Our Mission
BEAMR bridges education advocacy, school partnerships, and mental health resources—empowering families and educators to help children thrive by building inclusive and supportive environments.
Meet The Team
Angela M. Flennoy, Co-Founder & Executive Director
Angela Flennoy is an education advocate and learning strategist with more than 20 years of experience at the intersection of technology, instruction, and family advocacy. She holds a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems, bringing expertise in designing inclusive instruction, assessments, and learning experiences for diverse learners.
Beyond the classroom, Angela empowers families navigating IEPs, 504 plans, and mental health challenges. As a parent of a child with ADHD and CAPD, she has firsthand knowledge of the systems families face and serves as a trusted liaison between parents, educators, and schools. She partners directly with schools to foster collaboration, strengthen communication, and build solutions that support every student’s success.
Through her nonprofit leadership, consulting work, and community involvement, Angela champions educational equity and equips families with tools and confidence to help children thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.
Khadija Sufi, Co-Founder & Executive Director
Khadija Sufi is a mother, entrepreneur, and community leader, deeply rooted in her South Asian heritage while embracing the rhythm of life in America. For more than 15 years, she has called Naperville home, raising four children in School District 204, building a women-owned business, and serving in township administration.
Family and connection are central to her life—from sharing chai and conversation to gathering her children around the kitchen table to talk through life’s lessons. When the pandemic brought new challenges, Khadija saw firsthand how mental health struggles can impact young people and families. As both a parent and an advocate, she became an anchor for her children while rediscovering her own resilience.
Her journey has been one of faith, vulnerability, and healing. She hopes her story encourages others to know they are not alone—echoing the wisdom of Rumi: “The wound is the place where the light enters you.”
Meet Our Board Members
Alyssa Smith, Board President
Alyssa Smith is a communications and marketing professional with over 20 years of experience in administration and project management. She currently serves as the Special Projects Coordinator for the Village of Addison and is the founder of Belladonna Media & Marketing Group, a people-first social media agency dedicated to helping small businesses and nonprofits grow their digital presence with intention and authenticity. Alyssa holds a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and a master’s degree in Public Administration. With a deep-rooted passion for community engagement, she has served on multiple boards and thrives in spaces that combine strategy, storytelling, and social impact.
A proud mom of two and a first responder spouse, Alyssa understands the power of resilience, collaboration, and a strong cup of coffee. She’s excited to bring her energy, creative thinking, and digital expertise to the board to help further its mission and amplify its impact.
Constance E. Means
Constance E. Means, M. Ed is an experienced educator possessing an extensive background in general education, special education K- Adult, and Educational Supervision having served as Assistant Principal and Principal of elementary schools in Chicago, IL. Mrs. Means also served as an adjunct professor in the colleges of education for the following: Olivet Nazarene University, Bourbonnais, IL, Concordia University, Forest Park, IL. She also served as consulting Principal and school-based lead educator for instructional improvement in cooperation with DePaul University’s Urban Ed program.
Mrs. Means’ education preparation includes an Associates Arts in Child Development from Chicago City Colleges, Bachelor of Arts in Education, certification K-12, Master’s Degree, Education Supervision, and Doctoral work, Education Supervision (ABD).
Constance is an avid reader, researcher, and educational advocate with a strong leaning toward injustice and educational responsibilities, and human rights. She loves dogs and the competition of many board games, especially card games.
She is the mother of two and has been happily married for more than fifty years, now helping in every way possible to nurture her grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other family members. She currently serves as the President of her Homeowners’ Association having served in that position for just under six years. She is the founder of a community advocacy group, Save Our Southland.
Enabling high functionality through research-driven educational best practice that maximizes teaching and learning.
Burhan Sufi
Burhan is an undergraduate student at Loyola University Chicago, majoring in Psychology with a minor in Sociology. A passionate advocate for therapy and mental health resources, his dedication is deeply rooted in his personal experience with Bipolar Depression and witnessing the impact of mental health stigma within his South Asian community. Burhan aspires to become a therapist serving underprivileged communities, working to break down barriers and transform systems that limit access to mental health support and the potential of those most in need.
Kennedy Flennoy
Kennedy Flennoy brings a strong healthcare administration background and a passion for improving access, equity, and quality within the healthcare system. With experience as a Registered Behavior Therapist and expertise in medical administration, clinic operations, and social media management, she offers a unique blend of clinical understanding and administrative skills.
Her hands-on work in insurance billing, patient support, and collaborative care has fueled her commitment to community-driven healthcare solutions. As an emerging healthcare leader, Kennedy is dedicated to empowering underserved communities and advancing initiatives that connect healthcare and social services. She is honored to serve on the board, lending her voice, creativity, and growing expertise to support the organization’s mission.