Meet The Director

LaTesha Hines Stuckey is the Founder and Executive Director of The Roots Foundation Inc, a community driven, non-profit organization dedicated to assisting Gary, Indiana youth through scholarships, college preparatory workshops, dual credit program assistance and mentorship. Born and raised in Gary, Indiana, LaTesha attended elementary, middle and high school in the area and participated in community programs throughout the city.  

LaTesha was brought up in a faith based household where education was very important and taught to be powerful; after graduating from high school, LaTesha obtained her Bachelor's degree in Human resource management from Purdue University Northwest in, Hammond Indiana and completed her Masters of Education from Liberty University in Lynchburg Virginia. In addition to operating The Roots Foundation, she is a 5th grade educator at a local charter school in Gary Indiana, active participant in multiple community service and event projects, and president of the Thea Bowman Alumni association. 

During her collegiate career she accessed invaluable experiences and knowledge and she wants to see more of Gary youth exposed to the same opportunity. There is a great population of crime, social and economic issues in many Gary Indiana neighborhoods. With her own personal encounter with life’s unfortunate circumstances and understanding the importance of education it is her desire to take part and strive for a change. As a scholarship recipient herself she wants to give the same chance that was provided to her during her high school and collegiate years.

After years of contemplation and having the goal of launching a non-profit organization benefiting her community, The Roots Foundation was founded in 2020. In September of 2020, the organization became a fully formed 501(C)(3) with great support from her community, family and friends