Dr. Marcus Whitehurst

Team PIER Friend Volunteer  

Dr. Marcus Whitehurst brings nearly 30 years of experience in higher education, diversity, and community engagement. As former Vice Provost for Educational Equity at Penn State University, he led major efforts to build inclusive, empowering environments and expand resources for underserved communities.

He also served as Assistant Vice Provost and Director of the Multicultural Resource Center, and taught courses in African American Studies and Education. Now at the University of Maryland, Dr. Whitehurst serves as Vice President and Chief Community Engagement and Opportunity Officer, continuing his lifelong mission to create access, equity, and opportunity.

His leadership and passion for service align deeply with The PIER Foundation’s mission to Provide, Inspire, Educate, and Repeat.

WE ARE...

Team PIER Friend Volunteer

Terrell Smith, a proud Duke University alumnus and former All-ACC safety, brings his passion for student empowerment and strategic innovation to The PIER Foundation. As Assistant Director of Athletics for NIL Strategy at Duke, Terrell leads education and access initiatives that equip student-athletes with the tools, knowledge, and resources to thrive in the evolving Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) space.

A champion for equity and opportunity, Terrell collaborates with coaches, athletes, and staff to create pathways for personal and professional growth—ensuring that young people are supported both on and off the field. His leadership and commitment to holistic development reflect the core mission of The PIER Foundation: to Provide, Inspire, Educate, and Repeat.

Team PIER Mentor  

 Takiyah Nastasi brings strong administrative, customer service, and operational support experience to The PIER Foundation. A Penn State graduate with a Bachelor of Science, Takiyah has served in administrative roles with the  Penn State Football team.  Her close relationship with Penn State Football, organizational skills, and commitment to customer care help support the foundation’s operational needs as it grows its programs and impact. Takiyah’s passion for service and excellence aligns directly with The PIER Foundation’s mission to empower youth and families to build lasting legacies. 

WE ARE...

Team PIER Mentor  

Maui Gentica brings specialized experience in therapeutic recreation, disability awareness, and client-centered care to The PIER Foundation. As an Activities Specialist at Universal Institute of Rehabilitation, Maui designs and facilitates therapeutic recreation sessions for individuals with traumatic brain injuries, promoting cognitive, social, and physical well-being. Her background also includes medical assistant work, interdisciplinary care collaboration, and strong community engagement.

Currently pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in Recreational Therapy at Kean University, Maui combines hands-on clinical experience with a passion for adaptive programming, emotional support, and holistic wellness. Her expertise in creating inclusive recreational experiences aligns directly with The PIER Foundation’s mission to empower youth and families through education, wellness, and personal growth.

Team PIER Mentor

Dontey Brown brings a strong background in sales, fitness, and youth athletics to The PIER Foundation. A Penn State graduate and former Nittany Lion football Letterman, Dontey currently serves as a Sales Representative at Stryker, earning multiple awards for outstanding performance and national account growth. His professional journey also includes leadership roles in fitness and athletic performance, as well as coaching positions at State College High School, St. Joseph’s Catholic Academy, and Centre County Bulldogs. Dontey’s passion for mentorship, personal development, and community impact aligns directly with The PIER Foundation’s mission to empower youth and build lasting legacies. WE ARE…

Team PIER Mentor  

Niara Hall brings a strong background in fitness, leadership, and client development to The PIER Foundation. Currently pursuing her Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology at Penn State University, Niara has already built valuable experience through leadership roles at P.F. Chang’s and internships as a personal trainer and fitness manager at Crunch Fitness and 24 Hour Fitness. With a passion for wellness, mentorship, and empowering others, Niara contributes a fresh perspective and dedication to The PIER Foundation’s mission of building strong futures and lasting legacies for youth and families. 

WE ARE…