A purple banner with white text reads "Angels in the Zone Performing Arts Academy" and includes a zebra-patterned bag and doll on top.

Dedicated to Inclusive Arts for Seniors

The Board of directors of Sylk's Angels In The Zone Inc. is committed to empowering individuals through inclusive performing arts for seniors. With a focus on community development and creativity, our board ensures every senior has the opportunity to experience the transformative power of the arts.

Our Founder and Artistic Director

A Legacy: May 2004 - Present

Ms. Lacy, a Bronx native with 50 years of experience as a performing artist, choreographer, and dance instructor, has dedicated her career to serving underserved communities. An alumnus of the prestigious Ophelia DeVore School of Charm/Modeling Agency, formerly known as The Grace Del Marco Modeling Agency, Ms. Lacy was deeply influenced by her mentor, Ms. Ophelia DeVore. DeVore’s groundbreaking work in establishing the first African American modeling agency in America inspired Ms. Lacy to give back and serve as a role model for future generations.

From a young age, Ms. Lacy began her journey as a community activist, runway model, choreographer, performer, and actress at the age of 14. She attended Hunter College, where she majored in dance, but her passion for education led her to a remarkable 20-year career as an educator and advocate for community-based art. Ms. Lacy’s work has been transformative, focusing on nurturing talent and empowering individuals through the arts.

Throughout her career, Ms. Lacy has collaborated with renowned choreographers and directors, including Michael Campus (best-selling autobiography Sonny Carson), Michael Schulz (director of Krush Groove), and legends like Phil Black, Sue Samuels, Frank Hatchet, Finis Jhung, and Laroque Bay. Her diverse experiences have shaped her into a versatile and influential figure in the dance and theater world, further enriching the communities she serves.

Side-by-side image of a newborn baby sleeping on the left and a young woman smiling on the right.

Sysharle' Lakenna Kozischek

Born on January 21, 1992, Ms. Sylk defied the odds after suffering a stroke at birth, with doctors predicting she would only live until five in a vegetative state. Despite these grim forecasts, her parents chose love and determination, giving her the best life possible. Ms. Sylk’s journey, though bittersweet, has inspired countless individuals from all walks of life, proving that even in the face of adversity, strength, love, and faith can shine through. Truly, she is a living angel, a blessing to all who encounter her.

Board of Directors

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Ms. Doreen Steadman/Leary
President
Military Bio 1989-2009 1989 Joined as Lieutenant JG stationed at Fort Schuyler Bronx NY Served in the Naval Nurse Core Served at various stations Bethesda Medical Hospital in MD. Bronx VA and West Point in NY in the Med Surg Rehab and ICU areas Served as Unit Administrator and Education office implementing unit evolutions inservice and training expeditions Served as unit Assist Officer in Charge 4th SSG 4th Marine Division Served as unit Assist. Officer in Charge Naval Hospital Station 2009 Retired as Commander Naval Nurse Core
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Ms. Cassandra Leary-Merrit
Secretary
A Multifaceted Professional Cassandra Leary-Merritt, born and raised in New York, currently pursuing a degree in graphic design, earning recognition by from the National Honor Society. As an evangelist, she actively promotes positive values and inspires her community through her faith and connection with others. Her entrepreneurial ventures reflect her innovative spirit and business acumen, while her role as an office manager at a home care agency showcases her leadership and commitment to exceptional service. Relocating to North Carolina over ten years ago allowed her to embrace new opportunities, further enhancing her journey characterized by faith, creativity, and leadership.
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Ms. Francine E. Zinger
Board Member
Growing up in the Bronx, I went to PS 132, PS100, Albert Einstein. I graduated from Stevenson High School, and on my journey from Stevenson High, I attended Morgan State College as well as Hunter College with my studies in Mental Health and Dance. I taught a Dance Class at the Kips Bay Boys Club, served in the United States Army for almost 8 years. I have worked with The Special Needs, Seniors, Children at Risk, Huron Services for Youth Specialize Foster Care and The Davenport Shelter for Girlds, and the Ann Arbor Comminuty Center.
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Ms. Della Saunders (A.K.A. Mama Della)
Our Matriarch
Adding Soon
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Pastor Kenneth C. Kozischek
Our Pastor
I graduated from Gettysburg College with a degree in philosophy in 1984. A few years later I completed a Master’s degree in English with a concentration in Creative Writing in 1992. In 2006 I graduated and was ordained as an interfaith minister in New York City in  The New Seminary.  I was an English teacher in the NYC Department of Education from 1997 until I retired in July of 2024. During those years I taught at Riker’s Island Correctional Facilty from 2001 until 2008. The rest of my teaching took place in the South Bronx. Among the many things I’ve done over the years includes being a published poet, having studied in the martial arts for over 40 years, and have traveled extensively in Europe and the United States. I’ve known and supported Sylk’s Angels in the Zone for over three decades. Their mission is unique as a true-inclusion performing arts program. I graduated from Gettysburg College with a degree in philosophy in 1984. A few years later I completed a Master’s degree in English with a concentration in Creative Writing in 1992. In 2006 I graduated and was ordained as an interfaith minister in New York City in  The New Seminary.  I was an English teacher in the NYC Department of Education from 1997 until I retired in July of 2024. During those years I taught at Riker’s Island Correctional Facilty from 2001 until 2008. The rest of my teaching took place in the South Bronx. Among the many things I’ve done over the years includes being a published poet, having studied in the martial arts for over 40 years, and have traveled extensively in Europe and the United States. I’ve known and supported Sylk’s Angels in the Zone for over three decades. Their mission is unique as a true-inclusion performing arts program.

Join the Journey

It’s been a long journey, and we’re just getting started. Get involved in our intergenerational performing arts programs and make a difference. Contact us today to be part of the movement!

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