Get to Know Us

Sharon Hurt

Strategic Executive Director

Sharon W. Hurt has practiced the servant-leadership model for over 30 years – by serving others, building communities and bringing people together. As Council Member At-Large for Metropolitan Nashville Davidson County, Sharon represents all of Music City through public service.

As an at-large member of the Nashville Metro Council in Tennessee, Hurt assumed office in 2015. She ran for re-election in 2019 and won in the general runoff election on September 12, 2019. Her second term ended in 2023. Her platforms legislatively have included support for diverse business enterprises, economic development and public healthcare.

Professionally, Ms. Hurt currently serves as the executive director for Today’s Hope, a non-profit that serves those affected and impacted by HIV and AIDS. Prior to this role, she concurrently led SW and upheld the mission of Jefferson Street United Merchants Partnership (J.U.M.P.) – which serves the North Nashville, Jefferson Street community while growing and improving its imprint on the community.

With undergraduate and (two) graduate degrees from Tennessee State University, along with a graduate degree from Belmont University, Sharon has built a reputation as a leader of, and advocate for, people of all communities.

Avery Jackson

HR Business Partner

Tara Bender

OPP Care Coordinator

Tara Bender is a dedicated Care Coordinator at Today’s Hope, bringing a wealth of personal and professional experience to her role. As a former Certified Nursing Assistant and a mother of two, she combines compassion with firsthand understanding to support individuals on their recovery journeys. Tara holds certifications in Mental Health Studies, Substance Misuse, Trauma-Informed Care, and more, reflecting her commitment to comprehensive care. Her own life experiences fuel her passion for the work she does, recognizing the profound impact of support and understanding in the community. Outside of her professional life, Tara enjoys attending her sons’ basketball games, spending quality time with her mother, and volunteering through her church.

Quincy Baker

OPP Care Coordinator

Quincy brings a diverse background in healthcare, care coordination, and community support to Today’s Hope. With experience in medical case management, patient care coordination, and nonprofit data systems, Quincy supports Today’s Hope’s mission of helping clients access and navigate resources and services.

He is passionate about making process systems more organized, accessible, and responsive to the people they serve. At Today’s Hope, Quincy contributes to a team committed to building spaces that inspire HOPE.

Antonio Doval

Peer Recovery Navigator

He is committed to creating trusting, stigma-free spaces where young people can access resources and build the skills necessary for healthier, more successful lives. Through his work, Antonio inspires hope, resilience, and lasting positive change in the communities he serves.

Anita Wiggs

Peer Recovery Navigator

Anita serves as a Certified Peer Recovery Support Specialist at Street Works, bringing over 30 years of lived experience in substance use and co-occurring disorders to her role. Her deep empathy and firsthand understanding enable her to connect authentically with clients, offering guidance and support throughout their recovery journeys. Anita’s unwavering commitment to harm reduction and community empowerment makes her an invaluable member of the Street Works team.

Cynthia “Mona” Lane

OPP Grant Manager

Mona Cynthia Lane is an emerging public health professional from Clarksville, TN and a proud Nashville transplant. She graduated from Austin Peay State University in 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts in World History and a minor in political science. She is currently in a Master of Public Health program, focusing on community health education and health policy. Her diverse background provides a strong understanding of the sociocultural factors that influence health and wellness across different populations. Her love of people and culture brought her to Street Works, where she wanted to serve the community and work with those that need it most. Mona Cynthia has been with the agency since 2022 working in case management and housing before transferring over to opioid abatement.

Cynthia prioritizes education and outreach in her program, emphasizing the importance of delivering vital information to the vulnerable and at-risk communities while supporting the priority population with goods and services. Passionate about the intersection of history and health, Cynthia utilizes her historical knowledge to inform public health strategies that are culturally sensitive and impactful. She believes that understanding the past is essential for shaping effective health policies and programs that address the needs of diverse communities today. Cynthia loves research, grant writing, and community engagement and intends on using her interests to better her team, agency, and city.

Shamar Gunn

Prevention Director

Nashville native Shamar Gunn is a passionate public health professional with nearly a decade of experience in HIV prevention, community outreach, and harm reduction. Centering his work on the Black LGBTQ community and individuals affected by substance use, Shamar has spearheaded innovative programs and forged strong partnerships with organizations such as Vanderbilt University, Meharry Medical College, and Nashville Black Pride.

As Prevention Director, he has launched impactful initiatives—including a groundbreaking barbershop-based stigma reduction project featured in published research—and leads a thriving syringe services program (SSP). Drawing on his background in dance, styling, and the LGBTQ ballroom scene, Shamar brings creativity and authenticity to his work, building trust and driving meaningful change within diverse communities

Andrew Massey

3MV Coordinator

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Carolyn Mathis

Hep C Navigator

With a deep passion for serving others, Carolyn Matthis provides exceptional care and support to every client she encounters. A proud mother and grandmother, Carolyn’s personal experiences have shaped her compassionate approach to caregiving. She is committed to offering understanding, kindness, and care in every interaction.

Marcus Mathis

PrEP Navigator

Marcus Mathis is a passionate community advocate committed to empowering individuals experiencing homelessness and poverty. With a strong focus on life skills development, he helps marginalized communities build a foundation for long-term success. Through practical training in job readiness, financial literacy, and effective communication, Marcus equips individuals with the tools they need to thrive and take control of their futures.

Orlando Westover

SSP Coordinator

Domonic Blair

Psychosocial Lead Specialist

Originally from Northern California, I’ve called Nashville home for the past 9 years. Each week, I lead support group sessions designed to meet clients where they are, uncover their needs, and create tailored intervention plans. I also collaborate with a network of speakers and presenters to bring fresh perspectives and resources that help our clients thrive. My goal? To make sure every person we serve feels heard, supported, and empowered.

Charlton “Scott” Fisher

Medical Case Manager

Scott received a life-changing diagnosis nearly twenty years ago. Since then, he has experienced both hopeful moments and significant challenges — and through it all, Street Works has been a constant source of support. That encouragement inspired him to dedicate his life to helping others facing similar health journeys. He works tirelessly to break down stigma, promote prevention, and provide compassionate care. Having walked this path himself, Scott truly understands the struggles many participants face and is committed to standing beside them every step of the way.

April Glover

ViiV Grant Manager / Quality Assurance

April Glover brings over 15 years of experience in social services, with a diverse background spanning state government and the nonprofit sector. In her role as a Grant and Case Manager, she is dedicated to supporting community-focused initiatives and driving impactful, sustainable change. April’s work has been nationally recognized for excellence in Emotional Intelligence, Community Partnerships, and Human Development.

Outside of her professional endeavors, she enjoys spending time with family, reading, watching comedies, and maintaining a strong connection with her alma mater, Western Kentucky University.

Michelle Johnson

Housing Coordinator

Chasity Mayo

Non-Medical Case Management Associate Director

Since joining the agency in 2019, Chasity has held several impactful roles and is widely recognized for her empathy, dedication, and unwavering support of our clients. Known for consistently going above and beyond, she brings a deep sense of compassion and personal connection to everything she does.

Her work is driven by a passion for empowerment, advocacy, and reducing stigma in the community. Chasity’s commitment to making a meaningful difference is felt by both clients and colleagues alike.

Outside of work, she enjoys crafting, researching, writing, and cherishing time with her husband and grandson.

Jamel Thompson

OPP Care Coordinator

Born and raised in Mississippi, I’m an OP Care Coordinator with over 10 years of management experience. I bring strong leadership, professionalism, and compassion to everything I do.

I’m passionate about building meaningful relationships, advocating for those I serve, and making a positive impact through quality care and support.

Keveon Sikes

EIS Coordinator

Clifton is a proud graduate of Tennessee State University and holds an MBA in Finance from Lipscomb University. With a background in sales and banking, he’s learned the power of listening, advocating, and meeting people where they are.

As the Grant Compliance Manager at Street Works, Clifton combines financial expertise with a deep commitment to the community. Passionate about equity, healing, and transformation, he finds purpose in working to build a better future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.

Amal Mohamed

ViiV Case Manager / Finance

As Fiscal Coordinator at Today’s Hope, I manage the organization’s day-to-day financial operations, contributing to our ability to provide support to the community.

I am a graduate of Middle Tennessee State University, where I earned a degree in Information Systems with a minor in Business Administration. I am most passionate about helping others and making a positive impact through my work. In my personal time, I enjoy exploring my interests in art.

DeWayne Parker

Housing Coordinator

DeWayne is a proud 2010 graduate of Tennessee State University, where he earned his degree in Social Work and discovered his passion for uplifting underserved communities. With a heart for service, one of his most meaningful accomplishments was supporting fellow Nashvillians during the 2010 flood—a moment that deepened his commitment to making a difference.

Outside of work, DeWayne finds joy in cheering on his favorite basketball teams and starts each day with inspiration by reading his Bible. His compassion, dedication, and steady spirit shine through in everything he does.

Cesar Sanchez-Miller

MAI Outreach Specialist

Robert “Earl” Taylor

Psychosocial Specialist/ Admin Assistant

Samantha Williams

Medical Case Management Director

As the MCM Director, Samantha leads a team of compassionate and dedicated professionals who provide case management and client-centered care to individuals often navigating complex life challenges. She takes a strategic, service-driven approach to ensure both our team and the clients we serve have the support they need to make lasting, positive life changes.

She’s deeply passionate about social justice and strives to balance the responsibilities of program management with the heart and empathy that human services demand. Whether she’s mentoring a new case manager or developing creative strategies to improve client outcomes, Samantha leads with integrity, purpose, and a vision focused on strengthening our organization and the communities we serve.

Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with my family, sharing good food and laughter — because I truly

T’Ongilla Fuller

SPF Social Determinants of Health Coordinator / Office Manager

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Brandon Jones

Marketing Communication Specialist

Claudia Lee

Associate Director of International Affairs

Michelle Johnson

Peer Recovery Navigator

Michelle Johnson is a compassionate and results-driven Licensed Alcohol and Drug Addiction Counselor (LADC) and Certified Peer Recovery Specialist with over 25 years of lived experience and more than 20 years in recovery from substance use and co-occurring disorders. She brings extensive expertise in addiction counseling, case management, and peer support, demonstrating a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals navigating recovery. Michelle is highly skilled at fostering trust, building strong relationships, and advocating for those impacted by substance use and co-occurring mental health conditions. Her dedication to supporting clients’ personal growth and recovery is matched by her commitment to empowering others through mentorship, education, and evidence-based strategies

Vincent G. Sessoms, MSPH

In addition to his work in financial services, Vincent is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Health Care

Dr. Dorsha N. James, M.D. 

Affectionately known as “Dr. Dorsha,” Dr. James is a trailblazing emergency medicine physician and health equity advocate. She earned her undergraduate degree in Biology from the University of Memphis and her medical degree from the ETSU James H. Quillen College of Medicine. In 2005, she made history as the first African American woman accepted into the Emergency Medicine Residency Program at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Dorsha has served as an attending physician in some of the busiest emergency departments in the Nashville area and has held leadership roles including ED Assistant Medical Director and Medical Director. In 2018, she founded myURGENCYMD, a telemedicine company expanding access to on-demand healthcare, and myHBCUMD, focused on delivering telehealth services to historically Black colleges and universities.

Since Fall 2022, Dr. Dorsha has served as Medical Director of Health Services at Tennessee State University, where she continues to impact student wellness. Her dedication to service extends beyond medicine—she has held leadership and advisory roles with organizations including The FIND Design, ETSU’s National Alumni Board, and the McNair Scholars Program.

Alongside her wife, Judge Rachel Bell, Dr. Dorsha co-founded The Ring the Bell Foundation, which uplifts youth through mentorship programs like REACH and FUTURE. Together, they also launched the “I am . . . just human”

Dr. Terrica R. Arnold, Ed.D., Board Chair

Dr. Arnold oversees multiple youth-centered initiatives, including CHILL (Choosing How I Lead Life) and YAS (Youth Achieving Success)—programs focused on preventing youth violence and resolving conflict in Nashville. Her prior initiatives, such as the Health Snack Tour Program and Meharry Wellness Club, addressed obesity and health disparities in underserved communities.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in Political Science from Fisk University, a master’s degree in Educational Administration, and a doctorate in Educational Leadership from Tennessee State University. With over a decade of experience in higher education, her work has centered on student affairs, enrollment management, and community-based minority health research.

In addition to her academic and policy work, Dr. Arnold is the founder of Black Girl Lessons, a nonprofit mentoring program that empowers young women through resilience-building and healing from adverse childhood experiences. She also leads The Equity Alliance’s LiberTEA Collective, a civic leadership training initiative aimed at nurturing changemakers in the community.

Dr. Jacques Boyd 

Dr. Boyd is deeply committed to integrating faith, education, and social responsibility. His ministry is marked by a strong emphasis on community engagement, youth development, and spiritual growth. He holds multiple theological degrees and completed Clinical Pastoral Education at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, further equipping him for both pastoral care and public service.

He and his wife Kelly, an award-winning educator, are proud parents of three children. Together, they are dedicated to fostering a home rooted in faith, service, and lifelong learning.

Andrew McFadyen-Ketchum 

Andrew McFadyen-Ketchum is an author, producer, editor, & ghostwriter. He is creator-producer-host of THE NASHVILLE POETRY PARTY; Author of three poetry collections, Fight or Flight, Visiting Hours, and Ghost Gear; Assistant Director of the Owsley Fork Writer’s Sanctuary; Creator and Editor of PoemoftheWeek.com and Apocalypse Now: Poems & Prose from the End of Days; and Acquisitions Editor for Upper Rubber Boot Books. Connect with him at AndrewMK.com or via social media.

Adrian “AG” Granderson

An innovative and dynamic executive and small business owner with more than 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and entertainment sectors. He has a proven record of success in marketing, event planning, fundraising, and brand management.

Since 2010, AG has launched six successful entertainment concepts, including the popular Jazz & Jokes, Kranky Chef’s Urban Kitchen, Agenda Nightclub, and WKND Hang Suite, which now operates in both Nashville and Memphis. In August 2022, AG and his partners introduced SupperClub on 2nd, an upscale fine-casual restaurant located in Downtown Memphis.

AG also serves as CEO of Cleo Ellis & Company, a hospitality staffing firm employing more than 100 people. All of his ventures operate under the Suite Lyfe Hospitality Group, Tennessee’s largest minority-owned hospitality company, which generated over $10 million in revenue in 2022.

As the former President and CEO of 100 Black Men of Middle Tennessee, Inc., AG led program development and fundraising initiatives for seven years. His work as a marketing consultant and event coordinator has supported universities, nonprofit organizations, nationally known comedians, and top Billboard R&B and jazz artists.

AG’s career in broadcast entertainment spans more than two decades, encompassing radio, mass marketing, voiceovers, and public speaking. He is a well-known Nashville radio personality who spent over 20 years on air, including a long tenure at Cumulus-owned 92Q and 18 years with iHeartRadio’s 101.1 The Beat Jamz. During that time, he served in multiple roles such as night and midday host, production director, public relations director, and sales associate.

In 2021, AG founded SeasonONE Media and was selected to create the Tennessee State University Big Blue Sports Network, the broadcasting arm of TSU Athletics. In this role, he serves as Executive Producer for all of TSU’s ESPN+ broadcasts, including volleyball, football, men’s and women’s basketball, and softball.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, AG is a passionate youth advocate, mentor, and sought-after host and emcee for special events. His community involvement includes service on boards and committees for organizations such as the Frist Center for the Visual Arts, Urban League Young Professionals, Association for Nonprofit Executives, Young Leaders Council, Middle Tennessee Council of Boy Scouts, and the Nashville Youth Alliance. He was also
appointed to the Mayor’s Task Force on teen dropout prevention.