M. C North Academy’s Board of Trustees

  •  Founder and Principal, Atabey Strategies LLC
    Aklima is a seasoned nonprofit executive and attorney with over a decade of experience at the intersection of law, philanthropy, and social impact. As Founder and Principal of Atabey Strategies LLC, she advises nonprofit leaders and funders on governance, strategic planning, and organizational development. Her leadership spans roles at The Carter Center, Dēmos, the New Georgia Project, and the ACLU of Georgia. Aklima holds a Juris Doctor from John Marshall Law School and a B.A. in Psychology from Stony Brook University. She is a member of the State Bar of Georgia and teaches at Emory University School of Law. Her board service is driven by a commitment to equitable, STEAM-integrated education that prepares diverse students for global leadership. Aklima also serves on several nonprofit boards and is passionate about mentoring, civic education, and community organizing.

  •  Associate Professor of English Education, Georgia State University
    Dr. Michelle Zoss is an associate professor at Georgia State University, where she specializes in integrating visual arts and literacy in English education. With a Ph.D. in Language Education from the University of Georgia and degrees from Stanford University and the University of Iowa, Dr. Zoss brings decades of experience as a teacher, researcher, and mentor. She has advised over 170 English educators and chaired numerous doctoral committees. Her work emphasizes honoring the humanity and brilliance of students through interdisciplinary learning. Dr. Zoss joined the MC North Academy board to support a school that values the arts alongside science and engineering. She is also co-president of the Decatur Band Parent Association and enjoys visual arts, crocheting, and knitting—skills she recently learned with her daughter.

  • Director, Level Up Mentoring Program, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Metro Atlanta
    Danielle Moore is a visionary leader in education and youth development with over a decade of experience in K–12 schools and nonprofit organizations. As Director of the Level Up Program, she oversees mentoring services for 1,400 middle school students across metro Atlanta. Her background includes leadership roles in Atlanta Public Schools, where she led districtwide implementation of Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS). Danielle holds advanced degrees in Curriculum & Instruction and Administrator Leadership, and is certified in restorative practices and youth mental health. She brings expertise in program design, instructional leadership, and equity advocacy. Danielle joined the MC North Academy board to help build an innovative, inclusive school that prepares students for both academic and life success. She enjoys real estate, family time, and crockpot cooking—and is a proud twin.

  • CEO, Jeremy Cormier Presents
    Jeremy Cormier is an accomplished entertainment executive and community leader with over 16 years of experience in theater, live production, and arts-based programming. A graduate of Morehouse College and South University, he has worked on national tours, including with Janet Jackson, and produced original plays featuring renowned artists. As CEO of Jeremy Cormier Presents, he leads theatrical and service-driven productions across the Southeast. Jeremy also serves as Associate Producer for Black Nativity: Atlanta and is active in regional theater. His community work includes roles with the James Brown Family Foundation and Dominion Arts Foundation. He is currently developing a children’s book on bullying and producing youth-centered musicals. Jeremy brings a creative lens and deep commitment to youth empowerment to his role on the M. C. North Academy board.

  •  Grant Manager, Georgia State University
    Dr. Gwendolyn is a distinguished educator and administrator with extensive experience in teacher preparation, special education, and university leadership. As Grant Project Director at Georgia State University, she oversees multi-million-dollar initiatives focused on teacher recruitment and retention. Formerly Associate Dean of the College of Education, she has led partnerships with schools and communities to improve educational outcomes. Her academic background includes a Ph.D. with training in Leadership and Special Education. Dr. Gwendolyn’s board service is rooted in her belief that all students deserve access to dynamic, inclusive education that prepares them for global citizenship. She has served on numerous boards supporting children and families, including Voices for Georgia’s Children and the Alabama State University Foundation. Her passions include international travel, supporting HBCUs, and community engagement through hiking and line dancing.