These guiding words have shaped the mission and purpose of Reverend Dr. Darryl T. Canady, Founder of LIFE Male STEAM Academy and Senior Pastor of Rodman Street Missionary Baptist Church.
In 2014, Dr. Canady received what he calls his “911 Call.” On Thursday, September 11, 2014, he felt a divine directive to “Save the Boys”—to create a transformative pipeline that would uplift and empower underserved young men, providing them with the education, mentorship, and opportunities necessary to break cycles of poverty, violence, and crime.
With his wife, Reverend Taleeta L. Canady, a dedicated educator and leader, they set out to design a blueprint for change. Seven years later, LIFE Male STEAM Academy opened its doors, offering a brotherhood, a rigorous STEAM-based curriculum, and a pathway to success for young men ready to redefine their futures.
Dr. Canady, a Morehouse College graduate, holds a Master of Divinity from Emory University and a Doctor of Ministry from Virginia Union University. He is widely recognized for his expertise in leadership development, male empowerment, and community transformation. His life’s work is anchored in the principle, “For unto whom much is given, much is required.” Through LIFE MSA, he ensures that every scholar receives the guidance, discipline, and educational excellence needed to thrive.
A native of Los Angeles, Reverend Taleeta Canady is an experienced educator, counselor, and ordained minister. Holding degrees from the University of North Florida, East Carolina University, and Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, she has dedicated her career to supporting the holistic development of young people. As Minister of Congregational Care at Rodman Street Missionary Baptist Church, she continues to serve and uplift the community. Her greatest joy is her family and her commitment to empowering the next generation of Young Kings.
With over 30 years in education, Kevin Bivins is a leader known for transforming schools, improving academic outcomes, and personalizing education for every student. A Clarion University, University of Pittsburgh, and Ohio State University graduate, he is committed to building an academic culture at LIFE MSA that surpasses expectations and creates life-changing opportunities for scholars.
At LIFE Male STEAM Academy, I want to lead a culture and academic path that generates life-changing alternatives for all LIFE scholars. My vision is to design an academic experience that turns the dream of LIFE MSA into reality.
– Kevin Bivins, M.Ed.
A Penn State University graduate, Malcom Thomas has dedicated his career to empowering young men through education, mentorship, and leadership training. As founder of ONE Nation Education and Leadership Training, and co-creator of The Manhood Maximizer program, he has influenced thousands of scholars and educators. His commitment to holistic education and positive identity formation ensures that every LIFE scholar is equipped with the tools for success.
What I believe sets the LIFE Male STEAM Academy apart from other schools is the constant resilience and dedication of our LIFE-cast staff members to go above and beyond to meet the needs of our scholars. We are privileged enough to establish a rapport with our scholars in a way that I believe is genuinely unique in comparison to other schools. We have a common goal in mind in that we want to see our scholars succeed in life and in whatever they put their mind to.
— Emline Augustin, Special Education Coordinator
Empowering young African American males through innovative STEAM education and holistic development.
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