About Us

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The CHEM Innovation Academy will establish a standard of excellence in education through our instructional methodologies and paradigms while preparing students to be 21st century innovators that make a global impact.  

The mission of the CHEM Innovation Academy is to cultivate the next generation of computer scientists, health professionals, entrepreneurs, and career experts aligned with mathematics by providing innovative and engaging learning experiences for our students. Through experiential and project-based learning approaches, we will prepare our students to thrive in an ever-evolving society and economy where they will serve as innovators and leaders in our global society. 

Dr. Simone Brookins Jenkins is the co-founder and president of the Board of Directors for the CHEM Innovation Academy.  Dr. Jenkins began her career as a middle school teacher in 2005, and it was during this time that she discovered her passion for education. She then became a high school college and career counselor, then transitioned to higher education where she first served as an academic adviser, and now the Dean of Associate in Science Degree Programs at Hillsborough Community College. Dr. Jenkins holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Management Information Systems, a Master's Degree in Career & Technical Education, and  Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction with an emphasis in Career & Workforce Education, all from the University of South Florida.

Keno Jenkins is the co-founder and vice president of the Board of Directors for the CHEM Innovation Academy.  Keno was born and raised in St. Petersburg, FL. and later moved to Tampa as a young adult. Keno has served in the security industry for over 20 years and he regularly volunteers in the community where he  coordinates outreach events that support community needs. Keno earned his certification in entrepreneurship from Hillsborough Community College and plans to scale is company Klinch Mode, LLC.  Keno and his wife, Simone co-founded the CHEM Innovation Academy with the goal of providing students with high quality and innovative education in the areas of computer science, health sciences, entrepreneurship, and mathematics. 

Ora Tanner's biographical information is coming very soon. 

Leerone Benjamin the Development Committee Chair for the CHEM Innovation Academy.  He is a Workforce Development Project Manager who has over 15 years experience of creating business ventures for entrepreneurs, for-profit companies and nonprofit organizations. Leerone has extensive experience in business development as well as business and strategic planning. Moreover, Leerone has years of experience in nonprofit fund development to help nonprofit organizations become self-sustaining in the event one of their funding sources is eliminated. He has a proven track record of working collaboratively with local businesses, community leaders, and government officials in developing creative solutions to solve societal problems and economic challenges, health crisis, and fiscal management in a challenged economy.  Leerone obtained his bachelor's degree in Business Administration from Florida State University's College of Business.