Latoya Watts | Founder and Executive Director
Latoya became a teacher at the age of four. As a reading four year old her first student was her uncle, thirty years her senior. He was illiterate and at that young age Latoya’s career as a teacher began. She is a certified Secondary English teacher, Reading Specialist and Orton Gillingham Practitioner. Her ability to relate with all students but especially focus on BIPOC students in a culturally relevant and responsive way is her personal goal. She operates from an empty chair mindset, thinking about parents and families who may be absent during conversations with school officials. She wants to ensure students, parents, and community voices are heard in decision making spaces in regards to reading instruction and classroom practices. Continued learning allows her to stay current in her practice, and have adequate training to ensure student success.
H. Colin Watts | Co-Director
As a Caribbean-American Colin has played soccer most of his life. As a member of his home country Guyana’s National Soccer team, and after migrating to the US, for college and semi professional teams. He currently provides soccer oversite, coaching, and mentorship for individuals who participate in soccer enrichment programs. He is also a trained customer service agent with over 12 years of experience and delivers quality service and care to all those he engages with.
Emily Awopeju | Chairperson
Emily is an African American certified clinical research professional. Ms. Awopeju holds a BS in medical laboratory science with a biotechnology concentration and an MS degree in clinical research. She has over 7 years of experience in the clinical research field. She served as a Clinical Research Program Supervisor where she oversaw the clinical research staff, assisted in the development and design of clinical trials, managed budgets and legal agreements, and maintained quality assurance, safety, and environmental controls.
Heidy Arriaza | Treasurer
Heidy is a native Spanish speaking LatinX woman. She holds a bachelors in Human Development and Family Studies. Mrs. Arriaza loves children and has worked as a child care provider for many families. She is also a certified CNA.
Charlotte Pelham Nyan | Secretary
Charlotte is an African American woman. Born in Liberia, Mrs. Nyan migrated to the US with her family to escape war taking place in her country and in pursuit of educational advancement. She has a BS in Human Development and Family Studies and a Master’s degree in Social Work. She currently works for American Renal Associates As a service provider she coordinates and oversees patient care and treatment plans.