Donna Paz Kaufman, Co-Founder and Director
After managing one of the country’s leading independent bookstore cafes and working in publishing, Donna founded The Bookstore Training Group of Paz & Associates in 1992 with the mission of helping booksellers build skills and insights so that they may lead healthy, life-driven, profitable independent bookstores. She holds a business degree and is a certified trainer in customer service and leadership. Donna is a past president of the Women’s National Book Association and is a public library advocate.

Mark Kaufman, Co Founder and Director
Mark Kaufman applies his background in non-profit organization management, Licensed Clinical Social Work, human resources, group facilitation, marketing communications, and organization transformation to work with clients. Before founding Story & Song Bookstore Bistro and Center for Arts & Culture, Mark has been a trainer and consultant with The Bookstore Training Group of Paz & Associates, along with his wife and partner, Donna Paz Kaufman. Mark has an eye for detail, a commitment to excellence, and focus on collaboration.

Robin Cormier, Executive Director
Robin Cormier is a senior executive with 40 years of experience in corporate communications, strategic planning, public affairs, and publishing. She served as Director of Communications for two non-profit scientific research organizations and was Vice President and board member of EEI Communications, a business communications firm. Robin holds a B.A. from Virginia Tech.

Lee Buchanan, Director
Lee Buchanan is a trust and estate administrative professional with more than 20 years of experience in complex client planning, including philanthropic strategies. Lee was a Managing Director at U.S. Trust/Bank of America. She holds B.S., J.D., and L.L.M. degrees.

Farley Kern, Director
Farley Kern has more than 30 years of experience in strategic communications. She serves as Chief Communications Officer for GuideWell Mutual Holding Company, parent to Florida Blue. She leads strategic functions as well as the creative and production department. She was also Vice President, Global Communication and Public Affairs for Johnson & Johnson Medical Devices Companies and Vice President – Corporate Communications for Hyatt Hotels Corporation. A lifelong bookworm, Farley was a founding partner and the first General Manager of Elm Street Books, in New Canaan, CT. She holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Virginia and a master’s degree from Duke University.