Expertise: Project Management for Innovation – I manage large, cross-functional teams to bring new product innovation to life.
M.A.S.T.R. Kids Attribute: Lead by example – I do math like a girl, try to keep up.
Favorite Book: Still searching for the one…. I love adventure fiction.
Favorite Quote: “If you always do what you always did, you’ll always get what you always got”.
Expertise: After earning a master’s degree in behavioral psychology from her beloved Auburn University, Donna’s career in research, engineering and fundraising took her to SE Asia for 15 years. Returning to the US, she put her skills to work as the Senior Development Officer for St. Anthony’s Hospital Foundation. She is active in the St. Petersburg community and currently serves on the boards of the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts and Great Explorations Children’s Museum.
Master Kids Attribute: The quality programming creates an environment in which children feel safe and cared for, where their self-worth is nurtured and they learn self-care and coping skills to carry them through the rest of their school career and into adulthood.
Favorite Book: Out of Africa by Karen Blixen
Favorite Quote: “Service is the rent we pay for the privilege of living on this earth.” — Shirley Chisholm
Expertise: Law – former State and Federal prosecutor – over 15 years’ experience in civil and criminal law
M.A.S.T.R. Kids Attribute: Practical, analytical and creative thinking – I think it is important to be practical when analyzing issues and use creativity in finding solutions
Favorite Book: “Pride and Prejudice” by Jane Austen
Favorite Quote: “The time is always right to do what is right.” — Martin Luther King, Jr.
Expertise: Jeanay Johnson is a nonprofit program director and communications leader with nearly a decade of executive experience and twenty years dedicated to serving children and youth. She leads multigenerational educational programming through a trauma-informed, culturally competent lens, drawing from a background that spans education, spiritual care, and civic engagement. Advocate for holistic development and lifelong learning. Jeanay is deeply committed to fostering the full spiritual, emotional, and intellectual growth of children and youth so they may lead healthy, confident, and purpose-driven lives.
Favorite Book: Their Eyes Were Watching God by Zora Neale Hurston
Favorite Quote: “The universe is a pretty big place. If it’s just us, seems like an awful waste of space.” ― Carl Sagan
Expertise: Law practice primarily focusing on commercial real estate.
M.A.S.T.R. Kids Attribute: Desire to learn and improve and taking one thing at time to accomplish goals.
Favorite Book: Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann
Favorite Quote: You will face many defeats in life, but never let yourself be defeated. — Maya Angelou
Expertise: Jennifer McGarry is a seasoned technology leader and dedicated community advocate, currently serving as Vice President and Tech Lead at Citi. With a strong background in the finance industry, Jennifer brings over a decade of experience in driving innovation, leading cross-functional teams, and delivering impactful technology solutions. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jennifer is deeply committed to community service. She serves on the boards of SVDP Cares and the St. Pete Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and actively volunteers with the St. Vincent de Paul St. Jude Conference. Her passion for nonprofit work is rooted in a belief that technology and compassion can work hand-in-hand to create lasting change. Jennifer is known for her strategic thinking, collaborative leadership, and unwavering dedication to causes that uplift and empower underserved communities.
Favorite Book: I can’t pick just one. I have read so many great books!
Favorite Quote: “Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.” — Mother Teresa
Expertise: A seasoned law enforcement leader and tech entrepreneur, Major Shakir Miller blends strategic public service with innovative business leadership. He is deeply engaged in community development through mentorship, nonprofit board service, and a steadfast commitment to youth, education, and veteran support.
M.A.S.T.R. Kids Attribute: Unwavering determination and creativity to meet “unattainable” goals – If you have an aspiration and are willing to put in the work and discipline… Nothing is out of reach.
Favorite Book: The 48 Laws of Power by Robert Greene
Favorite Quote: “Get up, no one is coming to save you” — Anonymous
Expertise: K-12 Education
M.A.S.T.R. Kids Attribute: Humor is a great tool for deflection
Favorite Book: The Poverty Problem by Horacio Sanchez
Favorite Quote: “Hold fast to dreams, for if dreams die, life is like a broken-winged bird that cannot fly” — Langston Hughes
Expertise: Extensive leadership and management experience in a broad range of professions including finance/investment banking, engineering, and mental health counseling.
M.A.S.T.R. Kids Attribute: Problem-solving, critical thinking, and active listening. Become a lifelong learner! Wisdom is the key to building a successful and fulfilling life.
Favorite Book: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen R. Covey
Favorite Quote: “Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.” — Henry David Thoreau