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Image by Laura Rivera

MEET THE TEAM

Amanda Morris

Amanda Morris, Secretary, Board Member

Amanda Morris is the Secretary of Drum Party and the oldest daughter of founder Stephanie Spreeman. A proud mom of two, Amanda balances family life with her work as a librarian and her studies in English, where she’s pursuing her dream of becoming a book editor. 

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Growing up around music and creativity, Amanda has always believed in the power of rhythm and community to bring people together. Being part of Drum Party is especially meaningful to her, as it allows her to support her mother’s vision while helping others find healing, joy, and connection through drumming. 

Pat Gesualdo

Pat Gesualdo, Board Member

Celebrated drum virtuoso Pat Gesualdo made medical, education, and drumming history when he introduced the world to his pioneering "Healing Art of Drum Therapy" techniques, and non profit organization D.A.D. (Drums and Disabilities). In 2004, then New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg and his Administration, and the New Jersey Department of Education Commissioner, helped Pat launch D.A.D.  as a special education program. The WWE, several New York City School Officials, and the New York Giants helped Gesualdo launch D.A.D. at WrestleMania and WWE Raw at Madison Square Garden and the Meadowlands Izod Arena.

 

Pat is a mental health/disability expert who overcame numerous disabilities as a child that left him unable to speak and write.  He assists Senators and Congressmen in writing special needs legislation, and is a consultant to lawyers throughout the United States on high profile court cases of abuse or neglect of special needs children and adults. He also assists law enforcement and child protection service agencies on special needs abuse cases and on case management. 

As pioneer and author of the Healing Art of Drum Therapy, (Alfred Music), Pat’s Drum Therapy techniques are used by doctors, psychologists, special needs therapists, and teachers in over 15 countries. The U.S. Department of State has brought Pat to several countries to help disabled children, and the United States Department of Defense has called on Pat to train and certify U.S. military health directors in his pioneering Drum Therapy techniques to help wounded troops. 

 

He is a professional drummer, performing and recording with legendary rockstars. He was nominated to Who’s Who In America, and has won numerous awards and honors. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree, has a Certificate in Education, has a Creative Arts Therapy background, is a Graduate of NYU, and the founder of the non-profit organizations D.A.D. (Drums and Disabilities), and the Metal Hall of Fame.

 

As writer and media commentator, Pat’s columns and interviews have been featured in major magazines, journals, and media outlets. He lectures and performs in clinic and lecture tours, universities and major disability conferences throughout the world.

 

Pat Gesualdo has been featured in major media outlets including: WABC TV, MSNBC, Milan TV, People Magazine, ABC Television News, The Sean Hannity Show, Parents Magazine, Fox Morning Show, New York Post, MTV, ABC News, NBC News, CNN, USA today, Rolling Stone, VH-1, Yahoo News, the Wall Street Journal, and Modern Drummer Magazine, among others. 

 

For more information, please visit www.patgesualdo.net.

Deborah Newman

Deborah Newman, Board Member

Deborah Newman is the founder and creative director of Petite Taway Inc., a Virginia-based web design and digital marketing agency that helps small businesses, nonprofits, and entrepreneurs build bold, beautiful, successful online presences. Through custom  websites, SEO strategy, e-commerce platforms, social media consulting, and design training, she empowers clients across the U.S. and internationally—with a special focus on purpose-driven brands and community-centered organizations.

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Before entering the tech world, Deborah built a 25-year career in the restaurant and hospitality industry in the Washington, D.C. and Northern Virginia area, gaining invaluable experience in customer service, operations, and entrepreneurship. Her hands-on leadership style and deep understanding of business laid the groundwork for her future success in web design and marketing.

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With over 15 years as a business owner and community advocate, Deborah is known for her passion, persistence, and people-first approach. Whether she’s mentoring a startup, designing a nonprofit’s website, or hosting a local networking event, she leads with heart, authenticity, and a commitment to making a meaningful difference. Learn more about her business here: www.petitetaway.com

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