
our team
staff

Michael Dunican
Network Lead
Michael is a dedicated education and workforce development leader committed to expanding access to meaningful learning and career opportunities. With a strong background in program design, curriculum development, and strategic partnership cultivation, he has worked extensively to connect students and adult job seekers with the skills and experiences necessary for long-term success.
A strong advocate for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, regardless of the political climate, Michael is committed to ensuring that opportunities are accessible to all, particularly those from historically underrepresented communities. He also leverages emerging technologies, including AI and data-driven strategies, to enhance learning experiences and workforce readiness. His approach combines innovation with human-centered program development, fostering inclusive and forward-thinking initiatives that create lasting impact.
​
At his core, Michael is passionate about building networks of people, ideas, and resources that drive meaningful change. As Rhode Island's State-wide Director, he looks forward to collaborating with all individuals invested or connected to afterschool programs to strengthen impact, foster connections, and shape a future where education and workforce development are more connected, inclusive, innovative, and accessible than ever before.

kimya dastoori
Communications & Engagement Coordinator
Kimya (she/her) comes to the Rhode Island Afterschool Network with a wide range of experiences in the business, non-profit, and education sectors. She is a proud immigrant, college graduate, and New Yorker. For her undergraduate schooling, she attended The University of Arizona, where she studied Marketing and Global Business. Since the pandemic, she has made Providence her home and has obtained her Masters from Brown University in Urban Education Policy.
As a former educator and professional in the Out-Of-School Time space, she has had the pleasure of working directly with young people. She appreciates learning and growing with and from the youth, and wants to continue working towards equity in and out of schools. In her free time, she loves to travel and experience the world’s cultures and foods as well as attend concerts and music festivals.

advisory committee
-
Maryclaire Knight, Knight Consulting — Board Chair
-
Melissa Hamlin, Finance Specialist, FM Global — Secretary
-
Lisa DiMartino, Strategic Initiatives, RI Foundation — Liaison with RI Foundation
-
Elliot Rivera, Executive Director, Youth in Action
-
Paige Clausius-Parks, Executive Director, Kids Count
-
Jan Mermin, Expanded Learning Opportunities Specialist, RIDE
-
Erin Spaulding, Executive Director, Connecting for Children and Families
-
Ann Durham, Executive Director, Providence After School Alliance
-
Jim Hoyt, CEO, Pawtucket Boys and Girls Club
-
Larry Warner, Chief Impact and Equity Officer United Way of RI