CIRCLE OF DISCIPLINE, INC. BOARD MEMBERS
James Holmes - Chair
James Holmes, Jr. has over 36 years of finance, organizational and leadership experience in the corporate investments, financial services, credit, and nonprofit industry. He is the founder and owner of Black Lion Holdings Inc, which include Black Lion Publications, National Research and Policy iInstitute, Black Lion Foundation and other organizations. He is the author of over 17 books. Holmes is a proud lifetime learner, and is very enthusiastic about sharing profound knowledge and positive information to all whom seek it.
Dan Carlson - Vice Chair
Daniel Carlson joined the Circle of Discipline board in 2017.
He is currently employed by Metro Transit Police Department, non-sworn civilian, Asset Protection Supervisor August 2013 to present. Previous to July 2013 he was employed as a Security Manager by Lockheed Martin Mission Systems and Sensors Eagan Mn.
He was a Volunteer CPR/First Aid Community instructor American Red Cross, and over the past 20 years assisted training Circle of Discipline staff and students to become certified in CPR and Community First Aid.
He volunteered for many years as a Church AWANA Leader, and currently volunteers as a First Aid Merit Badge Counselor Boy Scouts of America Troop 29
Gina Brown - Treasurer
Gina Brown is a passionate and dedicated accountant who brings a wealth of expertise to her work. She has established herself as a trusted professional in the field, known for her meticulous attention to detail and commitment to accuracy.
Beyond her professional life, she finds joy in maintaining a healthy lifestyle, always seeking new ways to challenge herself physically and mentally. When she's not crunching numbers or breaking a sweat, Gina cherishes spending quality time with her family.
She is deeply committed to giving back to her community and actively volunteers her time and skills to various local organizations, aiming to make a positive impact on the lives of others. Believing in the power of community and the importance of lending a helping hand, she offers her accounting expertise to non-profits organizations as well as organizing and participating in fundraising events.
Jeanne Montrese - Secretary
Jeanne has dedicated her career to public service, working in both Minneapolis and Washington, D.C., with the U.S. Department of Justice and the Department of Defense. Alongside her professional work, she has devoted countless hours to supporting youth and families through organizations such as the YWCA, St. Joseph’s Home for Children, Hennepin County Foster Care, and D.C. Public Schools.
She currently serves on the board of the HueMan Partnership and previously served as a member of the Lake Street Council, the Police Athletic League, and as a Commissioner for the Neighborhood and Community Engagement Commission. A long-time supporter of the Circle of Discipline’s mission and vision, Jeanne continues to volunteer her time by cultivating partnerships with like-minded organizations to expand opportunities for youth, families, and the broader community.
Nardos Tesfalidet - Board Member
Over the past 15 years Nardos has worked in college access, special education, community-based programs, and youth employment. Nardos earned her Bachelor's in Social Work with a concentration in American, Racial & Multicultural Studies from St. Olaf College and her Master’s Degree in Social Work with a focus in Program Development, Policy and Administration from Augsburg University. She currently supervises Right Track, the City of Saint Paul’ s Youth Employment & Training Program. Nardos also currently serves on the Workforce Innovation Board’s (WIB) Youth Committee.
Elba Frazier - Board Member
Elba M. Frazier is an experienced educator and program leader with more than 20 years of service in schools and community-based organizations. She currently serves as Program Manager at Circle of Discipline, where she develops innovative youth programs, fosters partnerships, and leads community engagement efforts.
Before joining Circle of Discipline full time, Elba spent over a decade in education as an Assistant Principal and Special Education Teacher within St. Paul Public Schools, Osseo Area Schools and New York City Public Schools, where she specialized in instructional leadership, restorative practices, and inclusive education.
Fluent in Spanish and passionate about equity, mentorship, and student empowerment, Elba continues to build bridges between schools and communities to create opportunities for all youth to thrive.
Tatyana Cano - Board Member
Tatyana’s connection to Circle of Discipline is deeply personal. Growing up in South Minneapolis, she joined the Circle at age 12 and found the structure, belonging, and community she needed during a pivotal time in her life. That experience inspired her lifelong commitment to creating spaces where everyone feels valued and supported.
Driven by a passion for inclusion and connection, Tatyana dedicates her time to fostering community through event planning, program development, and meaningful relationships with families, partners, and donors. Her authentic approach allows her to speak from the heart about the Circle’s impact and inspire others to get involved.
As a board member, Tatyana leads with compassion, creativity, and collaboration—continuing the Circle’s mission to ensure every young person feels they belong and that the organization remains a pillar of empowerment for the community.
Hope Melton - Board Member
Hope Melton is a Surgical Assistant, former chef, and dedicated community volunteer whose diverse background brings creativity, focus, and compassion to her role as a board member. Her culinary experience fostered resilience and leadership under pressure—skills that now serve her well in the fast-paced world of surgery.
Beyond her professional life, Hope is deeply committed to service and community engagement. Her passion for boxing fuels her discipline and drive, while her creative spirit continues to inspire those around her. With a unique blend of precision, passion, and people-centered values, Hope is a valued contributor to the Circle of Discipline board and its mission to empower youth and families.
Mary Rhodes - Board Member
A graduate of the University of Wisconsin–River Falls with a degree in Education, Mary taught ninth-grade social studies at Minneapolis South High School for six years before taking time to raise her three daughters. Throughout that time, she remained active in youth development—as a coach, youth group leader, and tutor—and continues to serve students today as a substitute teacher in the Minneapolis Public Schools.
Married to her best friend for over 35 years, she is now the proud mother of three daughters, a son-in-law, and a grandson. She enjoys bike rides, pickleball, spending time with friends, and a great cup of coffee.
A long-time supporter of the Circle of Discipline, Mary volunteers as a tutor because she believes education has the power to transform lives. Her goal is to help each student feel seen, valued, and inspired to continue learning and growing.
