Our Team

Mrs. Lakenna Booker, MAT, has an extensive background in STEM education with over a decade in urban education. In 2013, she published The 5E's of Inquiry-Based Science with Teacher Created Materials, Inc.

Mrs. Booker grew up in the Parkway Village community. She attended Goodlett Elementary School and graduated valedictorian from Sheffield High School in 2002. Through philanthropy from the Memphis Rotary Club, she attended Phillips Exeter Academy, a prestigious boarding school in Exeter, NH. The experience showed Mrs. Booker that education looked different in other places and that education is truly the foundation for a successful future. After completing a Bachelor of Science in Biology with a concentration on Cell and Molecular Science from the University of Tennessee at Martin, Mrs. Booker joined an alternative teacher licensing program through the University of Memphis. Mrs. Booker quickly discovered her purpose in life - to teach and unlock opportunity for others through the impartation of knowledge. Mrs. Booker is beyond proud to have started a high-performing charter school in her childhood community and is motivated each day by the students and families she has the privilege to serve.

Greetings Memphis Merit Family!

It is an honor to step into this role and serve our vibrant community of students, parents, and educators.

As I embark on this journey, my focus remains steadfast on the well-being and education of our children. I believe that education is not just about imparting knowledge but also about nurturing young minds and fostering a love for learning. With this responsibility, I am reminded of the words of Nelson Mandela, who once said, "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." This resonates deeply with me, emphasizing the transformative power that education holds in shaping the future.

Our commitment to serving children goes beyond the confines of the classroom. It involves creating an inclusive and supportive environment where each child can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. Maya Angelou's wisdom captures this sentiment perfectly: "We all should know that diversity makes for a rich tapestry, and we must understand that all the threads of the tapestry are equal in value no matter their color."

I am excited about the opportunities that lie ahead to collaborate with our dedicated faculty, engage with our passionate parents, and most importantly, guide and inspire our incredible students. Together, let us continue to cultivate an environment where every child feels seen, heard, and empowered to reach their fullest potential.

Best regards,

Dr. Alexis Gwin-Miller

Memphis Merit Academy Charter School

Mrs. Angelina Mccoach is the Founding Dean of Finance, Compliance, and Operations for MMA. Mrs. Mccoach brings a wealth of knowledge with her background in accounting, math instruction, and dynamic experience as a highly effective educator. Mrs. Mccoach has obtained a Bachelor's of Arts in Accounting from the University of TN at Martin and a Master's of Arts in Teaching from the University of Memphis. Mrs. Mccoach serves as MMA's direct supervisor for federal programs compliance and the fiscal budget of the school.

It is with great pleasure to serve as the newly appointed Director of Schools for Memphis Merit Academy Charter School. I, Jacqueline Brown-Lewis, am truly honored to become part of a community where success is the only option. OUR MISSION of rigorous academics, high quality instruction, and character development is promise.

As a native Memphian and a proud graduate of Whitehaven High School, I am committed to the Parkway Village community and the success of our scholars. I am obtained a Bachelor's degree in mathematics from LeMoyne-Owen College. Moreover, I received a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Memphis with a concentration in Special Education. My formal leadership training was obtained from Bethel University and the completion of notable leadership programs in the city of Memphis. Over my 17 years in public education, my experience is inclusive of classroom teacher, instructional coach, assistant principal, and principal.

Memphis Merit is a pillar in the heart of Parkway Village that creates G. E. M's:

Gifted Scholars with unique abilities to accomplish their dreams

Educated by the best teachers and staff

On a Mission towards Mastery

It is my belief that all scholars have the ability to learn and achieve any goal they set. My commitment is to assist our teachers and staff in fostering a spirit of C.A.R.E. by being effective Communicators who are Aware, Reflective, and Educated by being respectful, responsible, and reflective.

I am dedicated to helping students reach their full potential by setting goals, modeling clear expectations, and motivating scholars to “Never Give Up!” As your Director of Schools, you can expect me to lead by example, serve our community with pride, and inspire others to succeed. I look forward to meeting with all stakeholders during the mandatory parent orientation and meet the teacher night, to share the school’s academic plan and to seek feedback to continue to move the school forward. It is my hope that we build a strong partnership that will support and maintain Memphis Merit’s success and carry out our school vision of cultivating a dynamic learning community where scholars thrive academically, personally, and socially. Through rigorous academics, high-quality instruction, and character development, we provide our scholars with the values essential for success in high school, college, and life.

Warm regards,

Jacqueline Brown-Lewis

Director of Schools

Mrs. Ford has been a part of Memphis Merit Academy Charter School since the founding year in 2019. Mrs. Ford began her career as the Student Support Coordinator for MMA in 2019 and has advanced over the years to the Dean of Special Populations. Mrs. Ford brings a genuine love for ensuring ALL students have an equitable, rigorous, and supportive education. Mrs. Ford is responsible for the overall compliance of MMA's special populations inclusive of special education services, ELL learners, Section 504, Characteristics of Dyslexia, and more. Mrs. Ford obtained a Bachelor's degree from the University of Memphis, and continued her education at Freed-Hardeman University gaining a Master's of Education and Education Specialist degree. Mrs. Ford is also a licensed administrator as designated by TDOE. 

Mrs. Yamina Tunstall is a nationally board certified professional school counselor. Mrs. Tunstall brings to the MMA a wealth of knowledge in supporting scholars in crisis prevention and intervention. Mrs. Tunstall is a the direct manager for threat assessments, Section 504, and counseling services for scholars. She also serves as our truancy officer. Mrs. Tunstall believes ALL scholars have a voice and can learn in a supportive environment. 

I am thrilled to announce the newest addition to our team, Dr. Erika Henderson, who joins us as the Director of Literacy and Instructional Coach. Dr. Henderson brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in literacy education and instructional support, and we are excited about the incredible impact her leadership will have on our school community.

In her role, Dr. Henderson will oversee our literacy initiatives, drive instructional growth, and work directly with our educators to enhance student engagement and achievement in reading. With over 25 years in education, her career spans roles as a master teacher, district literacy coach, school principal, and curriculum reviewer. Most recently, she served as Manager of Educational Partnerships with the Center for the Collaborative Classroom, working across Tennessee and Mississippi to advance literacy education.

With 24 years of teaching experience, Mikka Atkins is a dedicated and passionate science educator committed to inspiring young minds. A proud graduate of LeMoyne-Owen College, Mikka has spent decades fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a love for scientific discovery in students.

Believing that education is the key to empowerment, Mikka strives to create engaging, hands-on learning experiences that connect science to the real world. Whether through interactive experiments, thought-provoking discussions, or innovative teaching methods, Mikka’s goal is to ignite a lifelong passion for learning in every student.

Beyond the classroom, Mikka is an advocate for teacher appreciation, community involvement, and student success, working to ensure that all learners have the tools and encouragement they need to thrive.

Mr. Jose Alvarez is a dynamic leader and voice for our school community. Mr. Alvarez brings a wealth of knowledge with his background of service in the United States Marine Corps as a Communication Specialist, several national experiences as a bilingual ambassador for the Hispanic community, ESL teacher for grades K-8, and as a Community Engagement Manager for other local successful charter networks. Mr. Alvarez is indeed an advocate for the ensuring equatable high quality education for all students with an atuned and affectionate advocacy for the Hispanic community in the Greater Memphis area. Mr. Alvarez has obtained a Bachelor's of Science in Elementary Education and Masters in TESOL in Applied Linguistics from Boricua College. 

Mr. Reginald Ellis brings to MMA a wealth of experience in operational excellence focused in accounting and vendor relationships. Mr. Ellis is equipped with business acumen to support school operations and make key decisions regarding operational excellence. Mr. Ellis is a dynamic operational leader for MMA ensuring each scholar's educational experience is not hindered by non-instructional challenges and that they are filled with supportive systems and structures to allow MMA to thrive. Mr. Ellis' eagerness and passion for learning makes him particularly atuned for leading operations at MMA and carrying out the mission of Memphis Merit Academy Charter School. 

Angelia Atkins Allen developed, implemented, and managed compliance and risk operations in the financial services industry with a focus on consumer protection, economic development, and community advocacy. After a career in the financial services industry, she transitioned to the nonprofit sector and is currently a member of the executive leadership team at United Way of the Mid-South. As the Chief Program Officer, she is responsible for leading program assessment, funding strategies, and management of key relationships with collaborative and partner organizations, agencies, and community stakeholders. Allen is proud to be part of the process designed to create positive community change by leveraging collaboration among stakeholders to provide equitable access to resources that can transform the lives of the most vulnerable in our community.

She has been a board chair and executive leadership team member for several non-profit entities focused on community and economic development. Allen has advocated for senior welfare, child safety, and early childhood education. She is a member of the Executive Committee of the Board of Directors for Habitat for Humanity of the Mid-South and is a member of the founding Board of Directors for Memphis Merit Academy Charter School.

Timorie Belk joined the Memphis Merit Academy Board of Directors in 2021. Her family moved to Memphis when she was in elementary school when her mom was stationed in Millington, TN with the U.S. Navy. Timorie graduated from the University of Kansas with a B.S. in Journalism. After graduation, Timorie moved back to Memphis and spent 8 years working for local nonprofits - coordinating volunteers and fundraising. In 2017, she transitioned to the marketing world, joining VMLY&R to execute events for the U.S. Navy. She was with VMLY&R for five years before taking a remote position with a small marketing agency based in New Orleans called LIGHT+CO. Timorie has one daughter and uses her unique blend of professional event-planning and marketing experience and personal experience as a mom to support the faculty, staff and scholars at Memphis Merit Academy.

Dimika joined the Memphis Merit Academy Board of Directors in 2022. Dimika earned a B.S. in Biology from Hampton University and a Master of Forensic Sciences from National University. She left her career in forensic sciences due to health reasons. Dimika collaborates with various groups sharing her experience and insight, while also advocating for diversity and inclusion in healthcare and research. She is co-chair of the Research, Inclusion, Diversity, and Equity (RIDE) Council at iConquerMS – a network which brings together people living with MS, their care partners, researchers and others to understand MS and search for solutions. She also serves on the iConquerMS Governing Board. She is a member of the Patient Engagement Research Council (PERC) for Janssen Scientific Affairs. She is also a Consumer Reviewer for the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Program. 

Tressa V. Johnson is an employment law attorney and a founding partner of Johnson & Bennett, PLLC, in Memphis. Tressa represents workers in the Memphis metropolitan area and throughout Mississippi in employment litigation matters. Over the course of her career, Tressa has recovered considerable amounts in verdicts and settlements for her clients. In honor of her accomplishments, the Million Dollar Advocates Forum invited her to become a life member of the organization, which is composed of attorneys who have obtained recoveries of $1 million or more for their Clients. She has been named as a Mid-South Super Lawyer from 2018-2023. In 2019, Tressa won Best of Bar in Small Firm through the Memphis Business Journal. In 2020, Tressa and her partner were featured in Super Lawyer’s Magazine.

Outside of her practice, Tressa enjoys staying active in her legal community. She enjoys serving as the Governance Committee Chair for the Memphis Merit Academy and the Treasurer for the Memphis Chapter of the Ladies of Charity. Raised in New Orleans, Tressa earned a bachelor’s degree in biology with a minor in chemistry from Xavier University of Louisiana. She received her law degree from Loyola University New Orleans College of Law. Tressa cherishes and loves her husband and four children. They are a huge part of the reason behind all of her efforts.

Aurelia V. McBride serves as Associate Chief Counsel for the Department of Homeland Security, representing the United States Government in immigration proceedings. Prior to joining DHS, Aurelia was in private practice at the law firm of a Glanker Brown, PLC, focusing on commercial litigation and personal injury law. Aurelia has also worked with the law firm of Nahon, Saharovich & Trotz and the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services. Aurelia received her Bachelor’s Degree from Vanderbilt University in 2012 and her Juris Doctorate from the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis in 2015. 

Aurelia is an active member of the Memphis community and also serves on the Board of Directors for Memphis Area Legal Services. As a wife and mother of three, she is committed to access to education and justice for all.

Joseph is a native Memphian who enjoys the privilege of serving his community. Joseph holds a deep passion for community service. This passion is rooted in his recognition that he has benefited greatly from the sacrifice and service of those who came before him and that he has a responsibility to serve those who will come after him. Joseph is currently a Senior Counsel on the Global Data Privacy team at FedEx, where he focuses on helping FedEx remain compliant with data privacy laws around the world.

Joseph is a product of legacy Memphis City Schools. After graduating from Central High School, he went on to attend Rhodes College where he earned a B.A. in Business Administration. Joseph received his J.D. from the Cecil C. Humphreys School of Law at the University of Memphis.

Joseph began his legal practice as a civil litigator in the Nashville office of Dickinson Wright PLLC, TN. While there, he served on the Napier Looby Bar Foundation Board of Directors for several years before being elected President of the Foundation. He also served as President-elect of the Napier Looby Bar Association, a member of the Nashville Bar Association’s Minority Opportunity Committee and Young Lawyer’s Division Board of Directors.

Joseph returned to Memphis in 2017 after taking a job at ALSAC-St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Joseph began serving on the Shelby County Mayor’s Young Professional Council and Board President for Aster College Prep Charter School. Joseph currently serves as a member of the Memphis Bar Association’s Leadership Scholars Committee, Chair of the Ben F. Jones A.A. Latting Awards Committee, and as Board Member (Director at Large, West Tennessee) for the Association of Corporate Counsel -Tennessee. Joseph also enjoys serving on the Educational Committee and Youth Ministry at his church. In his spare time, Joseph is a family man to his heart and enjoys being a loving husband to his wife LaChina and father to their three children.

Reid Lanigan brings a strong foundation in business and real estate development to the Memphis Merit Academy Charter School Board of Directors. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with Honors from the University of Utah and an MSc in Real Estate Development from the University of Manchester. Reid’s academic achievements include recognition as an Eccles School of Business Scholar and recipient of the Orin R. and Imogene R. Woodbury Endowed Scholarship.

A Memphis native and DeLasalle Scholar graduate of Christian Brothers High School, Reid is deeply committed to service, having worked with organizations like the Boys and Girls Clubs of Memphis and The Children's Museum. His passion for education, strategic asset management, and community development makes him a valuable asset to the board as Memphis Merit Academy continues its mission to provide high-quality education and growth opportunities for students.