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**FOUNDER- CHRISTEN DUKES**
Christen Dukes, the founder of Arts Over Odds Foundation, is an Overcomer, having been born prematurely with Sickle Cell Disease and Cerebral Palsy. Despite being born weighing only 2 lbs, 5 oz and being given less than 24 hours to live, Christen’s life experiences inspired him to create the foundation.
Raised in Memphis, specifically the Raleigh neighborhood, Christen attended Craigmont High School and developed a passion for music. He played the baritone in middle and high school band and furthered his music studies at the Stax Music Academy. During his time there, he played the trombone in the jazz ensemble and the academy’s rhythm section ensemble for 4 years.
With a love for various artistic disciplines, including music and photography, Christen aims to inspire other creatives through his organization and future philanthropic endeavors. His goal is to show that one’s odds do not define them and that dreams can become a reality.
## CHRIS BRIDGES- VICE PRESIDENT
As a father of two daughters that were diagnosed with sickle cell disease at birth, Christopher Bridges, proudly serves as the Vice President of Arts Over Odds.
As a Lab Technician at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital with over ten years of experience, he joined the Patients and Family Advisory Board in 2012 serving as the Vice-Chair for 4 years and Chair (PFAC) for 2 years.
One of the most important things Chris looks to accomplish is to help other families with his story and experiences.
## SHANDRIKA HAYSLETT
Shandrika is a Practice Administrator of a primary care and urgent care center with 7 years of experience in healthcare. She holds a Bachelor of Health Science, as well as a Masters Degree in Healthcare Administration. In addition to her role in healthcare, she is a motivational speaker with SASSY: Self Awareness Self Satisfaction everything begins and Ends with YOU! She is a proud member of St. Paul Douglass Missionary Baptist Church for over 20 years and her favorite scripture is Romans 12:2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world but of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is his good pleasing and perfect will.
## LINDA STEVENS
Linda Stevens has been a Registered Nurse (RN) for 25 years. She entered the nursing profession with an Associates of Applied Science from Southwest Community College in 1999 and completed her Bachelor of Science (BSN) at Union University in 2006. In 2009, Linda completed her Masters in Nursing with a focus on Leadership/Management from Walden University.
Prior to nursing, Linda worked as an Accountant after completing her Bachelors in Business Administration from Memphis State University.  After working in Accounting for a healthcare company for 10 years, she decided that healthcare was where she wanted to be as a clinician and not in the business office; therefore, she started her journey to become a nurse.
In her various roles, she has  trained nurses to work on the floor, taught Preceptors how to train others and instructed classes for various skills. In addition, she has worked in many areas of the profession that include her current role as an Administrator in a detention center, Acute Rehabilitation, Quality and Performance Improvement, as well as Information Technology.  Linda understands nursing and believe in the profession and its importance in our society as well as the business aspect of life in general.
## TOMECIA CONARD-STAFFORD
ToMecia Conard-Stafford is a Licensed Master Social Worker and CEO of Clarity Consulting, a Mental Health Life Coaching Firm that seeks to transform lives by transforming minds. As a Mental Health Life Coach, her focus has been on the lives of Youth, ages 13-18 years old, and women, ages 19 and up. ToMecia Conard-Stafford is currently employed by Methodist Healthcare as both a Medical Social Worker and Project Manager of Operations within the Sickle Cell Center. ToMecia has spent more than 20 years within this arena and the Justice system, combined. She is a vocal advocate for the Sickle Cell Community and travels extensively, educating and speaking to varied audiences. As an International Best Selling Author (Voices of Mothers with Black Sons), she is a proud mother of two sons, and enjoys spending time with family and indulging in self-care as often as possible.
ToMecia Conard-Stafford received her BS degree from LeMoyne-Owen College in Memphis, Tennessee; an MSW from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan; a Mental Health Life Coaching certification from Life Coaching School of Arkansas; and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Leadership from Western Governors University. She currently resides in Mississippi with her family.
## DR. TONYA BILES
Dr. Tonya Biles is an accomplished educator and leader with a diverse background in education. Currently serving as the Associate Dean of Students at Soulsville Charter School in Memphis, TN, Dr. Biles demonstrates a strong commitment to fostering a positive and inclusive learning environment. Alongside her role at Soulsville Charter School, she serves as an Adjunct Professor at Belhaven University in Southaven, MS, where she shares her expertise with aspiring educators.
With a wealth of experience in various leadership positions, Dr. Biles has made a significant impact in the field of education. She has served as the Supervisor of Pupil Services in the Waterbury Public School System in Waterbury, CT, and as the Secondary Instructional Transformation Leadership Director for the Achievement School District in Memphis, TN. Her passion for supporting teachers led her to work as a Teacher Support Coach in the Jackson-Madison County Schools in Jackson, TN. Prior to her administrative roles, Dr. Biles excelled as the Principal of Memphis Academy of Health Sciences, where she provided strong leadership and contributed to the school’s success.
Dr. Biles’ educational achievements include a Doctor of Education degree from The University of Phoenix in Memphis, TN, a Master’s degree in English Literature, and a Master’s degree in Education from The University of Memphis. She also holds a Bachelor’s degree in Education from the same institution. Additionally, she possesses professional certifications from the Tennessee Department of Education, including Superintendent, English 7–12, and Instructional Administrator Prek-12.
Throughout her career, Dr. Biles has been recognized for her dedication and achievements. She has received various awards, including a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition, the “Make It Happen” Award, and the John W. White Outstanding Principal of the Month Award. Her exceptional contributions to academic performance led to her recognition as a District Reward School Leader. Dr. Biles has also been honored as a recipient of the Dr. Maya Angelou Reward and the Women of Excellence Award.
Outside of her professional pursuits, Dr. Biles values her personal life. She has been happily married to Alfonzia Barney for 34 years and has a son named Brandon. As a loving grandmother, she takes joy in spending time with her two grandchildren, Bryson and Baileigh. Dr. Biles resides in Cordova, TN, and holds a deep connection to her hometown of Memphis, TN.
When she’s not shaping young minds, Dr. Biles enjoys engaging in hobbies such as bowling and reading. However, her greatest pleasure comes from spending quality time with her family. She is also an active member of The Historic Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church in Memphis, TN.
With her extensive experience, academic achievements, and passion for education, Dr. Tonya Biles continues to leave a lasting impact on the field of education and the lives of those she serves.
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## SYDNEY DEAN
Sydney Dean is the CEO of Day One Maintenance Services, LLC. She specializes in the cleaning and maintenance of commercial and residential properties. She also has a Masters in Social Work from Walden University. Sydney uses her positive attitude and energy to encourage others to work towards success. In her free time, Sydney likes to travel, and spend time with family.
## KATHERINE WILLIAMS
Katherine Williams is currently a childcare professional, and owner of Touch A Life Childcare and enrichment program of 33 years. Katherine is a graduate of then Memphis State University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology. Williams also received an associate degree in Early Childhood Education from Shelby State Community College. Prior to starting her childcare program Katherine worked as a counselor for Midsouth Hospital and Adolescent Program for 14 years and Porter-Leath Children Center for 5 years.
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“Obstacles don’t have to stop you. If you run into a wall, don’t turn around and give up. Figure out how to climb it, go through it, or work around it.”
###### – Michael Jordan
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**Our Programs:**
**Rising Artist Arts Program**– RAAP is an arts education program currently offering photography and videography classes with more class options in the works. This program runs for 5 weeks with classes being held 2 days per week, not including any type of special events. During the program, classes will be taught for an hour. This program is for youth with any type of health disorder within the age range of 11-18. Our students will be taught by professionals within their specific field of study on a weekly basis as well as have the opportunity to learn from notable industry professionals within the art and entertainment industries through masterclasses and workshops.
**Performances/Finale Events-** At the end of our programs we will have some type of event to culminate the end of a specific program to celebrate our students’ accomplishments and artistic work.
The outcome for this program is to equip students with foundational knowledge and skills in their area of study whether photography, videography, or otherwise. Their creative skills and confidence will be enhanced and increased. In addition to that, we will foster community and artistic expression among our students.
Why- To teach youth and young adults with health disorders in multiple areas of the arts. Youth with health disorders most times feel defined by their specific health condition and think that they can’t become or achieve whatever it is that they want but we are here to prove otherwise. Your health condition is not who you are, it’s just a part of you.
 Students will learn and exhibit our core values- Artistic Expression, Vulnerability, Community, and Collaboration
RAAP operates on the belief that art has the power to transcend limitations, foster personal growth, and transform lives.  By creating a supportive and inclusive environment, the program aims to instill confidence in participants, helping them recognize and celebrate their unique talents.
Students will learn some of the following topics based on their level of  photography or videography: Understanding/mastering camera basics, Composition, Lighting, the different genres of photography/videography, storytelling, etc
The Rising Artists Arts Program is not just an educational experience; it is a journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and artistic expression. Through the RAAP, the Arts Over Odds Foundation endeavors to make a positive impact on the lives of youth and young adults facing health challenges, proving that with creativity and determination, they can overcome any obstacle on their path to artistic fulfillment.
**Financial Information:**
The 5-week tuition for the RAAP program is $350. This fee covers all selected classes and materials needed for the duration of the program. Additionally, participants have the option to enroll in individual classes at a rate of $40 per class. This flexibility allows participants to tailor their experience based on their interests and availability.
## **BECOME AN ARTIST**
Apply For Upcoming Programs. If you are an artist or aspiring artist of any kind interested in being a part of our current or future programs please fill out the application form …
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##### BENEFIT CONCERT
Friday, September 20, 2024-
Playhouse on the Square
6 PM- 9 PM
## OUR SPONSORS
We would like to extend a warm thank you to all of our sponsors for our Arts Over Odds 2024 Benefit Concert.
### GOLD SPONSOR
### SILVER SPONSOR
Are you interested in partnering with our organization or volunteering? We would love to hear from you!
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What is Arts over Odds?
Arts Over Odds (AOO) is an arts based nonprofit organization that focuses on providing arts education for youth and young adults living with health disorders.
Where will the programs be held? Is transportation provided?
As of now, programming will be held at the Stax Music Academy. Transportation will not be provided, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to get students to and from classes.
Do students have to audition to be accepted?
Students do not have to audition to be apart of our programming. We just ask that the student have a genuine interest in studying the specific art form they are interested in.
Is this program local, national, or international?
As of now our programming will be offered to the Memphis, TN, and surrounding area students who will be participating in in-person classes, with some virtual classes being offered for certain classes and programs.
What ages are the programs for?
Our programs will be offered to students ages 11-18.
How much is it?
For our 5 week programs, the full 5 week tuition is $350. If you aren’t attending all classes during the 5 week program you’d pay $40 for each class you attend.
Are there scholarships and financial aid available?
As of now, our organization doesn’t offer scholarships or financial aid, but as our programming and services grow we do plan to offer them.
Are there virtual classes?
We will have virtual classes set up for certain programs and classes to be determined by the teacher and staff.
Is there programming for adults?
We will have specific programming for young adults 18-24 and potentially older adults in the future as programming progress.