Lorena Grizzle is a 14-year teacher with Pinellas County Schools. She graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in Fine Arts, and had a career in art, banking and sales before returning to teaching. She earned a Masters degree in Exceptional Student Education in 2011 and a Master’s in Reading Education in 2012 from USF St. Petersburg. Hobbies include art, cartooning and swimming. She lives with her son in Largo, FL.

Patrick is the President of Mazza Insurance & Financial Services. He brings over 22 years of experience in insurance and risk management to the board. Patrick is a husband, a father, and a long time resident of Florida. He is invested in making sure that Florida youth have access to quality educational programs. He happily volunteers his time to ensure every child has the opportunity to succeed.

Howard is a proven problem solver with extensive experience in both the public and private sectors. He has worked as an engineer, a management consultant in planning, an investment banker, and a compliance officer. Although retired, he continues to volunteer as a Score Mentor in Pinellas County and his background in both fundraising and finance make him a valued addition to the team. He brings an MIT education and over 55 years of practical experience to the board.

Tina represents developers and small and medium-sized businesses as outside corporate and real estate counsel. She also represents landlords and tenants in commercial lease transactions and provide assistance to clients with land acquisition and disposition, due diligence, environmental permitting, and negotiation of land use approvals, master development agreements, interlocal agreements and public/private partnership agreements. Tina is dedicated to her community as active board member and supporter.

David is a visionary entrepreneur and a driving force behind BLI Learning Labs’ marketin strategy. With his extensive background in marketing and digital communications, he is dedicated to helping children in our community unlock their full potential. As a graduate of the University of Kentucky, David brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the board. When he’s not busy shaping the future of education, David enjoys snowboarding, surfung, and spending quality time with his son Owen and their two adorable bulldogs. Join us as we empower every child to succeed with David’s leadership and passion.

Tony is a strategically minded Finance Operations executive with a background in tech and tech-enabled enterprises. He has a proven ability to define strategies, build teams, implement systems and processes, and drive data capability insights. With experience working with current and potential investors, management teams, boards of directors, auditors, and other financial service providers, Tony brings a firm understanding of financial planning to the executive advisory board. Join us as we leverage Tony’s expertise to shape the future of education and provide every child with the advantage they need to succeed.

Ms. Veal is a third-generation educator, reading specialist, former counselor, and founding director of BLI Learning Labs. She obtained her Ed.S from Georgia State University and has twenty-five years of experience in healthcare and education. She is responsible for creating dynamic academic programs, developing relevant, creative, engaging educational products, and strategically collaborating with a variety of stakeholders to ensure that all children have access to a high-quality, inspiring education. In her role as Head of School for BLI Institute, she is highly motivated to empower every child and give them the advantage they need to succeed. 

Ms. Olsen is a passionate and experienced middle school mathematics teacher dedicated to inspiring young minds. With a Bachelor’s degree from the University of South Florida and a Florida teaching certificate, she brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the classroom. Ms. Olsen specializes in delivering customized lessons to children one-on-one and in small groups, ensuring personalized learning experiences. Her commitment to nonprofit management, social services, and teaching makes her a valued member of the BLI team.