grad students

At KFACT (Keeping Families and Communities Together) we believe that empowering girls isn't an option, it's a must!

The nonprofit youth development and mentoring program for underserved girls in Rockford provides holistic mentorship and long-term relationships. We are so proud of KFACT’s class of 2023 mentees.

We congratulate and celebrate each mentee for choosing their college and career plans:

  • Samara Brown, Auburn High School, will attend Southern Illinois University to major in art therapy.

  • Symara Brown, Auburn High School, will attend Albany State University to pursue a degree in nursing.

  • Nevaeh Calloway, Auburn High School, will attend Rock Valley College to pursue a degree in nursing.

  • Yaimiah Davis Bryant, Auburn High School, will continue attending Educators of Beauty to further her vocational education as an esthetician.

  • J’Cristaa Dixon, Guilford High School, will attend Northern Illinois University as a Rockford Promise Scholar.

  • Tajionna James, Roosevelt Community Education Center, will attend Rock Valley College and later pursue a bachelor’s degree at Central State University.

  • Sa’Mya McNeely, Auburn High School and Stillman Valley High School, will attend Southern Illinois University to major in medical science.

  • Atay'jia Patterson, Auburn High School, will begin the Dental Assistant Program this summer at Rock Valley College.

  • Markhari Williams, Guilford High School, will attend Rock Valley College to pursue a degree in nursing.

  • Taniya Woodfork, Auburn High School, plans to enroll at Rock Valley College to earn her CNA certification and pursue a degree in nursing.

RPS 205 – thank you for the opportunity to partner and mentor girls in Rockford!


Shamika Williams

Shamika Williams

Shamika Williams is the Founder and Executive Director of KFACT. She is a Rockford native and an RPS 205 alumna. Shamika holds a bachelor’s degree in human services and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Judson University.