Meet The Team

Dr. Michelle Boone-Thornton is the Associate Chair and Assistant Professor of the Human Services Department at Saint Leo University. This is her second term on the Natasha House board and currently serves as the Board Vice Chair and Chair of the Personnel Committee. 

Dr. Karen Brown served 9 1/2 years in the United States Air Force and experiencing homelessness with her three young sons, Dr. Brown returned to college (CNU) to pursue a degree in teaching while becoming a member of the Advisory Committee planning for NATASHA House Inc (NHI). Dr. Brown earned her Bachelors in English and a Dual Doctorates in Christian Education & Counseling. Dr. Brown is the first NHI Program graduate and has been the executive director since 2010

Miriam Gourdine has volunteered with the NATASHA House since early 2021 and has climbed through positions with the organization such as CHAMPS Coordinator, Program Coordinator and now COO with the NATASHA House. She also currently works as a Human Services Program Specialist and holds a degree in Human Services from Old Dominion University.  Ms. Gourdine has several years’ experience in volunteer work ranging from local foodbanks, Salvation Army, homeless shelters, and local community organizations. Giving back to the community is very important to Ms. Gourdine and she strives to impart empowerment to those in need. She enjoys listening to music, spending quality time with her family and friends, and diy projects.

Serves on the Natasha House, Inc. Board of Directors since June 2019 and has served as Board Chair since April 2020.  In her professional role, Shukita serves as Associate General Counsel for Riverside Health System and is a Business Law adjunct instructor at Hampton University.  A native of Newport News, VA, she enjoys spending time with her family and binge-watching her favorite television shows.

Mental Health, Substance abuse, Case management, Group facilitation, Assessments, Human Services.