Our Team
Dedicated experts with a proven record of success.
Founded in 2012 by three lifelong educators and social service leaders, Clarence Dancer Jr., Marcus Harden and Willie Seals III. ACE was created to fill the gap in the traditional academic and social/emotional educational landscape, specifically African American, African Diaspora, Latino, Pacific Islander and Native American males.
Our team & partners strengthen our ability to serve and help our community. Interested in joining our team or partnering with ACE Academy? Contact Us.
The Founders
(L-R) Marcus Harden, Clarene Dancer, Willie Seals
Willie Seals III
Sr. Director of Programs
Willie has served in social services for 15 years, has a Masters in Public Administration from Seattle University:formerly as Project Director for Seattle Public Schools; Career & College Readiness Manager for Puget Sound Educational Service District (PSESD).
Marcus Harden
Co-Founder
Marcus has served in school based and social services for 15 years, has a Masters in Education, Principal and Program Manager Certification from the University of Washington. Marcus has previously served as Executive Director of The Accounting Career Awareness Program (ACAP); Race to the Top Grant Program Manager for Rainier Beach High school; Director of Community Engagement for the Washington State Charter School Association, and as Principal Intern at Summit Sierra High school & Southshore K-8.
Clarence Dancer Jr.
Executive Director
Clarence has served in social services for 15 years, has a Masters in Education from the University of Washington. Clarence previously served as Executive Director of Seattle Mathematics, Engineering, Science Achievement (MESA); STEM Program Supervisor for Office of Superintendent and Public Instruction (OSPI), and Postsecondary Policy Advisor for the City of Seattle’s Department of Education and Early Learning.
Our Family
Team Members
Janelle Tellez - Operations Manager
Chris Rossman - Program Manager
Jeremi D. Oliver - Lead Specialist
Kim Thomas - Admin Specialist/ Parent Coordinator
Chelsea Oguike - Black Educator Coordinator
Michael Williams - FAME Coordinator
Uhuru Baynes - High School Coordinator
Leila Adams - Office Manager
Partners
City of Seattle Department of Education and Early Learning
City of Seattle Department of Human Services
Seattle Public Schools
Schools Out Washington
Lake Washington High School
Lululemon
Jerk Shack
Vigorground Performance & Fitness