Our Team
Keterri Shuford
Co-Founder/CEO
Keterri Shuford is passionate about educating, empowering, and inspiring youth to reach their full potential. She began her career in New York City, where she built her portfolio alongside top fashion designers and was featured in Italian Vogue at just 19 years old. Her experience in the fashion industry helped her develop a deep appreciation for creativity, confidence, and connection. After returning to Tennessee, she opened a boutique that allowed her to blend her love for fashion with community engagement. Driven by purpose, entrepreneurship, and service, Keterri is dedicated to changing the trajectory of youth and closing the opportunity gap.
Kirsha Wilson-Smith
Co-Founder/COO
Kirsha Wilson-Smith has over 15 years of experience in medical sales and claims and previously worked as a Field Support Specialist, training new employees and medical providers on billing systems. She holds a bachelor’s degree in finance and has spent more than 20 years mentoring underprivileged and at-risk youth, collaborating with law enforcement to strengthen community relations. Kirsha serves on several community boards and remains dedicated to giving kids a brighter future and helping them stay on a positive path.
Allen Bragg Jr.
Board Member
Allen Bragg is a dedicated community leader and minister with a passion for mentoring young people in hard work, emotional maturity, and faith. A U.S. Army veteran, he has applied his leadership skills to ministry, mentorship, and firearm safety education. Allen is the president of the Queen City Gun Club Chapter of the National African American Gun Association and a Certified Firearms Instructor through the United States Concealed Carry Association. He holds degrees in Occupational Safety and Health and Biblical Studies and is pursuing Christian Ministry studies at Trevecca Nazarene University. Alongside his wife, Tamika, Allen continues to serve his community with compassion, integrity, and a commitment to empowering others.
Dr. Derrick Shepard
Derrick Shepard, Ph.D., is an Assistant Professor at the University of Tennessee, Martin. He received his bachelor’s degree from the University of Tennessee, Chattanooga, his master’s degree from Tennessee Technological University, and his doctorate in Counselor Education and Supervision from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He regularly presents at state, regional, and national conferences and has published in refereed journals as well as authored a book chapter. His research interests include multiculturalism in counseling, social class awareness and skills related to counselor preparation, and pedagogical practices in counselor education and supervision.
Board Member
Dr. ReGina Etter
Dr. ReGina A. Etter has served Metro Nashville Public Schools for over thirty years, advocating for teaching and learning through innovative, practical, and rigorous instructional methods. Her work has influenced educators nationwide and extended to partnerships with organizations such as NSF, NSTA, TSIN, SEC-ME, NABSE, and several universities. Most recently, she has led federally funded STEM and STEAM initiatives impacting schools and communities across the region.