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.

Mike Deeney.jpg

Michael Deeney

  • Kathleen Alcorn

    Board Member

    Advisory Board Chair

  • Principal Shanna Rae

    Advisory Board Member

    Literacy Engagement

  • Catherine McKenzie

    Advisory Board Member

    Community Impact & Media

  • Matthew Leiner

    Advisory Board Member

    Director of Giving Concerts & Events

  • Arjge Brothers

    Advisory Board Member

    Director of Impact Programs

  • John Vieregg

    Advisory Board Member

    Business Leader Engagement

  • University Park Creative Arts

    Community Partner

    3rd Grade Book Clubs

  • Charlotte Bilingual Preschool

    Community Partner

    Preschool Books Clubs

  • Helen and Jose Colton Foundation

    Community Partner

    Literacy Impact Programs

  • Baird Private Wealth Management

    Title Sponsors

    Annual Giving Concerts

  • Redwood Software

    Title Sponsors

    Annual Giving Concerts

  • Cocotiv

    Title Sponsors

    Annual Giving Concerts

  • Red Panda Network

    Global Partner

    Red Panda & Conservation Advisor

  • Little Fireface Project

    Global Partner

    Slow Loris & Conservation Advisor

  • Carolina Farm Trust

    Regional Partner

    Community 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