Taryn McKennie
Founder and CEO
About Taryn
Ms. McKennie has 20+ years of experience in financial services and private education, in addition to over 10 years in management and talent development. She earned a scholarship and graduated with a degree in Architectural Studies from the University of Illinois at Chicago, and later started her entrepreneurial path in real estate business in 2014.
A passion was ignited to educate young people early in life to give them a head start. She began working with a nonprofit in CPS high schools, facilitating high dosage small group math lessons; helping change the trajectory of 9th and 10th graders' academic careers. In 2017, Ms. McKennie officially launched M.O.N.E.Y. Matters at the University of Chicago Woodlawn campus, using a similar model but teaching financial literacy and changing the trajectory of students' professional careers and financial futures.
Denise Parham-Gantt
Director of Virtual Learning
About Denise
With over 15 years in education, Denise is a passionate educator and a firm believer that knowledge is power. Her academic background includes a Master's in Mathematics, an MS in Biomedical/Medical Engineering, and a BS in Mechanical Engineering.
In addition to working with ArCHI Acquisitions, she is also a Senior Product Manager supporting youth across multiple states and is a college Math Professor here in Chicago. She loves creating technology and content that helps others realize their potential and build their skills and confidence. In their free time, they can be found enjoying Crafts, Puzzles, and listening to Music.
Jonquil Boyd
Director of Public Affairs
About Jonquil
Jonquil Boyd affectionately known as "JQ" is currently an Information Technology Information System Governance Specialist (IT/IS GRC) at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois. An outspoken Master graduate of DePaul University, they were inspired to pursue a career in legal technology and Information Governance after her undergraduate and law school experiences, redirected her energy into legal technology.
Prior to working at BCBC IL, they were the Information Governance Consultant at Kirkland and Ellis LLP where they were responsible for creating the firm's first complete department guide and its workflows. In their free time, they can be found traveling, enjoying Horror Movies, and Volunteering.