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BOARD OF DIRECTORS

President - Shannyn Wentz

Shannyn is mom to Milo, who attends Prosper High School and Madeleine, who is a freshman at The University of Missouri. She earned her degree in Human Development & Family Studies from Penn State University and her Teaching Credentials at Chatham University. This background, along with having two children identified as GT, has helped her realize that being identified as GT is not a guaranteed road to success. Shannyn’s education and experience in the classroom has inspired her passion for advocating for learning and growth, no matter a child’s ability or need. Over the years, she has developed a special interest in learning more about the GT population who also have learning disabilities, known as Twice-Exceptional. She is grateful to have this opportunity to work closely with Prosper ISD to enhance both the educational experience of GT students and the way teachers and families are supported.

Vice President - Liz Yip

Liz is a homemaker who spends her time volunteering at the school and with Gifted Minds Prosper. She has 3 wonderful kids attending Baker Elementary, including twins who are being served by the GT program. “Through the GT program, I deeply see how they grow so much. Not only academically but also personally. Being a part of GMP, I learned that education is a community effort to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment for our children and all.” As Program Chair, Liz works with the Director of Advanced Academics to plan programs that will further the goals of GMP.

2nd Vice President - Dimeka Jennings

Dimeka is an attorney, business advisor and healthcare compliance leader. She is an unwavering advocate for equity in education and is committed to supporting Gifted Minds Prosper in its advocacy for expanded opportunities for GT students. Dimeka is a graduate of Spelman College, Northwestern University’s Medill School of Journalism and Harvard Law School. She counts her highest achievement as being mom to two spirited little ones, ages 10 and 7. As Membership Chair, Dimeka is in charge of our membership and implementing a plan for growth.

Secretary - Astine Alaverdyan

Astine is mom of 2, and a corporate attorney with over 14 years of experience. She has had numerous opportunities to help start nonprofit organizations and foundations, as well as volunteer at various legal organizations supporting legal needs of low-income families. Her oldest child attends Windsong Elementary, while her youngest is at a preschool. Astine is extremely grateful for the amazing group of teachers at Windsong. “Not only does my daughter enjoy her GT classes, but on weekends she requires us to do additional studies with her, and most of all, she enjoys playing chess with her dad.” Astine is very passionate about education and strongly believes that focusing on and developing critical thinking in children at a young age is key for their future success.

Treasurer - Himani Bhati

Himani works at Oracle, Inc. as a Senior Artificial Intelligence Software Engineer in the Business Intelligence team. In the past, she has worked at Goldman Sachs, Wells Fargo, and Ernst & Young. She majored in Finance and Computer Science at Columbia University in New York. Himani and her husband are parents to six-year-old twin boys (non-identical), both in the Gifted and Talented program at Boyer Elementary. She joined the GMP board in order to participate in communicating the needs of gifted kids, while also collaborating productively with the wonderful GT team at Prosper ISD.

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