top of page
IMG_6881 - Roxanne Gary.JPG
MEET THE LEADERSHIP & STAFF

Hope Leadership Academy was created to be a safe haven and an introduction to achievement and excellence for the students we serve. With that mission comes the need for educators who understand all children are capable of shifting their future significantly through access to qualified, dedicated, culturally competent educators. Our staff is committed to providing our students with a foundational education that creates a passion for life-long learning that positively impacts their future and the future of our surrounding community.

Executive Leadership Team

HLAStaff-1344289.jpg
Dr. Michelle E. James

Executive Director and Principal 

​

Read Bio Here

JamesH.jpg
James Hogue, M.Ed

Director of Student Services and School Culture

​

Read Bio Here

Tiffaney Whitt Dir. Academics and Assesments.JPG
Dr. Tiffaney Whitt

Director of Academics and Assessments

​

Read Bio Here

Roxanne Gary- Director of Operations & Support.JPG
Roxanne Gary, M.S.O.D

Director of Operations

and Finance

​

Read Bio Here

STAFF & FACULTY

Hope Leadership Academy Board Members

RodneySmith_revised_headshot.png
DR. RODNEY D. SMITH

CO-FOUNDER/MANAGING PARTNER. SOPHIC SOLUTIONS, LLC. 

“Education is extremely important to our community and serving KC east of Troost Ave is paramount to me!”

  • LinkedIn
Clarke Smith.png
CLARKE SMITH

INSTRUCTOR, PRAGMATIC INSTITUTE

“I want every child in Kansas City to get the education and support they need to thrive in our city - being part of the HLA board gives me the opportunity to help our staff, teachers and kids make it happen.”

  • LinkedIn
Jake L.png
JAKE LATTA

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES, BRANDMUSCLE

"I believe that every child should have access to high-quality education and I am proud to sit on the board of HLA where they are making that a reality in their neighborhood."

  • LinkedIn
Franco O.jpeg
FRANCO OLIVIER

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE/TEAM LEADERS, LARGE GROUP, ASSURED PARTNERS

“I chose to sit on the board at Hope Leadership as a way to help the kids. I was humbled by the love and care shown by the staff towards the kids, and wanted to support them anyway I could.”

  • LinkedIn
  • LinkedIn
Cathy Cowan.jpeg
CATHY COWAN

MARKETING OPERATIONS | STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS

  • LinkedIn
Gino Taylor.jpeg
DR. GINO TAYLOR

VICE PRESIDENT OF PEOPLE, CULTURE, & EQUITY

  • LinkedIn
bottom of page