Board of Directors
Chairperson
Artrella Cohn
Artrella Cohn is a seasoned community leader with more than two decades of experience advancing youth development, family engagement, and equitable systems of support. She currently serves as Chief Impact Officer at Communities In Schools of Kalamazoo where she oversees all student-facing work and leads efforts to improve outcomes in academics, attendance, behavior and student well-being. She oversees three departments: Site Services, Student Investment & Community Engagement, and Quality & Evaluation.
* Former CAPS Program Coordinator
Secretary
Teresa Denton
Teresa is recently retired as the Associate Director of the Kalamazoo College – Mary Jane Underwood Stryker Center for Civic Engagement, where she dedicated her career to advancing civic learning and community partnership. As a founding CAPS Board Member, Teresa has played a pivotal role in shaping CAPS’ mission, values, and long-standing commitment to students and families in Kalamazoo. Teresa is a parent of KPS alum and Kalamazoo Promise recipients.
Director
Dr. L. Marshall Washington
Dr. L. Marshall Washington is the President of Kalamazoo Valley Community College and a nationally respected leader in higher education. He is known for advancing equity, workforce development, and student success through collaborative, community-centered leadership.
Director
Dr. Kandace Lavender
Dr. Kandace Lavender is the Executive Director of Read and Write Kalamazoo, where she leads efforts to advance literacy, storytelling, and educational equity in the community. A talented lyrical artist, she is also the founder and educator of The Teacher Cypher, blending creative expression with teaching to inspire learners of all ages.
Immediate Past Chair
Dr. Harvey Myers
Dr. Harvey Myers is a founding member and founding Board Chairperson of Community Advocates for Parents and Students, where his leadership helped establish the organization’s vision and long-term impact. A retired research scientist, he remains deeply engaged in the community as an active member of the NAACP Kalamazoo Branch, continuing his lifelong commitment to equity and justice.
Director
Dr. Angela Thomas
Dr. Angela Thomas is the Director of Curriculum, Instruction, and Professional Development for Kalamazoo Public Schools. She brings deep expertise in instructional leadership, educator development, and student-centered systems that strengthen academic outcomes across the district.
Director
Jannie Williams
Jannie Williams is a retired development professional with a lifelong commitment to community learning and access to opportunity. She currently serves as Vice Chair of the Kalamazoo Public Library Board and is deeply passionate about supporting literacy for children and families.
*Former CAPS Grandparent
Director
Atiba McKissack
Atiba McKissack is the Principal of Hillside Middle School within Kalamazoo Public Schools. He is a dedicated educational leader committed to fostering strong school culture, academic excellence, and supportive learning environments for all students. He is known for his intentional engagement of the greater community and his focus on improving student and family access to core academic and social supports.
Treasurer
Craig Owens
Craig Owens is an experienced accountant who serves as Treasurer for Community Advocates for Parents and Students. He uses his financial expertise to ensure CAPS remains compliant, fiscally responsible, and well-positioned to make sound, effective financial decisions in support of its mission.
*Former CAPS Parent
