Jabari Turner
Executive Director
Jabari Turner joined Kauffman Scholars in 2009 as a regional college coach. He was named associate director of the program's post-secondary support and coaching group in summer 2012 and, most recently, was promoted to the role of executive director. His previous professional experience includes serving as coordinator of culturally diverse recruitment programs for the University of Missouri Office of Admissions and volunteer recruitment consultant for College Summit in Columbia, Mo. Jabari earned a bachelor's degree in interdisciplinary studies, with an emphasis in communication and black studies, from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
Tanesha Nooner
Program Director
Tanesha Nooner is responsible for oversight and management of Kauffman Scholars’ grades 8 - 11 and post-secondary education team. She provides direct supervision to the assistant program directors for grades 8 - 11 and post-secondary education, as well as the career and alumni coordinator. Prior to joining Kauffman Scholars in 2008, Tanesha gained knowledge and experience in student affairs, student support services, and residence life at Muskingum University and Lehigh University. She earned a master’s degree in college student personnel administration and a bachelor’s degree in therapeutic recreation from the University of Central Missouri.
Nicole Jacobs-Silvey
Assistant Program Director
Nicole Jacobs-Silvey manages the day-to-day operations of the secondary team and provides direct supervision to the 8-11 coaches. Prior to joining Kauffman Scholars in 2008, Nicole worked in the field of youth development for nearly 10 years and also worked as a special education teacher for both middle school and high school. Nicole earned a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Rockhurst University.
Eric Wilkinson
Assistant Program Director
Eric Wilkinson manages the day-to-day operations of the post-secondary team and provides direct supervision to the post-secondary coaches and advisors. Prior to joining Kauffman Scholars in 2009, Eric spent five-plus years in higher education working in the areas of admission and student affairs. Eric earned a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Pittsburg State University.
Brian Henke
Director of Finance and Operations
Brian Henke joined Kauffman Scholars in late 2012 as director of finance and operations, a role he previously held with the Missouri Charter Public School Association in St. Louis. Other organizations for which Brian has directed finance and operations include Outreach International and KIPP Endeavor Academy. He holds a bachelor of science degree in accountancy from the University of Missouri-Columbia.
