Nicole Woodard, Children’s Center Branch Executive Director. Nicole holds a master’s degree from the Stanford University School of Education and has served as a school executive director and an education consultant.  She also launched the second University of Chicago Charter School, where she facilitated Pre-K – 5th grade alignment of instruction using formative and comprehensive assessments

Luba Dimitrova, Children’s Center Early Childhood Director. Luba earned two master’s degrees, one in Early Childhood Curriculum and another in Visual Art Education. For 18 years, through her work as an early childhood teacher, coordinator, and director, Luba understands that the early years, from birth to age 5, have the most significant impact on educational and personal success in life.

Andrea Hillsamer, Children’s Center School Age Director. Andrea has a master’s degree in Art in Youth and Community Development from Columbia College Chicago. Andrea has extensive YMCA experience and believes in the Y’s ability to recognize and support the potential in each child.

Teyona James-Harris, Children’s Center Head Start Site Director. Teyona has twenty years of experience in the education field as a teacher and in leadership. She has a master’s degree in Education from University of Pennsylvania and is Nationally Board Certifies in Early Childhood. Through her experiences, she has learned and strongly believes in the power of a quality early childhood education having a positive trajectory of a child’s future. She commits to the futures of all children who she serves at McGaw YMCA Head Start!

Becky Slenk, Children’s Center Director of Program Services and Facilities. Becky holds a bachelor’s degree from DePaul University in Nonprofit Leadership and has served in many capacities at the McGaw YMCA over the past 15 years. She has become a Y-lifer because it inspires her to do work that positively impacts this community.