Our Board of Trustees (the “Board”) is a governing board comprised of at least three members but no more five members who are responsible for ensuring Unbroken Dreams pursues its mission, stays financially sound, and meets its legal obligations. The Board manages staff volunteers that handle day-to-day operations.
The Chairman of the Board calls and runs Board meetings and makes appointments based on the organization’s bylaws. The Treasurer oversees the financial responsibilities of the organization, and the Secretary keeps the organization’s historical records and takes minutes of its official meetings. Other board members participate in board meetings, vote on official matters, and serve on committees.
Sheleaha “Leaha” Egly
Executive Director & Chairman
Leaha serves as the Executive Director of Unbroken Dreams and President of the Board of Trustees. With extensive experience in mental health and homeless outreach, Leaha is a dedicated advocate for individuals seeking a fresh start.
Her resourcefulness and problem-solving skills make her a strong leader, tackling challenges with determination and compassion. Leaha’s personal connection to the judicial system—through a loved one who is incarcerated—fuels her passion for helping individuals transition successfully from incarceration to the community.
Committed to empowering those in need, she works tirelessly to provide critical resources, peer support, and guidance, ensuring that individuals have the tools to reintegrate and build stable, fulfilling lives. Leaha’s leadership is defined by her deep commitment to making a meaningful impact in the lives of marginalized populations, and she remains steadfast in her mission to create opportunities for change and growth.
Daphne Thomas
Vice President & Treasurer
Daphne serves as Vice President and Treasurer of the Board of Trustees at Unbroken Dreams. She holds a B.A. in psychology from The Pennsylvania State University and an M.B.A. from California State University. Her career has been deeply rooted in service to vulnerable populations, including years spent in call center roles assisting the homeless and those in crisis. Additionally, she gained valuable experience as a medical assistant in a psychiatric hospital, specializing in care for children and adolescents.
Daphne has also served her community as a police officer and earned her license as a Certified Public Accountant, working in financial reporting and tax areas. As a real estate agent, Daphne has built a vast network of personal and professional connections with community leaders throughout Hillsborough County. This network is instrumental in raising awareness for Unbroken Dreams and its mission within the community.
Daphne’s passion for addressing discrimination and her natural ability to inspire effective communication, teamwork, and community pride make her an exceptional leader. She is a dedicated problem solver who values inclusivity, ensuring that all team members collaborate toward shared goals. Regardless of the challenges faced by those Unbroken Dreams serves, Daphne approaches each individual with respect, empathy, and care. She has cultivated an environment within Unbroken Dreams that promotes security, trust, support, encouragement, connection, and a shared vision for a brighter future.
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LovieDee Burries
Secretary
LovieDee serves as the Secretary of the Board of Trustees at Unbroken Dreams. She holds a Master’s degree in Applied Behavioral Psychology and a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work and Education Studies. For the past six years, she has been a dedicated Behavioral Teacher at CES Academy, bringing expertise and commitment to her students.
With a strong foundation in social work, LovieDee spent eight years in Child Welfare Services and six years teaching parenting classes, helping families navigate challenges and build stronger relationships. Her passion for community service extends beyond the classroom—she has dedicated over a decade to nonprofit organizations, providing food, support, and essential care to the homeless.
In addition to her work in education and advocacy, LovieDee is an author currently writing her second book, which focuses on supporting individuals with mental illness through her personal experiences. Her unwavering dedication to helping others continues to inspire and create lasting change.