We’re shining a spotlight on four members of our United Way of Southern Nevada team. Meet, Adina Zecchini, Cyra Kalihi-Elliott, Scott Panik and Armina Guelas, our United Readers Mentors.
Through the United Readers program, these mentors work directly with local students to strengthen foundational literacy skills, build reading confidence and help children develop the skills they need to succeed in the classroom and beyond.
Adina Zecchini
As a United Readers Mentor, Adina Zecchini works with students at Mater Academy to support their literacy development. Her passion for literacy and desire to make a difference in the community inspired her to join UWSN.
Outside of work, Adina enjoys watching movies, cooking, reading and spending time with family and friends. Her must-do recommendation for anyone visiting Las Vegas? A trip to the Mob Museum.
Cyra Kalihi-Elliott
Cyra Kalihi-Elliott is passionate about helping children become confident readers. As a United Readers Mentor, she works with students to build strong literacy skills while encouraging their confidence and growth.
Cyra was drawn to UWSN because of her passion for helping others and her love of working with children. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her two children, cooking and trips to Disneyland.
If you’re visiting Las Vegas, Cyra recommends exploring Red Rock Canyon and Mount Charleston.
Scott Panik
A former educator, Scott Panik brings his experience and passion for helping young people to his role as a United Readers Mentor. He works with students on foundational literacy skills, with a focus on areas like fluency and phonemic awareness.
For Scott, United Readers is an opportunity to continue making a meaningful difference in the lives of young people and serve students who need additional support.
Outside of UWSN, Scott enjoys dinners and trips with his family, exercising, reading fantasy novels and trying to learn the banjo. His Las Vegas must-do? Exploring Red Rock Canyon and experiencing the natural beauty beyond the Strip.
Armina Guelas
Armina Guelas helps students build foundational literacy skills and loves seeing their progress along the way. She joined UWSN after hearing about the organization’s work throughout Southern Nevada and wanting to be part of that impact.
When she’s not working with students, Armina enjoys photography, hiking, and trying new restaurants around town. For visitors looking to explore Las Vegas beyond the usual attractions, she recommends checking out the Arts District and downtown to discover some of the city’s hidden gems.
Adina, Cyra, Scott and Armina each bring their own experiences, interests and perspectives to United Readers, but they share a common goal: helping students build the literacy skills and confidence they need to thrive.
We’re excited to have them as part of Team UWSN and look forward to seeing the impact they make with students across Southern Nevada.
Learn more about United Readers and UWSN’s early literacy work at uwsn.org/earlyeducation.