Mia Funderburg – STEM Facilitator
Mia Funderburg is a dedicated K–12 science and technology educator with over 15 years of experience in the field. A proud native of Detroit, Michigan, Mia is a graduate of Eastern Michigan University, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Motivational Communication and Spanish, followed by a master’s degree in K–12 Instructional Learning. Currently, Mia serves as a 5th-grade teacher at Citizenship Academy and as a co-advisor for the NSBE Jr. (National Society of Black Engineers) chapter, supporting youth in the Syracuse area. Passionate about empowering students through STEM education and mentorship, she actively fosters future leaders and innovators. Mia is also a proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., through which she continues her commitment to community service and outreach in the area where she lives and works.
Iris Williams – STEM Facilitator
Iris Williams, known as “Irises Eyes,” is a visual artist working in both digital and traditional mediums. Her work focuses on fostering connection and healing through art, using creativity as a therapeutic process for herself and her audience. Iris is dedicated to empowering representations of Black women, celebrating their strength, beauty, and individuality. Her mission is to create art that inspires, uplifts, and builds meaningful connection
Jaquaia Reid – Dance Facilitator
Jaquaia Reid is a dynamic dance instructor, licensed social worker, and community-based facilitator who uses movement as a tool for empowerment, self-expression, and connection. With a dance foundation that began at the age of five, she brings a rich and diverse background rooted in Afro-diasporic styles and hip-hop, blending Afrobeats, Caribbean movement (Soca, Reggae, Kompa), R&B, and freestyle. Jaquaia is also a member of Adanfo African Dance Ensemble, led by Etse Nyadedzor. She has worked with youth and adults across a wide range of settings and is known for creating welcoming, high-energy spaces where individuals of all skill levels feel confident, supported, and free to move. Drawing from her background in social work, Jaquaia intentionally incorporates confidence-building, emotional expression, and body awareness into her classes, making movement both accessible and deeply meaningful.
Monique Woods – Dance Facilitator
Monique Woods was born in North Carolina and raised in Syracuse, New York. She is the CEO and choreographer of Blessings in Motion Kids African Dance Group, based at the Southwest Community Center, an organization she founded in July 2022. Monique is a member of Adanfo African Dance Ensemble, led by Etse Nyadedzor, and has also performed with Wacheva Cultural Arts, led by Biboti Ouikahilo. She has been studying and performing African dance since the age of 12 and is passionate about preserving and sharing its rich cultural traditions through education and performance. As a dance facilitator for the STEM From Dance program, Monique is excited to inspire the next generation by combining movement, creativity, and innovation. She looks forward to seeing the unique projects and ideas participants create throughout the program.