Meet The Hearts Behind Colorado CommUNITY Elite Drill Team

We are honored to have such talented, dedicated, and passionate individuals guiding and coaching the Colorado CommUNITY Elite Drill Team. It takes truly spectacular people to make a difference in the lives of our youth, and we are proud to introduce you to our amazing coaches.

• Executive Director

Mrs. Lynn King- Jackson

I am Mrs. Lynn King-Jackson, a Woman of God, retired educator, community liaison, and mentor.

I have over 30 years experience working with youth.

My successes are attributed to my ongoing belief, "If the opportunity is presented and the correct tools are available, then every child can succeed".

I have and will continue to dedicate my time, talent, and energy to the next generation for that is the charge that has been given to me by ‘GOD’.

• Colorado CommUNITY Elite Drill Team Co-Founders

Ms. Niq'Terre Smith

My name is Niq'Terre Smith–better known as Nikki.
I grew up in Denver, CO, and played various sports, along with being a driller for the Oakland Eagles and, briefly, for the 49ers. In 2007,
I graduated as Montbello's Salutatorian.
I am the Mother of two beautiful children, Jayden and Jayda.
In addition to recently starting a treat business, I currently work for Kaiser Permanente.
My hobbies include traveling, reading, and cooking for my loved ones.
Mrs. Shawn Selman

Hi, I am Shawn Selman,
I went through the DPS school system and I am a graduate of the University of Northern Colorado. During my time in DPS, I attended Oakland Elementary where I was on the Oakland Eagle Drill Team led by “Mrs. Lynn”.
That was the foundation that led me to become a part of many other teams.
It was through Mrs. Lynn’s inspiration, that I set out on my path of becoming an educator and working with the youth.
I want the African Proverb “It takes a village.” to continue to be the foundation of my ‘why’ for years and years to come.

Coach/ Mentor/ Photographer Ms. Cecile Perrin

Denver native Cecile A. Perrin was born in 1987 and raised by her mom, aunt, and grandma.
At the age of 11, Cecile joined The Colorado Starlite Drill team, which became a major part of her life.
She remained on the Drill team for 6 years, then later played the cymbals on the drumline for 3 years.
Along with the drill team, dance became a passion of Cecile’s and she danced for multiple teams throughout high school.
She combined her love of God with her love of dance and started ministering with the amazing Dare To Believe Dance Ministry in 2010, which has been a huge blessing for her
Coach/ Mentor/ Choreographer Ms. Amber Tyler

My name is Amber Tyler. I grew up in Denver, Colorado. I graduated from East High School, Class of 2008.
I am a newlywed and a mother of four awesome and beautiful children, Nijah, Jakare, Zariah, and Cory Jr.
I have been a part of many different dance groups; I am an alumnus of The Colorado Starlites and am considered a 2nd generation Starlite.
Currently, I work at Walmart where I have been for many years. In my free time, I enjoy coaching, traveling, doing puzzles, and hair; however, I find the most pleasure in being around my family.
Coach/ Educational Advisor Ms. Maalia Roby

Hi, I’m Maalia Roby, a graduate of Goal Academy and the proud mother of an amazing little girl, “Reign”.
I am a former Colorado Starlite who has found that the morals and discipline I learned grounded me into becoming a positive role model for those around me.
My belief is that the new generation will be a major part of history because of the many opportunities they are afforded.
Coach/ Choreographer Ms. Barbara Parnell

Hi My name is Barbara! I am a former Colorado StarLite team member and a graduate of Vista Academy.
I am looking forward to helping out the youth, being a mentor, and forming a family.
One step, one beat as a family will help create a better world.
Seeing others grow is a dream that I want to make come true.
Coach/ Mentor/ Educational Advisor Mrs. Marlina Byers-Blake

My name is Marlina Byers-Blake, and I am known by many as Mona.
I was born in Los Angeles, CA and raised in Long Beach, CA. I have lived in Denver, CO for the past 12 years.
I am a Wife and Mother of three Geniuses; MarKy’iah, Mekhi, and Amariana.
I have danced for a long time with my favorites in mime/praise dance, hip hop/crunk dance, and Steppin’.
Multi-faceted, I was also a part of Carson Renegades Drill Team. I am a High-End Traveling Stylist and Platform Artist.
I enjoy striving to be and stay like Christ–helping others and learning!
Ms. Stephanie Murray / Coach/ Mentor/ Spiritual Advisor

Hi, I’m Stephanie Murray! I am a believer and follower of Jesus Christ, the mother of two incredible children, one and only sister and daughter, to 4 amazing men and my loving parents. I enjoy teaching, being outdoors, traveling, deep conversations and laughing.
I graduated from the University of Colorado at Denver in Sociology and Business. I strive to serve in love and gratitude. I am the founder of Journey to Your Haven, a non-profit that serves abused women and their children. I am honored to have connected, genuine and loving relationships in every area of my life. Being a part of the coaching team for the Colorado Community Elite Drill Team is an amazing gift. To witness and be a part of the transformation of each of these young ladies, from the inside out, is truly a blessing.