Board of Directors
We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community … Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and for our own. – Cesar Chavez

Sydnee Shorten
President
Sydnee Shorten stands at the intersection of meaningful advocacy and transformative leadership in her roles both as the Founder and CEO of ADA Program Solutions, PC, and as the dedicated President of the Board of Directors for Skills and Faith Athletes (S&F). With an indelible commitment to fostering inclusive environments and equal opportunities, her work across both platforms harmonizes with a singular purpose: to ensure that no individual, child or adult, should have to suffer due to a lack of resources.
At ADA Program Solutions, Sydnee leads with an unwavering mission to build bridges to equal opportunities within organizations, championing comprehensive and innovative solutions that empower individuals with disabilities to thrive in the workplace. Her initiative reflects a profound understanding gained from over 16 years of expertise in group insurance, with a specialization in life, disability, and absence management, and seven influential years in HR. This professional foundation underpins ADA Program Solutions’ commitment to dismantling barriers, advocating for accessibility, and facilitating a future where every individual has the chance to reach their full potential in an equitable society. Parallel to her endeavors in ADA Program Solutions, Sydnee’s leadership at Skills and Faith Athletes (S&F) aligns with a visionary commitment to community development and personal growth. S&F’s mission mirrors the ethos of creating accessible, inclusive and resource-rich environments where limitations are recognized and addressed with empathy and action.
Under her guidance, both ADA Program Solutions and S&F are not just organizations but movements, driven by the belief that building character in our children creates successful citizens and stronger communities, and that creating accessible workplaces ensures every adult’s right to contribution and fulfillment. Sydnee’s personal and professional journey is a testament to the power of bridging divides between the world as it is and as it should be—inclusive, equitable, and rich with opportunity for all. Through her leadership, she embodies the philosophy that true change is achieved when we dedicate ourselves to eradicating barriers and expanding resources for every individual, ensuring they have the tools and support needed to succeed.
Sydnee Shorten’s visionary leadership primarily fuels the mission of Skills and Faith Athletes, leveraging her vast experience from ADA Program Solutions to reinforce S&F’s commitment to empowerment, inclusion, access, and community. With Sydnee at the helm, S&F is not just an organization, but a beacon of hope and transformation, steadfast in its mission to create a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive, unimpeded by barriers, and supported by a community that believes in their boundless potential.

Bernadette Sneed
Vice President
Bernadette Sneed move from North Caroline to Fort Worth in 1981 and has been in Texas for 35 years. She is a mother of 2 children and 2 grand-kids and also, has 4 honorary children and 9 honorary grand-kids. She has years of experience in customer service and has a big heart in giving back to help our youth, and community. She has done volunteering work since the 4th grade and love it. Through out the years, she has volunteered for high school basketball, pee wee football, high school volleyball, USA track and field. Debbie Allen Dance Academy (Fort Worth), and Big Brother Big Sisters just to name a few. Volunteering for S and F Athletes has filled a void in my life since the passing of my son. I enjoy watching some of the teens grow and work on their communication skill. Knowing the organization has projects that Help our youth’s, gives me the passion to continue volunteering.

Lisa Fields
Secretary
Lisa Fields I am a mother and grandmother. I have over 30 years of Customer Service in the airline industry. For many years, I was a single parent and learned how to overcome adversity. As I took on the role of both mother and father and the challenges that entails, I continuously reminded myself I am blessed with whatever I have. Even in the darkest moments, I felt I had a responsibility to help those who weren’t as fortunate. I’ve always had a passion for helping those in need whether it be financially, lending an ear or volunteering my time. I’ve volunteered at school events, packed boxes for the troops, provided bags of necessities and food for the homeless, participated in fundraisers and volunteered my time with S and F. I feel strongly about the assistance they’ve provided children, families and the community. It is my pleasure to continue to work with this important organization and impact lives in a positive manner.

Blessing Ogiata
Treasurer
Blessing Ogiata is a graduate of Bowie State University class of 1999. While at Bowie she was a part of the NASA program where she served as a Satellite Command Controller. `Gathers data collected from the Sun and submit the information to NASA for further testing. After graduating with a Computer Science degree Ms. Ogiata has worked as a Web and SharePoint Designer/Developer for 20 years providing website services to the Federal Government and Private sector. She has successfully provided strategic solutions in web design and implantation of web application for the US Army & Army Reserve, Veterans Affairs, Department of Transportation, DTC Technology and Women of Freedom Foundation just to name a few. In 2011 Ms. Ogiata lived in Doha, Qatar for two years to serve as a Web Specialist for the CENTCOM Joint Theater Support Contracting Command (C-JTSCC) supporting the region of Qatar, Afghanistan and Iraq. Instrumental in providing critical and time sensitive web support that ensure beneficial mission support to combat troops. Her support to the Command earned her a Commanders Coin from the C-JTSCC two Star Commanding General for outstanding performance. Ms. Ogiata has volunteered her time with the Epilepsy Foundation Metropolitan Washington in assistant with awareness and outreach within the Washington DC area. She is also very active in her community by volunteering her time to the local District Office, and in getting individuals to come out and vote. Ms. Ogiata joined the Skill and Faith Athletes family in October 2018 when she relocated to Dallas Texas from the Washington DC area. She is humble to be a part of the Board and help impact the lives of our youth to be a contributing member in their community.

Corey Wilhelm
Board Member
Corey Wilhelm is a native of Austin, Texas. He enlisted in the United States Navy following his graduation from high school and completed six years of active-duty service. Upon completion of his military service, he transitioned to a career in law enforcement and was hired by the Irving Police Department in 2007. He continued his service in the United States Navy Reserves until his retirement in 2022.
During his tenure with the Irving Police Department, Sergeant Wilhelm has served in numerous specialized assignments, including the SWAT team, undercover narcotics operations, and the K9 unit. He was promoted to the rank of Sergeant in 2020 and currently serves in the Community Services Division as the School Resource Supervisor.

Izaiah Shorten
Board Member
Izaiah Shorten, with an entrepreneurial mindset and a heart dedicated to community service, joins Skills and Faith Athletes as a board member. Izaiah’s journey in business began at the tender age of 8 when he co-founded Lil’ Helpers Lawncare Services alongside his brother and neighboring friends. His early exposure to entrepreneurship laid a solid foundation for his unstoppable drive and innovative spirit. Throughout his life, Izaiah has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to helping others. Volunteering to support the homeless and serving as a greeter on the “Welcoming Team” at his church from his elementary school days instilled in him the values of compassion and service. His high school years further solidified his dedication as he actively participated in Skills and Faith activities and events, embodying the spirit of leadership and community involvement. Izaiah’s unwavering passion to make a difference and his genuine desire to positively impact lives make him an exceptional addition to the Skills and Faith Athletes board. With his entrepreneurial experience and heartfelt commitment, Izaiah is poised to contribute significantly to the organization’s mission and vision.