Lakesha Shere Hayes was born in Clay County, Alabama to Roy and Sherrie Hayes. She was educated in the Lineville City School system and graduated from Lineville High School in the top five of her class. She was named a 1996 Wellborn Merit Scholar; and in that year, Lakesha began her honors studies at the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB). She was awarded her Bachelors of Science in Psychology, with a minor in Philosophy. Ms. Hayes has a wonderful daughter named Catherine in second grade. After graduating from UAB, Lakesha began work with the Jefferson County Association for Retarded Citizens (ARC) where she worked as a Behavioral Analyst, developing and implementing behavior therapy treatment plans and strategies for mentally disabled children and adults. Through her experience, Lakesha has been qualified as a Certified Mental Health Professional and has substantial knowledge of client treatment and behavioral data analysis. She has extensive training and experience in behavioral therapy for juveniles and adolescents, and is currently certified in first aid, CPR, and crisis prevention intervention. As Assistant Director for the program Ms. Hayes is extremely passionate about educating our youth on the importance of sexual responsibility and choosing to remain abstinent until marriage. She feels as though the Birmingham Abstinence Education Program will become a vital part of our students’ lives by giving them the tools needed to make informed healthy decisions.