About Us
Enriching Hearts and Minds
At Guiding Path Enrichment Center, we are an organization committed to enhancing the lives of adolescents throughout the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). We are passionate about providing educational and enrichment services that will help them to confidently broaden, strengthen, and inspire their minds. Our organization is dedicated to creating a safe and supportive environment where each student is given the assurance that they are our priority. We believe that every child can learn and thrive if they are given the right resources and guidance.
We are dedicated to helping teachers, parents, and students reach their full potential. We focus on providing resources and support to teachers by assisting them to become the best educators they can be.
We are passionate about our mission and are committed to providing quality programs, scholarships, and resources to those we serve. We hope you will join us on this journey to help teachers, students, and parents thrive.
Meet Our Staff
Shanon Franklin
Founder & Executive Director
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“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” — Nelson Mandela
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I am the founder of Guiding Path Enrichment Center. I have been an educator for over 15 years, therefore I love what I do! I sincerely believe each child has the ability to learn with the reassurance of each student being a priority. Here at GPEC, our goal is to work closely with all parents/guardians to support our students to excel to their highest potentials!
I am a Georgia certified teacher. I have obtained a Specialist Degree in Education including STEM and Computer Science endorsements. I have taught Pre-K, first grade, third grade, and K-4 STEM in the public school setting. I specialize in active learning in math and reading. I look forward to working with your child in achieving academic growth!
Vacant
Administrative Assistant
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Meet Our Educators
Des'Ree Watson
Hello, my name is Des'Ree Watson, originally from New Jersey. After earning my bachelor's degree in social work, I decided to move to Georgia to continue my work with children. Having worked as an after-school counselor and program facilitator for a few years, I enjoy working with elementary school students. It makes me happy every day to be able to get out of bed in the morning and keep making a difference for the next generation. My motivation for working with children stems from the opportunity to be "a lighthouse in every ocean." I am full of energy and knowledge and have the ability to connect with younger faces who may need some extra light shone upon them. In my free time, I enjoy family time and relaxing in my own comfort zone.
"A smile a day keeps the worry away!"
Our Board of Directors
Board Chair/President
Teddy Tripp
Teddy Tripp is a seasoned business leader and entrepreneur based in Augusta, Georgia, where he has lived since 2010 after relocating from North Little Rock, Arkansas. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Business, a Master’s in Public Administration, and a Jack Welch Executive Leadership Certificate. With over 15 years
of executive leadership experience and 13 years in the golf industry—including work with NBC’s Golf Channel and African American Golf Digest—Teddy brings a strong
blend of strategic insight and industry expertise.
He is the owner of Green Space Rentals, a home rental company dedicated to helping
homeowners maximize their property’s potential during the Masters Golf Tournament. A
devoted husband of 13 years and proud father of four, Teddy values family above all. In
his free time, he enjoys traveling and creating lasting memories with his loved ones.
Publications:
https://africanamericangolfersdigest.com/navigating-lifes-fairways-teddy-j-tripp-coo-
morningstar-children-and-family-services/
https://africanamericangolfersdigest.com/teddy-tripp-director-of-masters-housing-and-
loving-it/
https://africanamericangolfersdigest.com/teddy-tripp-builds-green-space-rentals-into-a-
masters-week-game-changer/
Business Website:
www.gsrhomes.net
Board Secretary
Dr. Nandrea Burrell
I bring a background in education research, program coordination, and student mentorship, with a focus on expanding access to opportunities and improving outcomes for students. My experience spans supporting large-scale research and policy initiatives and translating data into actionable insights for diverse audiences. Throughout my work, I have coordinated multi-stakeholder initiatives, managed program operations, and developed systems to track progress and outcomes. I have experience organizing events and supporting grant-funded programs. My approach emphasizes strong organization, attention to detail, and a commitment to delivering high-quality, mission-driven work. In addition to my professional experience, I have been actively involved in mentorship and community engagement. I have supported students through roles in residential life, one-on-one mentoring, and leadership positions within service and academic organizations. These experiences have shaped my commitment to fostering inclusive environments and supporting individuals in reaching their full potential. As a board member, I am dedicated to advancing the organization’s mission through thoughtful leadership, strategic planning, and a focus on sustainable impact for all youth.
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Board Treasurer
Dr. Lueisha Golden
I am an education policy advocate, special education leader, and founder of Georgia Discovery Innovation Academy, with a focus on advancing equitable opportunities for underserved and low-incidence populations. My work is both professional and personal—as the mother of my 13-year-old son, Aiden Dixon, who is autistic, and through my lifelong experience with ADHD, I am deeply committed to creating inclusive systems that support all individuals.
I am also passionate about social studies education and the importance of an informed electorate. I believe that civic knowledge is essential for empowering communities and driving meaningful change. In my role on the board, I am dedicated to advocating for underprivileged populations and supporting initiatives that promote access, independence, and opportunity.
Board Member
Dr. Micheal Stevenson
Dr. Stevenson, a native of Augusta, Georgia, is a dedicated educator and community leader with a passion for service and lifelong learning. A graduate of Westside High School, he earned a bachelor’s degree in history and political science from Paine College, along with master’s degrees in public administration from Strayer University and Public Policy from Liberty University.
He has worked extensively with students with disabilities, beginning at Easterseals East Georgia, where he taught job readiness, independence, and financial literacy skills. He later co-founded Reconstructing Lives Initiative (RLI), supporting individuals experiencing homelessness and mentoring youth.
Dr. Stevenson has served on the board of Henry Johnson Academy and currently teaches special education in the Richmond County School System. He is pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership at Capella University and remains committed to making a lasting impact in his community.
Our Partners
