Operation Xcel Staff
Charlene Gladney, Executive Director
(336) 223-4595
Charlene is originally from Greensboro, NC. She completed her Bachelor of Science degree in Electrical Engineering at North Carolina State University. Charlene later went on to obtain her Master of Electrical Engineering degree from North Carolina A&T State University. After graduation, she began her career at Xerox Corporation in Rochester, NY, where she held several corporate positions for 20 years. During this time, Charlene also volunteered as a tutor, mentor, Girl Scout leader, and Sunday school teacher. In 2007, Charlene transitioned to the nonprofit sector and became the executive director of Operation Xcel (formerly known as Operation Homework). She completed certification through the Nonprofit Management Institute and The Executive Director Academy. Charlene has also been certified in the afterschool sector by NCSU and the NC Center of Afterschool Programs, completing the Leadership Fellowship Program. Charlene graduated from StreetWise MBA hosted by the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce in 2023. StreetWise MBA is a program that builds a business owner’s capacity to manage and proactively respond to crisis,” said Brent Christensen, the Commerce’s president, and CEO.
Desiree King, Program Director
(336) 265-6442
Desiree is from Goldsboro, NC, and holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology from Fayetteville State University, as well as two Master’s degrees in Human Services/Community & Social Services and General Psychology from Capella University. She has over fifteen years of experience in the North Carolina public school system, most recently as a Special Education Teacher. Desiree is also a Certified Life Coach and Motivational Speaker, passionate about making a meaningful impact in the lives of children and families. She is a dedicated servant leader, empowering others and fostering collaboration within her community.
Lori Walton, Family Engagement Specialist & Volunteer Coordinator
Lori Ann Walton has over 30 years of experience in the non-profit sector, specializing in youth advocacy, program development, and grant writing. Her career spans urban areas in Connecticut, New York, New Jersey, and North Carolina. As the founder of Encouraged4Life, she provides critical support for Black and Brown families affected by Autism. Lori’s commitment to advocacy has made her a strong ally for underserved communities. She embodies resilience, having risen from poverty with her seven siblings, and applies the lessons learned from her mother to foster meaningful change. Lori describes herself as “a walking cheat code” because of what she has survived. A proud mother of 17-year-old twin boys, one of whom “awesomely autistic”, she considers them her greatest achievement. Lori holds degrees from Hartford College for Women and the University of New Haven and is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated.
Marisela Aviles, HR Generalist
(336) 223-4652
Marisela is from Los Angeles, CA. She attended Greensboro College and obtained her bachelor’s degree in business administration and economics with a concentration in human resources. She is currently pursuing an accounting degree in conjunction with her role at Operation Xcel. Marisela is the mother of two children. In her free time, she enjoys baking.
Torynce Wilson, Executive Assistant
Torynce Wilson is from North Charleston, South Carolina. He attended Clemson University and earned a B.S. in Business Management with an emphasis on Entrepreneurship, and a Minor in Music. He has a diversified skill set with experience in Customer Service, Team Leadership, and Administrative Operations. Torynce lives with his wife Kayla Wilson and their six dogs. He has a passion for Music Production, and in his free time composes, records, mixes, and masters a variety of projects out of his Home Studio.
Valerie Jones-Robinson, Project Manager and Journalist
Valerie holds a Bachelor of Science in Community Justice and Policy Studies from Guilford College and a Master of Public Administration from Strayer University, graduating with highest honors. With many years in customer relations management across healthcare, technology, and nonprofit sectors, she has extensive expertise in both public and private domains.
As a North Carolina resident originally from New Jersey, Valerie is a proud mother of four—two biological and two bonus adults—and a grandmother of thirteen. She is passionate about multicultural diversity and advocating for equitable access to quality care and education for Black and Brown youth. In her free time, she enjoys reading, writing, cooking, and gardening.
Valerie is an accomplished community organizer who actively engages with her local church, homeowners' association, and broader community to strengthen connections and advocate for justice and accountability. Her commitment to building relationships and mentoring others demonstrates her desire to make a meaningful impact in the lives of those around her.
Cana Pinchback, Website & Digital Media Specialist
Cana is a Raleigh, NC native and a proud graduate of the illustrious North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University, where she earned her Bachelor's degree in Computer Graphics Technology. A passionate animation enthusiast, Cana loves digital visual art and music. When she's not working, you’ll likely find Cana creating digital artwork or curating the perfect playlist.
Derly Daza, Ph.D., Site Director, Jackson Middle School
(336) 223-4972 (option 2)
Dr. Derly Daza is originally from Colombia and has worked in the United States for more than 11 years. She has a master’s in Spanish and English as a Second language and her Ph.D. in education. Dr. Daza is currently a middle school Spanish teacher. She volunteers at Glenwood Library, where she teaches Spanish. Derly is also a soccer coach at the YMCA. Passionate about making an impact in the lives of children, she enjoys watching their progress. Dr. Daza states, “I feel honored to be part of the personal and academic growth of our students.”
Tyesha Johnson, Site Director, Peck Elementary School
(336) 265-6442
Tyesha Johnson is originally from Pollocksville, a small town in Eastern North Carolina. She began her educational journey at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education. Shortly after, she obtained her master’s degree.
Currently, Tyesha is a First Grade Educator with over 20 years of experience, all of which she has dedicated to her position at Peck. During the pandemic, she was selected to record videos of her reading lessons for kindergarten students in Guilford County Schools (GCS). Tyesha serves on her school's leadership team and mentors new teachers.
Her passion lies in working directly with families and helping them find resources. Outside of teaching, Tyesha enjoys spending time with family and friends, taking long walks, traveling, and dancing.
TaWuana Cook, Site Director, Jamestown Middle School
(336) 480-4856
TaWuana Cook was born and raised in Fayetteville, NC. She attended NC A&T on a 4-year basketball scholarship. After graduating, TaWuana played professional basketball for two years before deciding to pursue her master's in teaching from NC A&T. She then attended High Point University, where she earned her M.Ed. in educational leadership. TaWuana has been in education with Guilford County Schools for over twelve years, serving seven of those years as the Assistant Principal at Jamestown Middle School.
Ms. Cook is currently serving as the School Principal at The Early/Middle College @ GTCC Jamestown. TaWuana is excited to work with the students, staff, and parents of Operation Xcel as she strives to prepare students to excel inside and outside of the classroom. She looks forward to seeing the students grow and encourages them to aim for greatness, live to their fullest potential, and see the best in themselves.
Maurice Revels, Site Director, Northwood Community Center (High Point)
(336) 355-2115
Maurice Revels is a High Point native, an Army veteran who later graduated from Guilford College with a bachelor's degree in history and Liberty University with a master's degree in education. He served as a teacher in the public school system for twelve years. Over the past five years, Maurice has operated a tutoring and mentoring business as an entrepreneur.
Maurice is the Supervising Pastor for Living The Christian Walk Ministry. His gift for helping students succeed academically led Maurice to join the Operation Xcel team, where he has commanded the trust and respect of the students he serves. He also volunteers with Commander Peace Academy, an organization that helps prevent gang violence and redirects youth to healthy conflict resolution. Maurice is a hands-on single parent whose hobbies include working out, reading, visiting museums, and wine tasting.
Monique Wallace, Site Director, Southwest Middle School
(336) 638-1821
Monique Wallace, a Miami, Florida native, is the site director at Southwest Guilford Middle School and has dedicated 27 years to education in Guilford County. She has served as a middle school teacher, administrator, and district administrator. Ms. Wallace holds a bachelor’s degree in English from Florida A&M and Floria International University, and a Master of School Administration from UNC-Greensboro. She is currently pursuing a doctorate in Education at High Point University.
Ms. Wallace's dedication extends beyond the classroom, as she is deeply committed to social and community service. Her love for baking and spending time with family and friends is a reflection of her belief in the importance of positive relationships. She advocates for the building of strong connections among parents, teachers, and students, recognizing that these relationships are crucial for their development.
Thomasina Faucette Hayes, PhD, Site Director, Hairston Middle School
(336) 646-0808
Dr. Thomasina Faucette Hayes is passionate about helping young people grow and succeed. She currently serves as the 8th Grade Assistant Principal at Hairston Middle School, where she works closely with students, families, and teachers to create a supportive learning environment. Before entering education, she built her career in the corporate and industrial world as a Project Manager for AT&T Wireless (IT Infrastructure) and a Safety Engineer for Michelin Earth Mover Tires. These experiences shaped her commitment to teamwork, problem-solving, and community service. Dr. Hayes brings that same dedication to her work in education, where she strives to inspire students to reach their full potential and to build lasting partnerships with the community.
(Centoniel) Tony Echols, Site Director, Stokesdale
Cell: 336-355-7993
Office:336-644-3530
Tony Echols, a native of Danville, Virginia, combines his passion for technology with a commitment to community service and ministry. He is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a concentration in Cybersecurity at Southern New Hampshire University.
Before founding Covenant Worship Center in Charlotte, NC, Tony served as Director of Christian Education at Marvin AME Zion Church in Waxhaw, NC, where he emphasized faith-based educational programming and leadership development. His pastoral leadership has enhanced community engagement, especially in underserved areas.
While pastoring in the Charlotte metro area, Tony collaborated with the Just Us Kids after-school program to offer academic tutoring to Title I elementary schools in Indian Trail and Monroe, NC. He worked directly with 4th and 5th graders, reinforcing core subjects and critical thinking skills while also providing reliable transportation to help overcome educational barriers. Additionally, he introduced mentoring initiatives—Solomon’s Court and Daniel’s Den—to help boys and young adult men transition into responsible adulthood, focusing on mentorship, accountability, and life skills to foster leadership and civic responsibility among minority youth.
Tony is dedicated to social justice and systemic change, striving for equity and equality in marginalized communities. He advocates for accessible resources, education, and technological literacy to empower the next generation.
Board of Directors
Arjanai Miller, Community Member – Connect on LinkedIn
Clint Stiles, Fundraising Chair - Connect on LinkedIn
Corey Johnson, Board Development Chair - Connect on LinkedIn
Elizabeth Alverson, Community Member
Jocelyn B. Becoats, Ed. D., Community Member - Connect on LinkedIn
Julie Starnes, Community Member - Connect on LinkedIn
Kendra Eads, Board Chair - Connect on LinkedIn
Meg Sheehan, Community Member - Connect on LinkedIn
Melonie Davis, Community Member – Connect on LinkedIn
Nate Jordan, Treasurer - Connect on LinkedIn
Patricia J. Price, Community Member – Connect on LinkedIn
Paul Gautreau, Community Member
Steven Palcsak, Marketing Chair - Connect on LinkedIn
Charlene Gladney, Ex-Officio Member
In addition to the leadership teams above, we employ certified teachers as math and reading specialists, and tutors. We also employ paraprofessionals who encompass our excellent volunteer staff.
Operation Xcel is a place where learners are motivated to excel in all aspects of their lives and make a positive impact on the world. We achieve this by providing after-school, summer, and mentorship programs that equip youth with the necessary academic, social, physical, and emotional skills they need to succeed.
Our organization is driven by a strong work ethic and a deep commitment to improving our community. Through our academic and enrichment programs, we seek to demonstrate this commitment and help young people reach their full potential by:
• providing equal access to quality educational resources
• supporting diversity of thought
• creating a strong foundation for the development of lifelong learners
• fostering civic engagement
• encouraging career mindfulness in our youth
