Administration
Elvira Varyvoda
Founder of Varyvoda Christian Academy | World Prep Academy
Elvira Varyvoda is a beacon of faith, resilience, and global vision. Born in Ukraine, she migrated to the United States as an adolescent, carrying with her a deep-rooted commitment to community and a passion for creating opportunities for others. In her new home, she not only raised a family but also became a trailblazer, founding several successful businesses and dedicating herself to serving those around her.
When conflict ravaged her homeland, Elvira’s heart remained with the children and families affected. Inspired by her faith and guided by a profound sense of purpose, she founded Vera Helps Ukraine Schools, a nonprofit initiative focused on rebuilding hope through education. From this powerful mission grew the Varyvoda Christian Academy, a transformative sanctuary where local and global students find a foundation of education, faith, and community.
Varyvoda Christian Academy is more than a school—it is a safe haven where at-risk youth are empowered to overcome challenges and realize their God-given potential. With a vision that transcends borders, the academy nurtures young minds, instilling the values of compassion, resilience, and leadership.
Elvira’s work is a testament to the belief that education, rooted in faith and community, can illuminate even the darkest paths. Her unwavering dedication to building bridges of hope and opportunity has made her a global advocate for children and a champion of their future.
Michelange Bertrand
Principal of Varyvoda Christian Academy | World Prep Academy
Michelange Bertrand began his educational career at Turner Job Corps, in Albany Georgia in 1999 as a math teacher. He spent two years teaching before accepting a position with Sprint PCS as a trainer. Four years later, he transitioned back into the classroom teaching math and a myriad of other subjects. In 2011, Mr. Bertrand accepted his first principal position as he continues to diligently making an impact in the lives of young people.
His educational experiences have afforded him the opportunity to collaborate with a diverse group of people to meet the common goal of increasing student achievement and well-being. His educational philosophy is based on his uncompromising belief that all students can learn, given a positive learning environment, strong and knowledgeable leadership, a committed and focused educational team, an encouraging community, and a supportive family.
Mr. Bertrand has received a bachelor’s degree in Accounting from Albany State University in 1999. He also received a bachelor’s degree in Business Management from University of Phoenix in 2009. After several years of teaching, he pursued his master’s degree in Educational Leadership & Supervision.
Mr. Bertrand served in various leadership roles including: Student Advocate/Parent Liaison for multilingual Department, Instructional Support and Curriculum Specialist. Mr. Bertrand’s strong leadership capabilities have made an impact on students’ academic learning. He firmly believes in the importance of finding the genius in every child by creating strong relationships with them, helping them develop social-emotional skills and setting high expectations to ensure each scholar reaches his/her maximum academic potential.
Garth Howard
Board of Directors World Prep Academy
Garth Howard is a visionary leader in higher education and community development, distinguished by his dedication to both academic and athletic excellence. With extensive experience in student services and leadership, he has held key roles such as Associate Vice Chancellor of Student Services, Vice President of Student Development, Dean of Student Development, and Director of Student Engagement and Leadership. His career is marked by a commitment to shaping transformative student programs, fostering mentorship, and advancing equity. Beyond traditional academia, Garth has led impactful community initiatives that empower individuals to maximize their potential. His leadership across diverse environments underscores the values of education, teamwork, and lifelong learning.
Garth earned his MBA from Baker College in Auburn Hills, Michigan, and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from St. Mary’s College in Orchard Lake, Michigan. As a four-year athletic scholar, he achieved both academic and athletic All-American honors, exemplifying his dedication to excellence in both fields. Known for his dynamic and student-centered approach, he remains passionate about "super serving students" and shaping holistic educational experiences. He firmly believes that education is a collective effort, where every contributor plays a vital role in a student’s personal, academic, and athletic journey.
Will Vance
Coach
Will Vance began his playing career at Highland Park Community College before transferring to Sam Houston State University. A respected basketball trainer and player development coach since 2001, he has worked with top college and NBA players nationwide.
Vance brings a wealth of coaching experience at every level—from youth and AAU (where he won a national championship) to high school and professional ranks. At Southfield Christian, he helped lead the team to five state titles in eight years, including a championship in his first season.
In 2016, he joined China’s CBA league as an assistant coach with the Shanxi Loongs, later returning to the U.S. to coach at Mississippi Valley State University under former NBA coach Lindsey Hunter.
Will also served as Athletic Director at Rosedale Park Baptist Church in Detroit and traveled globally with Athletes in Action as a player and speaker. He has run camps and clinics alongside NBA legends like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Chris Webber.
TETIANA PATLUKH
Legal Professional • Community Volunteer • Humanitarian Advocate
I am Tetiana Patlukh, originally from Ukraine, and I hold a law degree from Zaporizhzhia Law University. My
professional experience is rooted in agricultural business law and civil law, where I developed a strong
foundation in legal analysis, organizational responsibility, and practical problem-solving. Over time, I have
learned to approach each responsibility with professionalism, integrity, and a deep respect for the people
and communities I serve.
Throughout my life, I have also remained committed to volunteerism and humanitarian service. I have
supported Ukrainian communities, contributed to fundraising efforts for the Ukrainian army, assisted
orphanages in Ukraine, and participated in preparing meals for those in need. These experiences have
shaped my values and strengthened my belief that meaningful service is one of the most important ways
to contribute to society.
After relocating to the United States, I continued my dedication to supporting others and staying connected
to the Ukrainian community. I currently work at a restaurant that not only serves guests, but also partners
with churches and helps individuals seeking volunteer assistance. This role has allowed me to combine my
legal and organizational skills with ongoing community outreach and service.
I believe that my background in law, my experience in community engagement, and my long-standing
commitment to helping others would allow me to contribute thoughtfully and effectively to an Advisory
Board. I value collaboration, accountability, and mission-driven work, and I would be honored to support
initiatives that strengthen communities and create lasting positive impact.
MYKOLA BOHDANOVYCH HAVRYLYUK
Business Professional • Community Leader • Ukrainian Cultural Advocate
Mykola Bohdanovych Havrylyuk was born on December 4, 1982, in the Ivano-Frankivsk region of Ukraine.
He completed his secondary education and went on to earn degrees from the Kolomyia College of
Economics and Law and the Ivano-Frankivsk Galician Academy, specializing in Business and Marketing.
Mr. Havrylyuk began his professional career in the field of commerce, serving as a Chief Manager and
Regional Coordinator in the Ivano-Frankivsk region. Later, while living in Italy, he spent two years working
as an Assistant Engineer in the construction of complex wooden structures.
After immigrating to the United States, he continued his education at Cuyahoga Community College in Ohio.
He also served as a Property Manager for the Ukrainian Cathedral in Parma, Ohio, where he played an
important role in supporting the local Ukrainian community.
Upon relocating to Florida, Mr. Havrylyuk earned certifications in Information Technology. He currently
works at Universal Orlando Resort as a VIP Events Manager and Coordinator, where he oversees and
coordinates high-profile events and delivers exceptional guest experiences.
Beyond his professional career, Mr. Havrylyuk is deeply committed to community service and cultural
leadership. He is a co-founder and member of the organizing committee of the Ukrainian Festival «Vatra»,
one of the largest Ukrainian cultural events in Central Florida. He is also the founder and board member of
the non-profit organization Ukrainian Project, dedicated to supporting and uniting the Ukrainian community.
An active volunteer and community advocate, Mr. Havrylyuk has devoted significant efforts to assisting
Ukrainian refugees and supporting humanitarian initiatives for Ukraine. His mission is to preserve, promote,
and celebrate Ukrainian language, culture, traditions, and heritage while strengthening the Ukrainian
diaspora and building meaningful connections within the broader community.Through his professional accomplishments, community leadership, and dedication to service, Mykola
Havrylyuk continues to make a lasting impact both in the United States and within the global Ukrainian
community.
OLENA STONE
Business Owner • Consultant • Nonprofit Leader
Olena Stone is a business owner, consultant, and nonprofit leader dedicated to helping organizations grow
and create meaningful impact. Since 2017, she has worked with businesses and nonprofits to develop
data-driven marketing strategies, strengthen operations, and achieve sustainable growth through strategic
planning, digital marketing, project management, and organizational development.
Olena earned her MBA from Rollins College and was inducted into Beta Gamma Sigma, the international
business honor society recognizing academic excellence and leadership potential. Her professional
approach combines analytical thinking, practical execution, and a strong focus on measurable results.
In addition to her consulting work, Olena serves as a Board Member of Revived Soldiers Ukraine, where
she supports strategic partnerships, fundraising efforts, and humanitarian initiatives that provide critical
medical care and rehabilitation services to wounded Ukrainian servicemembers. She is also deeply
committed to programs that support Ukrainian children affected by war, helping connect them with
opportunities for healing, education, mentorship, and personal growth.
Originally from Ukraine and now based in Florida, Olena is passionate about bringing together businesses,
community leaders, donors, and nonprofit organizations to create lasting positive change. She believes
every child deserves hope, opportunity, and the support needed to build a brighter future, and she
continues to champion initiatives that empower vulnerable children and strengthen communities.
DR. OLENA DANYLYUK
Technology Commercialization Executive • Community Leader • Ukrainian-American Advocate
Dr. Olena Danylyuk is a technology commercialization executive, community leader, and advocate for
education, innovation, and humanitarian initiatives. She currently serves as a Licensing Officer at Henry Ford
Innovations, the innovation and commercialization division of Henry Ford Health, where she manages
intellectual property, technology transfer, licensing, and industry partnerships for biomedical, digital health, and
medical device innovations.
Dr. Danylyuk brings more than two decades of experience spanning biomedical research, higher education,
research administration, intellectual property management, and technology commercialization. Her professional
career includes positions at the Institute of Cell Biology in Lviv, Ukraine; the Maria Sk■odowska-Curie National
Research Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, Poland; Wayne State University; Lawrence Technological
University; and Henry Ford Health. She earned a Ph.D. in Medical Biology from the Maria Sk■odowska-Curie
Institute of Oncology in Warsaw, as well as Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Biochemistry and a Bachelor of
Science in Accounting from Ivan Franko National University of Lviv.
A dedicated leader within the Ukrainian-American community, Dr. Danylyuk has been actively involved with the
Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (UNWLA) since 2010. Through her service with
UNWLA-Michigan-at-Large and numerous community organizations, she has led fundraising initiatives,
educational programs, humanitarian relief efforts, cultural events, and advocacy campaigns supporting Ukraine
and the Ukrainian-American community. Her work has included coordinating humanitarian assistance, hosting
prominent Ukrainian civic and cultural leaders, supporting Ukrainian schools, and advancing public awareness
of Ukraine’s history, culture, and contemporary challenges.
Dr. Danylyuk currently serves as President of the Ukrainian American Civic Committee of Metropolitan Detroit
(UACC) and has held numerous leadership roles in nonprofit and community organizations. She served for 17
years on the Board of Directors of the Ukrainian Selfreliance Michigan Federal Credit Union (USMFCU),including service as Vice Chair and Chair. She also serves on the Board of the Ukrainian American Credit
Union Association (UACUA). Her community involvement extends to organizations including the Shevchenko
Scientific Society, the Ukrainian Catholic Education Foundation, the U.S. Committee for Ukrainian
Holodomor-Genocide Awareness, the Ukrainian American Archives & Museum of Detroit, the Ukrainian
Cultural Center, and other educational and civic institutions.
Among her many community initiatives, Dr. Danylyuk annually coordinates efforts to secure State of Michigan
proclamations recognizing Ukrainian Independence Day and Holodomor Genocide Remembrance Month and
has organized Ukrainian Heritage Night events with Detroit Pistons to support Ukrainian educational programs
in Michigan.
Her leadership, professional achievements, and service have been recognized through numerous honors,
including the Ukrainian of the Year Award presented by the Ukrainian Graduates of Detroit and Windsor, the
International Professional Women's Award from the International Institute of Metropolitan Detroit, and the
Young Women Achievers Award from the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America.
Dr. Danylyuk is passionate about advancing education, leadership development, innovation, and community
engagement. She remains committed to supporting initiatives that empower future generations, strengthen
communities, and create opportunities for meaningful social impact.