Our Team
Founder/Executive Director
Mike leads the Protectors Mission and is Creator-Author of the Avery and Masa® Educational Platform.
Mike’s background as an elementary educator, youth mentor, writer, and changemaker has prepared him to build a strong foundation for the organization. Mike has developed and executed our successful two-year Title 1 school literacy pilot program resulting in an dynamic increase in 3rd grade literacy scores.
Mike holds a BA in Education from San Diego State University with a specialization in Children’s Literature. He lives in Charlotte, NC with his wife, Sterling and their son, Dylan.
Michael Deeney
Director of Impact Programs
Paris Harrell leads the advancement and development of the year-long Protectors Impact Programs.
For the last 8 years Paris has served as an educator within the Charlotte Mecklenburg School District, specializing in curriculum amplification, instructional design, project and event management, community and family engagement, and Title I/Testing coordination.
Paris has taught K-5th grade learners and was awarded the CMS Central I Teacher of the year in 2021. She lives in Charlotte, NC with her Husband, Avery and their son, Liam.
Paris Harrell
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Kathleen Alcorn
Board Member
Advisory Board Chair
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Catherine McKenzie
Advisory Board Member
Social Impact & Media
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Principal Shanna Rae
Advisory Board Member
Literacy & Title 1 School Engagement
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Matthew Leiner
Advisory Board Member
Director of Fundraising Concerts & Events
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Taylor Patno
Advisory Board Member
Children’s Theatre Program
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Chava Rosenberg
Communications
Queens University Internship Program
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Red Panda Network
Protecting Partner
Red Panda & Conservation Advisor
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Little Fireface Project
Protecting Partner
Slow Loris & Conservation Advisor
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Carolina Farm Trust
Protecting Partner
Community Impact Programs