Meet Our Team

Vanity Barr-Little, PhD

Executive Director

Dr. Vanity Barr-Little, an Air Force veteran and a dedicated mother of four children, founded Sylvan Learning of Apollo Beach and Riverview to support the educational growth and success of her children and other students in her community. Dr. Barr-Little’s robust academic background includes a Bachelor of Arts in Business from Saint Leo University, a Master of Science in Public Administration from Central Michigan University, and a Doctorate degree from Capella University. Dr. Barr-Little’s hobbies include reading, traveling, and cherishing quality time with her family.

Erin Messano

Center Director

Ms. Messano studied liberal arts with Saint Leo University and ultimately chose a career in education because she wants to help students reach their full potential. As a former Hillsborough County School teacher, she believes very strongly that a solid education and a love for learning set children up for long-term and lifelong success. Ms. Messano brings her experience as a teacher, a mother of three adult children, and community liaison to Sylvan Learning. When Ms. Erin isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her learning something new and spending time with her family.

Allison Braun

Assistant Center Director

Ms. Allison earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Psychological and Social Sciences from Pennsylvania State University, graduating cum laude. She has worked in elementary education for almost 8 years. While Ms. Allison has many tutoring talents, she most enjoys tutoring math. Ms. Allison believes that everyone could use a little bit of help every now and then. When she isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find Ms. Allison playing Pokémon with her friends or digging into a new book.

Diana Pidgeon

Tutor

Ms. Pidgeon is a Master’s-prepared professional. She graduated from the University of Tampa, as well as the University of Phoenix. Prior to working in education, she was a public health nurse and RN case manager. Ms. Diana is adored by her students for being very engaging. She is passionate about helping children reach their full potential. When Ms. Diana isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find her spending time with her family.

Wafaa Younis

Tutor

Ms. Wafaa earned a Bachelor’s degree in civil engineering and has tutored students of all ages and levels in the subject of math. As a seasoned math tutor, Ms. Wafaa believes that although math can be tricky sometimes, but it’s the easiest subject to master. When she is not at Sylvan, you will find Ms. Wafaa cooking, sewing, and running after her kids (lol).

Artemis Floyd

Tutor

Ms. Floyd attends the College of the Florida Keys and is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Marine Biology. In addition to her love for marine environmental science and technology, she also loves to help people understand math. Ms. Floyd says, “math helps us understand the real world and its patterns.” When she isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find Ms. Floyd volunteering as a coral restoration diver, or playing video games with friends.

Cory Davis

Tutor

Mr. Davis attended Queens College, City University of New York, earning Bachelor of Arts degrees in Sociology and Elementary Education. He is a Hillsborough County school teacher, endorsed by the Florida Department of Education for Elementary Education K-6, Reading, and ESOL. Mr. Davis has earned several awards and recognitions, including consecutive nominations for the Excellence in Action Award, which is given by the Florida Diagnostic and Learning Resources System. While Mr. Davis has many tutoring talents, he enjoys tutoring mathematics the most. He believes that students learn best when they feel connected to learning and see the “why” behind what they are learning. When he isn’t at Sylvan, you’ll find Mr. Davis watching and attending sporting events.

Ava Benedict

Tutor

Ava Benedict is a high school peer tutor, helping her fellow students excel academically by explaining difficult concepts, ensuring they fully understand the material and achieve their best. Beyond the classroom, Ava has honed her writing skills as an intern for a regional news publication, showcasing her talent and passion for journalism. Equally impressive is her commitment to her community. Ava is a civic-minded individual who volunteers extensively with the local rotary club. Ava’s enthusiasm for learning, paired with Sylvan technology and personalized learning plans, will undoubtedly inspire our young learners and lead to meaningful, measurable results.

Dr. Raffman

Tutor

Dr. Grace Raffman holds a Doctorate in Business Administration from American Intercontinental University, a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership, and an MBA in Business Management from Argosy University. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in History from The University of Tampa. With 23 years of classroom experience, she has taught various subjects, including English, US History, College Algebra, and Marine Science, and has coordinated academic curricula for college
preparatory and Dual Enrollment programs. When she is not at Sylvan, you’ll find Dr. Raffman swimming, walking her two dogs, and spending time with family.

Nydia Nelson

Tutor

Ms. Nelson holds a Master of Education in Education, specializing in Mathematics from Walden University, and a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from the University of Tampa. She brings over 20 years of experience in mathematics education, having served in various teaching roles across multiple institutions, including Saint Petersburg College, Hillsborough Community College, and Strayer University. As a former academic chair of mathematics and current high school teacher, Ms. Nelson has demonstrated outstanding leadership and ability to help students build strong mathematical skills and confidence. When she’s not at Sylvan, you’ll find Ms. Nelson at outdoor events with her ASD kiddo, enjoying activities to burn off his energy or relaxing under an umbrella at the beach.