Meet Our Team

Vanity Barr-Little, PhD

Executive Director

Dr. Vanity Barr-Little, an Air Force veteran and a dedicated mother of four children, founded Sylvan Learning of Apollo Beach and Riverview to support the educational growth and success of her children and other students in her community. Dr. Barr-Little’s robust academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Business from Saint Leo University, a Master of Science in Public Administration from Central Michigan University, and a Doctorate degree from Capella University. Dr. Barr-Little’s hobbies include reading, traveling, and cherishing quality time with her family.

Erin Messano

Center Director

Ms. Messano studied liberal arts with Saint Leo University and ultimately chose a career in education because she wants to help students reach their full potential. As a former Hillsborough County School teacher, she believes very strongly that a solid education and a love for learning set children up for long-term and lifelong success. Ms. Messano brings her experience as a teacher, a mother of three adult children, and community liaison to Sylvan Learning. When Ms. Erin isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her learning something new and spending time with her family.

Alyssa Ward

Lead Teacher

Ms. Ward is passionate about learner support and brings over eight years of experience helping students reach their academic goals. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration and is dedicated to fostering a results-driven environment where every student develops skills, confidence, and measurable academic growth through Sylvan’s proven methods. When she isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her spending time with her energetic rescue dog, Ezzy, exploring new countries, enjoying time with family and friends, working on creative projects, or unwinding with a good book and a cup of coffee.

Diana Pidgeon

Tutor

Ms. Pidgeon is a Master’s-prepared professional. She graduated from the University of Tampa, as well as the University of Phoenix. Prior to working in education, she was a public health nurse and RN case manager. Ms. Diana is adored by her students for being very engaging. She is passionate about helping children reach their full potential. When Ms. Diana isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her spending time with her family.

Wafaa Younis

Tutor

Ms. Wafaa earned a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and has tutored students of all ages and levels in the subject of math. As a seasoned math tutor, Ms. Wafaa believes that although math can be tricky sometimes, but it’s the easiest subject to master. When she is not at Sylvan, you will find Ms. Wafaa cooking, sewing, and running after her kids (lol).

Nydia Nelson

Tutor

Ms. Nelson holds a Master of Education in Education, specializing in Mathematics from Walden University, and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Tampa. She brings over 20 years of experience in mathematics education, having served in various teaching roles across multiple institutions, including Saint Petersburg College, Hillsborough Community College, and Strayer University. As a former academic chair of mathematics and current high school teacher, Ms. Nelson has demonstrated outstanding leadership and ability to help students build strong mathematical skills and confidence. When she’s not at Sylvan, you’ll find Ms. Nelson at outdoor events with her ASD kiddo, enjoying activities to burn off his energy or relaxing under an umbrella at the beach.

Kayla Tizzani

Tutor

Ms. Tizzani attended the University of South Florida, earning a degree in Exceptional Student Education. She is a Hillsborough County school teacher, endorsed by the Florida Department of Education for Reading, ESOL, and Gifted. She has worked in elementary education for 11 years. While Ms. Tizzani has many tutoring talents, she enjoys tutoring reading the most. Ms. Tizzani believes that personalized learning enhances learning. When she isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find Ms. Tizzani reading a book, seeing a movie at the theater or taking her beagle to the dog park.

Girlie Pepe

Tutor

Ms. Pepe is a seasoned math teacher with a Bachelor of Elementary Education, majoring in Mathematics, from the Northern Iloilo Polytechnic State College in Iloilo, Philippines. She also holds a State of Florida Department of Education Exchange Teacher Certificate for Grades PK-12. With over 20 years of teaching experience abroad and in the U.S., Ms. Pepe has a proven track record of helping students reach their fullest potential in mathematics. When she’s not inspiring students at Sylvan, you’ll find her mentoring, offering guidance and emotional support to students at school, helping them navigate challenges both academically and personally.

Mr. Luka

Tutor

Mr. Luka is a high school teacher in Hillsborough County, specializing in reading and writing. Prior to entering the K–12 classroom, he served as a lecturer in business management and human resources at institutions of higher education in both the UK and India. He holds an MBA in Business Administration and has also studied philosophy at the Institute of Philosophy and Science in Goa, India. Mr. Luka believes in integrity and a student-centered approach to teaching. When he isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find him socializing with friends.

Tanya Gibson

Tutor

Ms. Gibson is a dedicated Hillsborough County Public Schools educator with a passion for helping students thrive across grade levels. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from the University of Florida (Go Gators!) and a master’s degree in business administration from Saint Leo University. Before returning to the classroom, Ms. Gibson enjoyed a successful corporate career in human resources. Her return to education reflects her deep-rooted belief in the power of teaching and her desire to make a meaningful impact in the academic and personal growth of children. When she isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her hanging out with her son or dog, cooking, taking a Zumba class, or traveling. One of her most recent destinations, Singapore and Bali, is a personal favorite combination for relaxation and foodie finds!