Our Team
Center 360 is powered by a dedicated team passionate about empowering middle school youth. We are committed to providing mentorship, guidance, and support to help them build a successful future.
KEISHA HAMILTON
Co-Founder
Keisha is a living testament to the power of resilience and dedication. With over 20 years of experience in mentoring young people, she brings a unique understanding of their challenges in her approach to helping them overcome obstacles and thrive.
Keisha Hamilton empowers the next generation on and off the field as a mother, multi-sport coach, corporate leader, and non-profit founder. Her love for running, which began at age 5 in Jamaica, provided her with the tools to cope with life's changes. This personal journey fueled her unwavering passion for track and field, leading her to pursue higher education through a full athletic scholarship at Western Kentucky University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing and a Master of Science in Athletic Administration and Recreation. Keisha is also a USA Track and Field Certified Coach, actively contributing to youth development through the Carolina Blaze Track Club. Keisha's work is a powerful testament to the transformative power of mentorship and sports in shaping the lives of young people. Inspired by her experiences working with Parks and Recreation departments in Decatur and Atlanta, GA, and the Mecklenburg County Park and Recreation Youth Sports Division in Charlotte, Keisha established Center 360. Her vision is fueled by the profound impact that mentors and coaches can have on young individuals. Through Center 360, Keisha aims to provide unwavering support and guidance to empower today's youth, just as she received. Her work is not just a mission but a living example of the difference one person can make in the lives of many. “Sports, as well as my coaches along the way, have all greatly impacted my life and the person I am today. Center 360 is an opportunity for me to use what I was blessed with and pay it forward to our youth.”
AKELIAH STEWART
Co-Founder
& Executive Director
Akeliah is a seasoned director working in management of non-profit organizations. Her expertise in nonprofit organizations, youth development, coaching, crisis intervention, and family therapy is informed by her empathy and belief in everyone's potential.
Since her high school years, Akeliah Stewart, co-founder of Center 360, has been unwavering in her dedication to uplifting and empowering young people in need. Driven by her passion for teaching, she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education from South Carolina State University and later pursued a Master’s degree in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. Throughout her journey, she has fearlessly tackled various challenges faced by youth, such as poverty and substance abuse, supporting LGBTQ youth and allies, aiding runaways, addressing homelessness, and combating abuse/neglect and human trafficking, among other crisis situations. Akeliah's impactful work includes serving as a Program Director at Time Out Youth for three years and as a Program Manager at The Relatives Crisis Center for a decade. In 2015, she co-founded Center 360 — a testament to her unwavering commitment to making a difference in the lives of young people. In 2021, Akeliah took on the role of Executive Director, elevating the organization's mission. Her return to the Executive Director role in 2024 signifies her enduring dedication to being a beacon of hope for young people in need. Akeliah is a living embodiment of a dedicated Youth Advocate and a true champion for all young individuals.
SHANISE WHITE
Program Supervisor
Driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, Shanise is always eager to explore new opportunities for growth and impact. She looks forward to connecting and collaborating with families and youth to drive positive change and achieve shared goals.
Shanise White's work as a dedicated community advocate has a significant impact on the growth and empowerment of young individuals. Her expertise in learning and development, as demonstrated by her exceptional ability to catalyze achievement, is a key asset. With a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Shanise's extensive experience in serving diverse communities, with a specific focus on youth aged 5 to 18, is invaluable. Shanise's values are centered around an unwavering passion for family. She firmly believes in fortifying family foundations and feels a profound calling to guide young minds toward a holistic perspective of life. Hailing from Youngstown, OH, Shanise finds joy in golfing, immersing herself in nature, and cherishing moments with her loved ones. Rooted in her essence is a deep-seated commitment to illuminating the path for children, helping them recognize their unique brilliance and navigate challenges regardless of the world around them.
AUJENAY CIANCIOLA
Program Coordinator
Aujenay is passionate about education and career development, bringing a strong mentoring, leadership, and community engagement background. She aims to empower students to achieve their professional goals through personalized guidance and support. Mentoring is crucial in assisting students as they navigate academic challenges and explore career opportunities. Aujenay's efforts are centered on fostering a supportive environment where students can thrive and reach their full potential.
JAMES BAKER
Site Coordinator
James Baker has a deep enthusiasm for sports, technology, and his faith in God. Throughout his journey, he has mentored more than 27 young men, helping them navigate their paths toward fulfilling careers rooted in their passions. His goal is to serve as a positive male role model for the younger generation, instilling in them hope, enthusiasm, motivation, and direction. He strives to foster a sense of brotherhood where young men feel empowered to express themselves, learn, and harness their potential to thrive in life.
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LaCy JOHNSON
Site Coordinator
LaCy is a dedicated site coordinator and a recent graduate of the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where she earned a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW). With a strong commitment to service, LaCy empowers individuals to achieve their goals and meet their needs. She believes in the importance of self-care as a foundation for effective support and advocacy. LaCy’s passion for making a positive impact in the community drives her work, inspiring those around her to strive for personal growth and resilience.
2024-2025 Interns
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NAME
UNC Charlotte | Major
EBONY GRAYSON
Walden University | Masters in Social Work
TAYLOR BROWN
UNC Charlotte | Psychology
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NAME
UNC Charlotte | Major
Board of Directors
KEISHA HAMILTON
Board Chair
Northwell Health
YOLANDA REDDICK
Board Member
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools
LIEUTENANT
LEBRAUN EVANS
Board Member
Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department
ERIC LUMPKINS
Board Member
Enlightened Financial Group
Join us in shaping a brighter future
for our youth
Center 360 is seeking passionate, committed individuals to join our board and help guide the vision and growth of our organization. As a board member, you will play a critical role in shaping our future, supporting our mission, and expanding our impact in the community. Please complete the form below to provide us with insight into your background, experience, and how you can contribute to the success of Center360. We look forward to learning more about you and exploring how we can work together to serve youth and families through our programs.