Our Leadership
Marian Kelley, Ed.D.
Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder
Dr. Marian Kelley is originally from Baltimore, MD, but spent her teenage years growing up in Homewood, a neighborhood in eastern Pittsburgh, PA. Nevertheless, she is glad to call the Memphis area home. As a child, she realized the need for inclusion and acceptance of people with disabilities. After graduating from high school, Dr. Kelley obtained her Bachelor’s degree from The University of Memphis, completed her Master of Curriculum and Instruction at Strayer University, and obtained an Educational Specialist and Doctorate at Union University. In addition to operating The Sterling Institute, she is a fantastic educator with 20 years of experience in Tennessee’s public and charter school sectors, Owner of SBK Ed. Consulting, and Founding Board Member of Empower Memphis. Her empathy and passion led her to specialize in advocacy for students and their families with unique learning needs.
Dedriene Rogers, Ed.D.
Chief Executive Officer and Co-Founder
Dr. Dedriene Rogers is a native Memphian raised in the Hyde Park neighborhood of North Memphis. She attended school in the area and participated in various community programs throughout the city. She grew up understanding the importance of education, and after graduating from high school, Ms. Rogers obtained her Bachelor’s degree from Austin Peay State University. Later she completed her Master of Teaching at Freed Hardeman University, received an Educational Specialist and Doctorate from Northcentral University as well. In addition to operating The Sterling Institute, she is a dynamic educator with over 20 years of experience with Memphis-Shelby County Schools, the Chief Executive Officer of Changing Minds Consulting Agency, LLC, Board President of the Metamorphosis Project, and an active participant in multiple community service projects. She is dedicated to her career because it allows her to connect and collaborate with students, parents, and teachers for superb outcomes.
Tracy Tapp, M.Ed.
Chief Operating Officer
Mrs. Tracy Tapp is a native Memphian raised in the Hickory Hill neighborhood of East Memphis. She attended school locally and participated in several programs and activities across the city. Early on, she developed a passion for learning, and after graduating high school, Mrs. Tapp obtained her Bachelor’s degree from Memphis State. Afterward, she completed her Master of Education at Bethel University. In addition to ensuring the day-to-day logistics of The Sterling Institute, she is an exceptional educator with over 30 years of experience with Memphis-Shelby County Schools as, Service Animal Advocate and Real Estate Investor. Her commitment to the work has allowed her to grow and expand her knowledge to be a resource and provide high support for special education teachers, parents, and organizations.
Stephaine Hurt, M.Ed.
Chief Compliance Officer
Mrs. Stephaine Hurt is a native Memphian raised in the Frasyer neighborhood of North Memphis. She attended school in the area and participated in several community athletic events and functions from elementary through high school. Growing up, Ms. Hurt knew she wanted to help people, and after graduating from high school, Ms. Hurt obtained her Bachelor’s degree from Memphis State. Soon after, she completed her Master of Education at Grand Canyon University. Apart from guaranteeing state and federal compliance with The Sterling Institute, she is a spectacular educator with over 20 years of experience with Memphis-Shelby County Schools, MANNA Outreach Ministry Associate, and Volunteer Representative for I Am Included Youth Services. Ms. Hurt’s devotion to equality and inclusion has allowed her to give a voice to the voiceless and promote positive change through policies and procedures.
Board Members
Tashuna Smith
President
Marketing
Harold Carruthers
Vice President
Manuel Incorporation
LaQuita Perry
Secretary
Healthcare
Tangela Richmond
Treasurer
Finance