CTC Jackson Bios

Penny Roberts-Cooper

Penny Roberts-Cooper is an Elementary School educator in the Jackson-Madison County School System (JMCSS). She was also the recipient of the Children’s Theater Company’s Henry Box Brown Community Mobilization Grant Award in 2021, JMCSS’s 2022 Elementary School Teacher of the Year, member of the Baha’i Faith. Besides working with her classroom students, she diligently works towards bringing the community together. Penny was also recognized at the NAACP’s 2023 Annual Freedom Fund Banquet for the William D. Smart Race Relations Award for her contributions to the fight for racial equality in the state of Tennessee since the 1980s. She is also the founding member of the Children’s Theater Company of Jackson Advisory Board.

Nadia Beard

Originally from Lauderdale County, Nadia Beard has resided in Jackson, Tennessee for almost three decades. She is the oldest daughter of James T. and as Bernadine Beard. Following graduation from North Side High School in 1997, she went on to earn a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance from the University of Tennessee at Martin in 2001. Nadia also attended American University in Washington D.C. to further her education. She graduated in 2003 with a Master of Arts in Dance. Nadia is the Artistic Director, Founder, and Choreographer of LaQuan Dance. The studio was established in November 2015. Their motto: “We might be small in size, but large at heart”. Nadia accepted an adjunct professor position at her alma mater UT Martin campus where she taught beginner Ballet and Modern classes, assisted with Dance Ensemble, and displayed her artistry through numerous dance pieces.

Nadia Beard has been a member of the Children Theater Company of Jackson’s Local Advisory Board since 2022. She has also served as one of the lead teaching artists and choreographers for CTC’s “Kids with a Cause” Musical Theater camp since 2022. Previously, Nadia served as the director for the Wiz Jr. at The Ned Cultural Art Center in Fall of 2022. Nadia has also worked at The Ned as one of the choreographers for the musical production play, Hairspray. During the previous summer of 2022-2023, Nadia taught a creative dance movement intensive class as well as Bound for Broadway camp at The Ned.

Nadia served on the board of CMACC as Vice President. She is also a member of the National Dance Education Organization (Washington DC), Sigma Alpha Iota (music fraternity), The National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa (Gamma Psi Chapter), The National Society of Leadership and Success, and the Historic First Baptist Church of Jackson (Media Ministry). Lastly, Nadia is a member of the lovely ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Incorporated (Upsilon Gamma Zeta). Presently, Nadia is a teacher for the Jackson Madison County School District. Nadia presently teaches at Jackson Central Merry Middle and High School, where she was selected by her peers as Teacher of the Year for JCM High School 2021-2022. JCM is the only high school in this district that offers courses in dance #TheRebirth.

Every child deserves a champion – an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection, and who insists that they become the best that they can possibly be. -Rita F. Pierson-

Veronica Sesson

Veronica Sesson is a native of Jackson TN. She is the daughter of the late Moddie Sesson Sr. and Bridgette Sesson. Ms. Sesson works for the Jackson Madison County School System as Assistant Principal of North Side High School. She also teaches Competitive Dance part-time at VSS Dance in South Jackson, TN. Ms. Sesson serves a Local Advisory Board Member and Senior Teaching Artist and Choreographer for CTC Jackson. Her motto is to "Treat people well and serve them with passion." Which shines through her everyday work with her students. 

Matthew Marshall

Matt Marshall serves as President/CEO of the United Way of West TN. He was formerly Executive Director and Head of School at Hands Up! Preschool, a non-profit Early Childhood Education program. Before that, he spent eight years in Higher Education at his alma mater, Union University, where he did his undergraduate work in Christian Ethics and then earned a master’s degree in Education.

Matt also serves as a member of the CTC Jackson Advisory Board. He and his wife are committed CTC parents, as all three of their children have been active participants in the CTC Jackson Program since its inception.

 He’s the Co-founder and Past-Chair of the Jackson-Madison County Equity Project; Past-Chair of the United Ways of Tennessee State Association; Past-Chair of the Anti-Poverty Task Force for the City of Jackson; Board Member for the Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth, Board member for the Sycamore Institute; Board member for the WestStar Leadership Program; Board member for AIMHiTN; Board member for TBI’s Handle With Care/Drug-Endangered Children Task Force; member of the United Way Black Professional Leadership Alliance, National Presidents Roundtable, the United Way Worldwide Transformation Task Force; and member of the Madison County Children’s Cabinet. He also serves on the Pastoral Team at the Historic First Baptist Church.

He is a native West Tennessean, but when not serving in the community, he enjoys spending time with his wife, children, and extended family. 

Wendy Trice Martin

Wendellyn Trice Martin is a native Jacksonian and a retired educator from the Jackson-Madison County School System. Although retired she continues to work on various contracts for the school system. She is now currently employed at The Bridge Academy teaching in a credit recovery class to assist high schoolers attempting to graduate. She is known by Wendy to her family and friends. She received her Bachelor of Arts in Education from Fisk University and Master’s Degree in Administration and Supervision from Trevecca Nazarene University. During her tenure with JMCSS she has taught Elementary School, Middle School English, American History, AVID, and was a Cheerleader and Cross-Country Track Coach. She has also served as Site Director for the YMCA, Dance Instructor for National Youth Sports Programs, and Special Events Coordinator for the JRPD Summer Camps.

Mrs. Wendellyn Trice Martin is president of The Society for African American Cultural Awareness (SAACA) where she coordinates cultural events for the city of Jackson and the surrounding counties such as The African Street Festival, Harlem Nights, Kwanzaa, Juneteenth, Miss Juneteenth Jackson Scholarship Pageant, and The Gil Scott Heron Project/Concert. She also serves as an Election Commissioner for Madison County.

Wendy has organized community canvassing and marches to inspire people to vote. Wendy is a member of the Historic First Baptist Church where she spearheads Unity Festival for her church and other projects serving as Chairperson of Community Evangelism. She also works on the committee with The Jackson Food and Arts Festival for the City of Jackson, where she coordinates the talent and stage.

Believing in children and community, Wendellyn presently is developing a pictorial museum “Sarah’s House” in East Jackson for the Black History of Jackson. Her motto is to always be useful, helpful and try to make a difference! Mrs. Martin is married to Joe Martin, owner of Martin’s Headquarters in downtown Jackson. They enjoy their blended family of five beautiful daughters, two handsome sons and adorable grandchildren.

Harrell Carter

A Jackson-Madison County native, Harrell Carter attended Saint Joseph Catholic School before attending Jackson’s “Black” public school system. Carter joined the United States Army (Vietnam era) shortly after graduating from Merry High school, and served three years, two of which in Germany.

Carter is a graduate of: Jackson State Community College, University of Tennessee Public Policy Institute, the Tennessee, and Washington State Law Enforcement Academies, and a graduate of the 2004 Class of Leadership Jackson.

Carter Work history includes: The Jackson Police Department where he obtained the rank of Sergeant, and Deputy Commander of the than newly formed Jackson-Madison County Metro Narcotics Division, Corporate Manager with Daw Technologies, Inc. working with Boeing Aircraft Manufactures, the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the United States Air Force, and SGS Thompson in Grenoble, France, Director of the Tennessee Hunger Coalition, Executive Director of JONAH, and Radio Talk Show Host of “Carter and Company” on WNWS 101.5FM.

Carter has served in leadership positions on numerous boards including: Founding Member of the Women Resource and Rape Assistance (WRAP) initiative, President of the East Jackson Boys and Girls Club whose efforts included the building of the new facility located on Lexington and the 70 By-Pass, President of the Mid-Town Optimist Club whose efforts (with others) resulted in Lane College ownership of “Rothrock Stadium,” and the founding organization of the Jackson Madison County “Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library”, Elected to two four-year terms to the Madison County Commission for (District - One), Chairman of the Board of United Way of West Tennessee.

Lachesha Hendrix

Lachesha Hendrix was born and raised in West TN. She was educated in the Dyer County School System & Weakly County School System. She attended Dyersburg State Community College, University of TN at Martin, and Liberty University where she is pursuing her Master’s in Pastoral Counseling. She is a certified Life Coach, Peer Recovery Specialist, and Licensed Esthetician. Lachesha is also a licensed Minister. She freelances makeup artistry and does theatrical makeup. Lachesha has been in many theater productions and some professional productions. She is a spoken-word artist and voice technician who has narrated various productions and events. Lachesha has been happily married for 14 years to the love of her life Keith Hendrix, together they own K.A.P. TION, Kingdom Appearance Photography. She also is developing Hey G.U.R.L. “God, Understanding, Relationship, and Love” to impact women of all ages. Lachesha is working in all areas of cultural diversity and renewing her passion of working in theatre. She believes, as quoted by Winston Churchill, “Success is not final, and failure is not fatal.” Art comes in many forms, and she will keep exploring those forms while using her gifts and talents to impact, encourage, and evoke change.

Averri Anderson

Averri Anderson is the Associate Producer & PR Associate for the Children’s Theater Company. She is also a member of the CTC Jackson Local Advisory Board and has served as the Local Liaison for the CTC Jackson Chapter since 2022. Averri is a multidisciplinary artist and former elementary school art teacher. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Visual Arts with a minor in Psychology. She enjoys working with children of all ages, especially those with physical and learning disabilities. After being introduced to the world of theater in undergrad, she was offered an everlasting muse for her collection of creative talents. While working in the world of children’s theater, she discovered, a field that effortlessly blended her passions for youth mentoring, community service, and the arts. Visual arts, graphic design, creative writing, fashion, and poetry are just a few of her creative interests, all of which are best nurtured within the realm of theater.

Patricia Beasley

Patricia is a retired Expert Criminal Justice Professional with valuable experience in every facet of the field. She has resided in four states including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Georgia, and Tennessee. Upon her retirement in 2005, she relocated back to Tennessee, and married a man sent from GOD, the late Eric Maurice Beasley.  She is the President of the Eric Beasley Foundation, which was started in honor of her Husband, a Retired United States Marine. Their mission is empowering the community.  She has a beautiful eleven-year-old daughter name Heaven. She is also a member of various organizations including Tennessee State University Alumni Chapter, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, the African American Chambers of Commerce, the Jackson Chambers, and a Trustee and member of Johnson Grove Missionary Baptist Church. Patricia is also one of the newest members of the CTC Jackson Local Advisory Board.

 “The most important thing to know about me is, I know GOD. HE has blessed me to have a career in my passion for justice for others.” – Patricia Beasley

Tatonia Dunlap

Tatonia Dunlap, CTC Jackson’s newest Local Advisory Board Member, also serves as CTC Jackson’s Stage Manager and Dance Teacher. Tatonia Dunlap believes that the arts are a universal tool for healing. Tatonia is a mother of three boys (ages 12, 13, and 18), from Trenton, TN, and currently resides in Jackson, TN. She uses the visual and performing arts as a way to stay active, as a stress reliever, and to teach self-discipline. Tatonia has a diverse background that includes ministry, business, and community service. Her performing arts journey began at the age of 13 at the Patty Taylor Performing Art School (Jazz, Tap, Ballet, Country & Western), Pat Brown Ballet School of Arts (Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Ballet), and University of Tennessee at Martin (Dance Ensemble), where she received her Bachelor of Fine Arts emphasis in Dance Performance in 2006. She enjoys sharing her love for the arts with the youth through various teaching assignments. She is one of the business owners of Spice Events & Decor and Expressions with Ms. T in Trenton, TN.

Tatonia has worked at The Ned McWherter Cultural Arts Center as a one of choreographers for the musical theater production, Hairspray, in 2021, Co-Director of The Wiz Jr. - The Super Soul Musical adaptation of the 'Wonderful Wizard of Oz’ in 2022, choreographer for the musical production play, Matilda the Musical, and Co-Director of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat in 2023. She is also a member of the Nu Sigma Alumnae Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. of Jackson, TN. Currently, she is working with Fayette County Public Schools as an Office Manager & Bookkeeper for East Junior High School.

Keith Davis

Keith Davis is a native of Bells and Jackson, Tennessee. He was educated in the Jackson public school system before matriculating at Tufts University, Medford Massachusetts, from which he holds a B.A. in Philosophy. Early years after college graduation Keith pursued his more creative endeavors such as writing, theater and dance, and later would begin a focused study of psycho-spirituality. Keith now teaches yoga, as well as other group exercise disciplines in Jackson. Through his personal yoga practice and body awareness, Keith explores his own issues where race has impacted his mental, spiritual, and physical well-being. Keith would like to bring his exploration of race and body/mind interconnectedness to a larger audience through his yoga and movement practices.

Today, Keith continues to participate in local theater as he has previously starred in two commercials, choreographed for 2 seasons of Dancing with Stars, and developed principal roles in Driving Ms. Daisy, Sister Act, Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, and The Tempest. Past script writing efforts resulted in his high placement in the Sundance Screenwriting competition, American Academy Screenwriting competition, invitation to "pitch" treatments before major movie studios, optioning off his scripts "Twilight" and "Blue Moon Cafe." Keith was also a student in Robert McKees Screening writing workshop.

Will Adams

Will Adams was born and raised in Memphis, TN. He graduated from high school in 2019 and afterwards began his studies in Instrumental Music Education at Lane College. Throughout his 4 years at the institution, he has played with the "Quiet Storm" Marching Band and was section leader from 2021-2023 for tuba players. He was introduced to CTC Jackson in early January of 2023 and is still currently working as the Assistant Stage Manager and Teacher Assistant for the CTC Jackson Program.

Ayanna Campbell

Ayanna Campbell is a dancer, choreographer, actress, and independent model. She is a native of Jackson, Tennessee. Ayanna has been dancing since the age of three and made her first appearance on the stage at four. Ayanna started in the church and expanded from there. Her very first teacher was Nadia Beard and the Pat Brown School of Dancing. In May 2019, she produced, directed, and released her first self-choreographed dance film, “Open My Heart,” with dance partner Nicholas Williams. She has had many teachings and learning from Dance Project, Greensboro, NC, Greensboro Ballet, Greensboro, NC, and Millennium Dance Complex. Ayanna is a past member of the internationally known E. Gwynn Dance Company of North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro, North Carolina. And a current dance member of Pretty Big Movement, plus size dance company founded in New York City, New York. In 2021 Ayanna produced and self-choreographed a dance visual to “Strange Fruit” by Nina Simone. In the winter of 2021, Ayanna decided to take her love for dance to a new level and developed her dance program called Dancing with AC, which is focused on the development and foundation of dance and healthy living involving fitness.

Gertrude Copeland

“I am Gertrude Copeland, an educator who believes all children can succeed.” 

Gertrude Copeland, a graduate of Jackson Central Merry High School (class of 1971) and graduate of Lane College and has been an educator for over 45 years. She continues to teach and educate children and youth inside and outside of school hours, including tutoring and mentoring after school. 

Because of her bright spirit and relentless efforts in the betterment of children, youth, and people of all ages in her community, Mrs. Gertrude has become one of the most celebrated characters in the City of Jackson and in the Jackson-Madison County School System. She has a wide range of talents and interests along with an extensive background in leaderships in various subjects including performing arts, musical theater, dance, and much more. She does a tremendous job utilizing her various creative talents while serving as an Elementary School Physical Education Teacher and as an active member of her church. She has directed and overseen numerous student and church performances and showcases such as Christmas programs, Black History, Women’s History, and much more. Today, Mrs. Gertrude has and will always be dedicated to guiding children academically, creatively, spiritually, and beyond. 

Michael Beecham

Michael is graduate of Bethel University; he received his B.A. in Theatre and was a part of the Bethel Renaissance Program. While attending he was honored to be in many popular musicals such as Sweeney Todd (Judge Turpin), Matilda the Musical (Mr. Wormwood) and most recently portraying the role of Monsieur André in The Phantom of the Opera. He has also participated in a number of community theatre productions; he took on the role of Pablo in Jackson Theatre Guild’s production of Sister Act as well as playing a multitude of roles and dancing around in last summer's production of The Wedding Singer.

Aside from theatre Michael is actively involved in his church where he serves as an occasional worship leader and praise team member. He also enjoys exploring new activities and his current obsession is pickleball. Michael is also a huge film buff and will talk about movies with anyone willing to listen. Lastly, he is so thankful that The Children’s Theatre Company allowed him to take on new roles and explore different avenues in the theatre world. He would also like to remind you to never give up on your dreams. "All our dreams can come true, if we have the courage to pursue them." - Walt Disney

Keith Hendrix

Keith was born and raised in Alamo, TN and graduated from Full Sail University in Winter Park, Florida, specializing in Digital Cinematography, although he is also a still image and portrait photographer. He currently shoots film projects ranging from short films, mini documentaries, and commercials, and has experience with a wide variety of film formats including with the latest full frame digital formats. Keith is also the Media Director of Destiny Church International and the co-owner of K.A.P. TION Photography and Film.

Adam & Juliet Crossley

Adam Crossley is a film and tv composer, singer-songwriter, producer, and recording artist, and Juliet Crossley is director of Pre-Primary at a Nashville-based Montessori school, a visual artist, illustrator, and musician. They are a Nashville-based husband-wife duo who have been writing and performing together since 2010.