Bachelors of Arts in Psychology : University of NC at Chapel Hill
Master of School Administration : NC Central University
Jassmin Smith Clark brings over a decade of educational experience to her role as Camp Director. Currently serving with Nash County Public Schools, she has dedicated her career to fostering positive school cultures and implementing restorative discipline practices.
Jassmin's leadership is characterized by her commitment to creating inclusive environments where every child feels valued and empowered. Her expertise in building strong communities and promoting personal growth makes her an invaluable asset to our camp.
With a passion for mentorship and a deep understanding of youth development, Jassmin is excited to lead our campers through a summer filled with adventure, learning, and lasting memories.
Bachelor of Arts in Criminal Justice : North Carolina A&T State University
Masters in Curriculum and Instruction : Liberty University
Kaitlyn Bryant-Jacobs joins our camp leadership as Assistant Camp Director, bringing her experience as a kindergarten teacher at Englewood Elementary School in Nash County . Her background in early childhood education equips her with the skills to create engaging and nurturing experiences for our youngest campers.
Kaitlyn's approach emphasizes creativity, exploration, and building confidence in children. Her enthusiasm and dedication to fostering a supportive environment ensure that every camper feels included and encouraged to try new things.
Her commitment to educational excellence and her warm, approachable nature make her a perfect fit for our camp community
Bachelors of Science in Business Administration with a Minor in Marketing and a Concentration in Communications : NC Weselyan University
Ayona Cooper brings over seven years of experience in youth programming and leadership to her role as Camp Leader. She has faithfully served as a Summer Camp and After-School Program Administrator at Word Tabernacle Church, where she plays a key role in developing and coordinating Next Generation programs.
Ayona is known for her calm and caring leadership style, which helps create an environment where every child feels safe, seen, and supported. Her experience in managing day-to-day camp operations and mentoring staff ensures that each program runs smoothly and meaningfully.
Her deep passion for serving children and families shines through in every activity she leads. Whether it's organizing themed days, supporting academic enrichment, or simply cheering on a camper at recess, Ayona is committed to making each summer fun, structured, and unforgettable.
Bachelor of Science in English Education : East Carolina University
Master of Divinity with a Concentration in Counseling: Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary
Master of Business Administration with a concentration in Project Management: Fayetteville State University
Kyle Durrell Johnson brings a wealth of experience in youth mentorship and leadership to our summer camp. As the Next Generation Pastor at Word Tabernacle Church and former Director at The Impact Academy, Kyle has demonstrated a deep commitment to guiding young individuals in their personal and spiritual growth.
Kyle's dynamic leadership style and his ability to connect with youth make him a driving force in creating an engaging and supportive camp environment. He is passionate about empowering campers to discover their strengths, build confidence, and develop meaningful relationships.
With his extensive background in youth programs and his heartfelt dedication to service, Kyle is poised to make a significant impact on our campers' summer experience.
Lead Teacher (Art)
DyNeiziah Whitehead is leading our Art Hub this summer and bringing all kinds of creativity with her! A 2016 graduate of North Edgecombe High School, DyNeiziah has a deep love for crafting—whether it’s making jewelry, sewing, crocheting, painting, or drawing, she’s always working on something unique. She also enjoys the peaceful side of life with hobbies like bird watching, fishing, stargazing, and collecting rocks and trinkets. Her favorite colors are black, purple, green, and yellow, and she’s a fan of anything with a warm vanilla scent. Campers can look forward to exploring their creativity and having a blast in her space!
Lead Teacher (Health/Wellness)
Kaileigh Gunter is leading the Health & Wellness Hub. She brings a deep passion for helping young people grow strong in both body and mind. With a background in health education and experience working with youth, Kaileigh creates a space where campers can learn about nutrition, fitness, emotional well-being, and self-care in fun and meaningful ways. She’s known for her encouraging spirit and thoughtful approach, helping campers build healthy habits and confidence in who they are. Whether it’s through movement, mindfulness, or conversations that matter, Kaileigh is excited to make wellness come alive this summer. Her goal is to ensure every camper leaves feeling a little more energized, empowered, and loved.
Lead Teacher (STEM)
Kelley Hamilton earned an associate degree in Computer Programming from Wake Tech in 2024 and became a certified substitute teacher in North Carolina in 2025. Outside the classroom, Kelley enjoys crocheting, reading, and playing video games and even spends time designing and programming apps and games with friends. Kelley’s favorite color is purple, strawberry-scented anything is a win, and pretzels are the go-to snack. This summer, Kelley is excited to connect with campers and help create a space where curiosity, creativity, and confidence thrive.
Lead Teacher (Theater)
Khatari Lane Jr. brings creativity, energy, and a love for the arts to the WTC KIDS Summer Camp! He’s currently pursuing a certification in Early Childhood Education at Nash Community College and is expected to graduate in 2026. Khatari is passionate about theater, singing, dancing, playwriting, and fashion and he pours that passion into everything he does. He serves as the Youth Choir Director at Word Tabernacle Church, leads the WTC KIDS Choir, is the Founder and Managing Arts Director at Next Up Theatre, and leads as Drum Major at NCHS. His favorites include pork rinds, brownie brittle, and shopping at Five Below or Dollar Tree. When it comes to food, Chipotle usually wins—but it depends on the day! Khatari is also a proud fur dad to Hampton Tyrone Lane. This summer, he’s excited to help campers shine through music, movement, and self-expression.
Lead Teacher (Cultural Studies)
Marvin Hedgepeth is a proud graduate of Shaw University, Marvin holds bachelor’s degrees in Sociology and Social Work, as well as a master’s in Christian Education from Shaw University Divinity School. He’s currently pursuing a master’s in Education and teaches 9th grade history at Tarboro High School where he was honored as the 2024–2025 Teacher of the Year. With over 15 years of experience in the mental health and substance abuse field, Marvin brings a wealth of knowledge in supporting and guiding young people. He’s also an active member of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., serving as the Finance Secretary and Director of Bigger Better Business for the Omicron Gamma Sigma Chapter. His favorite snacks are Lay’s Dill Pickle Chips with a Sprite, he loves the Cheesecake Factory, and his go-to colors are lavender, blue, and orange. This summer, Marvin is excited to help campers explore culture, identity, and community in fun and meaningful ways.
Camp Counselor (3rd & 4th Grade)
Grace Cunningham brings a bright, fun energy to everything she does. She’s a student at Rocky Mount High School and will graduate in 2028. Grace is involved in a number of activities, including her school’s cheer team, Delta Gems, and the Word Tabernacle Church Praise Dance Team. She loves dancing, cheering, spending time with friends, and of course—eating (especially Chick-fil-A and Cheez-Its!). Her favorite color is pink, and she’s all about EOS lotions. Grace is the oldest of five siblings and is proud to call India Battle her best friend. She’s looking forward to encouraging campers, building connections, and bringing plenty of joy this summer!
Camp Counselor (5th & 6th Grade)
Kaiden Tucker attends Early College High School and is actively involved in several groups, including serving as a leader in PGC (Peer Group Connection) and playing in the Marching Bulldogs band at Nash Central High, where he rocks the saxophone. Kaiden loves to read—his favorite book is Animal Farm, and he’s a big fan of the Percy Jackson series. Music is a huge part of his life, and you’ll often catch him listening to PJ Morton, especially his favorite song, Lil Too Heavy. He enjoys left Twix, cocoa butter lotions, and spots like Crown’s Chicken, and his go-to colors are forest green, navy blue, and warm browns. Kaiden is excited to make camp a place where every kid feels included, supported, and ready to have a good time.
Camp Counselor (5th & 6th Grade)
Madisyn Parker attends Nash Rocky Mount Early College High School and is on track to graduate early in 2027. Madisyn loves listening to music, especially “Calm and Patient” by Jhené Aiko, and enjoys karaoke and game nights with her family, as well as hanging out with friends. At church, she serves as an OA, helping teachers with planning and supporting kids during activities. She also co-leads Sunday prayer calls for teen girls and steps with the Girls Step Team. Her favorite snacks include Takis and Lay’s chips, and her go-to scents from Bath & Body Works are A Thousand Wishes and Warm Vanilla Sugar. With a heart for service and a big, loving family of her own, Madisyn is excited to bring joy and support to campers this summer!
Camp Counselor (Kindergarten-2nd Grade)
Antoinette Wilkins is one of our summer camp counselors and a rising 10th grader at Nash-Rocky Mount Early College High School. Known for her creativity and curiosity, Antoinette brings a love for learning and a passion for art, animals, and science to everything she does. She enjoys both traditional and digital art, and even won first place in her school for the “Fight the Bite” art contest hosted by the NC Division of Public Health. When she’s not drawing or writing, you’ll likely find her watching anime, playing games, or hanging out with her family—including her younger sister and their dog, Teddy B. Antoinette's favorite colors include lavender, honey, and sky blue, and she has a soft spot for Snickers and grape Hi-Chews. This summer, she’s excited to create a fun, imaginative space for campers and help make every day one to remember!
Camp Counselor (3rd & 4th Grade)
Ja’Niyah Lyons is a vibrant and dedicated counselor serving at Word Tabernacle Church’s Summer Camp. She’s a rising 10th grader at Nash Rocky Mount Early College, working toward her associate degree in engineering, currently holding a 4.0 GPA. Ja’Niyah loves reading, socializing, playing board and card games, and doing diamond art. She also plays the saxophone and brings her fun, adventurous spirit into everything she does. She’s the vice president of her school’s International Club and serves on the Rocky Mount Area Youth Council. With favorite snacks like peanut butter crackers and Kit Kats, and a love for Rasta pasta and Carrabba’s, Ja’Niyah brings great energy, leadership, and heart to our camp community.
Camp Counselor (Kindergarten-2nd Grade)
Nadia Cooper is a student at Nash Central High School and stays busy doing what she loves dancing, making art, playing tennis, and enjoying music. Nadia is active in several of Word Tabernacle’s ministries, including the Word Up Dance Team, the Travel Team, and Xpressions. She’s part of a talented and tight-knit family. Her mom is the church’s Children’s Director, and she dances alongside her two younger sisters, Cali and McKenna, at Word Tab. Nadia isn’t big on snacks, but you can definitely catch her at Chipotle or Chick-fil-A. This summer, she’s looking forward to helping campers learn, grow, and have a great time!
Elective Teacher (Dance)
Marquira White is one of our dance counselors at Word Tab’s Summer Camp and brings lots of energy, style, and heart to the team. She’s a rising junior at Nash Central High School who loves all things dance and cheer. When she’s not moving to music, you can probably find her enjoying her favorite snacks, Hot Funyuns, Sour Lifesaver Gummies, or sipping on an Alani. Her go-to spots to eat are Chipotle and Chick-fil-A. Marquira is excited to help campers have fun, grow their confidence, and learn how to express themselves through movement this summer!
Camp Counselor (Kindergarten-2nd Grade)
Arkeela Hall is a 2020 graduate of Durham Technical Community College, Arkeela holds an associate degree and a CDA, along with certifications in First Aid, CPR, and SIDs. She has a deep passion for teaching and truly enjoys every moment spent interacting with children. Outside of work, Arkeela loves anime, gaming on her Xbox, singing, fishing, and spending time with her beautiful 1-year-old daughter. She’s a proud member of the “Blessed and Highly Favored” and “3 Times Kissed” clubs! Her favorites include goldfish crackers, anything vanilla or cocoa-scented from Bath & Body Works, and go-to stops like Chick-fil-A and Starbucks. Pink, purple, black, red, and yellow top her color list. Arkeela is excited to help make this camp season safe, smooth, and full of joy for every camper and family.
Transportation and Support
Jackie Battle is part of our Summer Camp team and also serves as one of our trusted van drivers, helping make sure campers get to and from camp safely each day. She holds an associate degree in Human Service Technology from Edgecombe Community College, a bachelor’s in Psychology and Criminal Justice from North Carolina Wesleyan University, and a master’s in Criminal Justice from NCWU. Jackie enjoys traveling and reading, and she brings both experience and a calm, caring presence to our camp community. She's a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., and her favorite color is royal blue. Jackie loves spending time with her son Nayati, her grandchildren, great-granddaughter Ivy Saige, and her friend Kendrick. This summer, she’s excited to be part of the fun and support all of our campers along the way!