Leadership
The son of Hope founders, Bob and Tina Muzikowski, Ike graduated CHA in 2011 before studying Economics at Columbia University. He served as the College Counselor, Admissions Director, long-term sub, International Student Program Director, and varsity soccer coach prior to earning a master's degree in Educational Leadership from Harvard. Ike lives in East Garfield Park, and enjoys international travel, soccer, classic novels, stand-up comedy, and announcing Hope sports games.
Ike Muzikowski
President & Principal
Pat Ahern is a financial executive with extensive experience working with large and small organizations. Most recently, Pat was the Chief Financial Officer at Northwestern Mutual Chicago. Pat holds a bachelor's degree in Finance from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign where he was an Evans Scholar. He also earned an MBA in Corporate Finance from the University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Pat has served as the President of the 1900 Club at Immaculate Conception Grade School for more than 10 years. He serves on the board of the United Cerebral Palsy of Chicago Foundation. He also serves as a mentor for the Bridge Communities transitional housing program. Pat lives in Elmhurst with his wife and their four boys. Pat enjoys golf, running, college football, coaching his son's basketball and football teams, and spending time with his family.
Patrick Ahern
Financial Controller
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Chris Brasfield brings 29 years of experience in athletics and leadership, spanning collegiate and professional sports as he returns to Hope. A founding staff member when the school opened in 2005, Brasfield previously served in key roles at Hope including Bible teacher and Dean of Students. A former Power 4 football student-athlete at Texas Christian University, he holds a bachelor’s degree in Economics and a master’s in Liberal Arts. His career includes coaching and administrative roles at top programs such as the University of Oregon—where he helped lead the team to a Pac-10 Championship and a National Championship game appearance —as well as the University of Nebraska, SMU, Oregon State, Samford University, and UT Rio Grande Valley. In addition to his collegiate experience, Brasfield has worked with five NFL organizations, served as an NFL scout, and contributed in church leadership and personal training. Known for his holistic approach to student-athlete development, Brasfield is committed to fostering growth academically, athletically, and spiritually. He often sums up his mission by saying, “I get to connect people to their purpose.” Chris is the father of three adult children: Tyson, Taylor, and Truman.
Chris Brasfield
Athletics Director
Charles has been a part of the Hope community for over 6 years. While serving as the pastor of Harvest House Church on the west-side of Chicago, Charles was invited to preach at a chapel service at Hope Academy. The mission and vision of Hope aligned so perfectly with how He had been praying for God to use him in the communities where he grew up. He applied his experience and training in real estate and business to come alongside the mission of Hope Cafe and Hope Homes from 2017 to 2021. In 2021, Charles transitioned and began to serve in the role of Dean of School Culture with Hope Academy. With the combination of his military background, experience in youth leadership and pastoral wisdom, Charles is tasked with leading the charge to inspire and direct Hope students and families to embrace the culture that makes Hope unique and distinctive from any other program of its kind.
Charles Landrum
Dean of School Culture
Christopher is the Director of Community Relations and Outreach, a member of the Development Team and the Head Football Coach at Chicago Hope Academy. He is the former Executive Director of the Chicago Violence Reduction Strategy and the former City of Chicago Director of Community Safety Initiatives where he worked to reduce group and gang violence in the City of Chicago.
Christopher has devoted his life to public service, advocating for social justice and serving residents and children in urban communities. He has coached football for more than twenty-five years and has also served the City of Chicago as an Assistant Corporation Counsel; the Faith Community of St. Sabina as General Counsel and Executive Director of the youth center, and the Chicago Public Schools, as a Magnet Schools Cluster Coordinator. Mallette has an A.B. from Princeton University graduate and a J.D. from the University of
Pennsylvania School of Law. Christopher and his wife Kendall have four children.
Christopher Mallette
Director of
Community Engagement
Rebecca Rodriguez, born and raised in Illinois, received her BS from Middle Tennessee State University in Art, History, English, and Human Development. She then went on to receive her MA in Literature and her Teaching Certificate from the University of New Hampshire. Over the years, Rebecca has taught writing, grammar, film, literature, and science at various high schools and colleges, including the University of New Hampshire, Harold Washington College, Malcolm X College, College of DuPage, Cook County Juvenile Detention Center, and several Chicagoland Christian homeschool co-ops. She loves to chill at home in Humboldt Park with her three school-aged sons (two of which attend Hope!), her husband of 21 years, and their Irish Terrier pup. She enjoys yoga, camping, road trips, birding, and hanging out in her backyard around the fire pit. Rebecca serves at Chicago Hope Academy with this quote in mind: “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” ― Aristotle
Rebecca Rodriguez
Dean of Academics
Amy is a seasoned fundraising professional with a B.A. in English and a Certificate in Special Education and Rehabilitation Psychology from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. She is a Certified Fundraising Executive and holds a Philanthropic Leadership Certificate from Indiana University. With extensive experience across various organizations, including dioceses, schools, and nonprofits, Amy specializes in major capital campaigns, donor cultivation, and development strategy. She founded AES Consulting in 2017 and The RD Coach in 2023, aiming to empower nonprofit professionals. A dedicated community leader, she serves as President of the Association of Fundraising Professionals Northwest IN and is actively involved with several charities. Outside of her professional endeavors, Amy enjoys spending time with her family, cooking, and has completed the Chicago Marathon—though she vows never to run another! Residing in St. John, Indiana, she shares her home with her husband, daughter, and beloved dogs.
Amy Sexton Stanislavski
Chief Advancement Officer
Teachers
Latausha Allen was born and raised on the West Side of Chicago. She holds an Associate of Science in Criminal Justice and a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science, with minors in Sociology and Criminology, from Northern Illinois University. Passionate about education and faith, Latausha teaches psychology and sociology from a Christian worldview, guiding students as they explore human behavior and society through the lens of God’s truth. She finds it deeply rewarding to help young minds connect their academic pursuits with their spiritual growth. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys spending quality time with her husband of 19 years and their five children. Her free time is often filled with Bible study, binge watching crime shows, painting, shopping, and serving others.
Latausha Allen
This is Ms. Brooks’ second year at Chicago Hope Academy. She graduated from Olivet Nazarene University in May 2022 and is currently seeking a Master´s in Marine Science. When Ms. Brooks is not at school enjoying time with the students, she is probably at home with her husband, Dominic, and her son, Beckham. Also part of their little family is their three dogs and cat! She loves any opportunity she can get to be outside enjoying nature by doing anything from kayaking to photography!
Cheyenne Brooks
Nathaniel Brumbaugh has been at Hope for 3 years as the Foundations of Faith teacher and has lived in Chicago for the past 10 years. He has a M.A. from Moody Theological seminary and works as the assistant director of student ministries at the Moody church. In his free time he enjoys trying new restaurants, coffee shops, and festivals with his wife of 7 years, Emily. You’d often find him playing games, painting miniatures, reading, or doing just about anything as long as it’s with other people. He’s energetic and passionate about helping youth grow into their God given potential.
Nate Brumbaugh
Aidan Busch has loved history since he completed a project on Abraham Lincoln in the third grade. He grew up in the northwest Chicago Suburbs and graduated from Wheaton College with a BA in History and Secondary Education, and has a MA in School Leadership from Baylor University. He is passionate about helping students understand the complexity of history, and his favorite time period to study (and teach!) is the lead-up to the Civil War. In his free time, Aidan loves to do anything outside with his wife and dog, and leads a small group at church. Most weekends he can be found spending time with family or friends, drinking coffee, or doing yard work.
Aidan Busch
Daniel Cameron, SoCal native at heart, received his Ph.D. from The University of Aberdeen. He holds a B.A. from Moody Bible Institute, an M.A. from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, and a Certificate in Youth and Theology from Princeton Theological Seminary. He has taught Bible, Theology, Worldview, Christian Education, Popular Culture, and Church History at the Jr. High, High School, and College level. In his spare time, he loves hanging out with his wife of 13 years and his dog. He enjoys traveling, fishing, reading, and writing. His current editing project is entitled “Theology, Religion, and The Office.”
Daniel Cameron
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Ms. Cameron teaches English III and AP English Language & Composition. She holds a BA in Communications from Moody Bible Institute and an MA in History of Christianity from Wheaton College where she studied at the intersection of literary history and women's history, focusing on medieval women religious writers. Besides talking about women who love Jesus and write about it, she enjoys travel, dabbling in new arts and crafts, cuddling her dog, Captain, eating out, and most of all going to the movies. Her favorite place in Chicago is Music Box Theater, where she can be found way too often for the tastes of Dr. Cameron, her husband. Originally from Colorado, they have called Chicago home since 2010, and have lived in West Garfield Park since 2014.
Sarah Cameron
Johanna DeHaven has her MA in the History of Christianity from Wheaton College. She also majored in Biblical and Theological Studies for her undergraduate degree at Wheaton. In addition, she is trained and licensed to teach social studies and history at the secondary level by the state of Illinois. She enjoys reading, running, and spending time with her family’s dogs in her free time. This is her fifth year teaching World History at Chicago Hope Academy.
Johanna DeHaven
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Elizabeth Emswiler
Mr. Fischer first discovered his passion for teaching math at University when he collaborated with fellow students on homework assignments and projects. He later decided to get his Masters in math education from Northeastern Illinois University. He enjoys working with students and helping them grow academically. When not teaching math, Mr. Fischer enjoys running on the lake front or cooking up something new in the kitchen.
Jake Fischer
Ingrid is originally from Argentina and is passionate about sharing her culture and language with students. She holds a Master’s degree in Spanish as a Second Language, as well as extensive experience teaching Spanish to students of different ages and backgrounds. This year at Hope, Ingrid will be teaching Spanish 1 and Spanish 2, and is excited to create an engaging and supportive learning environment where students can grow in their language skills and cultural understanding.
Ingrid is thrilled to be part of the Hope community because of its warm atmosphere, strong sense of purpose, and commitment to helping students succeed not only academically but also personally. Outside the classroom, she enjoys exploring new places, reading, and spending time outdoors. She also loves cooking traditional Argentine dishes to share with family and friends. She looks forward to a wonderful year of learning and growing together!
Ingrid Garcia
Collin Hardy grew up in Lafayette, Indiana. During high school, he moved to Byron, Illinois. Collin received his BA from Wheaton College in Political Sciences and Theology. He is very passionate about financial literacy, discipline, and wise stewardship with resources God has blessed people with. Using this passion, Collin will be teaching consumer math. Some of Collin’s hobbies include reading and playing classic video games. In addition, Collin is the assistant coach for Hope Wrestling.
Collin Hardy
Mr. Kolmer was born in St. Louis, MO, where he studied English at Saint Louis University and earned his Masters in Education at Lindenwood University. After three years of elevating his teaching craft in St. Louis, he packed up his belongings and headed for Chicago to start the next chapter of his life. Now living in Lincoln Park, he enjoys walking the busy streets of Chicago, trying new restaurants, and most of all, going to Wrigley Field when the Cardinals are in town. This year, he looks forward to helping the students of Chicago Hope tap into their true potential.
Charles Kolmer
Born and raised in Manila, Philippines, Ruby Yao Lorenzo speaks Hokkien, Filipino, English, and Mandarin. Mrs. Lorenzo has a BS in Chemistry, an MS in Chemistry Education, and a Postbac from UIC. After teaching for 11 years, she became an administrator in two Christian schools in Manila before migrating to the US in 2005. Since 2007, she has continued her teaching career at Hope. She has fond memories of her travel in 9 countries. In her spare time, Mrs. Lorenzo enjoys watching sci-fi, listening to classical music and preaching. Her favorite quotation is from C.T. Studd — ‘Only one life, ’twill soon be past. Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Ruby Lorenzo
Mr. Ortiz grew up in Puerto Rico, where he graduated with a BA in Psychology. He has worked in a high school setting for the last 19 years. He served both as a teacher and a Spiritual Life Coordinator for an ACSI accredited school in Puerto Rico (Wesleyan Academy), and has been working at Chicago Hope as a teacher for the last 9 years. Mr. Ortiz is passionate about working and serving not only as a teacher, but also as a mentor for students.
Jose Ortiz
Meet the new English IV and EYE instructor, Luke Petro. Luke graduated from Nebraska Wesleyan University (’13), where he earned a B.A. in history. In 2015, he completed a teacher certification program at Northeastern Illinois University. While this is his first year at CHA, he brings eight years of experience teaching literature and entrepreneurship on Chicago’s South Side. Additionally, he teaches an entrepreneurship program to students from all over the world at the University of Michigan during the summer. He calls Bridgeport his home, where he resides with his wife and three children. When he is not teaching, he loves spending time with his family, reading, watching baseball, grilling in the backyard, or working on his own entrepreneurial ventures.
Luke Petro
Diego Sam is a Hope alumnus who graduated in 2020 amidst the beginning of the COVID 19 epidemic. That same year Diego enrolled into the University of Illinois Chicago to pursue a degree in Secondary Education of the Social Sciences. Diego graduated with his degree in May of 2025. He will be the full time substitute teacher at Chicago Hope Academy this year. This means Diego will be in the school at all times while there are classes to ensure that our students always have another educator around in case a teacher is unable to be in their classroom. Diego is incredibly excited to give back to his alma mater which has given so much to him. Diego enjoys weight lifting, attending sports events, reading, and spending invaluable time with his friends and loved ones.
Diego Sam
Travis Shannan is a teacher at Chicago Hope Academy.
Travis Shannan
Mr. Schreiber teaches philosophy. His teaching is in large measure shaped by two contexts. First, he grew up in Burkina Faso and Cote d’Ivoire where his family cared for a menagerie of wild animals, including apes, monkeys, deer, a civet, a crocodile, and a bush baby. “You can take the boy out of the wild, but you can’t take the wild out of the boy.” Second, he became acquainted with Plato years ago and has been enjoying a deepening friendship ever since. “Choose your friends wisely.” Speaking of wisely, philosophy is defined as the “love of wisdom.” With each passing year, Schreiber senses a growing need for wisdom. Philosophy is a depository of human wisdom which, when viewed in the light of divine Wisdom, is a worthy map on this Journey of Life.
Stephen Schreiber
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Leah Tolliver is excited to join Chicago Hope Academy as the new biology teacher! Leah grew up on the South Side of Chicago, and as a parent herself, understands the importance of creating a safe, encouraging space for young people to learn and grow. She is a graduate of Columbia College Chicago with a passion for learning, establishing creative and interactive approaches to making concepts come alive, and a deep commitment to helping students succeed. Leah believes science is for everyone and is eager to help tomorrow's leaders explore biology. Together, Leah and her learners will create an engaging, supportive classroom where curiosity can grow.
Leah Tolliver
Nicolas Valderrama is in his fifth year as a teacher and his first year at Hope, where he is teaching Human Geography as well as AP Human Geography. He graduated from Michigan State University with a major in History Education and a minor in TESOL. Nicolas is very passionate about his role as an educator and enjoys helping guide students through their educational experience. When he is not in school, Nicolas enjoys finding local bookshops with his wife, watching sports and being active with his friends, and unwinding at home with his wife and their two cats. Nicolas is excited to get to know the freshman class and is looking forward to this academic school year.
Nicolas Valderrama
Mr. Walters is an experienced union electrician with over 20 years of experience in residential, industrial, and commercial electrical installations, maintenance, and repair. He has a proven track record of successful projects and various infrastructures with a commitment to safety and efficiency. His goal at Hope is to prepare students for a registered apprenticeship program by offering structured pre-apprenticeship training.
Kevin Walters
Sam Westra grew up on the other side of Lake Michigan in Grand Rapids, MI. He holds a BA in History/Social Science and Secondary Education from Wheaton College. He has experience in teaching social studies and literature and has a deep passion for helping others grow in the way they see God, the world, and people through learning. He teaches English I and strives to show students the meaning and power of words through the course. He loves the community which Hope provides for its staff and students and the commitment it holds to delivering an exceptional education. In his free time he enjoys running, hiking, camping, and traveling (especially to national parks). He also enjoys exploring Chicago, finding books to enjoy, and watching football (both kinds).
Sam Westra
Staff
Kristen Blevins is from Knoxville, TN. She earned her Master’s in Higher Education Administration from Lee University and is a two-time NCAA All-American in Track & Field. She’s the only girl and the middle child among two brothers. Kristen enjoys a good laugh, is quite silly, and strives to be the salt of the earth (Matt. 5:13-16). She also loves reading, hiking, and watching movies. To give you a sense of her enthusiasm, she’s the person who claps in the theater at the end of a good movie.
Kristen Blevins
Student Success Coordinator
Ulises Chancoso is a first-generation college student who recieved his BA in Digital Marketing from DePaul University.
Ulises Chancoso
Development and Marketing Intern
Gail Clark has been a pillar in her community for many years and is passionate about the students and families in which she serves and brings to the table over 15 years in education and more than 25 years in a role of leadership and development. She comes to Hope in the capacity of the Executive Assistant to the President. Gail studied Psychology Pre-Med at the University of Illinois at Chicago and earned her B.S. in Business Management with a concentration in Leadership and Development at National Louis University. Gail is currently pursuing her M.S. in Organizational Leadership (MSOL) at NLU.
Gail Clark
Executive Assisstant
Jenellie is a Chicago native (GO CUBS!) born and raised in the West side of Chicago in the Humboldt Park neighborhood. Jenellie is the first generation of her family to graduate from college receiving her Master’s in Social Work from Northeastern Illinois University. Jenellie loves to encourage, support, and empower students and staff at Hope. Her favorite things are dancing, laughing, and cuddling her fur baby (JAXX).
Jenellie Coleman
School Counselor
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Julia grew up in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago and is a graduate of CPS. After graduating from Wheaton College with a BA in English Writing, she worked at several mission-driven organizations doing events and communications. Julia is excited to be at Hope because of the energy of the students and the compassion and diversity of the whole school community. Her favorite things to do in Chicago are to explore bookstores and swim in Lake Michigan.
Julia Dennis
Marketing Comms Manager
Born and raised in Chicago, Ronnie Fields played at Farragut Academy from 1992–1996 and was a teammate of Kevin Garnett during the 1994 season. In Fields’ senior year, he made the ALL-USA first team while averaging 32.4 points, 12.2 rebounds, and 4.5 blocks. Just weeks before the state playoffs, Fields was involved in a car accident that resulted in a broken neck. For a lot of people, that would be the end of the story, but Ronnie Fields kept playing. He declared himself eligible for the 1996 CBA Draft and was selected 73rd overall by the LaCrosse Bobcats. Fields also suited up as an import in the Philippine Basketball Association for the Tanduay Rhum Masters. He has also played in Venezuela, Turkey, Lebanon, Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, and Greece. Fields also played in the ABA, reuniting with Joey Meyer in the 2000-2001 season with the Chicago Skyliners. Today, Ronnie Fields is a dedicated coach and mentor to young athletes from across Chicago at Chicago Hope Academy and through his program at Ronnie Fields Elite.
Ronnie Fields
Head Basketball Coach
Sarah brings over 25 years of finance experience in faith-based, mission-driven organizations and is currently pursuing a BA in Accounting. Alongside her husband Chris, she serves as one of the lead pastors of Rhythm Chicago.
Sarah is honored to be part of the Hope team, where she continues to be inspired by its mission, culture, and family-like atmosphere. She believes that every person deserves to be part of a community that loves them, supports them, and believes in their God-given potential. As a Chicago native, she enjoys going to both Cubs AND Sox games, being part of local Euchre leagues and is a self proclaimed Skeeball champion!
Sarah Griffith
Staff Accountant
Michelle Izguerra brings more than 20 years of experience in executive support, finance, and operations within Chicago’s educational and nonprofit sectors. As Executive Assistant to the President of Chicago Hope Academy, she supports leadership initiatives, advancement efforts, and daily operations that help sustain the school’s mission of providing Christ-centered education. A first-generation Mexican-American and longtime community advocate, Michelle is passionate about empowering students and families through faith, service, and opportunity. Her work reflects a commitment to excellence, integrity, and building strong relationships that advance Hope’s vision for the future of Chicago’s youth.
Michelle Izguerra
Executive Assistant to the President
Donald was born in Los Angeles, California, the proud son of a pastor. Growing up, he was a two sport athlete and found his stride in both basketball and track during high school. At 21 he left home to join the U.S. Army. Over the next 20 years, Donald worked as an Aviation Radar and Countermeasure Technician and later as a recruiter, eventually retiring honorably in 2021.
Family means everything to him. Donald is a devoted husband and father to four incredible children—three daughters and one son—who are now between the ages of 21 and 25. The last four years he was able to channel his passion for leadership and mentorship into his roles as a JROTC instructor and the boys’ varsity basketball coach at Michele Clark High School in the Austin neighborhood. Whether in the classroom or on the court, he is committed to guiding young people through discipline, teamwork, and strong character. He is very excited and proud to be a part of the Hope family!
Donald Knott
Hope Student Athletic Center Facilities Director
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Kewa Marshall works in facilities and maintenance at Chicago Hope Academy.
Kewa Marshall
Facilities and Maintenance
Dionne is a mom of four wonderful children who resides on the near north side of Chicago. Dionne attended Chicago Public Schools during her childhood and made her way to Carbondale at SIU for undergrad. When she returned to Chicago, she attended Chicago State for graduate school, where she soon quickly entered into the teaching profession. Dionne's most favorite pastime is hopping in her minivan with her children and mom for adventurous road trips.
Dionne McKenzie
Registrar/Power School Administrator
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Melissa Montiel is a proud Hope alumna and a first-generation college student who received her BA in Sociology and Spanish from Wheaton College. She is passionate about college readiness and access to equal opportunities available to first-generation students. She is also a Director of Academics with HFS Chicago Scholars.
Melissa Montiel
School Operations Manager
Stephanie Montiel is from the South Side of Chicago. She has been part of the Hope family for over 10 years starting with her oldest daughter, Melissa, followed by sophomore in college Angel, and current senior, Emileny. She loves spending time with her family and adores her pet dogs, Oreo and Nena, and her two birds, Chiquis and Palomo. She loves to go to the movies, enjoys reading a good book, and loves Mexican food.
Stephanie Montiel
Office Administrator
Scout Muzikowski works as a Director of Admissions & Student Life, Girls Rugby Coach, and Assistant Girls Basketball Coach. Scout is a daughter of Hope founders, Bob and Tina Muzikowski, and graduated from Hope in 2015. Upon graduating, she attended the University of Notre Dame where she captained the women’s rugby team and enjoyed growing YoungLife programs serving inner city students in the local South Bend community. Scout then spent time as a commercial real estate broker before returning to her alma mater. The 7th of 8 siblings, Scout is passionate about relationships, creating opportunities for students, sports as a tool for community building, and college and career counseling.
Scout Muzikowski
Director of Admissions & Student Life
Jose grew up in the Gage Park neighborhood of Chicago and is a Chicago Hope Academy alumni. After obtaining a degree in Business – Finance from Calvin University, he worked at the City of Grand Rapids doing community and business development and at Bank of America doing personal banking. Jose is excited to be back at Hope and be part of Hope’s supportive and compassionate community. His favorite things in Chicago are trying new coffee shops and restaurants, playing pick-up basketball, and exploring different neighborhoods.
Jose Nietes
Career Advancement Director
After surviving two kidney transplants and a pancreas transplant, Lissette battled diabetes, lost her vision, and lived in the ICU for nearly two decades. Once she was restored to full health in 2016, Lissette began volunteering at Hope to give back to the school that provided wrap-around services for her son. Since then, Lissette has served as the Admissions Coordinator. With one son in the penitentiary and one son at an Ivy League, she is passionate about mentorship and Christian education because she knows how much of an impact they can have on a child’s life.
Lissette Ortiz
Alumni Relations
As a varsity student-athlete, Dorian Robinson graduated from the College of Mount Saint Vincent in the Bronx, NY, where he majored in Communication & Media Studies. He then spent a year in Rome earning a masters degree in Sports Business while playing basketball at the professional level. His previous work experience includes an internship at Coyote Logistics, helping to lead Hi-Five Sports Camp, and working in the Admissions Department all while being inducted into the communication honor society, Lamba Pi Eta.
Dorian Robinson
Assoc. Admissions Director
Keith Sanders is a lifetime Chicagoan with a passion for mentoring youth to combat the temptations and accessibility of negative lifestyles in Chicago. After leaving his position as a Sports Coordinator for the Chicago Park District, Keith spent two decades in Chicago Public Schools as a Security Guard and Basketball Coach before taking on his role at Hope. He enjoys coaching basketball, softball, and volleyball for students of all ability levels. He celebrates students for pursuing a passion before excelling in a passion, and is determined to help educators see the potential and goodness in every student.
Keith Sanders
Assistant Building Manager
Shavon was born on the West Side of Chicago. She has been married 16 years and has 3 wonderful sons. Shavon a.k.a. Mrs. Peaches has been serving the Hope community since 2016 when her middle son was at Hope. Starting as a volunteer in Mrs. Irma’s Cafeteria, Mrs. Peaches has been a BIG advocate for Chicago Hope Academy working in any area of the Hope community that God places her in. She has since applied her experience at the Hope Homes real estate office and the school main office. Mrs. Peaches also has been serving after school lunches to the Hope community since December 2016. Her favorite songs are: Jack Black-Peaches, Justin Bieber- Peaches and The Ikettes-Peaches & Cream!
Shavon Stephens
Office Administrator
As the Grants and Database Manager, Leena Tyagi blends her passion for funding with her knack of organization. With over 4 years of experience in both the non-profit and corporate sectors, Leena has honed her skills in securing resources that make a difference. She also previously interned with the Office of Chicago Elections, learning the ins and outs of civic engagement — talk about a vote of confidence! In her free time, you can find Leena painting or reading. She is an avid hiker, dancer and yogi. Leena describes her humor as delightfully lame and is always looking for a dad joke.
Leena Tyagi
Grants & Database Manager
Steve Warren is the Assistant Athletic Director at Chicago Hope Academy.
Steve Warren
Assistant Athletic Director
Grace Wang is the Development Coordinator at Hope.
Grace Wang
Development Intern
Board of Directors
Brian Sir currently serves as a member of the Audit Committee of Guggenheim Partners, a global investment and advisory firm with more than $270 billion in assets under management, where he previously worked as the Chief Operating Officer. Brian also served as a member of numerous of the Firm’s internal governance and operating committees, was a senior advisor to the Office of Diversity and Inclusion, and a co-executive sponsor of WIIN (Women’s Innovation and Inclusion Network). Prior to joining Guggenheim, Brian was a partner and Executive Committee member of the law firm of Schuyler, Roche & Zwirner. He is a graduate of Quincy University, passed the CPA examination, and received a J.D. from the University of Illinois School of Law.
Brian Sir
Board Chair
DeRondal Bevly is the founder and managing director of RubyRose Strategies, LLC, a strategic communications boutique firm that specializes in creating platforms for managing, marketing and distributing brand content. He has nearly two decades of combined professional and philanthropic experience and is deeply passionate about developing and leveraging relationships within Chicago’s non-profit and philanthropic community. He is a Chicagoland native, earned his bachelor’s of business administration in economics at Western Michigan University and currently resides in Forest Park, Illinois.
DeRondal Bevly
Josh is an attorney at Burke, Warren, MacKay & Serritella, P.C., concentrating his practice on the needs of middle-market businesses, their owners, and entrepreneurs. Josh earned his bachelor’s from Huntington University and a law degree from Loyola University Chicago. Before his work as an attorney, he taught English and Speech, Logic and Debate, as well as coaching boys’ soccer for three years at Chicago Hope Academy. He and his fellow coaches were named 2010 Coach of the Year in the Chicago Prep Conference. Josh has continued his dedication to adequate and equitable K-12 education after law school.
Josh Cauhorn
Mike is a Wealth Manager at Alchemy Financial Group. With over 30 years experience in Finance, Mike serves on Hope's Board as well as the Finance Committee and chair of the Investment Committee. Involved with the school since founding in 2005, his family also helped underwrite chapel reconstruction. Mike has coached both the varsity boy's baseball as well as basketball programs. He and his wife Kristie attend Willow Creek Church and they are the proud parents of Jackson (Hope '15), Kathryn and Clayton. Mike still enjoys coaching youth baseball with his 2 grown sons and golfing with friends and family.
Michael Edwards
Matt Gerdes is a Principal and Managing Director of Freeport Financial Partners LLC, a Chicago-based investment management firm. He is responsible for structuring and managing middle-market private credit investments for Freeport’s funds and is a member of the firm’s investment and management committees. Mr. Gerdes graduated with a B.S. in Finance from Northern Illinois University and holds an M.B.A. from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. He and his wife, Jennifer, reside in Western Springs and have two college-age children. In his free time, Matt enjoys spending time with family and friends on Delavan Lake in Wisconsin and coaching youth basketball.
Matt Gerdes
Kristin Jackson is an entrepreneur with a passion for presenting news and information in a free and fair way. Kristin launched Freespoke.com in 2022, where she is now the President. She is also the CEO of Paycheckology. Kristin previously served as a senior advisor to the Kemp Foundation and The Policy Circle. Earlier in her career, Kristin was a public servant on Capitol Hill and an Associate Program Officer at an institute promoting democracy and combating authoritarian regimes in Latin America. Kristin has a bachelor’s degree in Political Science, Psychology and Spanish from Missouri State University and a master’s in Government from Georgetown University.
Kristin Jackson
Gene is the Executive Director of International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers – National Electrical Contractors Association (IBEW-NECA) Technical Institute (IN-Tech). Over his 25-year career Gene has developed a passion for the unionized electrical industry. He spent years as an electrician before shifting into an instructor position developing apprentices into journeypersons. Now, as Director of IN-Tech, Gene’s passion has changed to help support and develop the people of the unionized electrical industry. Gene has earned a B.S. from Illinois Institute of Technology, a M.S. in Education Design from Purdue University, and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Organizational Leadership at Concordia University. Gene has an amazing wife and three wonderful young children.
Gene Kent
David Lewis is the founder and CEO of Circumspect Capital, a private investment firm focused on acquiring and building lower middle-market companies. David leads career development efforts in partnership with Chicago Booth Alumni Club for Hope’s student body. He also serves on the Board of Directors for The Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana. David is a graduate of Hampton University, Indiana University Maurer School of Law, and The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. David and his wife, Dr. Dakisha Lewis, live in Oak Park with 3 sons – Joshua, Jacob, and Noah.
David Lewis
Tom Luick is a Managing Director with Protiviti, leading Protiviti’s Technology Consulting solution for Midwest US. Tom is a member of Protiviti’s global Technology Consulting leadership team, helping set the solution’s strategy and manage its operations. He is also the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion champion for Protiviti’s Chicago office and a leader in the firm’s advocacy for education in the community. Tom and his wife Rachel have two children, Hailey and Michael, both attending St. Ignatius College Prep. The Luick family lives in the Lakeview neighborhood and are active members of St. Josaphat parish, enjoy city life in Chicago, traveling, and sports.
Tom Luick
James E. McGill co-founded Stotan Industrial in 2021 and serves as President-Principal, overseeing investment opportunities, strategic direction, and daily operations. Under his leadership, the company grew from 2 to 12 employees by 2024 and expanded into new markets. Stotan has completed over 2.5 million square feet of development projects, with $316 million invested across five states. Before Stotan, Jim was Executive VP at CA Industrial, where he helped grow the platform and completed $50M in assets and $95M in construction. Jim holds degrees in finance from Iowa State University and the University of Iowa.
James McGill
Traci Melcher is from Springfield, Massachusetts and holds degrees from University of Massachusetts at Amherst and Georgetown University. Traci served in the Navy for 23 years with a variety of sea and shore assignments, most notably as Commanding Officer of Helicopter Combat Support Squadron Six. Following retirement from Naval Service in 2007, Traci embarked on a career of education and community activism. Traci also has a degree in Culinary Arts from Le Cordon Bleu. She actively serves at First Presbyterian Church of River Forest. Traci and her husband Chuck reside in Oak Park and enjoy traveling and spending time with their four grown children.
Traci Melcher
Antonia Mills Wesselink is the owner of Antonia L Mills, Attorney at Law, PC. After receiving her Bachelors of Science degree from DePaul University in Political Science with a minor in Economics, she obtained her Juris Doctorate from Chicago Kent College of Law and was admitted to the Illinois State Bar in 2011.While her early career was spent in the not-for-profit sector, Antonia started her real estate law practice in 2016. Antonia currently holds many volunteer leadership positions. In addition to Antonia’s law practice and volunteer work, she is the Co-Founder of a tech start-up company called AIRESync, which seeks to automate the real estate transaction process.
Antonia Mills Wesselink
Chris Porter is an Executive Managing Director at Cushman & Wakefield. Since joining C&W in 1987, Chris has been involved in the successful completion of more than 900 transactions with an aggregate value in excess of $2.5 billion and is a consistent top producer. He represents sellers, purchasers, landlords, or tenants, in the sale or lease of industrial facilities, land or build-to-suits in the Chicago marketplace. In addition, he provides advisory/strategic and transaction services for clients with multi-market (national and international) commercial real estate portfolios. Passionate about social change in Chicago, Chris joined the Chicago Hope board in 2013.
Chris Porter
Gregg is President of Admiral Advisory Group in Naperville, IL. He has 30+ years of tax and risk management experience and has served for 12 years in the Hope community. He is a graduate of the Booth school of business and is on the Finance and Executive Committees.
Gregg Vann
Alissa serves as President of the Board of Directors of Oak Rose Fund, working to promote and advance meaningful improvements in education, workforce development, health, and economic mobility in communities across the country. She is an experienced legislative affairs and policy staffer with over a decade of political and government experience. Alissa previously worked at Empower Illinois, the state’s leading scholarship granting organization focused on education policy advocacy dedicated to serving black students and majority minority private schools, and on Capitol Hill, specializing in financial services, veteran’s affairs, armed services, and education.
A graduate of the University of Kansas, DePaul College of Law, and the American University in Washington, D.C., 2010, Alissa is a member of the Illinois Bar and has a Master's in Public and Strategic Communications. Alissa and her husband Richard are involved in many philanthropic endeavors in the Midwest.