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Dream Team

CYD Staff

Kim DennisExecutive Director

Since 1994, Kim has been part of the CYD community. She began as a volunteer in the summer of '94 and was soon hired to develop and shape the program. The consistency Kim brings to the program, along with having a positive relationship with all past and present families, adds tremendously to the family environment of CYD and, ultimately, our long-term success. Kim lives on the Westside of Atlanta with her three children and two dogs.

Shireen WestResource & Operations Manager

Shireen has served as the Resource Operations Manager since March 2014. She has over 20 years of experience in the auditing and accounting industry with a primary focus on not-for-profit and government organizations. Since joining the CYD team, she has worked to enhance our financial reporting and budgeting process along with assisting in the areas of fundraising and Board support. Shireen has a B.A. in Accounting from Florida A & M University. Some of her hobbies and interests include singing, reading, and cooking. She and her husband Derry have been married for almost 20 years, and they have three beautiful children.

Yasheena ZacharyEducation Program Manager

Yasheena has been a part of the CYD family for over fourteen years, beginning her career as a CYD student in the 4th grade. After graduating she continued to stay connected with the CYD community, volunteering when possible. After graduating from Georgia State University with a B.A. in Human Learning and Development, Yasheena joined the CYD Dream Team and oversees the tutoring program, supporting the academic success of CYD students. When not at CYD, Yasheena enjoys traveling, hanging out with friends, and reading good books.

Nannette ParrisTransportation + Studio Care Coordinator

Nannette was born and raised in Chattanooga, Tennessee. She graduated from Kirkman Technical High School and attended Edmondson Junior College for 2 years. Nannette is a Gulf War veteran, having served 10 years in the US Army as a 88M Motor Transport Operator. She is looking forward to working with the CYD staff, parents, and volunteers, while safely transporting our CYD students! When not at CYD, she enjoys spending time with family, watching foodball, traveling, and going to the beach.

Tykeria TisingerAfterSchool Program Manager

👑 ALL HAIL QUEEN TYKERIA 👑 I am the Beyonce of the CYD family and the glue that keeps this program together. I am from the Westside of Atlanta, also known as the best side. I graduated from Georgia State University with a degree in Journalism and a minor in African American Studies. I am responsible for designing and implementing all CYD after-school programming and am a creative genius who enjoys designing clothes, drawing, and dancing in my spare time. So move aside, Beyonce, because there's a new Sheriff in town. (Tykeria is also a CYD alum, class of '12 which can hopefully explain her bio!)

Marlo Herring Outreach Program Manager

Atlanta native, roller-skater, maker of things, photographer, dad, space-junky, skateboarder, music lover and dreamer. The series ‘Stranger Things’ was a chapter out of my childhood! Graduate of Clark Atlanta University with a BA in commercial arts (graphic design), and a minor in mass-communications (radio, tv, film). Fun fact – me and Andre 3000 went to summer school together, and chopped it up every day. We’re cool to this day. I’m excited to work with the CYD team, produce great programming and inspire positive change for our youth. Let’s go!!

TatiYana KnightDevelopment Coordinator

The newest addition to the CYD family, Tati brings five years of educational experience as a Special Education teacher to our development team! Tati Graduated from Xavier University with a B.S in Public Health and Psychology, and is currently finishing her Master's Degree in Early Childhood Special Education. She is passionate to serve children in our community and is excited to contribute love and dedication to the CYD family. Tati and her husband have two wonderful children Thalia and Liam.