OUR STAFF

HAMMOND MCEVER 

Founder & Executive Director 

Hammond grew up in Atlanta and his story has a major impact on his work with Thrive.  Hammond discovered he had Dyslexia (a reading disability) in kindergarten and his parents quickly got him the specialized help he needed at the Schenk School.  After two years of Orton-Gillingham training he could read proficiently.  In 2005 he graduated from The Lovett School, and in 2009 he graduated from Washington & Lee University.
He has worked with youth for over 10 years and is excited to make the Orton-Gillingham reading method available to kids who would otherwise be passed through the APS system never learning to read.  
Hammond has a passion for Christian discipleship and character formation and this is at the heart of everything Thrive does.  By instilling youth with a love for God, an understanding of identity, and a sense of purpose a calling; Thrive Academy is changing lives in Atlanta’s inner city.  

MIKE OTEKA

Principal

Loved by students and staff alike, Mike brings knowledge, enthusiasm and joy to Thrive Academy ATL. As our Principal, he has been an invaluable member of the team.

CJ RUMSEY

Student Housing Director

Energetic and driven, we were thrilled when CJ joined as our Student Housing Director. CJ is having an incredible impact on the boys in student housing.

CLEARANCE ADAMS 

Teacher

Since joining Thrive Academy ATL, Clarence Adams has consistently brought passion and dedication every single day. His cultural background of growing up on Atlanta’s Westside makes him uniquely able to connect and engage the youth of Thrive Academy.  

CYNTHIA WILLIAMS 

Teacher

Since joining Thrive Academy ATL, Cynthia has been an invaluable part of the Thrive team.  She bring tears of wisdom and is dedicated to the success of each student.