My name is Micah McKnight. I am a High School Science Teacher in Anderson, South Carolina working at Liberty Oaks Academy. My background is in Environmental Science with a degree from Anderson University. My passions are reading, exploring and understanding the outdoors, and mentoring youth through Anderson County Library's Gambrell Teen Room and my courses at Liberty Oaks Academy. I enjoy dedicating my time outside of work to serving at my local church and spending time with my friends and family. 

Dr. Chesney Thomas is a dedicated educator with a passion for fostering creativity, innovation, and lifelong learning. She completed her undergraduate and master’s degree from Clemson University and recently earned her Doctorate of Education from South Carolina State University. She has extensive experience teaching in both Anderson and Berkeley County school districts. Currently, she is an educator in the New York City school system, where she continues to inspire students and teachers alike.  

Dr. Thomas’s professional objective is to create an enriching learning environment that nurtures innovative creativity, ignites a passion for learning, and encourages both teachers and students to explore and cultivate their unique talents and abilities—their GENIUS. She believes in the transformative power of education and is committed to empowering learners to reach their full potential.

LaTasha Counts Elliott is the Director of Clients Services at AK101 Marketing and Consulting.  She wears many hats and has an array of experience.  Her first company Youth Empowerment and Family Services was awarded a multi-level state agency contract with the state of South Carolina in 2009.  During that time, she worked directly with youth who were in the foster care system and families who were in crisis.  LaTasha recently became a Youth Mental Health First Aider which is a 3 year certification that empowers her to recognize the signs and symptoms of mental health and substance use problems that impact youth. She is currently the Youth Director if Union #2 where she serves youth from 11 churches here in the upstate.  Since 2004, LaTasha remains consistent in her commitment to empowered youth and their families.   

I'm Alexia Jackosn, a Charlotte-based Project Manager and Agricultural Governance Coordinator at SMBC bank, with a background in Computer Science from North Carolina A&T. I am passionate about education and community service with experience tutoring and mentoring students at New Arrivals Institute in Greensboro, NC during college. Outside of work, I dedicate my time to volunteering with Rice and Beans and Leah's Hopes and Dreams, two nonprofits that support and service the homeless community.