Operation Smile Bright
What We Do
If It Doesn't
CHALLENGE YOU...
It Doesn't
CHANGE YOU!
Mission Statement: Operation Smile Bright Inc. is a STEM-centered nonprofit founded in Detroit, Michigan, seeking to enhance the roots of STEM versatility, representation, and knowledge in urban communities. Operation Smile Bright aims to bridge the gap between minority adolescents and influential career contributors in STEM by obtaining skills that move forward communal changes in the world of STEM. Not only does Operation Smile Bright offer opportunities to enhance exposure in robotics, cloud computing, scientific research collection, bioinformatics, and medicine. As a nonprofit, we choose to serve as a vector of connection between minority individuals and global STEM initiatives to create significant global change.
Aim: Operation Smile Bright Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing STEM education, enrichment initiatives, and ensuring equal access to STEM learning opportunities. STEM careers (in science, technology, engineering, and math) are increasing; as a result, there is high demand for skilled graduates. As an organization we aim to alleviate the financial gap that is present which hinders minority adolescents from opportunities of experiencing STEM. Operation Smile Bright is dedicated to constructing a network of learning opportunities to help inspire and grow the mind of the next generation of STEM leaders.
MEET THE TEAM
Najeé Gaines
PRESIDENT
Najeé Gaines is the founder and current President of Operation Smile Bright Inc. In 2016, Najeé graduated from Clark Atlanta University, earning a Bachelor of Science concentrating in Biology & Chemistry. After graduating, Najeé relocated to Detroit, Michigan, where she began a career as a STEM Department Chair and curriculum writer for charter schools. During this journey, Najee discovered the need for Operation Smile Bright Inc. and the positive impact the organization could have on the youth in urban cities. In 2017, she graduated from the University of Michigan with a master’s degree in Biomedical Science. In addition, Najee won Miss USA Detroit that same year. Currently, Najee is pursuing a medical degree in Anesthesiology and creating positive change through Operation Smile Bright Inc.
Jajuan (Jay) Chain
VICE PRESIDENT
Jay Chain currently serves OperationSmileBright as the Vice President. He is the founder of Project Grab the Future which, is committed to providing high- quality STEM activities that engage and empower youth to innovate & solve Worldly challenges. In 2016, he graduated from Morehouse College is with a Bachelor of Art in History, receiving cum laude honors. After graduating from Morehouse, he began a career at Oracle Inc as a Business Development Representative. During his tenure at Oracle, he was promoted four times in four years. Ultimately, holding the position as an Enterprise Account Executive. While at Oracle, Jay earned a Master of Science in Technology Management from Georgetown University. He earned honors from this institution as well. Currently, Jajuan is the Enterprise Account Executive for UiPath Inc. A market-leading software firm in the Robotic Process Automation industry.
Cherie Gaines
TREASURER
Cherie Gaines, currently serving as Smile Bright Treasurer, supporting all day-to-day financial transactions. With a degree from Indiana Institute of Technology. Cherie believes and sees the vision behind Operation Smile Bright, STEAM learning opportunities within the Urban cities and the opportunities for kids today to enhance their exposure in robotics, cloud computing, and scientific research collection. Originally from the Detroit Metropolitan Area, relocated to the greater south to expand within the Real Estate industry. Working as a Real Estate Closer and Real Estate paralegal with five years of experience working aside Closing Attorneys, top real estate agents and Lenders. Cherie also works alongside buyers and sellers to help educate in the home buying process. A passion that will soon expand it to something greater. Enjoying what Atlanta has to offer, being the city within the forest. You can find her running the nearby trails, hiking the surrounding mountains, relaxing in the sun at the Braves games and cheering on Atlanta United.
Tyler
White-Montoute
SOCIAL EVENT CHAIR
Tyler White-Montoute, the mathematician, architectural engineer, mentor, caterer, and traveler. Hailing from Baltimore, MD by way of Natchez, MS, Mr. White-Montoute attended Clark Atlanta University apart of the dual degree engineering program obtaining a Bachelor of Science degree in Mathematics, then matriculating to North Carolina Agricultural & Technical State University graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Architectural Engineering. During and after college, he has worked in the DMV, Midwestern and Southern markets. Currently residing in Los Angeles, CA, he is now an Assistant Preconstruction Manager in the general contracting industry, where his 7+ years of experience has led him to chasing multimillion dollar projects averaging $50-100 million each.
Tyler, being a man of service, founded The MENtees, a black male mentoring program. This program equips young adult men of color at HBCU’s with wisdom and real-world experience. They are taught how to navigate life mentally, physically, emotionally and professionally. In Mr. White-Montoute’s free time he enjoys traveling as he is a self-proclaimed nomad, as well as cooking and catering for large events which provides a tasteful creative outlet for such a multifaceted man. With over a decade of coordinating and cultivating experiences and spaces for the youth, Tyler has proven the capacity to step into the role of Social Events Chair for Operation Smile Bright. Tyler is eager to uphold the aim and mission through creative and innovative approaches to planning events that will indeed educate and bring a bright smile to all.
Tierra
Ford
SECRETARY
Tierra Ford currently fills the role of secretary for Operation Smile Bright Inc. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from Clark Atlanta University in 2017. In the same year, Tierra enrolled into Southern New Hampshire University, and within 18 months, received her Master of Arts degree in Political Science. She thoroughly understands the importance of representation, inclusion, and bridging the gap financially and academically between minorities and influential career contributors in STEM. Therefore, Tierra began a career in education, as a secondary-school instructor, where she is able to analyze STEM concepts and apply them to real-world problems in the classroom. In addition, she is currently enrolled at Atlanta Technical College, to earn her post-baccalaureate certification in Paralegal Studies. In Tierra’s spare time, she enjoys dining out with friends, scrapbooking memories, and fashion merchandising for her clothing brand.
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Be apart of this great initiative in providing funding for S.T.E.M programs. Operation Smile Bright is dedicated to constructing a network of learning opportunities to help inspire and grow the mind of the next generation of STEM leaders.
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