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.

Mike Deeney.jpg

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

  • Kathleen Alcorn

    Board Member

    Advisory Board Chair

  • Catherine McKenzie

    Advisory Board Member

    Social Impact & Media

  • Principal Shanna Rae

    Advisory Board Member

    Literacy & Title 1 School Engagement

  • Matthew Leiner

    Advisory Board Member

    Director of Fundraising Concerts & Events

  • Taylor Patno

    Advisory Board Member

    Children’s Theatre Program

  • Chava Rosenberg

    Communications

    Queens University Internship Program

  • Red Panda Network

    Protecting Partner

    Red Panda & Conservation Advisor

  • Little Fireface Project

    Protecting Partner

    Slow Loris & Conservation Advisor

  • Carolina Farm Trust

    Protecting Partner

    Community Impact Programs

Our Values

The Avery and Masa Educational Platform addresses social and purpose-driven issues, told through the eyes of endangered animals.

  • High Interest Reading Engagement

  • Social Emotional Learning

  • Conservation Education