Founder + CEO

Anastasia Gavalas founded Wing It Project in the spring of 2013. As an educator and mother of five she fiercely believes that children who are given the chance to tap into their individual strength and beauty can transcend challenges and reach their greatest potential. After writing both a leadership and parenting book, Anastasia felt compelled to blend both concepts and build a foundation with a philanthropic mission specifically designed to create communities of empowered children. She holds a Certificate of Advanced Study in Leadership and Administration, National R.E.A.C.H. Trainer in Global Education, Master of Science in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages, Bachelor of Science in Bilingual Education and Elementary Education. 

Board Chairperson

Helen Kanellopoulos is currently the Director of Pupil Personnel Services in the Freeport Public School District. She received a Doctorate in Educational Administration and Supervision from St. John's University, a Certificate of Advanced Studies, Educational Administration from Long Island University, a Master of Education and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Molloy College.

Strategic Advisor

Sandy Steele combined her international business experience and exceptional service to clients with a lifelong passion of interior and style in founding Homeage. Previously, she held senior client experience roles at AllianceBernstein, a leading investment firm, managing teams and creatively solving problems for some of the country's largest and most demanding companies. She has a BS in Finance from St. John’s University, a Paralegal Certificate from Long Island University, and a CPE in International Business & Finance from New York University. In her spare time, she enjoys playing tennis, traveling and immersing herself if different cultures. 

Financial Advisor

Danielle Anderson holds a Master of Science in Taxation and Bachelor of Science in Accounting and is currently working at the prominent firm of Markowitz and Fenelon & Bank LLP. Her strong knowledge of business and accounting in the nonprofit arena helps her serve our organization with great insight in regards to financial and operational management systems.

Social Media Relations

Evie Purcell supports our social media platforms and uses her technical skills to expand our reach for specialized initiatives and global collaborations. She also leads our Wing It Ambassador academy.