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Mildred “Granny” Atkins is a founding board member of Dancing4Diabetes.  Back in 2012, alongside Ambassador Freje Randall, I helped to name this organization and shape its values of joy, resilience, and community uplift.  I've used my 40 years of experience in medical billing, coding, insurance verification, patient coordination, and clinical data services, to help enriched our mission by translating technical expertise into community empowerment.

As a breast cancer survivor, I've tried to embody the message that we seek to instill in every child and family we serve: that healing, empowerment, and joy are always possible.

Leta McCarty is a Founding Board Member and the Co-Chair of Technology and Website for the 2025–2026 term. 

With over 34 years of distinguished experience in the oil and gas industry, I was responsible for mastering SAP implementations with concentration in financial and procurement modules.  Additionally, I worked to streamline digital systems, integrate business solutions, and manage high-level projects to elevate the digital infrastructure.  I've used this expertise to ensure every event runs smoothly, efficiently, and with excellence.  

In my spare time, I have volunteered with community-based initiatives, including Texas Special Olympics, Breast Cancer Walks, Toy Drives, and am currently serving as Affiliate Treasurer for the Houston Counseling Association.

Neita Hunt is a Founding member and Co-Chair of Technology and Website committee.  I am proud graduate of Grambling State University and a distinguished HBCU alumni. I've used my love of Research to ensure the accuracy, accessibility, and integrity of D4D’s digital presence while vetting public events and engagements for the program Ambassador. In addition, I support broader community causes, including Breast Cancer Awareness, Texas Special Olympics, St. Jude Walks, and seasonal Toy and Doll Drives.

Professionally, I've had more than three decades of experience with Shell, where I held roles such as IT Process Analyst for Emergency Response and Service Assurance Analyst. My expertise in disaster recovery, cyber resilience, and compliance coordination brings exceptional value to my professional career as well as my nonprofit service.

My leadership, technical expertise, and commitment to service continue to strengthen as I was honored to join Houston Counseling Assocation as an affiliate member serving as Co-Treasurer and a member of the Hospitality committee.

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Sharon James is a Founding Board member of Dancing4Diabetes.  With 25-year legacy in elementary education, I have a passion for youth and families, particularly through my work as an ESL instructor, team leader, curriculum developer, and family engagement innovator. Programs like “Moms With HEART” and “PEERS” remain testaments to uplift, affirm, and empower through education. From the earliest stages of our journey, I was responsible for development and delivery of our educational programming—ensuring that our approach was empowering, inclusive, and culturally responsive. Beyond education, I am dedicated to healing and justice through my advocacy with Women in Transitional Living Programs, Domestic Violence Centers, and the Houston Commission on Disabilities.

Dr. Felicia D. Sterling is a Founding board member of Dancing4Diabetes. 

I hold a Doctor of Education in Educational Leadership from Texas Southern University and currently serve at Spillane Middle School in Cypress-Fairbanks ISD, where I support students as both a Special Education Teacher and Substitute Administrator.  I am a proud alumna of Southern University and Texas Southern University and holds certifications in special education and school leadership.

My work has spanned behavioral support, academic intervention, and family engagement—always rooted in equity, empathy, and excellence.

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As a founding force behind Dancing4Diabetes, I was responsible for shaping its mission to promote wellness, cultural expression, and emotional resilience among youth—especially dancers and students of color. 

With more than 30 years of experience in special education, instructional leadership, and student-centered programming, I continuously champion the intersection of health, education, and community empowerment to every space in which I serve.

Altaira Davis is a Founding Board member of Dancing4Diabetes.  I, previously, served as Assistant Principal of Special Education and MTSS Coordinator at KIPP Texas Public Schools, where I worked to build inclusive environments and advance achievement for students with diverse needs. I was, also, recognized as a 2024 HAABSE Teacher of the Year nominee, a distinction that highlights my commitment to education and transformative influence on students and families.

Beyond my school leadership, I founded QUAD A Educational Consultants, an organization dedicated to empowering students and educators. Through QUAD A, I provide targeted tutoring services for grades K–12, as well as Special Education advocacy for families navigating educational systems. I, also, served as a coach in Alief ISD, where I supported both academic and social-emotional growth for students, further strengthening my ability to empower youth and educators alike. This work bridges gaps, strengthens families, and ensures students receive the resources they need to succeed.

My expertise extends well beyond the classroom.  In my role as Social Media Chair for Houston Counseling Association, I've increased the organization's social media insights, visibility, and engagement.  My changes to social media for this organization has increased membership and greater participation in all events promoted on social media.