Meet Our Team

Brigitte Harger

Center Director

Brigitte has been in education for over 22 years.  Having taught in schools and working as a Center Director and Director of Education for Florida and Alabama centers, she has seen firsthand the impact Sylvan has made in families’ lives.  As Center Director, Brigitte oversees operations and manages teachers and students for Sylvan of Gulfport. She studied at the University of New Mexico, earning a BS in Education. When Brigitte isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her reading, watching movies, exploring the coast, and traveling.

Tiffany Green

Teacher

Tiffany Green is an ELA teacher at Pass Christian Middle School, where she teaches 7th and 8th grade.  She has been with Sylvan since March of 2023.  She says, “I chose Sylvan because I love the individual treatment, and I love to see their faces light up when they get the lesson.”  Tiffany earned her bachelor’s degree from Southern Miss, her master’s from John F Kennedy University, and her Specialist degree from Jackson State University.  When not teaching, she loves to read and travel to see her daughter in New York City.  She is the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and is an Adult Auxiliary Advisor.

Donna Crabtree

Teacher

Donna Crabtree is a 1st grade teacher in Harrison County.  She has been teaching in the public schools for 20 years  Donna has been with Sylvan for 3 years.  She says, “Sylvan is a great way to work in small groups to give students a boost.”  She loves making a positive difference in people’s lives. She believes “a little confidence can help a lot!” Donna earned her Bachelor’s degree from the University of Southern Mississippi and her master’s from William Carey.  She has 9 endorsement that include reading, English, and elementary education.  Donna has 3 grown sons, two dogs and loves to go camping.

Kim Gremillion

Teacher

Kim is a retired Sped teacher with over 25 year of experience in all academic subjects.  During that time, she taught all grade levels.  She received both her BS and M in Special Ed. for the U of Southern Mississippi.  Kim has specialized training in both reading and math with additional training in phonetics and literacy.  She works in center and with Sylvan’s after school program at West Elem.  Teaching children of all ages is her life’s passion and feels extremely blessed to continue her life’s work in providing individualized instruction to a multitude of children.  When she is not serving families she enjoys spending time with her husband and kids, and her two fur babies.

William Harrison

CEO

William Harrison is a native of Mississippi and comes from an entrepreneurial, political, and educational background. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering Technology from the University of Southern Mississippi in 2006. He earned his Master’s Degree in Business Administration in 2007 from the University of Phoenix. He has 24 years of consulting and delivery experience in business and information technology (IT) services, spanning various industry and business segments. His passion for building youth and communities makes him a man of integrity and innovation who enjoys cooking, the piano, and travel.

Tiana N. Rhodes

Director of Special Programs

Tiana earned her bachelor’s in Elementary Education from Jackson State University. She earned her Master’s in Reading & Writing from Kaplan University. She obtained her Educational Specialist Degree in Educational Leadership from Mississippi College in 2012. She has contributed to the success of Mississippi classroom teachers; through essential professional development and curriculum support. With over 10+ years working with students, she has served as a team leader, assessment facilitator, and coordinator for 21st Century After School Programs. Tiana has a true passion for lifelong learning and advocates daily for youth and teachers.

Keyana E. Hawthorne

Director of Marketing and Educational Outreach

Keyana E. Hawthorne is a native of Wisconsin. She a holds a B.A degree in History from Southern New Hampshire University and in Business Administration from Virginia College. She has served as an Academic Tutor, Curriculum Writer, Interventionist, Educational Trainer, and STEM educator for over 15 years in the public and private school sectors. She has also served as the Marketing and Outreach Coordinator for various nonprofits. Keyana also serves as an Alumni Ambassador for AmeriCorps VISTA. She is dedicated to ensuring all youth receive quality support, guidance, and leadership. When she’s not at Sylvan you’ll find her performing and enjoying her family.