Bill Cannon
Lead Compliance Officer at Trewyn School

Bill Cannon, brother to Carl Cannon, was born and raised in some of the same housing projects that some of our Elite students call “home.” Growing up, not having a lot of money, Bill saw his parents work hard just to get by. He wished there was a program like Elite in his school at the time, but is grateful for his mother who instilled the same principles taught in Elite.

Bill has been involved with ELITE since the program acted under the name “Choices” many years ago and was instrumental in helping the program become tax exempt. Those beginning years were truly inspirational and he will never forget the original award ceremonies down on the steps of the Peoria riverfront.

Bill has three children–a son and two daughters, and three grandchildren–Alivya, Zoe and Jordan–and greatly enjoys his time spent with them. He also loves golf and the LA Lakers.

Brad Schmider
Programming Director

Brad began working with Elite as a volunteer 10 years ago. As his involvement grew stronger and he began visiting the participating schools, it was clear that Brad was an integral part of the Elite team. Brad believes that his past experience of struggling with learning disabilities as a child help him better relate to the children he works with at Trewyn.

When not spending time with ELITE, Brad enjoys creative hobbies such as making movies, constructing model race cars and other types of design.

Brad can be reached through email at bskart82@gmail.com

Brandon Shockley
Lead Compliance Officer at Trewyn School

Having grown up in Harrison Homes, projects on the south side of Peoria, Brandon understands many of the obstacles the students at Trewyn face on a daily basis. In the fall of 2009, Brandon began a partnership between Elite and Wal-Mart, a corporation where he was working at the time. He provided employment for Elite students while he became more involved in the organization. Since then, Brandon has been recruited by Elite as a full-time employee.

Brandon has a wonderful 4-year-old son named David (future Elite!) and supportive and encouraging family. He enjoys playing golf and is always interested in the newest innovation in electronics. Keep him away from Best Buy!

Jay D. Hardin
Lead Compliance Officer for grades 5th-8th at Trewyn School

Jay is passionate about helping today’s youth have a better future by way of gaining a quality education. He believes that all children deserve a fair and equal chance at success no matter what economic barriers exist. Through his military experience, Jay gained important and valuable life skills and training directly related to conflict resolution and addressing multi-cultural differences. Jay began his involvement in Elite during the 2011 Elite season where he volunteered as a high school team leader in Peoria Heights High School

Coming from a small, close-knit family, Jay has a strong support system in his mother, father and two sisters. From his parent’s guidance, Jay grew up learning respect and responsibility. Jay enjoys spending time with his wife and three children who are ages 28, 25, and 21. Jay’s hobbies include cycling, running, scuba diving and taking pictures of nature

Kenisha Bailey
Case Worker at Trewyn School

Kenisha uses her own personal life experiences as a way to better relate to the Elite students. As a young person, it was not too long ago that she was experiencing similar life transitions to those of the students. By finding common ground, Kenisha is able to build trust with students and offer advice.

Kenisha’s involvement in Elite began as an intern while she was attending Illinois State University in 2010. Through ISU’s social work program, Kenisha was able to work with Elite and help conduct the first Jr. Elite program at Garfield Elementary School in Peoria, IL. Upon graduating from ISU and earning her degree in Social Work, Kenisha was hired by Elite to work as a case worker at Trewyn K-8 School.

Growing up in Sycamore, IL with her mother, father and sister; Kenisha learned the value of education and hard work. She has a close relationship with her family and considers them a blessing from God. When not spending time with her family, Kenisha enjoys television, movies, good food, and sports such as soccer and basketball.

Tony Jenkins
Compliance Officer

Tony firmly believes that teaching and guiding today’s youth is the responsibility of anyone who is involved in the life of a young person. Tony has been involved with Elite since sitting in on the first discussion of the program six years ago. Since then, Tony has been involved in all areas in the program and serves as a Compliance Officer at Trewyn K-8 School.

Tony is married with 3 wonderful children. In his spare time he enjoys golf and good people.