Karen Stump, Executive Director
I have been at Holly Street since 1986! I grew up in Chicago along with my four brothers. I was right in the middle. We were an outdoor family and I have nothing but great memories. I went to college at St. Mary’s of Winona Minnesota and majored in Environmental Biology. It was nestled in the bluffs along the Mississippi River near LaCrosse, Wisconsin. It was beautiful. I married and moved to Mammoth Lakes California located in the High Sierras. Talk about beautiful. Snow was a way of life. A foot an hour was no big deal. Daughters, Mikella and Jamie were born there. In 1986, we moved to Nashville not knowing I was pregnant with twins, Karl and Janet. I landed at Holly Street and you would not believe the then and now of East Nashville. I should have been keeping a journal so that a book could have been written. Though it has been quite a journey, working more than full-time, raising four children and commuting from Robertson County, I feel very blessed to have been at Holly Street. I love seeing Holly Street children grow into young adults and being a part of all of the families. And now I have my first Grandson and I feel young all over again!! Life is good.
Tiffany Buford, Assistant Director
Hello! My name is Tiffany Buford and I have been at Holly Street Daycare since 1997. I worked in the evenings after school and absolutely loved it. My favorite thing about Holly Street is the people I work with and the children we get to see growing and learning. I can not imagine being any where else. I graduated in 2005 with a Technical certificate in Early Childhood Education and am currently enrolled at NSCC to attain my A.A.S. degree. I have 5 nieces and 1 nephew that I love spending time with. I also have dog named Runt Ro.
Kaneshia Taylor, Office
I have worked at Holly Street for 10 years. Holly Street Daycare is my place of employment, however it feels like home. I love Holly Street because it feels like I am with family every day. I have met alot of wonderful people and built many strong relationships with the staff, parents and children of Holly Street. I love to go to school and gather new information. I am currently taking classes at NSCC. I am pursuing a Technical Certificate in Early Childhood Education and plan to continue afterwards for an A.S. Degree. In 2001 I received an A.S. Degree in Business Managment. In 2005 I received my Real Estate License and 2009 my CDA. I am a family oriented person. I have a son named Kobe who attends Holly Street Daycare and I am so happy that he came into my life.
Micheal Young, Pre-K
I am also known as Shell at Holly Street. In 1998 the tornado came through Holly Street and dropped me off. I couldn't be happier. I am a mother of 2 girls who both attended Holly Street and loved it. I have my CDA and currently attend NSCC to attain a Technical Certificate. I absolutely love Holly Street. There is such a positive atmosphere when you enter each room. Every teacher is here because they love children. Holly Street is not just a daycare center but a home away from home for so many families. There are many families that make up Holly Street but, we are just one big happy family and to me that is very important. I love coming to work each day knowing that so many parents trust me with their precious children. It makes me so happy to know that with every hug, smile and "I love you" I share with so many small miracles, I have made an impact on their lives. I don't see Holly Street as my job but as my calling to do what I do best and that is to love each child unconditionally.
Vonne Atkinson, Pre-K
I arrived in Nashville, TN in 2003 from Warrenton, VA. I grew up in Warrenton but I lived in Washington, DC and Gaithersburg, MD as well. Belmont University is what brought me to Nashville to study Music Business, and even though I graduated in 2007 I decided to stay in Nashville. 2007 was a very busy year, because not only did I graduate college, I also got married two weeks after graduation. Then I started working at Holly Street in 2007! My husband and I had our daughter, Embyr Odette Atkinson August 15, 2010. Fortunately for me Emy is here with me at Holly Street! Speaking of things I love, running is a passion of mine, and I have ran in everything from 5K's to 50K's (31 miles). I am very blessed that I can go out for a quick run during my lunch break. I can thank Mrs. Karen and Ms. Tiffany for that, as well as East Nashville for having such an awesome running community. I also love reading and enjoy exchanging books with other teachers. I am the New Member Adviser for Alpha Gamma Delta at Belmont University, and a member of the Junior League of Nashville. In case you can't tell, I like staying busy and having a packed calendar.
Jamie Stump, Pre-K
Hello Everyone! I have been at Holly Street since I was an infant. I have 2 sisters and 1 brother. I also have a wonderful and sweet dog named Marley and really enjoy being outdoors. I just recently graduated from the University of Memphis.
Marissa Swanson, Three's
Hey Everyone! I'm Ms. Marissa, and I am a Nashville native. I am the youngest of 3, and I am an aunt to my wonderful niece and nephew. I recently graduated from the University of Tennessee in Knoxville with a BA degree in Psychology. My time spent in Knoxville turned me into a true Tennessee fan- Go Vols! I plan on going to graduate school to obtain my masters degree in Elementry education. I have been a part of Holly Street pretty much my whole life. I attended as a child and have been working here every summer since I was fourteen. Watching your children grow and the wonderful friendships formed with the teachers over the years is what keeps me coming back.
Megan Frechette, Threes
Hi my name is Megan. I recently relocated to Nashville from a small town in Connecticut. I received my associates degree in Human Services with a focus in behavioral studies from Northwestern Connecticut Community College. For the past 4 years I have been working as a special educational paraprofessional in a middle school. Some things I love to do are play guitar, sing, being outdoors and talking to my family back home. Even though I have only been here for a short time I look forward to coming to work each day. I can tell that Holly Street is like one big family and I am proud to be a part of it!
Alex Sage, Toddler 4
I am originally from Haines, Alaska, but 2 years ago my fiance, dog and I
made East Nashville our home. I started working at Holly Street in
September 2008 and have learned so much from these children. While
working here I have obtained a Technical Certificate and a CDA. I am
currently attending Nashville State pursuing an Associates in Early
Childhood Education.
Chae Won, Toddler-4
Hello my name is Chae. I was born in Tageu, South Korea and was adopted as an infant in 1981. I grew up in Newburgh, Indiana before moving to Nashville in September of 2009. Newburgh was a quiet little river town tucked alongside the Ohio River where I was very fortunate to have been raised by wonderful parents. I have a beautiful 6 year old son, Chae Won (Chae Jr.) who I adore very much.
Chae Won had a magical experience while he attended Holly Street Daycare and will be starting first grade at Dan Mills Elementary this August. His kindergarten experience was amazing and his first year of baseball is unforgettable! I was previously working at Whole Foods World Market as a buyer and enjoyed the interaction with the local vendors and community but wanted to commute closer to East Nashville (Inglewood) with an urge to invest energy into something more rewarding and inspirational. So I knew Holly Street would be a perfect fit to continue my interaction with the local community and I am delighted to have the opportunity to contribute to the progressive culture and environment at Holly Street.
Jesse Coppenbarger, Toddler 4
Hi, I’m Jesse. I am from Jackson, MS and a graduate of the University of Mississippi. I have a bachelor’s degree in social work. I am a musician and have toured all over the U.S. and Canada with my band Colour Revolt. I have 3 nephews, Emery is 6, Baker 4, Willis is 3, and my littlest niece Dottie, who just turned 2. I love them very much and try to see them as much as possible. I just recently moved to Nashville and love it already. I plan on getting my CDL. My driving skills have sharpened over the last 3 years of driving a van and trailer through every condition this country can present. I hope in my time at Holly Street I will be able to provide the kids with a fun and encouraging environment to grow in.
Brittnee Edmonds, T-3
My name is Brittnee, and I just moved to Nashville from North Texas to pursue a music career. I recently graduated from the University of North Texas with a degree in broadcast journalism. Throughout my college career, I was a babysitter/nanny for several families in the Denton, TX area. I love spending time with kids, and especially love doing crafts and activities that help them learn and grow. I am very excited to be a part of the Holly Street family!
Maggy Alegria, T-3
Heather Millington, T-2
Hello! My name is Heather. I moved to Nashville 4 years ago from New Jersey. I moved here to go to Trevecca Nazarene University where I graduated with a degree in Commercial Music. I am really excited to be able to work at Holly Street because I love all of the kids and it is so great getting to know all of their unique and amazing personalities. I also have fallen in love with the community of East Nashville and am excited to be able to work here as well and to be a part of such an awesome place like Holly Street Daycare.
Susan Wooten, T-2
Hello everyone. I've recently started working at Holly Street. I enjoy working with the kids and staff. It's a wonderful place to work!
Angel Wilson, T-2
Hi, My name is Angel. I have been working at Holly Street since August 2009. I am currently going to school for Elementary Education. I have lived in East Nashville my entire life. I have an older sister who used to work at Holly Street and I also have a twin brother. Holly Street is a great place!
Bonnie Hooberry, T-1
Hello My name is Bonnie. Also known as "Bonnie Hoo". I am a widow with 3 children, 4 grandchildren and 2 great grandchildren. I have worked at Holly Street for 14 years and I love it. Mrs. Karen, Ms. Tiffany and the rest of the staff are great. I also enjoy watching children discover the world around them. Most of all I love the smiles, hugs and kisses from the children, that money just can't buy.
Wen Nguyen, T-1
Hello my name is Wen. I began working with Holly Street Oct. 4th, 2010. I also work at Martha O'Bryan as a tutor/transitional coach after school. I have a Bachelors degree in Sociology and have many credit hours in Child Development. I have met all the amazing and beautiful children who attend here. I love kids and enjoy helping my boyfriend raise his wonderful son. I try to make every day we spend together nurturing and enriching. I also love my family very much and talk to me mum at least once a day.
Tina Cherry, Nursery
Hi! My name is Tina. I was born in Louisville, KY and raised there until I was 12. I then moved right here to East Nashville and have been here since. I have been married for 20 years and am a mother of 2, Jeremy 19 and Allison 17. I have worked at Holly Street since 1998, off and on; something always seems to bring me back. Probably my love for children, not to mention Holly Street is a second home and the people I work with are like family. In the fall I will be returning to school to attain my CDA and hope to stay with Holly Street for many more years to come.
Bonnie Putty, Nursery
I am also known as Ms. Bonnie P. Holly Street Daycare has been my second home since 1986 and I love it! It is the greatest place to be. Ms.Karen and the staff are like my second family. I love spending my day with the children. Watching them learn and grow is a wonderful experience. One of the first children I cared for in the nursery is now married with 2 children. I still keep in touch with him. I have been married since 1970. I have 2 children, a son and a daughter. I have 2 grandchildren. I also have a beautiful great grand-daughter. Her name is Kylie-Aiyana and she is the light of my life. I went back to school and received my CDA in 1999. Later I went to NSCC and graduated with a Technical Certificate in Early Childhood Education in 2005 at the age of 53! Thank You for the opportunity to love, nurture and have fun with your children.
Jean Scott, Nursery
I have been at Holly Street Daycare for 8 years. I enjoy working with the babies and staff. I also enjoy meeting all the new families that come to Holly Street. I have a cat, a son and a granddaughter. I love to participate in church activities.
Thalia Whittemore, Nursery
I have been at Holly Street Daycare for 11 years. I have been married for 36 years and have 4 children and 4 grandchildren. We also have a dog named Tyson. I love being at Holly Street because of the wonderful director Karen. We have wonderful parents who care about their children and like to be involved.
Chloe Barrett, School Age
My name is Chloe Barrett, and I'm originally from a little town called Midway, Kentucky. Don't worry if you haven't heard of it, it only has one stoplight and one camel, so if you blink you'll miss it! I went to Transylvania University in Lexington, KY, before moving to East Nashville last July. I love my new home and have a blast hanging out and being a big kid at Holly Street Daycare.
Jasmine Frazier, Floater
Hello Everyone, My name is Jasmine and I am from Mt.Juliet, TN where I have lived for 20 years. I graduated from Mt. Juliet High School in 2008. I am now attending Tennessee State University where I am studying to get my Bachelors in Nursing. I have worked with children for several years in different environments. I am very new to Holly Street but, I have already fell in love with it. I have really enjoyed getting to know all of the wonderful children and families here at Holly Street.
Shelby Carter, Floater
Hello! My name is Shelby Carter. I recently started working at Holly Street and it is so fun here. I am currently working hard to earn my degree at Belmont University. I plan on becoming an Elementary School Teacher! Right now I am working with all these brilliant children and I love it! They make the day worth while.
Morgan Byrn, Floater
My name is Morgan. I have been a teacher at Holly Street for 5 summers. However this was not my first experience with Holly Street. I came here as a little girl. My years at Holly Street were filled with many trips to the office for my less than perfect behavior and with good memories of fun friends I made. After graduating from Pre-K I moved to Columbia, TN to start a new life as a reformed biter. After graduating from Columbia Central High School, I attended Converse College in Spartanburg, SC. I was a loyal Pink Panther for four years. After graduating in May of 2010, I came back to my beloved Holly Street to work another summer. As luck would have it I am attending MTSU in the fall as a grad student. I hope to work at Holly Street while I get my Masters because, the children at Holly Street are the best.
Susan Martin, Floater
I have 3 sons, 1 daughter-in-law, and 4 grandchildren. My two oldest grandchildren were married this past year, so now I really have 6 grandchildren! I love to quilt, travel, and read. I enjoy working at Holly Street Daycare and have become very attached to the children in just a short time. The staff here are amazing and very caring.
Chasity Ashmore, Floater
Hi my name is Chasity. I am a loving person who loves to share, care, and sing. I am the youngest of seven children. I am a student at Belmont University studying psychology and social work. Working with the children has always been a passion. I began this passion by assisting my mother for several years at her daycare. With my enthusiastic personality I try to bring sunshine to everybody's day. Oh, I almost forgot I'm glad to be a part of the Holly Street team.
Jacob Martin, Floater
Hi everyone, my name is Jacob Martin and I recently moved to Nashville from Colorado Springs, Colorado, where I've lived all my life. I haven't been at holly street very long, but I'm loving it so far. I spend a lot of my free time playing music and I'm in a band called Kansas Bible Company. I also like reading, traveling, and exploring nature. I'm excited to continue working and playing with all the kids.
Shanley Deignan, Floater
Hi, my name is Shanley. I moved to Nashville from Rhode Island 4 years ago to attend Lipscomb University. I recently graduated with a degree in Law, Justice, & Society. Besides working at Holly Street Daycare, I am also a homeless outreach worker for a small non-profit, Open Table Nashville. In my free time, I love being outside, playing volleyball, and spending time with friends! I also love traveling, at the top of my bucket-list is to take a cross country road trip!! I'm so grateful to be living in East Nashville and working at Holly Street! I love the community that I've found and look forward to the future here!
Anna Johnson, Floater
Hi! My name is Anna. I am from Jackson, TN. I graduated from High School in 2008. I recently started working at Holly Street and I LOVE it. I enjoy working with everyone and the kids are AMAZING!
Pearl Grady, Cook
My name is Pearl Grady. I have 3 daughters, one son living and one deceased. I also have grandchildren as well as great grandchildren. At age 16 I started working in a food service facility as a special diet aide at Middle Tennessee T.B. Hospital. I began working at Miller's Hospital in 1962. I started as a diet aide and worked my way to Manager of food service. I worked there for 37 years. After 47 years of working I decided to retire. To my surprise after 1 year I decided Retirement is not for me. After working a part time position at McNeily center in the kitchen for a summer while school was out I applied for a position at Holly Street. This was like a miracle because I was hired and have been here since 8/2001.