Our Team
Founder/Executive Director
Mike leads the Foundation and is Creator-Author of the Avery and Masa® Book Series.
Mike’s background as an elementary educator, youth mentor, writer, and changemaker has prepared him to build a strong foundation for the organization. Mike has developed and executed our successful four-year Title 1 school literacy program resulting in an dynamic increase in 3rd grade literacy scores. Mike delivered the Keynote Speech for the 2025 UNC Charlotte Literacy Summit.
He holds a BA in Education from San Diego State University with a specialization in Children’s Literature. He lives in Charlotte, NC with his wife, Sterling and their son, Dylan.
Michael Deeney
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Kathleen Alcorn
Board Member
Advisory Board Chair
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Catherine McKenzie
Advisory Board Member
Social Impact & Media
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Principal Shanna Rae
Advisory Board Member
Literacy & Title 1 School Engagement
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Matthew Leiner
Advisory Board Member
Director of Fundraising Concerts & Events
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Baird Private Wealth Management
Community Outreach Partner
Book Clubs & Annual Fundraiser Concerts
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Taylor Patno
Advisory Board Member
Children’s Theatre Program
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Red Panda Network
Global Partner
Red Panda & Conservation Advisor
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Little Fireface Project
Global Partner
Slow Loris & Conservation Advisor
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Carolina Farm Trust
Regional Partner
Community Impact Programs
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John Vieregg
Advisory Board
Business Leader Engagement
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Cocotiv
Community Partner
Fundraiser Concerts
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Helen and Jose Colton Foundation
Community Impact Programs
Literacy Impact Programs
Our Values
The Avery and Masa Chapter Book Series features 3 continuing adventures told through the eyes of endangered animals. Each story covers important themes such as teamwork, friendship, acceptance, bullying, safety, and self-esteem. Java Lava, Dingo Danger, and Shark Bullies.
High Interest Reading Engagement
Social Emotional Learning
Conservation Education