Peace Staff

Bernice first started at Peace in 2008 as an MSW intern from the University of Michigan. Since then, she has held many different roles at Peace supporting youth and their families. She currently serves as the Director of Peace’s Wellness and Family Enrichment Programs and the Primary Social Work Intern Field Instructor.

“Peace allows me to practice social work the way I envision it: as a safe space for individuals and families to show up as their authentic selves and grow at their own pace, with a supportive community that encourages them while holding them accountable along the way.”

Bernice holds a B.A in Psychology & American Culture and a MSW from the University of Michigan. She is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker in the state of Michigan. Bernice is the parent of two children enrolled in Peace programs.

Sue joined Peace Neighborhood Center in 2020 to help plan and lead Peace’s 50th Anniversary Campaign. She brings over 18 years experience in Development and Communications to her current role. Prior to joining Peace, Sue provided strategic Development and Communications support at UMS, the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation, and Ozone House. She loves connecting with donors and believes deeply in the power of supporting local nonprofits that change people’s lives and strengthen local communities. She first learned about Peace’s impact through her previous work at the Community Foundation, and has supported for a number of years as a long-time donor.

Sue holds a BA in Economics from Trinity College in Connecticut, and an MBA from the University of Michigan. She and her husband Joe have raised three children in Ann Arbor, and love the sense of community and generosity that’s long been a part of Ann Arbor’s DNA.

DiOnna joined Peace in January 2024 as the Director’s Administrative Assistant. As an Ann Arbor native, she’s been familiar with Peace from a very young age and was eager to support the Executive Director and the Development Team with a number of projects and initiatives. As a student at Pioneer High School, DiOnna was one of the founding members of the Neutral Zone and served on the Ann Arbor Area Community Foundation’s Youth Council. Prior to joining Peace, she worked at Michigan Medicine for 14 years in the Otorhinolaryngology Department in different roles including Front-End Clinic Manager and Patient Relations Department Specialist.

“I look forward to watching Peace continue to grow, especially with the opening of the HUB Community Resource Center this year. It’s exciting to think about Peace expanding in order to help all of those who need us.”

DiOnna holds a BA in Communications from Michigan State University.

Anabel first joined Peace at the age of five and participated in the organization’s Summer Day Camp (SDC) programs annually until high school. In 2018 Anabel joined Peace as a full-time employee and currently holds the positions of Volunteer Coordinator and Maple Meadows Case Manager.

Anabel has a strong passion for early childhood development and macro-level social work to create a positive systemic change. With a background in clinical social work and a keen interest in relationship counseling, Anabel is dedicated to providing comprehensive support to individuals and communities. Their expertise in these areas enables them to effectively address various challenges and promote overall well-being.

Anabel earned her BSW from Eastern Michigan University and MSW from Columbia University, with a focus in Advanced Clinical Practice. Bilingual in Spanish and English, Anabel leverages their language skills as a member of the Language Access Task Force in Washtenaw County, ensuring that essential services are accessible to diverse communities.

“Working with Peace’s middle schoolers has been both challenging and very rewarding. Though it took a little while to develop relationships with the kids, when we went on trips we were able to get into smaller groups and really start to form those bonds. Since then it has been nice to watch those bonds develop and I look forward to all we have planned this coming spring and summer.”

Adriana holds a Bachelor’s degree from Michigan State University in Human Development and Family Studies and certifications for Youth Mental Health First Aid through National Council for Mental Wellbeing.

“I hope that Peace families feel supported and loved. That they know they are not alone and have a support system in place with Peace.”

Dwight holds an Associates Degree from Eastern Michigan University. Dwight enjoys producing and creating music, painting, golfing, and spending time with his family and dog.

Deshara holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from Eastern Michigan University with a focus in Mental Health and Substance Abuse.  She has worked in the Social Work field for over 15 years and has a significant background working with those who have experienced complex trauma and co-occurring disorders. Deshara started at Peace as a BSW intern and went on to work in different roles in the Substance Abuse field as a therapist before coming back to Peace to work at Baker Commons. Her motto is to assist clients with gaining the necessary tools to overcome any obstacles or barriers they may face, while striving to achieve their highest quality of life. Deshara’s goal is to provide services with compassion, assist in enhancing wellbeing, and help clients reach all desired goals.

Michael joined Peace in January 2025 to serve as a case manager at Peace’s satellite site at Baker Commons. With 15 years experience in the Social Work field, Michael brings significant experience working with those who have experienced complex trauma, co-occurring disorders and substance abuse.

“My job is to act as a vessel in connecting individuals with resources to successfully meet their needs.”

Michael earned his MSW and a graduate certificate in Gerontology from Eastern Michigan University.