Staff

Christa Funk is the Executive Director of Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars (DRDFS). Since Christa joined DRDFS in 2012 as the Academic Support Manager, she has expanded the college access program from 40 to over 350 students served annually, increased the organization’s high school partnerships by 70% and created a robust and holistic approach to how DRDFS prepares students for post-secondary success. Christa holds a Bachelor’s Degree in English Language Arts and a Master’s Degree in Curriculum and Instruction, both from the University of Detroit Mercy. Christa is a member of the Board of Trustees for the Detroit Symphony Orchestra and a National Officer and Character Lead Advocate for Sigma Sigma Sigma Sorority.

Grace is the College Access Program Coordinator at Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars, where she works to coordinate logistics for successful programming to support the Next Level Scholars Program. Before joining DRDFS, Grace worked on local Michigan farms focused on education and sharing her love of nature with K-12 students. As a fourth generation educator, Grace is passionate about empowering students to discover how education can support their life goals. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Community Engagement from Michigan State University’s Residential College in the Arts and Humanities.

Tiffany D. Haddon is the Success Program Manager for Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars. In this role she focuses on developing and implementing comprehensive college success programming for first generation college scholars.  She brings a deep understanding of the challenges they face as well as the foundational and wraparound services needed to ensure they succeed. After earning her Bachelor’s degree in Family and Child Development, she pursued a Master’s in Social Work both from the University of Akron. This solid educational foundation, combined with her genuine empathy and commitment, has allowed her to make a significant impact on the lives of young scholars. Her passion for helping young adults navigate the college admissions and funding process is driven by her belief that education is the key to unlocking limitless opportunities. Throughout her career, Tiffany has assisted students in accessing more than $1 million dollars in scholarships.

Charnee James serves as a College Success Coach with Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars, supporting 12th-grade students through their first year of college. Passionate about helping students navigate transitions and build confidence, she emphasizes authentic relationships, access, and consistent guidance as keys to success. Before joining DRDFS, Charnee worked as a Classroom Teacher, After-School Site Coordinator, and Student Success Coach at Washtenaw Community College, supporting learners from elementary through college. Her experience includes creating inclusive environments, developing curriculum, and leading workshops that foster academic growth and leadership. Charnee earned her M.Ed. from the University of Michigan and her B.A. in Political Science from Michigan State University. She has studied abroad in London, Scotland, and Spain and holds certifications in Trauma-Informed and Restorative Practices. Charnee is dedicated to empowering students and celebrating their journey to and through college.

Jessica Leacher is the College Access Program Manager at Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars, where she designs and leads programs that help first-generation students pursue postsecondary education. Her passion for higher education began when she served with AmeriCorps as a Michigan State University College Adviser. That firsthand experience working with students sparked her commitment to addressing systemic inequities in education. Over the past decade, Jessica has contributed to several national nonprofits, including the Aspen Institute’s College Excellence Program, where she developed initiatives to improve student success outcomes at colleges nationwide. She is an empathetic and dedicated professional, passionate about creating equitable opportunities for all students. Jessica earned her Bachelor of Arts in Social Relations and Policy from Michigan State University’s James Madison College and completed her Master of Social Work at the University of Michigan.

Jill Marecki is the Next Level Scholars Program Director at Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars. She is responsible for strategically leading the program team, as well as building strong partnerships and enhancing the organization’s data practices. Jill holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Political Science from Kalamazoo College and a Master’s Degree in Educational Leadership from Oakland University. Since 2010, Jill has dedicated her career to education and college access in Detroit. In 2018, Jill was recognized as Detroit 2020 Person of the Week by WXYZ Detroit Channel 7 for starting a scholarship fund and college success program to help her former students enroll and persist in college. She serves on the Executive Committee of the Detroit Alumni Success Collective (DASC) and on a local board in Plymouth, Michigan.

Grace Verhines is the Executive Assistant at Detroit Regional Dollars for Scholars. Grace joined Dollars for Scholars in 2016, primarily maintaining records, bookkeeping, and assisting the staff with events and communication. By creating and implementing both financial and record keeping processes, Grace has increased the organization’s efficiency and effectiveness. Grace has worked in office and project management for 6 years, primarily in construction and medical offices. Grace holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Biblical Studies from Moody Bible Institute.