FOUNDER- CHRISTEN DUKES
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.
CHRIS BRIDGES- VICE PRESIDENT
As a father of two daughters that were diagnosed with sickle cell disease at birth, Christopher Bridges, proudly serves as the Vice President of Arts Over Odds.
As a Lab Technician at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with over ten years of experience, he joined the Patients and Family Advisory Board in 2012 serving as the Vice-Chair for 4 years and Chair (PFAC) for 2 years.
One of the most important things Chris looks to accomplish is to help other families with his story and experiences.
SHANDRIKA HAYSLETT
Shandrika is a Practice Administrator of a primary care and urgent care center with 7 years of experience in healthcare. She holds a Bachelor of Health Science, as well as a Masters Degree in Healthcare Administration. In addition to her role in healthcare, she is a motivational speaker with SASSY: Self Awareness Self Satisfaction everything begins and Ends with YOU! She is a proud member of St. Paul Douglass Missionary Baptist Church for over 20 years and her favorite scripture is Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world but of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is his good pleasing and perfect will.
LINDA STEVENS
Linda Stevens has been a Registered Nurse (RN) for 25 years. She entered the nursing profession with an Associates of Applied Science from Southwest Community College in 1999 and completed her Bachelor of Science (BSN) at Union University in 2006. In 2009, Linda completed her Masters in Nursing with a focus on Leadership/Management from Walden University.
Prior to nursing, Linda worked as an Accountant after completing her Bachelors in Business Administration from Memphis State University. After working in Accounting for a healthcare company for 10 years, she decided that healthcare was where she wanted to be as a clinician and not in the business office; therefore, she started her journey to become a nurse.
In her various roles, she has trained nurses to work on the floor, taught Preceptors how to train others and instructed classes for various skills. In addition, she has worked in many areas of the profession that include her current role as an Administrator in a detention center, Acute Rehabilitation, Quality and Performance Improvement, as well as Information Technology. Linda understands nursing and believe in the profession and its importance in our society as well as the business aspect of life in general.
TOMECIA CONARD-STAFFORD
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. As an International Best Selling Author (Voices of Mothers with Black Sons), she is a proud mother of two sons, and enjoys spending time with family and indulging in self-care as often as possible.
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
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.
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SYDNEY DEAN
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.
KATHERINE WILLIAMS
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.