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 five Grandchildren and I feel young all over again!! Life is good.
Tiffany Whittemore, Assistant Director
Hello! My name is Tiffany Whittemore and I have been at Holly Street Daycare since 1997. I worked in the evenings after school and 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 anywhere else. I graduated in 2005 with a Technical certificate and in 2021 with an A.A.S. degree in Early Childhood Education. I also have a current Child Development Associate (CDA). I have 5 nieces and 3 nephews that I love spending time with. I also enjoy watching NFL football "Go, Titans"!
Laura Johnson, Office Manager
Hello! My name is Laura Johnson and I graduated from Austin Peay State University in 2012 with a Psychology Degree and am currently pursuing my Masters Degree in Business Management and Leadership! I never knew that taking a job at Holly Street Daycare back in Feb. 2009 would turn into a career that I am blessed to be a part of. From the Nursery all the way to our School-Age program, I have enjoyed getting to know every age and being a part of their development! They have helped shape me into the person I am today and I am forever grateful for this opportunity. Not only do I get to work with children on a daily basis but I also get to work with a staff that I feel is more like family.
Kaneshia Marsh, Office Assistant
Hi! I’m Kaneshia Marsh. I have enjoyed working at Holly Street since February 1999. I have a
caring husband and we have 2 talented children. For over two decades, children have brought me so much joy! Their happy faces and curious minds are what keep me invested in this career. Throughout my years in childcare, I have obtained a Technical certificate in Early Childhood Education and a Child Development Associate. Another great passion of mine is real estate, it also makes me happy. I obtained my license in 2005 and am actively a realtor serving middle TN. Children are so much fun and bring me so much happiness, you never know what each day is going to be like! Holly Street is full of wonderful people who have a passion to care for children and I wouldn't trade it for any other job in the world! "Holly Street is my family"
caring husband and we have 2 talented children. For over two decades, children have brought me so much joy! Their happy faces and curious minds are what keep me invested in this career. Throughout my years in childcare, I have obtained a Technical certificate in Early Childhood Education and a Child Development Associate. Another great passion of mine is real estate, it also makes me happy. I obtained my license in 2005 and am actively a realtor serving middle TN. Children are so much fun and bring me so much happiness, you never know what each day is going to be like! Holly Street is full of wonderful people who have a passion to care for children and I wouldn't trade it for any other job in the world! "Holly Street is my family"
Micheal (Shell) Rainey, Office/School Age
Hey Y’all! My name is Micheal “Shell” Rainey. I blew in with the 1998 tornado and I’m still here. I was
born and raised in East Nashville off of Shelby Street. I have a CDA in early childhood. I also have 3 wonderful daughters, Cheyenne, “Ms. Chenelle”, and Chemille. They are my world! My favorite thing about Holly Street is we are family. The children bring so much joy and happiness to my life. I love each and every one of my “Pumpkin Pies”. I am truly blessed to be a part of their sweet little lives.
born and raised in East Nashville off of Shelby Street. I have a CDA in early childhood. I also have 3 wonderful daughters, Cheyenne, “Ms. Chenelle”, and Chemille. They are my world! My favorite thing about Holly Street is we are family. The children bring so much joy and happiness to my life. I love each and every one of my “Pumpkin Pies”. I am truly blessed to be a part of their sweet little lives.
Marissa Swanson, Pre-K
My name is Marissa Swanson, and I have been working at Holly Street since I was a teenager. I attended Holly Street as a child and then starting working. I've been here my whole life! Holly Street really is my home away from home. I started teaching Pre-K in 2011. I have a Master’s Degree in Early Childhood Education from Belmont University. I also have a Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology from the University of Tennessee. I enjoy watching football (Go Vols!), Netflix, hiking, and spending time with my family and friends. I absolutely love working with children, especially in the Pre-K. We truly are one big family here at Holly Street, and that’s what makes my job so special!
Isaac Deter-Wolf, Preschool
I was born some time ago deep in the woods of North Carolina, outside a small town called Hillsborough. Early in life, I decided I wanted to be three things: an artist, an archaeologist, and a teacher. After attending the North Carolina School of the Arts and Oberlin College, I eventually made my way to Nashville, where I’ve worked in a variety of roles including gardener, usher, and department supervisor at Home Depot. Along the way, I also had the opportunity to work as both an artist and an archaeologist, which was a pleasant surprise. All of these experiences ultimately led me toward what I truly wanted to do—teach. I began working at Holly Street Daycare in July 2013, where I’ve enjoyed sharing my curiosity and love of learning with children. One belief has stayed with me throughout my journey: a day is wasted if you don’t learn something new.
Dietrich Eitzen, Preschool
Hello! My name is Dietrich Eitzen. I have been a teacher at Holly Street Daycare since moving to Nashville in the Fall of 2014. Before becoming an educator at Holly Street, I served as an assistant special needs teacher at Goshen High School in Goshen, IN from 2010 to 2014. I graduated from Goshen College in 2010. I am an avid outdoorsman and I love most things nature-related. In my spare time, I enjoy foraging, gardening, hiking, and camping, along with many other wilderness-related hobbies. When I’m in the field, I am constantly searching to observe and learn about things I have never encountered or don’t fully understand. This passion allows me to bring a bevy of unique science-related activities and knowledge to the children at Holly Street. Me being able to provide kids with these learning experiences is one of the things that makes Holly Street Daycare unique, special, and one of the best daycare centers there is!
Angel Hanner, Early Learners
Hi, my name is Angel Hanner and I have been working at Holly Street since August 2009. I live in Hendersonville with my husband (Tyler) and our two daughters (Abigail and Bridget). In my free time I enjoy cooking, traveling with my family, and spending time on the lake. I love working at Holly Street, learning new things to better myself, and spending time with my coworkers. One thing that keeps me going everyday is seeing the kid's faces light up when they learn and accomplish something new.
Lakin Waszil, Early Learners
Hello! My name is Lakin Waszil and I moved to Nashville and began working at Holly Street in October 2023! I am originally from a small town in eastern Kentucky, but I moved to Nashville to expand my horizons! I graduated from Eastern Kentucky University in 2022 with a B.A. in Sociology. Before coming to Holly Street, I worked with kindergarteners and first graders at my local elementary school back home. I love working alongside the staff and families at Holly Street to nurture the minds of the students I’ve been given the privilege to get to know. I’m so excited to continue to get to know the kids as they learn and grow here!
Abbey Vickers, Early Learners
Hi, I’m Abbey Vickers! I grew up in Nashville and am a proud Holly Street graduate. I now live in Greenbrier and graduated from Greenbrier High School in the spring of 2025. I’m currently attending Vol-State, pursuing a degree in Business & Marketing. I started working at Holly Street in August of 2025, and I’m so excited to be part of the team! I’m the youngest of three siblings, with a brother and sister, and I love spending time with my niece and nephew whenever I can.
Sarah Niles, Toddler 3
Hi! My name is Sarah and I have worked at Holly Street since 2014. I started working seasonally while I was in school and went full time when I graduated college in 2020. I went to the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga and got my degree in Child and Family Studies. I have always had a passion for working with kids. It brings me so much joy to watch their growth and development and also to be a part of it! I was born and raised in Donelson and just bought a house with my husband in Goodlettsville. When I’m not working I enjoy spending time with my friends and family.
Lizzie Douglas, Toddler 2
Hi, I’m Lizzy! I’m from Greenbrier, Tennessee, and I graduated from Greenbrier High School in May 2025. I began working at Holly Street Daycare in August 2025. I’m currently attending Vol State, where I’m majoring in Early Education (K–5). Teaching has always been a passion of mine—growing up, I was often “playing teacher,” and now I get to live out that dream every day. I love watching children grow and learn, and getting to work with the children at Holly Street is truly amazing!
Brianna Rogers, Nursery
Hey there! My name is Brianna and I’ve been at Holly Street since February 2022. I grew up in Southern California with a love for country music, so I decided to move to Nashville in June of 2017. Since then I’ve worked several different jobs here (Cracker Barrel, a senior home, and a manager at Chick-Fil-A) but no place has felt like home like Holly Street! (My mom was a preschool teacher my whole life, so I knew I’d end up in childcare somehow!) I love being a little part of each child’s growth here. In my free time I love hiking, going to concerts, hanging out with my family, and spending time with my English bulldog, Denim!
Mj Smith, Nursery
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
My name is MJ, and I grew up in downtown Pittsburgh, where I discovered my passion for creating accessible, equitable, and high-quality educational resources while working with the Homeless Children's Education Fund. I earned my B.A. in Psychology from Trevecca Nazarene University and hope to eventually pursue my master’s degree in therapy, as well as a trauma-informed yoga certification, with the goal of continuing to work closely with families in East Nashville. I began working at Holly Street Daycare in April 2025, and working with infants has been one of the most unexpected and life-giving experiences. I’m passionate about fostering a communicative and compassionate classroom while incorporating creative expression, nature-based play, yoga, and psychology into the curriculum. Out of all my previous childcare experiences, Holly Street has always felt the most like home, and I’m incredibly grateful to be part of this community.
My name is MJ, and I grew up in downtown Pittsburgh, where I discovered my passion for creating accessible, equitable, and high-quality educational resources while working with the Homeless Children's Education Fund. I earned my B.A. in Psychology from Trevecca Nazarene University and hope to eventually pursue my master’s degree in therapy, as well as a trauma-informed yoga certification, with the goal of continuing to work closely with families in East Nashville. I began working at Holly Street Daycare in April 2025, and working with infants has been one of the most unexpected and life-giving experiences. I’m passionate about fostering a communicative and compassionate classroom while incorporating creative expression, nature-based play, yoga, and psychology into the curriculum. Out of all my previous childcare experiences, Holly Street has always felt the most like home, and I’m incredibly grateful to be part of this community.
Jenna Pratt, Nursery
Hi! My name is Jenna Pratt! I’m 22 years old, and started at Holly Street in November of 2025! I’ve always had a passion for working with children and love helping them learn and grow each day. I plan to start school soon to pursue a degree in a child-related field, though I’m still exploring exactly which direction I want to go. My boyfriend’s family grew up with Holly Street, so it already feels like such a special and familiar place to me. I love being part of each child’s growth and watching them reach new milestones—it’s such a rewarding experience. I’m so excited to begin this journey and be part of the amazing Holly Street family!
Makayla Whittemore, Toddlers
Hi, my name is Makayla, and I was born and raised in East Nashville! As a child, I spent time at Holly Street with my aunt and absolutely loved it. I have always loved teaching children and watching them grow. Growing up, I watched my aunt, mom, and grandmother teach, and I knew that was what I wanted to do as well. I previously worked at Holly Street for three years before taking some time away, and I am so excited to be back as of December 2025! It truly feels great to be back. In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends and exploring new things to do around town.
Christine Wong, Floater
Hi, my name is Christine Wong, and I am proud to be an Infant/Toddler Teacher at Holly Street Daycare. I began working at Holly Street in February 2026 and am excited to be part of such a supportive community.
I have been working with children of all ages for over two years. My philosophy of learning focuses on learning through play and supporting the whole child through holistic development. I grew up in Jamaica in a large family with five siblings and graduated from high school in 2014. I am also a mom of two, which has strengthened my passion for working with young children. In my free time, I enjoy watching anime and cartoons while enjoying dessert — especially ice cream. Although I am newer to Holly Street, I look forward to many years of working with the wonderful teachers, families, and especially the children here.
I have been working with children of all ages for over two years. My philosophy of learning focuses on learning through play and supporting the whole child through holistic development. I grew up in Jamaica in a large family with five siblings and graduated from high school in 2014. I am also a mom of two, which has strengthened my passion for working with young children. In my free time, I enjoy watching anime and cartoons while enjoying dessert — especially ice cream. Although I am newer to Holly Street, I look forward to many years of working with the wonderful teachers, families, and especially the children here.
Roni Manges, Floater
Hi, my name is Roni, and I began working at Holly Street in January 2026.
I come from a very large family and am the oldest of 18 siblings. Being with and caring for children has always been a natural part of my life. I have three sons, fifteen grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. For more than 35 years, my work in social services has been centered around caring for and protecting children. I have worked with children in the foster care system, children with disabilities, and supported pregnant teens and families with premature babies through life coaching and guidance. Now I have the great privilege of finishing my working years with your marvelous children here at Holly Street. I truly feel like I saved the best for last!
I come from a very large family and am the oldest of 18 siblings. Being with and caring for children has always been a natural part of my life. I have three sons, fifteen grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. For more than 35 years, my work in social services has been centered around caring for and protecting children. I have worked with children in the foster care system, children with disabilities, and supported pregnant teens and families with premature babies through life coaching and guidance. Now I have the great privilege of finishing my working years with your marvelous children here at Holly Street. I truly feel like I saved the best for last!
Bonnie Putty, Substitute
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. I have been married since 1970. I have two children, a son and a daughter, two grandchildren and two beautiful great grand-daughters. 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. I Love Holly Street!
Ana Bergin, Substitute
Oi, tudo bem? My name is Ana, and I was born and raised in Brazil. My native language is Portuguese. Throughout my career, I have worked with both fiction and non-fiction stories in a variety of roles. I began as a journalist, writing articles after earning my bachelor’s degree in Communications. A few years later, I fell in love with the publishing world, eventually becoming the editor-in-chief of children’s and young adult books. For over 20 years, I worked closely with authors and illustrators, helping bring their stories to life and spark children’s imaginations. When I moved to Nashville, I wanted to continue being part of the world of children. In 2022, I decided to return to college to work toward my CDA in Early Childhood Education. I began working at Holly Street Daycare in November 2023, and I’m so grateful to Mrs. Karen and the wonderful team for welcoming me so warmly. Every day, children tell their own stories through their smiles, babbling, cries, and expressive faces—sometimes mad, sometimes funny, and always full of life. Being part of their growth and discovery has been an amazing experience, and I truly love working with the children and families at Holly Street. children!
Janet Stump, Floater
Hi my name is Janet Stump. I have grown up at Holly Street and started volunteering at the age of 12 and worked here on and off since then. I moved to Hawaii to see more of the world and when I came home I eventually decided to come back to Holly Street. Since then I have become a certified personal trainer and am focused on starting my career path in that field. I feel like I will always be a part of Holly Street because it has been in my life since I was born and now that I am a mother my daughter can enjoy coming here too! I love how children always live in the moment and it’s a beautiful thing to watch them grow.
Forever Jamie Stump
Many of you may wonder who Jamie Stump is. To start off Jamie is the daughter of our director Karen. She grew up at Holly Street with her siblings Mikella, Janet, and Karl. Jamie was bright, silly, beautiful, and always knew how to make you smile. She was also great at working with children who sometimes needed a little extra patience. In 2012 Jamie tragically passed away due to a car accident at the age of 27. She will forever be missed!
