GET TO KNOW dbg
Student Council
Harmonie
President
Uriel
Vice President
Christian
Secretary
Aleena
Secretary (Sub)
Zion
Treasurer
Donovan
Historian
Messiah
Historian
Jordyn
High School Homeroom Representative
Eric
High School Homeroom Representative
Parent Committee
Nikoa Dean
Support Specialist
Evelyn Goodwyn
Vice President
Krystal Flemmings
Treasurer
Javon McCoy
Support Specialist
Michelle Murphy
Corresponding Secretary
Torrie Nobles
Communication Specialist
DORETHEA ROBINSON
TRASURER
Alexis Smith
Support Specialist
KENYA SWANN
COMMUNICATION Specialist
KAREN TANTON
PRESIDENT
DBG Staff
Leadership
Khali Sweeney
Founder and CEO
Khali had the passion, determination and bold vision to open DBG in 2007 and as our founder and CEO, he continues to mentor, inspire, innovate, and shape our program to this day. His life’s purpose is helping young people succeed. Khali’s unwavering commitment to our students, our mission, and making the world a better place, helps drive every decision we make. Khali’s own challenging academic and life experiences inspired him to start our program. Among his many honors, Khali is a CNN Hero Top 10 Finalist and a recipient of Michigan’s Governor’s Service Award for Mentor of the Year.
As he often says, “We don’t see bad kids. We see kids who haven’t been heard yet.”
Jessica Hauser
Executive Director
Peter Fezzey
Chief Advancement Officer
Katie Solomon
CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER
emmanuel smith
Chief programs officer
Development
Em Barnes
Grant Writer
Em Barnes works behind the scenes at DBG as a grant writer, helping us secure the critical funding needed to operate and grow. A graduate of Wayne State University with a bachelor’s degree in English, she uses her skills to help capture all the work we do at DBG in writing, and to communicate our goals and approach to help pursue new funding opportunities.
NICOLE Kornijenko
Events & Experience Director
nick mancuso
sr. DONOR ADVISOR
Nick is responsible for the strategic engagement and stewardship of DBG’s existing individual donors. He also cultivates new donors while managing facility rentals, events, and donation data. In addition, Nick assists with marketing and external communications to key constituents. Prior to joining DBG, Nick served as a financial advisor at Plante Moran and assistant director at the University of Michigan Athletic Department. He earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Michigan and an MBA from Wayne State University. “I’m most inspired by students who overcome challenging circumstances to graduate from high school and thrive,” he says.
deanna miller
Foundation Advancement Manager
DeAnna serves as our Foundation Advancement Manager, helping to secure the grants and funding DBG needs to operate and grow. She is a graduate of Howard University and the University of North Dakota. and currently attends Wayne State University where she is working toward a Ph.D. in English. DeAnna has taught English composition, community writing, African American Literature and Culture, and gender studies courses at the college level. She is most inspired by the warm family atmosphere at DBG and the close relationships with students and staff.
michael perkins
director of strategic partnership & Donor relations
Michael works to secure financial support from corporations, foundations, and high-capacity individuals to sustain and grow DBG’s impact. With a BA in International Business and French from Alma College and an MBA in Marketing from the University of Detroit, he brings extensive experience in bank marketing, media sales, and promotions at NBD, CBS Radio, iHeartMedia, and WDET. As a previous board member, Michael draws inspiration from community support and DBG’s holistic approach—supporting not just students, but their entire families. His work helps ensure DBG continues to provide life-changing opportunities for Detroit youth and the communities that surround them.
meredith potter
Chief of Staff for Development
Robin Schwartz
Public relations Consultant
Robin serves as DBG’s chief storyteller, overseeing all aspects of communications, including PR/media relations, social media, writing, blogs and web content, video production and more. Robin is an Emmy award–winning former TV news anchor/reporter with Fox 2 News in Detroit. She also previously served as a corporate PR executive. Robin has a passion for Detroit, seeing Detroit students succeed, DBG, and the ongoing story of our efforts to change lives and help young people thrive. She owns her own PR and video production firm, Robin Schwartz PR. Members of the media can send inquiries to [email protected].
Julie Wainwright
director of systems
Julie Wainwright serves as DBG’s Director of Systems overseeing systems management, implementation and financial operations. Julie received a bachelor’s degree in Education from Ohio University. Before joining the DBG team, she worked as Executive Director of Operations and co-lead Detroit Food Academy. “I am so impressed by the variety of programs and support services in place for the young people of this city,” she says. “I am honored and excited to be a part of DBG, an amazing organization doing incredible work for future generations.”
programs
gerrard Allen
director of enrichment
Gerrard is a seasoned educator, community leader, and Edpreneur with over 15 years of experience supporting Black teens and fostering equity through education. As DBG’s Associate Director of Programming, he establishes a mission-aligned culture, oversees the STEAM Lab, and manages key program partnerships. A University of Michigan graduate with a Master of Arts in Education, Gerrard’s diverse experience spans teaching, college advising, and global education. Inspired by DBG’s commitment to creating CEOs, he is dedicated to helping students turn big ideas into reality, equipping them with the tools to lead with purpose and excellence.
Laura Amtower
Director of Academics
Laura Amtower directs all programs for DBG high school students including our high school homeroom, college and career readiness, and alumni efforts. She is a graduate of West Virginia University with a bachelor’s degree in Art Education and Visual Art & Design, and the University of Michigan where she earned a master’s degree in Engaged Pedagogy, Social Work, and Community Art & Design. Laura has worked in out-of-school-time programming and higher education for more than 20 years. She loves being able to nurture and witness a simple interest grow into a fulfilling career.
chelsea atkins
INtervention Coordinator
Chelsea is the Intervention Coordinator at DBG Detroit, leading the Books Before Boxing (B3) program with a deep passion for literacy and mentorship. She creates a dynamic, engaging environment where students build confidence in reading and math, transforming learning into an exciting adventure. A dedicated mentor since 16, Chelsea has personally taught over 20 children to read and has read daily with kids for 19 years. Inspired by DBG’s ability to make learning fun, she is committed to helping students develop a lifelong love for reading, guiding them to break barriers and embrace their full potential.
BRANDEN BERRY
GYM GAMES COACH
JERRI BIVINS
driver
SKYLAR BURKHARDT
Associate Director of Operations
Ensuring students have the support they need to read at or above grade level is one of the hallmarks of DBG’s academic program. Skylar helps facilitate our partnership with Center for Success to provide literacy programming for DBG’s 3rd through 6th graders. She also supports data collection and applications. Skylar is a graduate of the University of Michigan and worked for years coaching and teaching writing. “Working at DBG is inspiring when I see students deepen their connection to reading and writing, and in return, learn more about themselves and the world we live in,” she says.
isaiah christopher-burke
STUDENT RELATIONSHIP specialist
Isaiah Burke is an Academic Support Specialist at DBG, dedicated to helping students navigate their academic and socioemotional journeys. Currently completing his teaching assistance at Detroit Renaissance, he studied Secondary Education at Wayne State University. Before joining DBG, Isaiah worked as a paraprofessional at Eaton Academy, gaining valuable experience in student support and development. Passionate about education, he is inspired by the opportunity to be part of the solution to a national challenge—ensuring students receive the guidance, encouragement, and resources they need to succeed in school and beyond.
ken cain
Mathematics assistant
A talented artist and a proud DBG graduate who started with us in elementary school, Ken Cain serves as an academic support specialist and a mentor to our students. Ken is also a current student at Wayne State University majoring in marketing with a minor in business. As a DBG alum, she knows firsthand the impact of positive mentorship. Ken tailors her academic strategies to meet each student where they are in their learning journey and to help them achieve their goals.
tiffany camp
middle school student relationship manager
Tiffany is a Detroit native, who received her undergraduate degree at Kentucky State University in Early Childhood Education and Family Relations. She resided in Kentucky for 13 years and achieved career success.. She has experience working as a Life Support Specialist for children with intense trauma, a Lead Teacher, Director of Programs in Before/After School Programming, enrichment, Summer Camp, and much more. Tiffany wakes up with an unrelenting passion to see children, teens, and young adults become all they can be.
asiya el
Associate Director of Student Relationships
SIYeh frazier
HIGH school student relationship manager
Siyeh is dedicated to fostering the growth and development of high school students at DBG. As a mentor and leader, Siyeh manages Individualized Student Plans (ISPs), builds strong relationships, and creates growth-focused curriculum to ensure students are prepared for life and post-secondary opportunities. With experience as a Program Manager at PeacePlayers – Detroit and a degree from Pennsylvania State University, she is passionate about serving Detroit youth with purpose. Through intentional mentorship and transformative experiences, she is committed to equipping students with the skills and confidence to achieve lifelong success.
lanee goodgame
operations manager
Lanee Goodgame is DBG’s Operations Manager, overseeing enrollment, managing the waitlist, and leading the transportation and kitchen teams, as well as handling all building operations. She also teaches DBG’s podcasting and media class, bringing 12 years of experience in broadcasting and media, including as an active partner in a podcast network. A graduate of Central Michigan University and Specs Howard, Lanee has over 15 years experience in customer service and five years in leadership. She is inspired by seeing students thrive and is grateful to be part of a passionate team dedicated to their growth and success.
Brittany gregory
assistant kitchen manager
Brittany wears two hats at DBG as both the Assistant Kitchen Manager and Cooking Class Coach. Every day, she ensures students receive a nutritious snack and dinner while also teaching the fundamentals of cooking and baking. With over 10 years of experience running a catering and pastry company, Brittany brings real-world culinary expertise to the kitchen. Passionate about encouraging youth, she loves providing students with valuable life skills and instilling core values that will serve them beyond DBG. Inspired by DBG’s impact, she is proud to be part of an organization that uplifts both students and the community.
Hasan hasan
SCHOOL support specialist
Kayla higgonbotham
STUDENT RELATIONSHIP specialist
calvin hobbs
Academic Support Specialist - Elementary
Dedicated to nurturing academic success, Calvin is an accomplished Academic Support Specialist with a profound commitment to empowering learners. With 26 years of expertise in pre-kindergarten to 9th-grade education, he navigates the educational obstacles, providing unique strategies for students to excel. Calvin earned his Bachelor of Science from Wayne State University, pursuing elementary education with an emphasis in math and music. His collaborative approach bridges gaps, ensuring no student is left behind. A compassionate advocate for diverse learning styles, Calvin is dedicated to providing mentorship to our students, through the impact his mentors had on him.
MICHAEL JOHNSON
DRIVER
NICOLLE JOHNSON
Special Projects
Minsu kim
culinary support specialist
Linda Kinney
driver
LEXUS LEGARDY
Athletics Manager
Lexus is an energetic and enthusiastic coach dedicated to promoting healthy lifestyles. Through sports sampling, teaching a variety of sports from soccer to flag football and basketball to boxing, she helps ignite our students’ passion for physical activity and teaches teamwork through mentorship. Lexus is a graduate of Wayne State University with a degree in Sports Management. Her coaching style helps boost confidence and foster a sense of belonging, enabling our students to build essential life skills.
Lamont Love
driver
DIANE McKINNEY-EL BEY
driver
remi napier
steam Manager
Remi is DBG’s high-energy STEAM Lab coordinator where she teaches our students engaging and interactive lessons about science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. She earned the nickname “the chicken lady” for her work with our DBG chickens. Remi attended Columbia College of Arts Chicago where she received a degree in public relations. She previously worked as a kindergarten teacher. Her work and our students’ participation in the STEAM Lab is part of a groundbreaking 5-year study by the National Science Foundation in partnership with Purdue University’s College of Education.
kaeden ondrus
school support specialist
Tisha prater
lead driver
Tisha serves as DBG’s Transportation Coordinator & Lead Driver, ensuring students across Metro Detroit have safe, reliable access to our out-of-school program. A retired Detroit Police Officer with a BA and an MBA, Tisha is dedicated to eliminating transportation barriers so every student can benefit from DBG’s literacy initiatives. With experience in law enforcement and eight years at MAC Cosmetics, she brings leadership, organization, and creativity to the role. Inspired by DBG’s impact, she is passionate about connecting students to education and opportunity, knowing that every ride helps pave the way for a brighter future.
Reynard Robinson
alumni social assistant
Alia Selbini
school support specialist
sheldon simmons
driver
sharese simuel
driver
Jo Siwik
driver
Azira starks
dance & cheer coach
Kaila Starks
operation support
omar stephens
boxing coach
Tatiana stephens
kitchen manager
Tatiana Stephens serves as DBG’s Kitchen Manager, overseeing all kitchen operations, culinary curriculum, and special events while ensuring compliance with USDA guidelines. She also manages culinary arts funds and develops kitchen protocols to provide students with nutritious meals and hands-on culinary experiences. A graduate of Dorsey College, Tatiana brings experience from CBS Studios, NBC Studios, and Linden Fine Dining. Inspired by her grandfather, a chef in New York who taught her how to cook, she is passionate about sharing her love for food with students and helping them develop valuable culinary skills for the future.
Tia Talton
Apprentice to the CEO
kyra thomas
driver
keyanna whitted
volunteer coordinator
Keyanna oversees all program volunteers at DBG, building strong relationships and engaging the community to support student success. She also creates meaningful volunteer opportunities for DBG students, encouraging them to give back and make an impact. With an A.A.S. from Wayne County Community College and a BBA in Business Administration from Baker College, Keyanna has always been dedicated to youth development, previously working as a daycare assistant, nanny, and substitute teacher. Keyanna is passionately driven and inspired by helping students realize their potential, break barriers, and shape their futures on their own terms.
QUincy Webb
driver
dennis williams-mitchell
college & career SUCcEss manager
Dennis is dedicated to preparing and equipping DBG scholars for life beyond the program. As college and career success manager, he focuses on providing the tools, guidance, and opportunities students need to thrive in their next chapter. A graduate of Morehouse College, Dennis brings experience and passion for youth development, ensuring every scholar is ready for success. What inspires him most about DBG is its limitless potential—the opportunity to reach even more students and make a lasting impact. He is committed to empowering the next generation and helping them build bright, successful futures.
asiyah williamson
apprentice to the ceo & Associate Director of programming
As a DBG alum and proud graduate, Asiyah has personally experienced the benefits of DBG’s mission. She oversees all aspects of our athletic department and aims to expose our students to sport sampling and various different forms of physical activity. As an apprentice to our founder and CEO Khali Sweeney, she is learning the ins and outs of what it takes to run a successful nonprofit, grow the program, and keep our mission alive for generations to come. Before joining DBG, Asiyah renovated properties in Detroit through the Detroit Landbank and worked in the mortgage industry.
mikaela westrick
data coordinator
Mikaela plays a key role in DBG’s day-to-day programming, managing schedules, data systems, and surveys—including the all-important Annual Evaluation. She analyzes data to enhance programming and develop tools like follow-up questionnaires and SEL skill-building resources for students and staff. A first-generation college graduate from Grand Valley State University with a BS in Psychology and minors in Writing and Digital Studies, Mikaela previously wrote for a local magazine and spent four years as a Montessori TA. Mikaela is passionate about mentorship; she loves supporting students, offering guidance, and watching them grow into confident, capable young adults.
Board of Directors
Officers
Jeri Fishman
Board Chair
Jeri brings a wealth of experience in casework, community leadership, and education advocacy to DBG. A former Michigan Department of Corrections Caseworker and Court Assigned Probation Officer, she has since dedicated herself to volunteer work, serving on multiple school boards and as president of two. Passionate about community service, Jeri is a board member at Congregation Shaarey Zedek, Jewish Family Services, and more. A Savannah State University graduate, she values DBG’s urgent mission to uplift Detroit youth. Born and raised in the city, she is deeply committed to bridging educational gaps and uplifting students and families.
Gary Wilson
Vice chair
Gary Wilson is a Senior Vice President of JPMorgan Chase & Co. In this role, he oversees all volunteerism for the firm in the state of Michigan. Gary is based in Birmingham and also serves as an ambassador for the firm locally, engaging the business and nonprofit community to showcase JPMorgan Chase’s civic engagement. Gary also serves on an advisory panel for the mayor’s office with the City of Detroit. Gary resides in Commerce Township, MI with his son Logan. Gary holds a degree from the University of Detroit Mercy.
Joe Schmidt
Treasurer
Joe Schmidt is a Deals Director at PwC. With a background in both transaction services and external audit, Joe has provided a variety of services for both public and private companies. As a member of the Deals team, he has worked on a variety of projects across industry sectors, company size and geographies. Joe is a Certified Public Accountant in the State of Michigan and received his bachelor’s degree in Economics and Management with an emphasis in accounting from Albion College. As an individual with a passion for athletics and continued learning, Joe strongly believes in the mission and community built at DBG. Joe has been actively involved with the Downtown Boxing Gym Youth Program since 2017
deidra wilson
secretary
Deidra Wilson is a passionate and accomplished legislative counsel with a deep commitment to healthcare advocacy. As the Corporate Senior Vice President of Government Relations and Public Policy at McLaren Health Care Corporation, Deidra oversees advocacy efforts across multiple states, securing significant state and federal appropriations for healthcare initiatives. A recognized leader, she has earned accolades such as Crain’s Detroit 40 under 40 and Diversity Magazine’s Top 100 under 50. Deidra’s dedication to shaping healthcare policy and her ability to bridge political divides make her a vital force in advancing public health.
board members
Jeff Addison
Clifford Brown
Julie Lodge-Jarrett
David Moss
Shawn Riley
Shawn has 20 years of experience in wealth management. As an investment advisor with Plante Moran Financial Advisors, he works with high-net-worth individuals and families to help manage and grow their wealth. Through utilizing resources in the firm’s trust and tax departments, Shawn provides comprehensive strategies to manage a family’s full balance sheet. Many of his clients have significant charitable goals where Shawn assists with structuring gifts in a tax-efficient manner.
Shawn was introduced to the Detroit Boxing Gym (DBG) through a stand-up paddleboard race on Belle Isle where he taught some students how to paddleboard. He immediately recognized the impact DBG had on students’ lives and has supported the program since 2017.
Matt Rossetti
Matt Rossetti refers to himself as a “Chief Architect of Serious Fun.” He is a third-generation architect and president of ROSSETTI, a globally-recognized architecture and design firm headquartered in Detroit. Matt holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in architecture from the University of Michigan and a sculpture degree from the University of Florence, Italy. He worked at firms in New York and Los Angeles before returning to Detroit to join his father’s firm in 1989.
ROSSETTI’s architectural portfolio of award-winning projects consists of a broad range of unique and inspiring spaces including sports and entertainment venues, training and recreation facilities as well as hospitality, residential, workplace and retail. Notable projects include: reimagining One Campus Martius and Ford Field, the Henry Ford Health System Detroit Pistons Performance Center, The Corner Apartments, Michigan State University Munn Ice Arena, and many more.
But most notable to us at DBG, ROSSETTI donated full design services to create our current 27,500 square foot facility on Detroit’s east side. The team repurposed a former bookbinding factory into the safe, functional and inspiring space where our students learn, grow, and thrive every day.
Todd Sachse
Brian Vieaux
Robert Young
A dedicated advocate for social change, Robert Young brings a profound commitment to philanthropy as a DBG Board Member. With a dynamic background in entrepreneurship, He contributes invaluable insights and countless hours ensuring our students receive the correct support. Robert previously owned Young & Sons Drying and Restoration, but currently leads sales for a global commercial roofing and restoration corporation. He is committed to seeing our students grow in confidence and develop themselves into who they want to be, continues to inspire Robert daily. Robert also competes as an endurance athlete which allows him to share the important mental fortitude required to pursue your goals and overcome adversity.
Advisory Board
Rakesh Aneja
Board Chair
Dennis Blender
John C. Carter
John C. Carter has worked for 35+ years in commercial banking for JPMorgan Chase and predecessor organizations, serving as a manager or executive in charge of various lending and corporate banking groups which provide operating and capital raising services/products to corporate clients. He serves on various internal bank committees and has involvement in several outside organizations, as either member or director: YMCA of Metropolitan Detroit (Director and Past Chairman of Board), YMCA Foundation (Director), Forgotten Harvest (Board and Executive Committee Member), Judson Center (Past Chairman of the Board and Trustee), Judson Center Foundation (Director), Business Leaders of Michigan (Director), Detroit Chamber of Commerce (Director), Detroit Historical Society (Director), Downtown Detroit Partnership (Director), Detroit Riverfront Conservancy (Director), Detroit Economic Club (Director), and Detroit Workforce Development Board.
Dr. Farshad FOTOUHI
Dr. Farshad Fotouhi is currently Dean of the College of Engineering at Wayne State University. He received his Ph.D. in computer science from Michigan State University, College of Engineering in 1988 and joined the faculty of computer science at Wayne State University in August 1988. He served as the department chair from January 2004-February 2011. Before joining WSU in 1988, he was a faculty member of the Lyman Briggs School, Michigan State University, while earning his Ph.D.
Dr. Fotouhi’s current research interests include biomedical informatics, semantic web and multimedia systems. He has published over 180 papers in refereed journals and conference proceedings. His research has been supported by NSF, NIH, National Institute of Drug Abuse, Michigan Life Sciences Corridor, Ford Motor Company and many other industries.
Ron Fournier
Jennifer Hammond
Jennifer Hammond is a beloved television sports anchor/reporter at Fox 2 News in Detroit. For more than two decades she has covered the Detroit Lions, Tigers, Red Wings and Pistons along with Michigan and Michigan State sports.
Among the many things she does to support the Downtown Boxing Gym, Jennifer hosts an annual fundraiser called “Hammer’s Bar Stars.” This high-energy event includes local athletes and celebrities serving as bartenders, helping to raise dollars and awareness about our Books Before Boxing program.
Jody Kohner
Jody Kohner is the Executive Vice President of Global Enablement at Salesforce. In this role, Jody inspires a culture of learning at every level of the company. She and her team build world-class learning experiences that are relevant, actionable, measurable and predictable; enabling all employees to pursue their own growth and ultimately fuel the growth of the company.
Jody started with Salesforce in 2011 and is proud of the diverse and eclectic journey that she’s taken with the company, which includes leadership across Product Marketing, Human Resources and Sales.
Jody has established a track record of developing innovative new programs and building high-performing teams. Prior to Salesforce, she spent 10 years at Robert Half International, where she worked in brand marketing. She also oversaw the development, implementation and management of the company’s first marketing automation system.
Bruce Nyberg
Bruce Nyberg joined Flagstar Bank’s board in March 2015, after serving as interim director of Community Banking. As a board member, he serves on the company’s risk committee.
Prior to Flagstar, he was regional president-East Michigan for Huntington Bancshares Incorporated for six years. He had a 28-year career at NBD Bancorp (now Chase Bank), where he led Michigan Commercial Banking, Retail Banking Operations, Marketing, Information Technology, and Electronic Banking. Among his board memberships are the Bowling Green State University Board of Trustees, Forgotten Harvest, the Community Foundation for Southeast Michigan, and the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity and Inclusion
Jennifer Miller Oertel
Jennifer Miller Oertel is a member of the law firm Bodman, PLC, where she co-chairs the firm’s Tax-exempt Organizations and Impact Investing practice group. Jennifer chairs the Nonprofit Corporations Committee of the State Bar of Michigan (Business Law Section) and is certified in nonprofit governance by Georgetown University. Jennifer utilizes her corporate & securities law and governance skills to serve tax-exempt clients, impact investors and social entrepreneurs in all aspects of their activities. She is the first-ever Impact Investing Expert in Residence for the Council of MI Foundations, working on developing and furthering the impact investing ecosystem in Michigan and beyond.
John Owens
John Owens held Senior Management positions in Marketing and Communications with major Midwest financial institutions. He was privileged to complement his career experience with an “encore” stint as a Director of Communications at Forgotten Harvest, a metro Detroit human services organization.
He is involved in his local community as a Precinct Delegate in Bloomfield Township.
Matthew Roling
Matthew Roling is a professor and chair of Wayne State University’s Accounting Department. Prior to joining Wayne State, Matthew worked in a variety of management consulting and entrepreneurial roles – most recently serving as the CEO of a venture-backed financial technology start-up. A CPA and a graduate of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Matthew loves to cook, travel and read in his free time.
Hubert Sawyers, III
Tahir Whitehead
leaving a legacy
Stephen Luigi Piazza
TAiwo "TIKE" hall
Jim Ryan
Teasha Andrews
For over seven years, Teasha greeted every student, parent, and visitor with a warmth that could turn any day around. Her journey with DBG began when her oldest daughter joined as a student, quickly leading Teasha from volunteer to an essential part of our team. Teasha’s impact will never fade. It lives on in the lives she touched, the students she lifted up, and the spirit of love and community she instilled in all of us.