MEET OUR TEAM
Lynece Benton-Stewart, MHSP
Executive Director
Lynece is the Executive Director of HAPI, bringing over 25 years of leadership in the nonprofit sector. She oversees teaching and administrative staff, collaborates with the Board of Directors on strategic planning, and leads efforts to evaluate program effectiveness. Lynece also drives growth through fundraising, partnerships, and service expansion, using her deep experience and vision to guide HAPI’s mission.
A Licensed Professional Counselor-MHSP and certified in both Critical Incident Stress Management and Employee Assistance, Lynece is a passionate advocate for the role of art in the recovery process. She served as a dedicated HAPI volunteer before stepping into her current role. An art collector, mentor, and compassionate leader, she is committed to creating meaningful impact through healing, creativity, and community connection.
Joshua Jackson, MFA
Middle Tennessee Coordinator
Joshua is a passionate creative and proud Nashville native with a heart for service. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Theatre Performance from Middle Tennessee State University and an MFA in Film and Television with a concentration in Producing from Regent University. As HAPI’s Middle Tennessee Coordinator, Joshua oversees artists, teachers, classes, resources, exhibits, and events throughout the region.
He is happily married to his wife, Deja, and they are the proud parents of their daughter, Eden. Joshua is grateful for the opportunity to contribute to HAPI’s mission and is committed to helping bring its vision to life through art, connection, and community.
Lisa Chibarro
West Tennessee Coordinator
Originally from South Carolina, Lisa has spent over 35 years in Tennessee and now calls Jackson home. She finds peace in painting, writing, reading, and tending to her flowers. After a long personal journey, she discovered healing through art and the comfort of her faith. Lisa holds a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Memphis and a Master’s from Bethel University.
A published children’s book author, Lisa’s first book was inspired by her journey toward mental wellness. She continues to create stories that teach and uplift, guided by the lessons of her main character, Maisy. Through her work with HAPI West TN, Lisa encourages fellow artists to find healing and purpose through creative expression.
Sheena Adams-Avery, CDT, CDP
Community Engagement, Awareness & Belonging
Sheena is a powerhouse in community engagement, crisis management, and media communications, bringing over 20 years of expertise in print, television, digital media, public relations, and crisis response. As HAPI’s contracted Community Engagement, Awareness & Belonging Manager, she leads strategic communications and community-driven initiatives that strengthen connections, elevate voices, and promote healing through creative expression, HAPI programs, and the work of its Artists.
A Certified Trainer and Coach in Community Engagement, Cultural Awareness & Belonging, Plain Language Expert, CASA advocate, and published author, Sheena brings passion and purpose to every project. Originally from Illinois, she now lives in Nashville, enjoying life with her family, her toy poodle Princess, and her "glamchildren" who lovingly call her Coco.
HAPI Board Members
Mary Linden Salter (Chair)
Claudia Bonnyman (Vice Chair)
Mary Bers (Secretary)
James Waller (Treasurer)
Molly Bombardi-Mount (Past Chair)
Rob Cotterman
Kelly Dorsey
Joshuah Gregory
Kathy GriffinLeanne
HydeShelby Singleton
Alondra Soto
NeKeisha Wheeler
Evelyn Yeargin
HAPI Instructors
Marlynda Augelli holds a C.F.A. degree and has extensive experience with after-school art programs. She teaches art classes and occasionally offers workshops in printmaking and tie-dyeing.
Marta Beatriz is a contemporary artist, poet, and singer who has lived in Memphis, TN, since 2013. She is a Certified Peer Recovery Specialist through the Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services and a Therapeutic Art Coach with Transformation Academy. Marta uses the healing arts as a creative tool to help individuals manage mental health symptoms.
Selina Hyzer graduated from Middle Tennessee State University with a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts. In 2020, she joined HAPI as the Outreach and Arts Coordinator. As her ministry in Coffee County grew, Selina felt called to pursue it full-time. In 2021, she transitioned out of her administrative role at HAPI but continues to serve as an instructor and independent artist.
LeeAnn Love holds a master’s degree in Mental Health Counseling and Art Therapy from Lesley University. She is a licensed art therapist and clinical mental health counselor. LeeAnn runs a private practice and has developed art therapy programs for children, youth, and families. Learn more at leeannlove.com.
James Spearman earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree and specializes in interior architectural design and space planning. In addition to teaching art classes at HAPI, he has also taught at elementary schools and the YMCA. Explore his work at jamesspearmangallery.com.