Tia was born and raised in the Olney section of North Philadelphia and is a product of the Philadelphia public school system. She has more than sixteen years of experience designing and coordinating youth programming with a focus in social-emotional and supportive coaching. In addition to a B.A. in Theater from Indiana University of Pennsylvania and an M.S. in Organizational Leadership and Management from Pierce College, she holds a certification in restorative practices through the International Institute for Restorative Practices which she uses in her approach to coaching staff and mentors.

Prior to being promoted to her current position, Tia served as BPP’s RWL Director for three years and was instrumental in helping secure state funding to establish a pre-apprenticeship program at BPP, which launched during the 2021-22 school year. Tia is currently pursuing her EdD in Educational Leadership and Management at Drexel University.