OUR HISTORY
In 2006, a small group of volunteers ran a summer reading program for the Mount Vernon Boys Basketball team. The idea was simple. Help the team become better students who might then be academically eligible for NCAA scholarships. Our volunteers quickly saw the students' potential and wanted to do more. Since 2006, DC has grown from one team to a non-profit organization supporting Student Athletes from a variety of teams at several high schools. Our program now offers students weekly reading groups, academic tutoring, SAT classes, college and financial aid application assistance, college retention support, mentoring and scholarships.
Our program is based on the belief that we can harness the perseverance and dedication of successful athletes to help them become successful Student Athletes. While we consider every athlete who gains an appreciation for the value of their education a success story, we are continually amazed at the accomplishments of our Student Athlete alumni. That success flows from the dedication, love and commitment of our volunteers, donors and staff. As much as our Student Athletes gain from us, we receive even more in return. Join the team today and learn for yourself what a little time helping others can do.
OUR TEAM


Michele Roque
Executive Director, March 2023

Linda D'Arcy
Director of College Access, May 2018

Laura Amigone
Director of College Success, March 2022


Nancy McKenna
Founder 2006 | Board Chair

Emily Kirschenbaum, M.D
Board Member since 2013 | Vice Chair

Maureen Barton
Board Member since 2010 | Secretary

Richard Rugani
Board Member since 2010 | Treasurer

Ronnie Cox
Board Member since 2010

Chris Cooney
Board Member since 2019


Daniel DeMatteo
Board Member since 2013

Joan Henle
Board Member since 2010

Ann W. Jackson
Board Member since 2010


Vera Kiernan
Board Member since 2013

Tracy McVey
Board Member since 2013 | Vice Chair

Dwayne Murray
Board Member since 2014


Heidi Paul
Board Member since 2018

Clayton Pope
Board Member since 2021



Fern Watters
Board Member since 2015; Emeritus, 2021 | Emeritus Vice Chair

Ira H. Kirschenbaum
Vice Chair Emeritus