Christen Dukes, the founder of Arts Over Odds Foundation, is an Overcomer, having been born prematurely with Sickle Cell Disease and Cerebral Palsy. Despite being born weighing only 2 lbs, 5 oz and being given less than 24 hours to live, Christen’s life experiences inspired him to create the foundation.

Raised in Memphis, specifically the Raleigh neighborhood, Christen attended Craigmont High School and developed a passion for music. He played the baritone in middle and high school band and furthered his music studies at the Stax Music Academy. During his time there, he played the trombone in the jazz ensemble and the academy’s rhythm section ensemble for 4 years.

With a love for various artistic disciplines, including music and photography, Christen aims to inspire other creatives through his organization and future philanthropic endeavors. His goal is to show that one’s odds do not define them and that dreams can become a reality.

ToMecia Conard-Stafford is a Licensed Master Social Worker and CEO of Clarity Consulting, a Mental Health Life Coaching Firm that seeks to transform lives by transforming minds. As a Mental Health Life Coach, her focus has been on the lives of Youth, ages 13-18 years old, and women, ages 19 and up. ToMecia Conard-Stafford is currently employed by Methodist Healthcare as both a Medical Social Worker and Project Manager of Operations within the Sickle Cell Center. ToMecia has spent more than 20 years within this arena and the Justice system, combined. She is a vocal advocate for the Sickle Cell Community and travels extensively, educating and speaking to varied audiences.

ToMecia Conard-Stafford received her BS degree from LeMoyne-Owen College in Memphis, Tennessee; an MSW from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan; a Mental Health Life Coaching certification from Life Coaching School of Arkansas; and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Leadership from Western Governors University. She currently resides in Mississippi with her family.

Dr. Tonya Biles is an accomplished educator and leader with a diverse background in education. Currently serving as the Associate Dean of Students at Soulsville Charter School in Memphis, TN, Dr. Biles demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment. Alongside her role at Soulsville Charter School, she serves as an Adjunct Professor at Belhaven University in Southaven, MS, where she shares her expertise with aspiring educators.

With a wealth of experience in various leadership positions, Dr. Biles has made a significant impact in the field of education. She has served as the Supervisor of Pupil Services in the Waterbury Public School System in Waterbury, CT, and as the Secondary Instructional Transformation Leadership Director for the Achievement School District in Memphis, TN. Her passion for supporting teachers led her to work as a Teacher Support Coach in the Jackson-Madison County Schools in Jackson, TN. Prior to her administrative roles, Dr. Biles excelled as the Principal of Memphis Academy of Health Sciences, where she provided strong leadership and contributed to the school’s success.

Dr. Biles’ educational achievements include a Doctor of Education degree from The University of Phoenix in Memphis, TN, a Master’s degree in English Literature, and a Master’s degree in Education from The University of Memphis. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the same institution. Additionally, she possesses professional certifications from the Tennessee Department of Education, including Superintendent, English 7-12, and Instructional Administrator Prek-12.

Throughout her career, Dr. Biles has been recognized for her dedication and achievements. She has received various awards, including a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition, the “Make It Happen” Award, and the John W. White Outstanding Principal of the Month Award. Her exceptional contributions to academic performance led to her recognition as a District Reward School Leader. Dr. Biles has also been honored as a recipient of the Dr. Maya Angelou Reward and the Women of Excellence Award.

Outside of her professional pursuits, Dr. Biles values her personal life. She has been happily married to Alfonzia Barney for 34 years and has a son named Brandon. As a loving grandmother, she takes joy in spending time with her two grandchildren, Bryson and Baileigh. Dr. Biles resides in Cordova, TN, and holds a deep connection to her hometown of Memphis, TN.

When she’s not shaping young minds, Dr. Biles enjoys engaging in hobbies such as bowling and reading. However, her greatest pleasure comes from spending quality time with her family. She is also an active member of The Historic Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Memphis, TN.

With her extensive experience, academic achievements, and passion for education, Dr. Tonya Biles continues to leave a lasting impact on the field of education and the lives of those she serves.

Sydney Dean is the CEO of Day One Maintenance Services, LLC. She specializes in the cleaning and maintenance of commercial and residential properties. She also has a Masters in Social Work from Walden University. Sydney uses her positive attitude and energy to encourage others to work towards success. In her free time, Sydney likes to travel, and spend time with family.

SUZANNE GORDON is a mother of four whose personal journey has ignited a lifelong commitment to sickle cell awareness. Her two younger children were diagnosed with sickle cell disease and her two older children carry the trait. She recognized an urgent need for support and reliable information in the sickle cell community. Having left her career as a paralegal allowed her to focus on what matters most: being there for her children and empowering the sickle cell community.

Suzanne is also a detail-oriented and adaptable arts administrator with extensive experience in nonprofit arts organizations, event coordination and management, with proven ability to oversee operations, streamline administrative processes, manage stakeholder relations, and coordinate performances and events. Passionate about supporting the arts through strong leadership, organizational efficiency, and community engagement, she earned a Master’s degree in Arts Administration, thereby enriching her experience and understanding of nonprofit management, and enabling her to lead with insight and compassion in any advocacy setting.

Previously, Suzanne was partnered as an independent patient/caregiver advocate with the Sickle Cell Community Consortium and served as chair of the Consortium’s Patient & Family Advisory Committee, collaborating with community partners to drive initiatives that amplify the voices of families affected by sickle cell conditions. She now serves as a delegate for Arts Over Odds Foundation, also partnered with the Consortium. Suzanne is also certified as a Healthcare Navigator through Sickle Cell Medical Advocacy, Inc., equipping her with the knowledge and tools to guide families in navigating the complexities of the healthcare system and ensuring their voices are heard. She also serves as the Program Coordinator for Sickle Cell Medical Advocacy, Inc.

A native Memphian, Vernita Herron is a highly respected finance and tax professional whose career reflects a commitment to integrity, accountability, and excellence. Throughout her professional and civic life, she has earned a reputation for being detail-oriented, trustworthy, and results-driven while bringing a warm, collaborative approach to every organization she serves. She has strong interpersonal skills, combined with disciplined financial stewardship, fiduciary responsibility and a heart for service.

Vernita earned her Bachelor of Business Administration, cum laude, from LeMoyne-Owen College and her Master of Business Administration from Webster University. These academic achievements laid the foundation for a successful career spanning more than 25 years in accounting, taxation, and financial compliance.

She currently serves as Sales and Use Tax Manager for nexAir, LLC, one of the nation’s largest privately owned suppliers of industrial, specialty, medical, and bulk gases, dry ice, welding equipment, welding supplies, and medical equipment. In this role, Vernita oversees complex tax compliance initiatives, strengthens internal controls, manages audits, and develops processes that improve operational efficiency while ensuring strict adherence to regulatory requirements.

Vernita is also the Founder and CEO of Creative Works by Vernita, where she provides consulting services and creative marketing solutions to businesses and organizations. Her entrepreneurial experience complements her corporate expertise, giving her a well-rounded understanding of strategic planning, financial management, and organizational leadership.

Vernita is an active member of the Institute for Professionals in Taxation (IPT), a premier professional association dedicated to the education, certification, and ethical advancement of state and local tax professionals. Throughout her career, she has become a trusted resource in sales and use tax by leading cost-saving audit initiatives, developing effective in-house training programs, and helping organizations achieve compliance with confidence and precision.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Vernita has supported numerous civic, community, and charitable initiatives throughout the Memphis area. She believes in using her gifts to strengthen organizations and improve the communities they serve.

Those who know Vernita describe her as poised, professional, and exceptionally dependable. She approaches every responsibility with careful attention to detail, unwavering ethical standards, and a commitment to following established policies, governance practices, and fiduciary responsibilities.

Vernita enjoys fitness, cooking, traveling, and spending quality time with her family. She is also a faithful member of Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Memphis, Tennessee.

Katherine Williams is currently a childcare professional and owner of Touch A Life Childcare and enrichment program of 33 years. Katherine is a graduate of then Memphis State University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Williams also received an associate degree in Early Childhood Education from Shelby State Community College. Prior to starting her childcare program, Katherine worked as a counselor for Midsouth Hospital and Adolescent Program for 14 years and Porter-Leath Children Center for 5 years.