Our Team

Gayle Hilleke

Executive Director

E-mail: gayle.hilleke@engageky.org

Phone: 859-572-7634

Bio

In January, 2006, Gayle became the founding executive director of EngageKY (formerly Kentucky Campus Compact), the 31st state affiliate chapter of Campus Compact, a national coalition of over 1200 college and university presidents committed to the civic purposes of higher education. At EngageKY, Gayle loves to brainstorm with faculty, students, and community partners to form creative partnerships that benefit the whole network. As an example, she worked with the University of Kentucky and other partners to create the annual Kentucky Hunger Dialogue. She also partnered with Berea College and Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority to create the Kentucky College Coaches AmeriCorps program.

Prior to moving to Kentucky, Gayle spent eight years in Washington D.C. at the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) where she served as an AmeriCorps program officer and as a project manager for a national assessment initiative, the State Administrative Standards project. Prior to working at CNCS, she was the first program officer of the Ohio state commission (Governor’s Community Service Council) from 1994-1997.

Gayle has over twenty-five years of experience in strengthening communities through work in nonprofits, educational institutions, and government agencies. Her focus is on using strength-based strategies in promoting community change and personal growth.

Born in Cincinnati, Ohio, Gayle has a bachelor’s degree from Eastern Illinois University and a master’s degree in Organization Development from American University in Washington, D.C. She loves being outdoors hiking, canoeing and biking and is currently enrolled in a cooking class.

Max Howard

Foster Grandparents Program Director

E-mail: max.howard@engageky.org

Bio

Max Howard serves as the Program Director for the EngageKY Foster Grandparent Program. He brings deep educational expertise gained over two decades in the K-12 environment. He spent 14 years as a classroom teacher before stepping into leadership as a school administrator for three years, providing a comprehensive understanding of both instruction and operational needs within partner schools.

Max has a personal academic foundation directly relevant to his work in education and administration.  He obtained his Bachelor of Arts in Secondary Education from Indiana University in 2008. He has since also obtained a Masters Degree in Biology from IU as well as a Masters Degree in School Administration from Indiana Wesleyan University.  Max still enjoys teaching and has been an adjunct professor for both Indiana University and Ivy Tech Community College in a variety of Life Science courses.

Originally from Southeast Indiana, Max is married to his wife, Carrie.  They are both avid snow skiers and enjoy skiing new places all throughout the Rocky Mountains and West Coast. They also enjoy boating and fishing and try to spend as much time as possible during the summer at their boat on Lake Erie. Max is an avid sports fan, cheering passionately for the IU Hoosiers and Cincinnati Bengals. Max and his wife actively foster animals—with a special focus on greyhounds—through several local and national organizations.

Abigail Huffman 

AmeriCorps Program Manager

E-mail: abby.huffman@engageky.org

Bio

Abby Huffman, a native of Cambridge, OH, earned a Master of Arts in Higher Education and Student Affairs as well as a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science with minors in English and Education from The Ohio State University.

Abby currently serves as the Program Manager for the Communities Thriving AmeriCorps VISTA program. Throughout her career, Abby has formerly held roles within Housing and Residence Education at The Ohio State University, including Assistant Hall Director and Resident Manager. She has also served through AmeriCorps as a College and Career Coach in OH. Known for her strengths in organization, connection, accountability, and passion, Abby is dedicated to reducing barriers and promoting service to help communities thrive.

Outside of work, Abby enjoys reading novels, writing poetry, doing puzzles, and playing with her cat, Bolt. 

Diontae Akins

VISTA Leader

E-mail: diontae.akins@engageky.org

Bio

Coming Soon!

Caitlyn Barnes 

VISTA Leader

E-mail: caitlyn.barnes@engageky.org

Bio

Caitlyn Barnes is a VISTA Leader with EngageKY, supporting VISTA members across Kentucky as they work to strengthen their communities through service.

She began her journey with EngageKY as a Kentucky College Coach at Centre College, where she served as the Coordinator of Civic & Community Engagement and the Bonner Program. In this role, she mentored students, built and maintainedn relationships with over 35 nonprofit partners, and led campus-wide events and initiatives to connect students with meaningful community engagement opportunities.

During her service as a College Coach, Caitlyn also served as an Ambassador, providing leadership and support to fellow KCC members. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Politics with a minor in Social Justice from Centre College, where she graduated in May 2023.

Mindy Wilson

EngageKY+ Program Director

E-mail: mindy.wilson@engageky.org

Bio

Mindy Wilson serves as an AmeriCorps Program Director for the EngageKY+ Volunteer Generation Fund grant and has a passion for education, student success, and nonprofit work.  She has worked in non-profits and higher education for over 20 years, most recently working as an AmeriCorps Program Manager in the Kentucky College Coaches program and with high-impact practices and career development in the Center for Career & Professional Development at Centre College. She has also volunteered her time as a governing board member for several non-profits, including CASA of the Bluegrass, Wilderness Trace Child Development Center, and the Shepherd Higher Education Consortium on Poverty (SHECP), where she served as the governing board chair for SHECP from 2022-2024. She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Literature and Spanish at Point Loma Nazarene University and her Master of Arts in Comparative Literature at the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill.  A native of California, she loves sunshine, being outdoors, and spending time near the water.  She also likes to read, cook, and travel with her family in her spare time.

Reba Prather

EngageKY+ Program Manager

E-mail: reba.prather@engageky.org

Bio

Reba Prather joined EngageKY in 2025, bringing a strong background in community development, youth programming, and agricultural education. A graduate of the University of Kentucky with a master’s degree in Community and Leadership Development, Reba has led and evaluated programs that strengthen connections between urban and rural communities, expand youth opportunities, and address critical issues such as food insecurity. Her experience includes coordinating the ’41 Stock Show Team,’ an innovative initiative that provides urban youth in Kentucky with hands-on livestock showing experience, and presenting research on implementation science and community engagement at both national and international conferences. Passionate about empowering communities, Reba is committed to using her skills in program evaluation, leadership, and partnership building to advance EngageKY’s mission of fostering meaningful university-community collaboration across the state. When she’s not working, Reba enjoys showing livestock, mentoring youth, and traveling—often finding ways to blend her personal passions with her professional commitment to building stronger communities.

Susan Byrd

Kentucky Hunger Dialogue VISTA

E-mail: susan.byrd@engageky.org

Bio

Susan has been a lifelong advocate for eradicating poverty, homelessness and mental illness. Born and raised in a small town in Michigan, she has volunteered for many worthy causes close to her heart in her local community. A graduate of University of Michigan she has dedicated many years to addressing the root causes of these and other societal maladies. She seeks to continually grow as a world citizen and servant leader. A mother of three, and Gigi (gran-gran) to five, her hobbies are reading, swimming and cooking.

Rachel Bevins

Kentucky College Coaches Program Manager

E-mail: rachel.bevins@engageky.org

Bio

Rachel Bevins is a Program Manager for the Kentucky College Coaches program. She started her KCC work as a Kentucky College Coach program AmeriCorps member at her local high school where she served as a college and career mentor for students grades 9-12 and an Ambassador for other college and career coaches, providing leadership and support as needed. Rachel became a Field Support Specialist at EngageKY after serving as a Kentucky College Coach. Since serving with our program she has also completed her first Bachelor’s Degree in Education, which has been a lifelong dream.  

Prior to her service with AmeriCorps, she was a very successful retail manager with numerous sales & customer service awards & spotlights.

Harley Cofield

Field Support Specialist

E-mail: harley.cofield@engageky.org

Bio

Harley
Cofield currently operates as a Field Support Specialist at EngageKY, leveraging a multi-faceted background in B2B & B2C telecom sales, collegiate forensics, and STEM education to support EngageKY's members across Kentucky. Cofield is no stranger to the organization's mission, having served three years as a Kentucky College Coach with AmeriCorps in Western Kentucky, providing near-peer mentoring and post-secondary planning support. A first-generation college student and dedicated lifelong learner, he understands the importance of supporting professional development and learning opportunities for the current and next generations. Cofield works with a calm, analytical and unique perspective honed from a multidisciplinary education blending the best of the sciences and humanities together. He is currently working towards completing his Bachelor of Integrated Studies in Education Studies with a minor in Social and Behavioral Sciences at Murray State University. Cofield enjoys spending time with his two-year-old son and wife of seven years, reading, creative writing, and movies in his free time. 

Janice Fenwick

Pre-ETS Project Assistant

E-mail: janice.fenwick@engageky.org

Bio

Janice Fenwick is a dedicated professional with over 20 years of experience serving underserved and high-risk communities. She currently  works as a Pre-Employment Transition Services (Pre-ETS) Project  Assistant, where she frontlines the partnership of Americorps/EngageKY and the Office of Vocational Rehabilitation, supporting Kentucky College Coaches in their mission of mentoring youth in achieving career and educational goals. Janice brings additional tools specialized in targeted transition planning and vocational support.

Janice holds an Associate Degree in Business Administration with a focus on Business Management and is actively pursuing her Bachelor's degree in Integrated Studies with a concentration in Leadership and Commerce. Her academic  journey reflects her commitment to continuous growth and her passion for creating impactful change through strategic leadership and dynamic community engagement.

Throughout her career, Janice has built a strong track record in cultivating lasting partnerships, program development and implementation, and people-first service. Janice spent two years in her previous Americorps/EngageKY role as a college and career coach at Union County High School- helping young people navigate pathways to reach their post high school goals. Her work is grounded in adeep understanding of the systemic challenges faced by marginalized populations and a steadfast commitment to equity, empowerment, and opportunity.

Janice brings a unique blend of administrative expertise, compassionate service, and visionary leadership to every role she undertakes, making her a valuable asset to the teams and communities she serves. A native of Union County Janice brings an energyand liveliness to all she does including boating on the Ohio, supporting the BRAVES, and gifting love and kindness to everyone she encounters! Rip Em’ Up Tear Em’ Up Go BRAVES GO!

Carmon Hughes

Field Support Specialist

E-mail: carmon.hughes@engageky.org

Bio

Carmon began her career in education in 2000 volunteering and working as a substitute aid at her sons’ elementary school. Throughout the last 23 years she has worked in many areas of education from daycare to GED/NCRC prep at a local detention center. She served as an AmeriCorps Kentucky College Coach for one year at North Bullitt High School and three years at her alma mater, Edmonson County High School.

Carmon is from Edmonson County, Kentucky. She received her B.S. in Elementary Education from Western Kentucky University.

Annette Neblett

Field Support Specialist

E-mail: annette.neblett@engageky.org

Bio

I am a Military Veteran; I served 7 years in the Army as a Combat Medic. After my Military Career, I began my role in education in 1997.  I began my education career at James T. Alton Middle School working with students with emotional and behavioral disorder, and in 2006, I transferred North Hardin High School where I worked with children with special needs until my retirement in 2014. After my retirement, I returned to North Hardin High School as a substitute teacher.  After substituting for 5 years, I was offered the opportunity to become a Kentucky College Coach at North Hardin High School. I was the Kentucky College Coach for five years and enjoyed every minute of it. Being a Kentucky College Coach gave me great pleasure to be able to continue my passion of helping students succeed, and I am now a Field Support Specialist supporting current Kentucky College Coaches. 

Shellie Baker

Director of Recruitment and Strategic Partnerships

E-mail: shellie.baker@engageky.org

Bio

Hailing from Northern Kentucky and an alumna of NKU, Shellie brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to our team. With degrees in Mental Health and Human Service, as well as a master’s in Adult and Higher Education from Morehead State University, Shellie brings over 20 years experience and is deeply committed to serving the community and fostering the growth of future leaders.

In her role, Shellie serves as the key recruiter and connector for the KY College Coaches Program, working to break down barriers and forge meaningful connections within the community.

Beyond her professional responsibilities, Shellie finds joy in playing sand volleyball with her husband, supporting her child running at Morehead State University, cheering on her daughter’s home team, or watching her son in basketball and golf. She continuously seeks opportunities to expand her knowledge and connect with others.

Cheryl Brumley

Marketing & Communications

E-mail: cheryl.brumley@engageky.org

Bio

Cheryl is a marketing and communications specialist who believes cohesive brand identity and storytelling connects, inspires, and delivers results. A Kentucky native, with a previous background in student success, education, and even theatre, she approaches every project with excitement, precision, and creativity. Cheryl’s holds her B.A. in Theatre & Communications from Georgetown College, a M.A. in Theatre Education for College & Communities from New York University and is currently A.B.D. at Eastern Kentucky University toward a doctorate in Educational Leadership and Policy Studies.

Outside of her professional responsibilities, Cheryl is a writer, avid traveler, and hobbyist photographer who loves spending time with her family and friends.

Emily Gibson

Program Training Manager

E-mail: emily.gibson@engageky.org

Bio

Emily is a Program Training Manager supporting training and professional development efforts for EngageKY members and staff. She received her Bachelors of Arts in Communication Studies and in Dramatic Art, as well as a Master of Social Work from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill. She joined the team after working in a variety of adult mental health settings including the Department of Veterans Affairs and substance abuse treatment; then spent several years traveling around the country and abroad as a stay-at-home parent & military spouse; and finally, serving with AmeriCorps as a Kentucky College Coach. She has a passion for facilitating engaging training & communication opportunities that promote personal and organizational growth.

Emily is a native of North Carolina living in Elizabethtown, KY with her spouse, 2 children, dog, and rabbit.

David Jones

Program Training Coordinator

E-mail: david.jones@engageky.org

Bio

David comes to EngageKY after serving a year and half as Community Transformation Coordinator with the Americorp Vista Program for What's Next East Kentucky?!  (WNEKY?!).  Through his leadership, David empowers teams and communities to co-create actionable plans that address both immediate needs and long-term goals. His commitment to diversity and collaboration helps build resilient networks capable of adapting to change and driving meaningful progress. By integrating collective wisdom and resources, David’s work lays the foundation for futures that are both strong and sustainable.

David Jones hails from Greenville, South Carolina, where he graduated from Furman University in 1986 majoring in Religion and Philosophy. He continued his education at Southern Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky, earning a Master of Divinity in Religious Education and Communications in 1990.

Rev. Jones was ordained by American Baptist Churches USA in 1993. He has served in two congregations in Indiana as an Associate Pastor, focusing on Education, Youth, College Students, and Young Adults for over twenty years. His ministry extended to college campuses, where he served as College Campus Pastor at Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana, and briefly as Interim College Campus Pastor at The Found, Purdue University, West Lafayette, Indiana, during a colleague’s sabbatical.

Since relocating to Berea, Kentucky in 2016, Rev. Jones has continued his commitment to student ministry by serving Berea College students through Union Church as a Program Coordinator.

David and his wife, Betsy Whaley (who is also an ordained minister, Therapist, and Director of Strategic Initiatives at Mountain Association in Berea), have been married for over 30 years and have two adult children, Ben and Julia. They also have 3 cats and 2 dogs.

Roberto Montfort

Digital Media Assistant

E-mail: roberto.montfort@engageky.org

Bio

Roberto Montfort is an alumni of the University of Houston where he majored in Advertising. Here, he became passionate about working with digital media as he discovered its potential to help others. He was born in Texas, but was raised in Mexico for a majority of his childhood. Roberto’s hobbies include researching politics and culture as well as creating art such as music and video. He enjoys sports including soccer and basketball, and is a strong advocate for living a healthy lifestyle in general.

Frank Burdsall

Business & Finance Officer

E-mail: frank.burdsall@engageky.org

Bio

Frank Burdsall is a Cincinnati native with a background in communications, operations, and financial management. He currently works as the Business & Financial Officer at EngageKY, where he helps lead strategic planning and oversees day-to-day operations and finances.

Prior to joining EngageKY, Frank was the Business Manager for the Emergency Department at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicine. In that role, he managed the department’s grants and led operations for the Early Intervention Program and Clinical Studies.

Earlier in his career, Frank spent several years with the Dan Beard Council, Boy Scouts of America—where he earned his Eagle Scout rank—focusing on volunteer support and program management.

He holds both a Master’s in Business Administration and a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing from Mount St. Joseph University. Frank brings a mix of business expertise and practical experience, helping teams run efficiently and achieve their goals.

Josh Mullins

Operations Support Specialist

E-mail: josh.mullins@engageky.org

Bio

Josh Mullins, a native of Hazard, Kentucky, is the Senior Director of Operations at Hindman Settlement School and Operations Support Specialist at EngageKY supporting the Kentucky College Coaches program.

Josh holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications (Advertising/Public Relations) and a Master of Arts in Education (Adult/Higher Education), both from Morehead State University and is pursuing a certificate in Fund Raising Management from the Lily School of Philanthropy at IUPUI. Additionally, he earned his Certified Fund Raising Executive (CFRE) credential in 2017 and serves on the board of directors for the Appalachian Artisan Center and the UK North Fork Valley Community Health Center.

Outside of his work, Josh enjoys exploring new places, reading new books, and drinking cold brew. An item on his bucket list? To visit every Disney theme park around the globe.

Vickey Martin

Office Operations Coordinator

E-mail: vickey.martin@engageky.org

Bio

Vickey Martin has dedicated her life and her career to strengthening families.  She received her Bachelor’s degree in Music Education at Georgetown College, where she also met her husband of 43 years, Rob.  She went on to receive both a Master’s degree and a Rank I in Secondary Education at Georgetown.   She later acquired her counseling certification from Xavier University and served as a school counselor in both Grant and Kenton County schools.  During this time, she also served as Director of Music and Children’s Activities at her church.   Upon retiring, she worked as a Job Readiness Instructor for the Northern Ky Area Development District.  She is a licensed insurance agent and a professional organizer, as well as a trainer for both Jack Canfield and Ruby Payne.  Vickey loves to be outside, to travel, and to collect new experiences.  She especially loves going to the beach and to Disney World with her family.   

Arnav Shah

Salesforce Administrator

E-mail: arnav.shah@engageky.org

Bio

Arnav Shah, a student in the Computer Science program at Northern Kentucky University and a native of Nepal, is driven by a profound commitment to helping individuals achieve their aspirations. He has read over 50 non-fiction books, enjoys traveling, and stays active with workouts and sports like basketball, soccer, and tennis. Arnav is a well-rounded individual who seeks to make a positive impact on his academic community and society. He’s also an active member of the EngageKY team, assisting with recruiting and serving as a Salesforce administrator, demonstrating his dedication to personal and professional growth.

Megan Sutter

Administrative Specialist

E-mail: megan.sutter@engageky.org

Bio

Megan Sutter graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration from the University of Louisville in 2015. Prior to her position with EngageKY, she worked 5 years in Retail Management and spent time as a President’s Assistant.

Megan’s career aspiration has always been to work with a team that is really making a positive impact within their community. Since joining EngageKY, Megan feels that she has met that goal and loves knowing that each day she works with the EngageKY team she is doing work that is allowing our programs to do great things in the community.  At EngageKY, Megan’s main role is to keep processes moving so each member of the team can perform their tasks and keep daily business in order. One of her favorite parts of her position is helping others achieve their goals.

Doug Vonderhaar

Budget Coordinator

E-mail: doug.vonderhaar@engageky.org