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Executive Director​​

Seyram Selase B.S., I.C.P.S., C.P.M.

Seyram Selase serves as the Executive Director of the Agency for Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP), leading the charge in community health initiatives across Alabama and beyond through both statewide programs and a nationally awarded grant. His strategic guidance at ASAP merited the prestigious 2023 Calhoun County Nonprofit of the Year award, underscoring his skill in managing impactful grants and programs. A product of the Anniston City and Talladega County School systems, Seyram's roots in education underscore his dedication to community development. He is a graduate of Berea College and a Life Member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated.

Seyram is also a former elected official, having proudly served as Vice Mayor of the City of Anniston from 2012 to 2016, where he championed initiatives centered on equity, civic engagement, and youth empowerment. His commitment to public trust and safety continues today through his service as a member of the FBI’s Community Engagement Council with the Birmingham Field Office.

In addition to his role at ASAP, Seyram is the pioneering President of Cunningham Estates, where he integrates his real estate acumen with a passion for ecotherapy and environmental conservation. As a licensed real estate broker in Alabama, he is adept at assisting families in navigating property ownership, driven by a belief in the potent application of knowledge. Seyram Selase’s leadership is marked by a commitment to empowerment and lasting positive change in his community. He resides in Anniston, Alabama with his wife, Maiya Selase.

 

Prevention Specialist

Iesha Beard B.A., A.P.S.

Iesha Beard serves as the SPF-Rx 2.0 Coordinator and Prevention Specialist at the Agency for Substance Abuse Prevention. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in English with a concentration in legal studies from Alabama State University, earned in 2015. Currently, she is pursuing a Master’s in Psychology and Human Rights. Mrs. Beard is a proud member of the National Society of Leadership and Success and The Legacy Club. Outside of her professional endeavors, Iesha enjoys traveling with her husband and cherishes creating lasting memories. Her guiding life motto is: “Strive to Succeed, Never Give Up.” 

 

Finance Director​

Maiya Selase B.S., M.B.A.

Maiya Selase is the Finance Director at the Agency for Substance Abuse Prevention. Mrs. Selase oversees the organization’s financial operations to ensure fiscal responsibility and sustainability. 

A product of two Alabama Historically Black Colleges and Universities-HBCUs, Mrs. Selase obtained a Bachelor’s Degree from Miles College and a Master’s Degree from Talladega College. These distinguished institutions instilled in her a deep commitment to service, resilience and the pursuit of excellence. 

As a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Mrs. Selase exemplifies the spirit of civic engagement, leadership and unity. Her guiding principle, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”
 Outside of her professional role, Mrs. Selase enjoys exploring her unique passion for thrifting and decorating, combining creativity and resourcefulness to bring beauty and character into everyday spaces.

Mrs. Selase resides in Anniston, Alabama with her husband, Seyram Selase.

 

Reverend Eugene Jacobs, M.Div.

F.B.S.S. Ambassador

Eugene Jacobs is a native of Talladega, AL. He has served as pastor of the Union Springs Missionary Baptist Church in Talladega for nine years. He holds a Master of Divinity from the Rushing Springs School of Theology, where he now serves as an instructor in religious studies. He is married to Valerie, and to their union were born three children. One of Eugene's greatest passions is to learn and to teach others, bringing light into darkness.

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Deanna McLeroy B.A., Psy. M., C.P.S.

Prevention Specialist

Deanna serves as a Prevention Specialist at ASAP. She has previous experience in the mental health field and is passionate about serving others. She graduated summa cum laude with a Bachelor in the Art of Psychology from Talladega College and received her Master of Psychology degree from Troy University. Outside of career and academics, Deanna is a mother and a wife and enjoys spending time with her family.

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​Prevention Specialist​

Quiera Lane B.S., A.P.S.

Quiera Lane is a prevention specialist at the Agency for Substance Abuse Prevention. She has a strong background in youth empowerment, health education, and community engagement. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Health and Human Performance with a concentration in Public Health from Austin Peay State University.

Quiera is an proud member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., where she continues her dedication to service and leadership. Outside of her professional pursuits, she enjoys spending time with her son, attending church, traveling, and bonding with family and friends. She is guided by the scripture Philippians 4:13 – “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

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Chandy Gordon B.S.W, A.P.S.

Prevention Specialist

Chandy Gordon is Prevention Specialist at the Agency for Substance Abuse Prevention. She graduated from Jacksonville State University with a bachelor’s degree in Social Work. She enjoys being a mother to her little boy and advocating/helping her community. One of her favorite quotes is “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.”— Helen Keller

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Laniyah Smith B.S., M.B.A.

Prevention Specialist

Laniyah Smith serves as a Prevention Specialist at the Agency for Substance Abuse Prevention. She graduated from the University of North Alabama with a Bachelor’s in Criminal Justice, minoring in Legal Studies. While at UNA, she was active in several organizations, such as the Presidential Mentors Academy and Student Forum. She is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. When asked about her future goals, she constantly states that she hopes to fulfill her purpose. In her free time, she loves to shop, travel, and spend time with loved ones. Her favorite quote is “Be the change you wish to see” by Mahatma Gandhi.

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Christopher Abernathy B.S.

Prevention Specialist

I am Christopher Abernathy and I am a recent graduate from Jacksonville State University in nearby Jacksonville, AL, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. I am originally from Jacksonville and now reside in Golden Springs. I am a Fall 2016 initiate of the Xi Xi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., seated at Jacksonville State, where I served as secretary for three years. I am a proud father of a very bright little boy, and my interests include but are not limited to writing, investing, and studying/betterment of social interactions.

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Tawana Young B.S.

FBSS Recruiter

Tawana Young serves as the Faith-Based Support Specialist Recruiter at the Agency

for Substance Abuse Prevention (ASAP). In this role, she works to build strong
partnerships with faith communities to support substance abuse prevention and
recovery efforts. With a passion for holistic care and community empowerment, Tawana
is dedicated to connecting individuals and organizations with the resources they need to
make a lasting impact. Tawana has over 28 years of experience in Mental Health
Counseling, Addiction Counseling, Social Services, and Ministry and a heart for service
rooted in faith. She is a Youth Leader at the New Life Christian Praise and Worship
Center in Huntsville, AL. Tawana is a native of Abbeville, Alabama and a retired Combat
Veteran of the United States Army after donning the Nation’s cloth for almost 25 years.
She holds a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Education in Human Services from
Wayland Baptist University. Tawana is a certified Faith-Based Support Specialist and is
also certified with the state of Alabama Administrative Office of Courts as a Court
Referral Education Program Instructor.

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