OUR TEAM

The Grade A Plus, Inc. team works to monitor, develop, and implement the Academic Support and Enrichment Programs and is composed of various individuals who dedicate their efforts towards investing in youth.

Program Staff

Executive & Program Director

Dr. Janice Dawson-Threat

I assumed the responsibility of Executive Director in 2014. Prior to that I was the Program Director and worked as one of the many volunteers that help to grow this program. As the Executive I have been strategic, consistent, intentional, and focused in establishing a community based program of excellence designed to benefit the children and families of Columbia to pursue success in and out of school.

On-Site Program Assistant

Kennedy Mitchum

A St. Louis, MO native and graduate from Drake University with a double major in Public Relations and Law, Politics and Society. I joined this team to further connect with the Columbia, MO community. I hope to build bonds with students and their families, and look forward to new experiences!. During the day, I am a Success Coach at the University of Missouri-Columbia, some of my main responsibilities are helping marginalized students develop the necessary skills needed to succeed in their personal and professional lives.

Academic Program Assistant

Poonita Sheevam

My journey with Grade A Plus, Inc. began in 2018 as a College Student Volunteer. Graduating with a Bachelors of Educational Studies from the University of Missouri - Columbia in May 2020, I began my role as the Academic Program Assistant to support the transition to online learning. Working day-to-day with students and volunteers, I can't wait to welcome new and returning members to the Academic Support and Enrichment Program!

Board of Directors

Chairperson of the Board

LaShauna Guy

I began working with Grade A Plus Inc. through a job readiness program when I was 16 yrs old. As the mother of a child in the program, I continue to support with the hopes of sharing with more families the experiences, community, and encouragement that have positively impacted my family for two generations.

Business Relations Director

Fran Muench

My time with Grade A Plus began when I was employed as a Project Coordinator for the organization. Serving in this role gave me the opportunity to see the positive impact Grade A Plus makes in the lives of the student participants and the volunteers. After making a career change, I’ve continued my involvement as a board member.

At-Large Co-Director

Falon Lawson

Fund Development Director

Tami Benus

Having met Dr. Janice Dawson-Threat fifteen years ago at a Chamber of Commerce event, I joined the Grade A Plus, Inc team as Treasurer. Over this time, I moved into the position as Fund Development Director and Fundraising Chair. As the Program has progressed with each year, it has been a blessing to assist in its growth in meeting the needs of youth in Columbia!

Secretary

Lady Rhonda Butler

Joining the board for Grade A Plus Incorporated came through ministry connection with the Executive Director, who I fondly call Dr. "J". Being married 38 years to a pastor makes me appreciate the opportunity to be a part of this organization. As I've witnessed first hand the powerful affect this non-profit organization has on the overall well-being of those it serves, literally saving lives through academic success.

Strategic Marketing Director

Drew Weinstein

I first learned about and worked with Grade A Plus as a project manager in a professional development class at the University of Missouri. In grade school I struggled to learn math and fell behind my classmates. It wasn't until I started getting tutoring that I was able to catch up. However tutoring services are a privilege not all families can afford. Everyone deserves a chance to succeed in school and I know I wouldn't be where I am today without the support I received, which is why I work with G.

Finance Director

Lee Merrick

Introduced to Dr. Threat through a co-worker, I quickly discovered her sincere passion for helping children in the community. It is a reward to work along side Dr. Threat and other team members who are advocating for children in the community by providing them with educational and enrichment opportunities.

Governance & Policy Director

Crystal Hamby

I began with Grade A Plus as the Family Leader of a child enrolled in the program, then became an intern through the Missouri Baptist University MBA program. I felt the need to give back to the remarkable community of Columbia and Grade A Plus. Both the program and the Columbia community provide a welcoming, family atmosphere that I love and want to continue to be a part of while continuing to advance the future of the young minds of Columbia.

Executive Advisory Committees

Finance Committee

LaShauna Guy

Lee Merrick

Corporate Funding & Capital Development Committee

Tami Benus

Falon Lawson

Fran Muench

This committee establish and maintain an annual on-going funding development schedule that advances the organization’s services and creates funding streams to acquire a larger operating space within the next three years through CDBG Grants, Capital Funding, and other sources.

Marketing Development Committee

This committee manages marketing and promotions for committees activities, programs, and fundraising activities.

Program Development & Support Committee

The Program Development and Support Committees develop/guide the academic programs and enrichment activities, as well as provide family, food, and transportation support for youth and families enrolled at Grade A Plus.

Math-Up! Leaders

Paul Simanjtak, 3rd Year,
Team Leader

Thomas Hogancamp, 3rd Year,

Yvan Quinn, 1st Year,

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Junior Support Team

D. Gray, Math

D. Edwards, Art

A. Wyatt, Enrichment