, especially through writing.

Senator Anna Cowin is a seasoned leader in education and public service with a profound impact at both state and national levels. Her years of service on the Lake County School Board and as Superintendent provided her with deep insights into public education challenges. As a Florida State Senator and head of the Senate Education Committee, she played a critical role in landmark reforms, including Florida's A+ Education Plan and Bright Futures Scholarship Program, both of which continue to benefit Florida students today.

 

Her expertise extends beyond state influence, enabling her to navigate complex legislation, cut through policy red tape, and uncover hidden opportunities. Nationally, Senator Cowin contributed to shaping education policy across the country through her work on the Assembly of State Issues' Education Committee. Additionally, her community involvement.
including advising first-generation students at Rollins College-where a group typically sees 30% attending college, but under her guidance, 95% have gone on to higher education and leading organizations like the Education Foundation of Lake County, underscoring her deep commitment to improving educational opportunities.

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Armed with a Masters of Science degree from Fordham University and classroom teaching experience at the college level. Senator Cowin brings unparalleled expertise to InSightIQ. She offers strategic guidance that empowers students and families to navigate Florida's education system and fully leverage the programs she helped establish.