CIRCLE OF DISCIPLINE, INC. BOARD MEMBERS
Jeanne Montrese
Jeanne has dedicated her career to public service, working in both Minneapolis and Washington, D.C., with the U.S. Department of Justice and the Department of Defense. Alongside her professional work, she has devoted countless hours to supporting youth and families through organizations such as the YWCA, St. Joseph’s Home for Children, Hennepin County Foster Care, and D.C. Public Schools.
She currently serves on the board of the HueMan Partnership and previously served as a member of the Lake Street Council, the Police Athletic League, and as a Commissioner for the Neighborhood and Community Engagement Commission. A long-time supporter of the Circle of Discipline’s mission and vision, Jeanne continues to volunteer her time by cultivating partnerships with like-minded organizations to expand opportunities for youth, families, and the broader community.
Nardos Tesfalidet
Over the past 15 years Nardos has worked in college access, special education, community-based programs, and youth employment. Nardos earned her Bachelor's in Social Work with a concentration in American, Racial & Multicultural Studies from St. Olaf College and her Master’s Degree in Social Work with a focus in Program Development, Policy and Administration from Augsburg University. She currently supervises Right Track, the City of Saint Paul’ s Youth Employment & Training Program. Nardos also currently serves on the Workforce Innovation Board’s (WIB) Youth Committee.
Elba Frazier
Elba M. Frazier is an experienced educator and program leader with more than 20 years of service in schools and community-based organizations. She currently serves as Program Manager at Circle of Discipline, where she develops innovative youth programs, fosters partnerships, and leads community engagement efforts.
Before joining Circle of Discipline full time, Elba spent over a decade in education as an Assistant Principal and Special Education Teacher within St. Paul Public Schools, Osseo Area Schools and New York City Public Schools, where she specialized in instructional leadership, restorative practices, and inclusive education.
Fluent in Spanish and passionate about equity, mentorship, and student empowerment, Elba continues to build bridges between schools and communities to create opportunities for all youth to thrive.
Tatyana Cano
Tatyana’s connection to Circle of Discipline is deeply personal. Growing up in South Minneapolis, she joined the Circle at age 12 and found the structure, belonging, and community she needed during a pivotal time in her life. That experience inspired her lifelong commitment to creating spaces where everyone feels valued and supported.
Driven by a passion for inclusion and connection, Tatyana dedicates her time to fostering community through event planning, program development, and meaningful relationships with families, partners, and donors. Her authentic approach allows her to speak from the heart about the Circle’s impact and inspire others to get involved.
As a board member, Tatyana leads with compassion, creativity, and collaboration—continuing the Circle’s mission to ensure every young person feels they belong and that the organization remains a pillar of empowerment for the community.
Hope Melton
Hope Melton is a Surgical Assistant, former chef, and dedicated community volunteer whose diverse background brings creativity, focus, and compassion to her role as a board member. Her culinary experience fostered resilience and leadership under pressure—skills that now serve her well in the fast-paced world of surgery.
Beyond her professional life, Hope is deeply committed to service and community engagement. Her passion for boxing fuels her discipline and drive, while her creative spirit continues to inspire those around her. With a unique blend of precision, passion, and people-centered values, Hope is a valued contributor to the Circle of Discipline board and its mission to empower youth and families.
