Elevate Oregon Staff

Meet the Elevate Family: Our Dedicated Staff

The Elevate Oregon Team

On the Ground: Our Teacher/Mentors and Program Managers work in the classroom, 1:1 with students, and behind the scenes to help Elevate students to be their best selves. Our entire staff is committed to promoting educational equity in schools and community.

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Donell Morgan

Executive Director

Donell Morgan’s role as Executive Director at Elevate Oregon is the culmination of his entire life’s experiences.

He grew up in the inner city, starting his basketball career in high school and continuing through college, which led him to playing basketball around the world. After retiring from basketball, Donell worked first-hand with troubled youth at Echo Glen Children’s Center, a detention home where he helped young men & women piece their lives back together. For 10 years, he coached basketball at Umpqua Community College, kick-starting his mentorship of young African American men and becoming the first African American coach in Douglas County. Donell worked to open two Boys & Girls clubs in his hometown of Tacoma.

Now, as Executive Director at Elevate Oregon, Donell continues to mentor students and build life-changing relationships. His goal is to give back to his communities all that was given to him and more. An energetic and engaging speaker, Donell aims to inspire and develop the next generation of leaders who will transform communities and build a better future. His 5 years of service on the Oregon Department of Education’s African American/Black Student Success Advisory Committee are just one of the ways he works towards that aim.

In his free time, Donell recently earned an MBA at Willamette University. He enjoys learning, cooking, and – never having given up his love of the game – coaching Parkrose High School’s Varsity basketball team for the last 7 years.

Kesha Roper

Chief of Staff

A Portland native and proud alumni of Benson High School, Kesha holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Development from Warner Pacific University. With over 25 years of experience in youth and family serving organizations, Kesha has held various impactful roles, including Mathematics teacher, Case Manager, In-School Coordinator, Post High School Manager, Social Service Specialist, and Juvenile Probation Officer.

Throughout her career, she has impowered the lives of countless youth and has been instrumental in mentoring, managing, and developing staff to effectively serve and elevate youth. Kesha deeply understands the profound impact of youth programs on the lives of young people, families, and communities. Her life’s work has been devoted to youth development, eliminating barriers, advocating for youth and families, and creating opportunities for youth success.

As Chief of Staff, Kesha brings strong leadership and relationship-building skills and is wholeheartedly passionate about uplifting the lives of everyone she encounters. A mother of four, Kesha enjoys traveling, concerts, and anything that promotes self-care. "You have to be your best version of you in order to serve in a way that is meaningful.”

Tiffany Robinson

David Douglas School District Manager

Tiffany is a Portland native and a 2007 Jefferson High School alumni. It has been her passion to assist low-income families and youth in need of mentorship and guidance for over 10 years. In roles such as After School Program Teacher, Summer School Teacher, In-School Coordinator, IDA Coordinator, Community Agent Coordinator, PTA President and as an Elevate Oregon Teacher/Mentor, Tiffany has elevated and enriched the lives of hundreds of Portland youth.

The positive mentorship she was given in local non-profit organizations growing up moved Tiffany to serve as a role model that children still look up to even when they have graduated. She loves to bring out that "Inner Positive Successful Person" in everyone around her! Tiffany is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and Human Development at Warner Pacific and is the CEO of her own hair business.

Jennifer Jones

Vancouver School District Manager

New Staff bios coming soon!

Michelle Braxton

Reynolds School District Manager

P. Michelle Braxton is a Portland native and a long-time resident of the Parkrose neighborhood. She brings over 20 years of skills, knowledge, and experience in child advocacy and education to her role at Elevate Oregon. In her work as a youth mentor, Qualified Mental Health Associate, Restorative Justice Coordinator, Foster care Provider, Behavior Specialist, and SUN School program manager, she has been privileged to work with some of the most underserved and displaced communities in Oregon. Michelle is an intentional and committed Change Maker, using her influence to speak for the voiceless, serving as a positive role model, and selflessly advocating for underserved populations in need of a helping hand. This work feeds her soul. In her free time, Michelle enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and event planning.

Luz Ruiz Ruiz

Parkrose School District Manager

Luz Ruiz Ruiz is a former Elevate student and a Parkrose High School graduate. This experience allows Luz to bring a unique perspective to our team, as she understands our district partners and Elevate programming itself from the inside out. She joined the Elevate Oregon staff in December of 2020 in a new, full-time Teacher/Mentor position at Shaver Elementary School. She served as our elementary school program’s lead mentor in 2023-24 before her promotion to district manager. Luz is currently working towards her bachelor's degree in psychology from Portland Community College.

Anthony Green

Parkrose High School Lead Teacher/Mentor

Anthony was raised in the heart of NE Portland. Growing up without a father and having little to no exposure to male role models help fuel his passion to be a part of the change that is needed for today's youth. His journey for youth advocacy began through volunteering as a Community Ambassador with Nike's Made to Play Program, and as a mentor with the Big Brother Big Sister program. Anthony's goal is to inspire the next generation by teaching them the fundamental skills of self-advocacy and leadership.

Jamarsae Brown

Parkrose High School Teacher/Mentor

Jamarsae Brown is a Portland native and a Reynolds High School graduate. His experience with youth mentorship is deeply rooted in the sport of basketball. After years of playing at a high level and mentoring/speaking to younger players, he now serves as an assistant Varsity basketball coach at Parkrose High School.

Jamarsae loves seeing the look on kids' faces when they succeed! His aim is to propel Elevate Oregon students to achieve their goals and have a fun time within it all. With a strong understanding of where East Portland youth are coming from, he looks forward to making academics relatable and offering help where needed.

Adofo Lawrence

Menlo Park Elementary Teacher/Mentor

Adofo joins Elevate Oregon after nearly 20 years in youth development. His passion for working with youth began in high school when he volunteered as a student leader with Outdoor School. Since then, he has worked with a variety of organizations as an Educational Assistant, In School Coordinator, Caregiver, Youth Development Mentor, Camp Counselor and Group Leader. Adofo grew up playing sports, attending summer camps, and playing at parks around the inner city neighborhoods in St. John’s and NE Portland. He attended Jefferson, Marshall and Vocational Village High Schools before attending Portland Community College. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, watching sports, and coaching basketball.

Dominique Lincoln

Fir Ridge High School Lead Teacher/Mentor

Dominique Lincoln was born in Portland, Oregon and graduated from Evergreen High School in Vancouver, where he was a 2-sport athlete in basketball and baseball as well as on the Dean's list. He was a college student-athlete at Southern University in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, earning a degree in Criminal Justice. Dominique has been passionate about youth development for over 10 years, working as a coach, a teacher and a mentor in a number of Portland programs and nonprofits, including in 2021 at the elementary school level with Elevate Oregon. He developed strong leadership and management skills, which he brings to his new role here as a middle school TM. Fun fact: he plays the drums and has 3 older siblings - all sisters!

Jordan Griffin

Ron Russell Middle School Teacher/Mentor

Born in NY but raised in Portland, Jordan attended Ron Russell Middle School and David Douglas High School. After high school, he attended community college locally while working in the family business. Jordan served as an advocate for survivors of domestic violence at a local nonprofit before accepting a role as an Instructional Assistant and then a Restorative Room Monitor at Ron Russell. He also began coaching 7^th grade boys basketball last year. Jordan's desire to help more kids to have confidence, believe in themselves, and be their best selves led him to pursue a position with Elevate Oregon. He looks forward to having a positive impact for Elevate youth and all students at Ron Russell Middle School!

Serena Smith

Parkrose High School Teacher/Mentor

Serena Smith is a driven and dedicated individual who has always strived for excellence. She completed her high school education at Union High school in Camas, WA and continued her academic journey at Cal Poly Humboldt University. There, she started a Black Student Athlete Union and worked in the Umoja Center for Pan-African Student Excellence. She graduated in May 2023 with a degree in Kinesiology, focusing on pre-physical therapy. Serena’s passion for helping the youth stems from her own experiences of overcoming challenges in the education system with limited resources. As a former cross-country and track & field athlete in both high school and college, Serena learned the importance of hard work and perseverance. Her goal is to empower young people to embrace their potential, connect with their communities, and become leaders in all aspects of their lives.

Jessica Ruiz Rodriguez

Ron Russell Middle School Teacher/Mentor

Jessica was born and raised in Mexico, immigrating to the U.S in 2003. Decisions that she made during her teen years led to her marrying and having children at a young age. This experience gave her valuable life lessons about the choices we make, and still informs her parenting and mentorship of teens today.

Jessica developed a passion for working with students over 10 years serving as a volunteer in her children's schools. Most recently, she coordinated and taught a middle school girls wellness/health class. Jessica plans to study Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling for Youth at MHCC. She loves being able to be a part of a team that focuses on supporting and mentoring youth while working to changing lives for the better.

Kevin Jones

Parkrose Elementary School Teacher/Mentor

New Staff bios coming soon!

Jaelen Blake

Ron Russell Middle School Lead Teacher/Mentor

Jaelen is a former Elevate Oregon student and a Parkrose High School graduate. He’s an avid gamer with a passion for helping youth and the community he grew up in. He joined Elevate as a student in 2014, and became a staff member in December of 2020, starting at Sacramento Elementary School. Jaelen is now the full-time lead mentor at Ron Russell Middle School.

Chandra Roseby

Russell Elementary Lead Teacher/Mentor

Originally from Little Rock, Arkansas, Chandra Roseby has lived in Parkrose for over 20 years. As an Educational Assistant at Russell Elementary for 10 years, she served youth in Special Education as well as youth with autism. During that time, she built strong relationships with students and families in the community which serves her well in her role as Elevate's Teacher/Mentor at Russell. Chandra strives to create lasting connections with her mentees in order to support and uplift them throughout their school years. In her free time, she serves as a mentor and basketball coach to North/NE Portland boys and girls.

LaQuay Kennedy

Parkrose High School Teacher/Mentor

LaQuay was born and raised in NE Portland and graduated from Jefferson High School. She attended Benedict College in South Carolina, an HBCU, majoring in Biology. She joins Elevate after 10 years working for Multnomah County in the Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Department, fueling her focus on mental health within the community. With extensive experience mentoring NE Portland youth, LaQuay is ready for the work, open to the challenge, and excited to see who her students become.

Nia Bradley

Ventura Park Elementary Teacher/Mentor

Nia Bradley was born and raised in the Portland area and is a Grant High School graduate. She was a college athlete, playing basketball for Miles College, a historically Black college in Birmingham, AL and later for Portland Community College. Nia worked as a Pediatric Psychiatric Technician in a sub-acute crisis center, as well as serving as a clinical Behavior Technician for kids with autism. Nia experienced the positive impact of a mentoring relationship in high school and is excited to give back to her community as an Elevate Oregon Teacher/Mentor at Ventura Elementary School.

Jada Miller

Gilbert Heights Elementary Teacher/Mentor

Jada Miller began her journey as an Elevate Oregon 8th grade student and graduated from Parkrose High School. As a dedicated advocate for youth mental health, Jada is passionate about supporting children facing mental health challenges. She brings both personal experience and professional enthusiasm to her work. Her commitment to empowering young individuals drives her to create nurturing environments where they can thrive. Jada looks forward to continuing her impactful work in the field, making a meaningful difference in the lives of children and their families.

Carliss Holland-Smith

Margaret Scott Elementary Teacher/Mentor

Carliss was born and raised in Portland, Oregon. With over 20 years of experience in various roles within youth organizations, she has served as a Professional Mentor, Youth Sports Coach, Sun School Instructor, Group Fitness Coach, and Preschool Assistant Teacher. Carliss is deeply passionate about giving back to her community and empowering youth to overcome obstacles in their lives and achieve success. She is the Founder of Let’s Get Active PDX LLC, an organization dedicated to promoting active lifestyles and encouraging community engagement.

In her leisure time, she cherishes moments with her husband, son, family, and friends. She also finds joy in attending church, engaging in sports—both playing and watching—fitness activities, exploring nature, and fishing. She is excited to start a new chapter at Elevate Oregon.

Jamaal Goodlow Jr.

Prescott Elementary Teacher/Mentor

New Staff bios coming soon!

Braxton Knight

Lincoln Park Elementary Teacher/Mentor

Braxton has worked in youth development his entire career. Born and raised in Oklahoma, he began mentoring children at a Calabasas, CA Boys and Girls Club after attending Pierce College near Los Angeles. Braxton moved to Portland in 2018, working with youth with disabilities in a group home environment for 4 years, then serving as a Case Manager helping foster kids find housing and steady jobs. At Ventura Park Elementary School, he served as a Program Director for before and after school programs, and then as an Instructional Assistant.

Braxton is committed to life-long learning around self-care, both mentally and physically. He loves the challenging but rewarding field of youth development as much as he loves playing and watching the sport of basketball. "It brings me joy, knowing that I can make a difference in other people's lives," Braxton says.

Brenda Norell

Parkrose Middle School Teacher/Mentor

Brenda Norell graduated from Franklin High School and is currently pursuing a BA in English. She is bilingual in Spanish and English, excelling in communication and creativity. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, reading, writing, hiking, and photography. She is also a dedicated volunteer at Montavilla Church. Fun fact: Brenda was born on Halloween! Her favorite quote is, “What sculpture is to a block of marble, education is to the soul.” – Joseph Addison.

A'mere Ledbetter

Alice Ott Middle School Teacher/Mentor

New Staff bios coming soon!

Ray Ray Crain

Floyd Light Middle School Teacher/Mentor

New Staff bios coming soon!

Demiya Collins

Floyd Light Middle School Teacher/Mentor

New Staff bios coming soon!

De'Corey Cooper

Salish Ponds Elementary School Teacher/Mentor

New Staff bios coming soon!

Amir Pleasant

Mcloughlin Middle School Teacher/Mentor

Originally from Tacoma, Washington, but raised in Portland, Oregon, Amir has 6 years of experience in facilitating education for youth. He has held roles such as Educational Assistant, SPED Educational Assistant, and Teacher/Mentor. Recently graduating from Virginia State University with a Bachelor's in Psychology, Amir specializes in mental health and working with youth. With a love for fashion and art, Amir likes to inspire those around him through creative expression and wisdom. His favorite quote is, “Sometimes you have to take two steps back to take ten forward.” His favorite movie is "Four Brothers."

Mikayla Reed

Accounting Assistant

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Mikayla is currently working on her Bachelors of Business Administration in Accounting through Western Governors University. After spending several years exploring different job avenues and career possibilities, she is excited to complete her education while working for a company with an incredible mission. Outside of Elevate Oregon, Mikayla works part-time as a kickboxing instructor where she helps empower and guide women through their workouts. She also enjoys all things artsy and outdoorsy including photography, writing, painting, hiking, and skiing. Her favorite quote is: “Whether you say you can or you can not- you are right.” -Henry Ford

Angela Taylor

Director of Finance

Born and raised in inner city Portland, Oregon, Angela was an at-risk youth who skipped school, got bad grades, and eventually dropped out of high school to become a teen parent. Years later, she earned a GED at PCC and then graduated from the Portland State University School of Business Administration for Accounting. Her passion and dedication for the community has led to a decade serving local area nonprofit organizations. Angela is excited to share her personal and professional experiences to support Elevate Oregon's mission. In her spare time, she enjoys nature photography, cooking, hiking, and playing the piano.

KJ Mack

Training & Development Manager

KJ was born and raised in South Carolina. It was there that his passion for serving the next generation first blossomed. KJ experienced firsthand the transformative power of deep, intentional relationships during his time in youth and college ministry. He went on to spend multiple years working with a wide variety of middle, high school, and college students as a ministry leader and youth pastor. Now, he continues to serve and impact youth through his work at Elevate Oregon. He has a deep desire to help others grow and succeed and loves designing systems and processes that help people and communities flourish.

KJ earned a BA in Public Health from the University of South Carolina and a MA in Christian Studies from Southeastern (SEBTS). In his spare time, he enjoys hanging out with friends and family, exploring new places, reading, writing, and playing sports.

Claire Olmstead

Grants and Data Specialist

Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Claire first earned an associate’s degree at Mt. Hood Community College before going on to graduate summa cum laude from Portland State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Arts & Letters. Claire is a multi-disciplinary artist, poet, and author, whose work has been published in both Perceptions and Pathos liberal art magazines. With ten years of experience in retail and customer service prior to earning her college degrees, Claire is pleased to be able to bring both technical and creative skills to the table for the Elevate Oregon team.

Dequesha Smith

Human Resources Generalist

Born and raised in Vancouver, WA, Dequesha comes from a large, loving family with five sisters. From an early age, she knew her career would involve helping people, which naturally led her to Human Resources. With over five years of experience in the corporate sector, Dequesha made a significant career shift to work for a non-profit organization. Growing up surrounded by children, she developed a deep passion for empowering and nurturing young minds. Her goal is to bring positive change and support to underserved youth, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to thrive. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, running, and spending quality time with friends and family. Dequesha’s commitment to personal growth and community service continues to inspire her professional journey.

Kristen Robertson Rogers

Director of Development & Communications

A native Oregonian, Kristen attended the University of Oregon and Mills College in Oakland, California. With a strong writing background, she oversees Elevate Oregon's fundraising and communications efforts. Kristen has been deeply committed to Elevate Oregon’s work toward Educational Equity since 2017, when she started as a volunteer grant writer. In her spare time, she enjoys taking pictures, hiking with her dog, reading great books, and hanging out with her family.

Tony Ande

Chief Operating Officer

With over 40 years of experience, Tony Ande has held top roles like CEO, Executive Director, COO and CFO. He earned degrees from the University of Illinois, National University, the University of San Diego, and is a Certified Public Accountant in Oregon. Known for expertise in accounting, financial analysis, leadership, and management, Tony is a true numbers guru. Beyond the office, he is a passionate bowler and golfer and has volunteered for over 35 years with various non-profits. When not crunching numbers, he enjoys reading "Crossing the Unknown Sea, Work as a Pilgrimage of Identity" by David Whyte and watching "Top Gun: Maverick." Fun fact: Tony was a professional bull rider for 10 years! His favorite quote is, “It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you do not care who gets the credit.” – Harry S. Truman.