Meet The Team
Christopher Williams
Director of Partnership Development
My guiding principle is “Understanding your life purpose is the motivation to pursue your greatness.”
As a STEM entrepreneur, I am propelled by an unwavering dedication to innovation and a commitment to developing solutions that effectively tackle the challenges confronting businesses. Fueled by a deep-seated passion for technology and a demonstrable history of transforming ambitious ideas into thriving enterprises, I am resolutely focused on expanding the boundaries of what is achievable. I have established and overseen the operations of several groundbreaking STEM startups, such as LYNK-ED Software, STEM U Education Solutions, and played a pivotal role as a co-founder of AINautics Technologies.
In addition to my entrepreneurial endeavors, I am actively engaged in the STEM community. I provide mentorship to aspiring entrepreneurs, deliver keynote addresses at industry gatherings, and engage in partnerships with entities that are at the forefront of advancing STEM education and research. My unwavering commitment lies in effecting positive change within the business sphere through the harnessing of technology and fostering innovation.
Dr. Michele Heyward
Director of Curriculum and Instructions
I enjoy moments of reading/writing, shopping, and spending time with family.
I am passionate about teaching and learning; serving 25+ years in various roles as an adjunct professor, adult education, CTE /Computer Science teacher, administrator, grant writer, and conference presenter. I enjoy moments of reading/writing, shopping, and spending time with family. My favorite vice is “Cheesecake & Coffee”
Von Moore
Director of Operations
Teaching is my passion! I look forward to seeing each of you in the next course.
Currently resides in Columbia, SC (15years) but originally from Allendale, SC (Low Country). Married with two children. Graduated from Benedict College with a Bachelor’s of Science with Child and Family Development Degree. Graduated from Grand Canyon University with Masters of Education in Special Education and Administration. STEM educator for 9 years. I have been an educator in the Columbia Area in Richland School District One for the past 10years. I also hold a certification in Therapeutic counseling and advocates through South Carolina Youth Advocacy Program. Became a Registered Behavioral Technician through Clemson University. Among all of this I enjoy traveling and seeing what the world has different to offer. I am a family man who loves to create new/ fun memories. I have a vast range of friends who offer me different insights on my professional and social life. I have been a part of the NEA organization and assisted in making sure our educators of today are fully capable and aware of what it takes and means to be an educator. I have also attached myself to the For Brothers Only group in my community to help spread the skills and knowledge about our culture and its differences that concerns our African American males and families in our city.
Shaquetta Wilson Green
Director of STEM Integration
I am learning so much through STEMU and cannot wait to share with you and your students!
William White
Certified STEM Instructor
I'm passion about challenging scholars to think outside of the box!
Lizzy Whitmore
Certified STEM Instructor
In my free time I enjoy reading , crocheting, and going to the gym!
Hello! My name is Elisabeth Whitmore. I am from Columbia sc. I have been working for STEMU for 3 years and I am currently the STEM teacher at Felton Laboratory Charter School in Orangeburg SC. In my free time I enjoy reading , crocheting, and going to the gym!
Deja Warnock
Certified STEM Instructor
Deja aspires to connect education to STEM and be a part of positive change in the world.
Ms. Deja Warnock is a STEAM Educator for STEM U, located at Killian Elementary School. She is currently enrolled at Allen University for Education/Public Relations. Deja has 4 years of experience with site coordinating, tutoring, and teacher aiding. She previously worked for Richland One as a permanent substitute and teacher’s aid. During that time, she discovered her love for mentorship and developed a passion for helping every child within her reach to achieve their best. Since joining STEM U in January, she has enjoyed every moment, utilizing the tools provided to educate scholars on the engineering design process and fostering innovation. Deja aspires to connect education to STEM and be a part of positive change in the world.
Hail Shaw
Certified STEM Instructor
My name is Hali Shaw and I was born and raised in Lake City, South Carolina.
My name is Hali Shaw and I was born and raised in Lake City, South Carolina. I graduated from Lake City High School in 2017. In 2022, I graduated from the illustrious Claflin University with a bachelor’s degree in Human Performance and Recreation. I have a strong passion for impacting and challenging children of all ages. Their energy and enthusiasm is contagious, and working with them truly brings me joy. In my free time, I love to read, cook, and spend time with my family and friends.
Whitney Williams
Office Manager
Whitney is passionate about making a positive impact in her surroundings, both professionally and personally.
Kaila Green
STEM Business Consultant
Since 2007, I thoroughly enjoyed the adventure of molding the minds of today’s youth. I deliberately chose to stay at one school for over 10 years because I felt as though I positively impacted the lives of my students. Without a doubt, it was a rewarding experience! In fact, I received the prestigious honor of being chosen as Teacher of the Year for the 2016-2017 school year at Huie Elementary.
In my current role as the Middle School Assistant Principal, I have enjoyed supporting teachers with implementing effective teaching strategies in the virtual and brick & mortar environment by means of the coaching cycle, organizing professional learning communities (PLCs), analyzing data in order to inform our teacher’s instructional practices, and collaborating alongside school, district, and state instructional leadership teams to impact student achievement and build teacher efficacy.
Now, I’m thrilled to have an opportunity to work with STEM U as a consultant in order to partner with school districts to bring an exceptional STEAM experience to their scholars!
JeVon Fickling
STEM Integration Liaison
Hello! My name is JeVon Fickling. I was born and raised in Columbia, South Carolina, and I am deeply connected to this city. As the youngest sibling, I grew up surrounded by a supportive family, and both of my parents attended college here many years ago, so continuing my Education at Columbia feels like a natural path. As a Music Major with a Minor in Music Entrepreneurship at UofSC, my passion for music has always been a driving force in my life. I’m excited to delve into the entrepreneurial side of the industry. Despite initially being an Education Major, I found my way back to my true passion, showing that life often has unexpected twists.
In addition to my academic pursuits, I’m actively involved in campus life. I’m a proud member of the Theta Nu Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. My involvement extends to various organizations, including the Association of African American Studies, Student Christian Fellowship, and MOST. Being part of these communities has enriched my university experience, providing leadership and personal growth opportunities. When I’m not engrossed in my studies or campus activities, I cherish my free time by catching up on sleep, spending quality time with friends, and enjoying moments with my family. Whether it’s a fun night out with friends or a hectic family gathering, these moments are what keep me grounded and energized.