June 7, 2025
IMANI, a community-based non-profit organization dedicated to promoting high achievement for all students in the Montclair Public Schools, is pleased to announce the appointment of five exceptional new members to its Board of Directors: Sandra Cook McKnight, Laini Hester, Christina Joseph Robinson, Rev. Allen Shelton, and Justin Thompson.
“We are thrilled to welcome these outstanding community leaders to our board,” said JoAnn McCullough, Executive Director of IMANI. “Each brings unique perspectives and valuable expertise that will strengthen our mission to close the achievement gap and provide essential academic support programs for students throughout Montclair.”
The new board members join current IMANI board members Terry Trigg-Scales, Evelyn Gay, Tami Gaines, and Jennifer Clark Young.
New Members
Sandra Cook McKnight is presently retired from Watchung School and throughout her 50 years of teaching she has held several positions including School Testing, Math Coordinator and Gifted/Talented Coordinator, and RTI Instructor. She was involved in several after school enrichment programs including STARS, the LEAP program, and Mini Imani. Within the community she has been involved with NCNW, UWF, SPRC at St. Mark’s, and she is active within the NAACP, The Teachers Club of Montclair and the Freedom School at St. Mark’s as the Site Testing Manager.
Laini Hester is a Montclair resident of 10 years and former professional dancer who performed with the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater and Martha Graham Dance Ensemble. With extensive experience in education as a dance teacher, middle school advisor, and admissions associate at private schools, she brings a passionate commitment to supporting students from marginalized communities. Her volunteer work with Oliver Scholars (NYC), SEEDS – Access Changes Everything, and Friends of Howe House reflects her dedication to educational equity.
Christina Joseph Robinson brings valuable perspective as both a Montclair Public Schools graduate and parent of two daughters currently in the district. As Deputy Executive Editorial Director at Group SJR, her expertise in communications will be invaluable to IMANI’s outreach efforts. Her active involvement with her children’s PTAs, the MHS School of Visual and Performing Arts Booster Club, and as treasurer of Girl Scouts Troop 22774 demonstrates her commitment to education and youth development.
Rev. Allen Shelton is a 35 year educator focusing on life skills development and career education. He started his teaching career in the Chicago Public Schools while attending Seminary. He established a number of career exploration programs with the Chicago Public Schools After School Matters Initiative. In 2010, Rev Shelton founded the Good Success Academies organization to continue his educational work. He has served as its Executive Director for 15 years. He is currently Pastor of Presbyterian Church in Bloomfield, NJ.
Justin Thompson, a lifelong Montclair resident and MHS graduate, currently leads the Fire Prevention Bureau for Montclair Township and Glen Ridge Borough. With master’s degrees in Behavioral and Decision Sciences from the University of Pennsylvania and Public Administration from New York University, he brings analytical expertise and deep community connections. As Second Vice President of his local NAACP chapter, he continues his commitment to equity and community service.
About IMANI
Founded in 1999, IMANI offers high-quality academic support programs designed to help level the playing field for students of color in grades K-12 in the Montclair Public Schools.
Programs include:
Mini IMANI – Reading and discussion groups for K-5 students
Middle IMANI – Mentoring and academic support for middle school students
Study Groups – Small group tutoring in core subjects
SAT Prep – Professional test preparation courses
College Advocacy Center – Comprehensive college application guidance, essay coaching, and financial aid assistance
IMANI has helped thousands of students gain admission to selective colleges and universities, with many being the first in their families to pursue higher education. As a non-profit organization, IMANI relies on community support to maintain and expand its vital programs. Donations can be made on the IMANI website at www.imaniprograms.org.