_edited_.jpg)
Crystal "CRYS" staffney
meet our founder & ceo
Crys Staffney is a native of Detroit, Michigan, and the Founder & CEO of From Keisha’s Heart to Yours. Crys established the not-for-profit organization this year in loving memory of her sister Keisha Staffney.
Before losing Keisha on May 2, 2020, Crys dedicated her life to being her sister’s support and health advocate through every trial, tribulation, and threat to her life. During such an intense journey, Crys developed strong relationships with Keisha’s doctors, and an equally strong alliance to heart and
cardiovascular disease itself. She gained a deep understanding that fueled an intense desire to alleviate, and if possible, prevent the unnecessary suffering of heart and cardiovascular disease patients.
Crys' career currently spans almost 20 years, in the focus fields of communications, public relations, marketing, and strategic planning. She completed her undergraduate and graduate degrees at Wayne State University, earning a BA in Media Arts & Studies and a MA in Public Relations & Organizational Communications. Notable roles at the commencement of her career include Promotions Director, Assistant Marketing Director, Marketing Consultant, and Communications Consultant.
Crys' work in the not-for-profit sector began in 2012. Her most recent roles include Programs Director, Manager of Strategic Partnerships, Director of Programs & Community Affairs, and Development Director. Crys is proud of her accomplishments. A career highlight was executing and directing the progress of key initiatives, in the role of Operations Officer with ARISE Detroit! A memorable initiative: ‘Neighborhoods Day’ had the key goal of driving organizational success and achievement through the increase of revenue and consistent cost reduction. Another highlight was working with Teen HYPE. Crys crafted successful call-to-action content that encouraged stakeholders to continue donating, while simultaneously encouraging new donors to support Teen HYPE’s Youth Leaders. Crys played a pivotal role, in conjunction with Teen HYPE leadership staff, in developing community messaging that resulted in the commission of external resources, grant funding, and new program partnerships for the organization. The funding allowed the next generation of leaders to continue using the Arts to address social injustice issues that young people faced that significantly impacted their day to day lives.
Crys' wealth of industry knowledge and experience sets her apart from other professionals and aptly places her in the perfect position to fulfill her current role as CEO of From Keisha’s Heart to Yours.
Crys envisions a world where heart and cardiovascular disease patients can easily access healthy meals for themselves and their family. Her vision includes the provision of accompanying programs that provide vital support to ensure the strengthening of their lives and extension of their life expectancy. Crys vision is complete with the forward-thinking goal of creating scholarships for future vascular & cardiac surgeons, cardiologists, and cardiac nurses.
From Keisha’s Heart to Yours is the realization of Crys' vision, and her hearts mission to continue Keisha’s fight, and help people with heart and cardiovascular disease to live long, happy, and fulfilling lives!
Meet our
board of directors
tiffany rolle
Board Chairwoman
Assistant Head Coach, Nike Employee Store
Tiffany Rolle brings a dynamic blend of leadership, empathy, and strategic thinking to From Keisha's Heart to Yours. Currently flourishing as the Assistant Head Coach at Nike Company Store, Tiffany has been an integral part of their team since 2020. Her journey, rich in diversity and commitment, began in the vital field of child welfare, where she served as a Child Protective Services Investigator for the State of Michigan. With a deep-seated dedication to social welfare, her career path has also seen her in roles such as Probation Officer and Program Coordinator of Supervised Visitations/Child Exchange. Tiffany's academic achievements, a Master’s in Management and Leadership coupled with a Bachelor’s in Psychology, lay the foundation for her profound understanding of team dynamics and organizational leadership. A native of Detroit, Tiffany's commitment to her community is unwavering. Her involvement in From Keisha's Heart to Yours is a testament to her lifelong dedication to nurturing and empowering the community that raised her.
Tamica davis
Board Treasurer
Denials Specialist, Trinity Health
Tamica Davis, a multifaceted professional with a rich tapestry of experiences, currently excels as a Denials Specialist at Trinity Health. Since 2019, her expertise has significantly contributed to the organization. Tamica's career journey is characterized by a transformative shift from beauty to healthcare, starting as a licensed Cosmetologist in 2009 and later as a Cosmetologist Instructor in 2012. Her drive to inspire and uplift others is evident in her career and community engagement. Tamica’s dedication to heart and cardiovascular health is deeply personal, stemming from her connection to Keisha. Her resolve to assist her community in achieving their utmost potential, particularly in health and wellness, makes her an invaluable asset to From Keisha's Heart to Yours.
shawna kay johnson
Board Secretary
Community Member
Shawna Kay Johnson, a life-long resident of Detroit, embodies the spirit of community and creative energy. Her connection to Keisha and her heart-felt dedication to heart and cardiovascular health inspired her to join the Board of Directors, marking a pivotal step in her journey of community service. Shawna Kay's diverse background ranges from customer service to the arts, notably refining her skills as a fashion designer. Her creative vision and dedication to service are invaluable assets to the board. Shawna Kay's enthusiasm for the growth and potential of From Keisha's Heart to Yours is infectious, and her commitment to being an integral part of its journey reflects her deep-seated dedication to the betterment of her community and the health causes close to her heart.
vera walker
Board Member
Lead Certified Medical Assistant, Ascension – Deighton Family Practice
Vera Walker, a seasoned and compassionate healthcare professional, currently serves as a Certified Lead Medical Assistant at Ascension Deighton Family Practice. With over a decade in the medical field, Vera's experience is extensive and profound. Her commitment to continual learning is demonstrated by her pursuit of an Associate of Science in Nursing, complementing her Basic Life Support (BLS) certification. Vera's dedication to heart and cardiovascular health is not only professional but deeply personal. Her aspiration to advocate for and support her community in these areas emanates from a heartfelt connection to the cause. Vera's blend of professional expertise and personal commitment positions her as a cornerstone in the pursuit of From Keisha's Heart to Yours' mission.