Staff

Kateena Haynes was born and raised in Harlan County. She is a tireless worker for the children of Appalachia, working as the CEO and figurehead of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Appalachia. She received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from Centre College and a master’s degree in mental health counselling from Lindsay Wilson College. She has three daughters, two granddaughters, and has been married to her husband Richard over 30 years. She began with the Club in 2004 and describes it as her calling. Her passion for providing the needs of the children and youth of Appalachia is a driving force in our organization.

Kendra Calhoun was born and raised in Harlan and was ready to start changing the world as early as elementary school. Having been guided by her strong mother to push through the naysayers and negativity, she went on to graduate from the University of Kentucky with a bachelor’s degree in family science. Her time in Lexington gave her the opportunity to join the Delta Sigma Theta sorority, start mentoring programs in two Lexington schools, and coach a step team. Her passion for helping young people brought her back home to Harlan and the Boys & Girls Club. Starting as a Unit Director, Kendra is now the Chief Operating Officer. She resides in Harlan and has two beautiful children. Her dedication to the community and its young people is an inspiration to our youth and our team members.

Miranda Jeffers was halfway done with her Associates Degree from Southeastern Kentucky Community and Technical College before she even graduated high school as Valedictorian. She has worked as a Certified Nursing Assistant, a childcare provider, and a care provider for a teen with cystic fibrosis. She came to the Boys & Girls Club as a part-time staff and has worked her way to Director of School Partnerships for our organization. She has a bachelor’s degree in psychology with an emphasis in child and family studies. Her passion for helping young people has led her to open her home to fostering children in need. Her calm presence and her dedication to academic excellence make her a wonderful part of our team.

Leslie Adkins-Howard has spent over 25 years working with children and families in Kentucky, dedicating her life to making a positive difference. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Child Development and Family Studies and has served as a devoted board member for nearly two decades. Leslie’s connection to the Boys & Girls Club runs deep—her own children are proud former club kids.

Over the years, she has built a career rooted in advocacy, compassion, and a commitment to creating brighter futures for young people. Now, as our new Director of Resource Development, she brings both her professional expertise and her personal passion to our mission. Her steadfast dedication and deep understanding of our community make her an incredible addition to our team.

Ciarra Miller loves being the Food Service Coordinator for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Appalachia. Having been born and raised in a single parent household in Harlan County, she connected with the movement while doing volunteer hours. She achieved her goal of becoming a registered nurse assistant and a medical assistant at Southeast Community College, but the children had won her heart and she discovered a passion for serving the children of Appalachia. Ciarra is a proud mother of twin girls and loves shopping and travel. Her strong, independent nature makes her a great advocate for our children and important member of our team.

Emma Fisher is from Harlan County and graduated from Harlan Independent School before pursuing her undergraduate degree at Union Commonwealth University in Knox County. There she began her journey with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Appalachia as a Youth Development Professional. During her time with the Club, she has done it all and her commitment to our Movement has brought her to the role of Director of Finance. She exemplifies our motto and truly does whatever it takes day to get the job done.

Mady Knuckles is from Harlan County and graduated from Harlan Independent High School before pursuing her undergraduate degree at Union Commonwealth University in Knox County. Mady has been a part of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Appalachia for most of her life, starting as a member at 6 years old. She the became a program aide at the Cawood Ledford site, a Youth Development Professional at the Union College site, a Unit Director at the Black Mountain site and now she serves as our Director of Compliance. Mady resides in Harlan County with her husband and their daughter. Her tireless efforts not only uphold rigorous compliance standards but also empower and inspire the children and families she serves, making a lasting impact in the region.

Quanisha has built a career in human resources centered on creating positive, supportive environments where people can grow and succeed. She is deeply committed to nurturing talent and fostering a workplace culture where everyone feels valued. Outside of work, she is a devoted mom who understands the importance of balance and joy. Her creativity shines through her art—stunning paintings inspired by the beauty of everyday life. Her dedication to people, whether in the workplace or through her artistry, makes her a vibrant and inspiring part of our team.