learning center, inc.

Donna Gora, Chair

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Donna Gora is a Financial Advisor with  Merrill Lynch in Sarasota, Florida. She has spent a total of 13 years in the financial services industry, and 8 years working in philanthropy and grants management. See full bio.

Rev. Belinda Alexander

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Rev. Alexander is the current pastor of the Greater Hurst Chapel  AME Church in the Newtown Community.  

See full bio. 

Eula Bacon

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Eula Bacon has over 30 years of community service including organizing cultural events and serving on community  boards.

A Sarasota native, her professional work includes education, social service, non-profit administration and journalism.  

Dr. Marilyn Highland

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Dr. Highland has had a lifetime career in education.  For 17 years, she was principal of Bay Haven School of Basics Plus—  the only school in Sarasota recognized as a Nat'l School of Excellence in 1989.  See full bio.

Carlos Yancy

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Carlos Yancy is a third-generation Sarasotan who grew up in the Newtown community. He enjoyed a brief professional career playing for the New England Patriots under Coach Bill Parcells.  See full bio.

Joseph Mack

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Joseph Mack is an Accounting Specialist with Luther Services

of Florida.  He has worked extensively with the Florida Department of Children and Families, where he was Economic Self Sufficiency Specialist.   See full bio.

Wallace Dasher III

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Wallace Dasher III is the Director of Risk Management and Quality Improvement with Palm Shores Behavioral Health Center in Bradenton, Florida. He has spent 20 years in the mental health, non-profit and social services industries.   See full bio.

Heather Kenny

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Heather A. Kenny, Ph.D., President of Unleashed Innovation, Inc., has been a literacy educator for more than 25  years. She is a highly experienced classroom teacher and Associate Professor in a nationally recognized Graduate Reading Program, and is trained in dyslexia intervention.  See full bio.