We’re excited to introduce you to the Dillon County First Steps Team and executive board members. This dedicated group of people works hard to serve the county’s families, childcare providers, staff, and partners.
Meet the Dillon County First Steps Team
Shirleen Lewis, Executive Director
shirleenlewis@bellsouth.net
Shirleen Lewis became the Executive Director of Dillon County First Steps in May 2017. She has over 12 years of experience in management of early childhood programs in the non-profit sector to include Smart Start and Head Start. In addition, Shirleen serves as a Psychology Professor at Bladen Community College. She has a master’s degree in Psychology and is currently pursuing a doctorate degree in Educational Leadership. She is a Certified Trainer and Technical Assistance Provider with South Carolina’s Child Care Career Development. Shirleen is a member of the National Association of Education for Young Children and the National Head Start Association.
Shirleen and her husband Ja’Coby, reside in Dillon County, with their daughter Kennedie.
Shantel McRae, Parents as Teachers Supervisor
Shantel McRae, has been employed with DCFS since September 2018 and serves as the Parents as Teachers Supervisor. She is a Certified Technical Assistance Professional with the Quality Enhancement Program.
Shantel’s educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in Business/Child Development from South Carolina State University. She is a Master Certified Trainer and a Generalist II Technical Assistance Provider with the Center of Child Care Career Development.
Shantel is married to Terry McRae. Although she did not birth her children she is the mom of four Step children (Torez, Tinaya, Tyquzz, and Braylon) and five adopted children (Daniel, Damond, Arnasha, Jamez and Adrianna). She has been blessed with five grandchildren (Ja’Ziyah, Daniel, Damauri, Zayden and Damiyah).
Shantel has always had a passion for children. Her personal and professional lifestyle has impacted her love and passion for children and their families.
Angela Coward, Finance Manager
Angela Coward joined Dillon County First Steps at its inception in 2000. Angela began her duties at DCFS as the Administrative Assistant. She has held various positions to include Program Assistant, Program Director and currently Finance Manager. Angela is the DCFS Finance Manager. Angela coordinates the Child Care Training Program and the Raising A Reader Program. Angela is a graduate of Northeastern Technical College. Angela and her husband, Jerry, reside in Dillon. They have three children, Jason, Justin (Denise), and Jordan Coward.
Melinda Robinson, Parent Educator
Melinda Robinson is a Parent Educator for Dillon County First Steps. Melinda has been employed with Dillon County First Steps since August 1, 2017. Melinda received her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and Sociology with a concentration in Criminology. She also holds a Master’s Degree in Education Leadership.
She has worked with children for 21 years in the public schools. She is married to Roderick Robinson and has 2 children Jamaris and Majayla whom she loves dearly.
Meet the Board
| Name | Board Category |
|---|---|
| Kenneth L. Smith Chair | Non-Profit Organization That Provides Services to Families and Children |
| Dr. Michael McRae, Vice Chair | Dillon School District Four |
| Preston Greene, III Secretary | Business Community |
| Millie Odom Assistant Secretary | Childcare and Early Education Development Education Provider |
| Tierney L. Alford | Dillon County Library |
| Lisa Armstrong | Family Education, Training, and Support Provider |
| Beryl Collington | Pre-Kindergarten Through Primary Educator |
| Karen English | DSS |
| Chevella German | Head Start |
| Akeesha Leggette | Parent of Preschool Children |
| Dollie R. Morrell | Dillon School District Three |
| Reverend Allen Nesmith | Faith Community |
| Angela S. Rogers | DHEC |
