CRAIG HEFNER, PH.D.
Head of School
Dr. Craig Hefner has a Ph.D. in systematic theology from Wheaton College, an M.Div. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and a B.A. in pre-seminary with a minor in Greek from Cedarville University. Prior to coming to Covenant, Craig taught at the collegiate level and worked in church and campus ministries. He lives in Huntington with his wife, Rachel, and their son, Elliot. In his free-time, Craig enjoys reading great books, playing piano, and walking his dog, Duke. Email Dr. Hefner.
JORDAN LEMAN
Director of Operations & Athletics
Mr. Leman has a B.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Cedarville University. After graduating, he worked as a Civil Engineer Officer in the Air Force for four years during Operation Enduring Freedom/Operation Iraqi Freedom. He’s spent the past five years as Project Manager at Girtz Industries in Indiana. Mr. Leman is a Licensed Project Management Professional and has served his local church as the Men’s Ministry Coordinator. In his spare time, he enjoys going on walks with his wife, reading classic fiction and history, and spending time outdoors.
FRANKLIN NORTON
Director of Marketing & Communication
Franklin Norton has a Bachelor of Arts in Advertising and Public Relations with a minor in Psychology from Marshall University. He’s previously worked on the communication teams for the Huntington Mayor’s Office, the Huntington-Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Marshall Artists Series, and Marshall University, where he also served as Managing Editor of the university newspaper. Mr. Norton is a member of Redemption Church and a leader with the Greater Huntington Young Life ministry. Mr. Norton also teaches upper level Latin courses, and coaches the Covenant Cross Country team. He is an avid reader, writer, and runner. Email Mr. Norton.
MELODY MCSWEENEY
Office Manager
Melody McSweeney joined the staff of Covenant in 1998 and currently serves as the office manager at Covenant School. Her greatest joy working here is the family atmosphere she has enjoyed with teachers and families over the years. She is the wife of Nazarene minister Danny McSweeney. Together they have raised three sons and ministered through preaching and singing. Email Mrs. McSweeney.
REBEKAH SHAFFER
Lower School Principal
Rebekah Shaffer received her Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Pensacola Christian College. Mrs. Shaffer taught at the Pensacola Christian Academy for four years before deciding to stay home with her two children, Grace and Luke. After moving back home to Huntington, she and her husband, Jeremy, the Executive Pastor at Lewis Memorial Baptist Church, enrolled their children at Covenant School, where she began working part-time in 2012. She now serves full-time as Kindergarten Teacher and Lower School Principal. Rebekah believes that every day is a gift, and she hopes to radiate joy in her life and work (Psalm 34:5). Outside of the classroom, Mrs. Shaffer enjoys gardening, antiquing, crafting, and leading the children’s ministry at Lewis Memorial Baptist Church. Email Mrs. Shaffer.
SHANE ARTRIP
Upper School Academic Advisor
Mrs. Shane Artrip teaches upper school mathematics and science, and also serves as the academic advisor. Mrs. Artrip holds a Bachelor’s degree in mathematics from Texas State University and a Master’s degree in mathematics from Marshall University. She has taught for over 30 years at varying levels from grammar school through university. She and her husband, Jim, attend Rock Branch Independent Church where she serves as the choir director and as an assistant in children’s music ministry. They have three grown children and two grandchildren. Email Mrs. Artrip.