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Our Staff

Ahmeed Turner
Say Yes Syracuse Executive Director

As a former counselor, violence prevention educator, career transition specialist, and therapist, Ahmeed has extensive experience in assessing needs and developing programming and response plans to meet those needs, along with his community outreach and background as an educator. Prior to Ahmeed’s current position with Say Yes, he also served as a Say Yes Program Coordinator, Site Director and Scholarship Director.  He is a graduate of Cheyney University in PA with a BA in Psychology and holds a Masters Degree in Marriage and Family Therapy from Syracuse University, and a Masters Degree in Nonprofit Administration from the Mendoza College at the University of Notre Dame.

Dana Lyons-Canty
Officer, Scholarships and Student Support

Dana’s role is focused on cultivating the college-ready mindset, providing a path towards post-secondary access, and supporting college completion. Born in Spain and raised in Germany, her family moved to Syracuse’s Hancock Air Force Base when she was a child. A proud product of the Syracuse City School District, Dana holds an MS in Criminal Justice Administration, a BA in Psychology from Syracuse University, and an AS in Criminal Justice from Onondaga Community College. Having deeply rooted family ties to the Syracuse community, the higher-education community and a background in Operation Management, Dana strives to give back to the Syracuse community through her work. She recently married a fellow “Orangeman,” with whom she was reunited after their initial introduction as college freshmen nearly 30 years ago.

Contact Us

Are you inspired by the goals and approach of Say Yes or have questions about scholarships? We invite you to subscribe to our mailing list, set an appointment, or reach out to and learn more about how you can get involved.

Ahmeed Turner, Executive Director

Dana Lyons-Canty, Officer, Scholarship and Student Support