Team

Meet the dedicated leaders driving our mission forward with passion and purpose.

Tawana Pinkney

Executive Director

Tawana Pinkney holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. As a high school student, she was an average performer and faced some behavioral challenges. The idea of attending college was not on her radar, as no one in her family had pursued higher education, and many relied on government assistance. However, Tawana knew she desired a better future, even if she wasn’t sure what that looked like at the time. After experiencing a life-changing injury, Tawana decided to enroll in college. During her studies, she discovered the concept of learning styles and, through this insight, developed healthier coping mechanisms. This newfound understanding sparked a deep passion for learning, and she consistently earned a place on the A/B Honor Roll and Dean’s List each semester. Now, Tawana is committed to helping youth in her community in Texas City, Texas, recognize their own learning styles and cultivate leadership skills to reach their full potential

Quarteisha Beasly

Program Director

Quarteisha Beasley holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and has gained valuable experience through internships with an advocacy center and Child Protective Services (CPS), as well as three years of working in daycare settings. She has always believed that with the right knowledge, individuals can make better choices, and she felt that many families lacked understanding of family dynamics, child development, and effective communication skills. Quarteisha began her college journey at Texas Southern University (TSU) during her freshman year but eventually transferred to the University of North Texas (UNT), where she majored in Social Work with a minor in Psychology. Initially, she aspired to become a social worker with CPS, but her career path took a turn when she discovered her passion for teaching while working with children in daycare. Through this experience, she realized that many children lacked crucial social-emotional development, a challenge she continues to see as a 6th-grade teacher today.

Ulrica Fontenot

Board Member

Ulrica Fontenot, a native of Lufkin, Texas, has been a resident of Galveston County since 2008. She is currently employed as a Process Engineer at The Boeing Company, where she has worked for the past 32 years. Ulrica is a 1985 graduate of Lufkin High School and earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering from Prairie View A&M University in 1989. She later pursued her Master of Arts in Computer Information and Resource Management from Webster University, graduating in 2001. Ulrica has been happily married for nearly 30 years and is the proud mother of three daughters and grandmother to seven grandchildren. She is also a dedicated minister at To God Be the Glory International Worship Center, where she serves in the Youth department and teaches Bible Study. Outside of her professional and ministry roles, Ulrica is deeply involved in her community. She enjoys working with children and serving others. She is a proud supporter of PACE (Promoting Achievement in Communities Everywhere) and a lifetime member of the Prairie View A&M National Alumni Association. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Center for Recovery and Wellness Resources in Houston, Texas, is a board member for the nonprofit organization A Lady at All Times (ALAAT), and is a former Girl Scouts of America leader. Ulrica’s life mission is encapsulated in her favorite scripture: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” – Philippians 4:13.

Sarafina Esquivel

Board Member

Sarafina Esquivel is a dedicated Health Information Management professional with an associates degree from college of the mainland. She completed her clinicals at Devereux Advanced Behavioral Health, where she gained hands-on experience in managing and processing health information within a behavioral health setting. Outside of her professional life Sarafina’s passionate about DIY projects constantly exploring new creative ways to enhance her skills and home. She values family time and enjoys spending quality moments with her three children and her husband of 11 years. Sarafina’s dedication to both her career and family reflects her commitment to creating balance and making meaningful contributions to the fields she’s passionate about.

Demetrious Sandford

Board Member

Demetrious Sandford holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Prairie View A&M University. He has a deep passion for working with children and has been actively involved in several community initiatives. He volunteered with the Special Olympics for three years, where he contributed his time and skills to support athletes. Additionally, Demetrious coached a children’s basketball team on weekends and offered tutoring to help students excel academically. His commitment to helping others is a reflection of his dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of young people.