Our Team
Can-Do is committed to inclusivity and helping every entrepreneur turn their dream into a reality. Your dreams are our dreams. No matter what stage your business is at or how much experience you have, we will help you get on the road to success. We’re here to succeed together!
Lucy Dilley
Executive Director
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Contact her about: Fundraising, donations, and partnerships.
Lucy founded the Can-Do Kitchen in 2008 when she noticed the need for a shared-use kitchen in Kalamazoo. She brings years of experience in natural foods retail and extensive experience in managing a production kitchen, farmers’ market vending, non-profit programming, and administration. Her skillset drives the vision of the company forward. Passion for opportunity and equity is the fuel that keeps her going. She believes that small business owners can scale and grow with the right tools and a supportive environment. Her drive and knowledge inspires the people around her and results in key partnerships with the local community.
Deleon Dyson
Operations Director
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Contact her about: Facility operations, grants, and compliance.
Deleon Dyson is the Operations Director at Can-Do Kalamazoo, bringing over 8 years of experience in public health and community engagement. With a deep understanding of diversity, equity, and inclusion, she is dedicated to fostering positive cultural change and equitable paths to business success.
With her extensive experience and expertise, Deleon plays a vital role in Can-Do Kalamazoo’s success by streamlining operations, maintaining financial stability, and supporting the organization’s mission of promoting inclusion in the business community.
Jarrett Blackmon
Marketing Director
Pronouns: he/him/his
Contact him about: Marketing, social media, and event Coordination.
Jarrett Blackmon is an experienced marketing and communications professional who brings a wealth of expertise to his role as Communications Director at CDK. As a former member and entrepreneur himself, he understands the importance of access to resources and support for small business owners in the Kalamazoo community.
With a strong background in executing successful marketing campaigns, managing social media, organizing events, and engaging with media outlets, Jarrett is committed to supporting small businesses through effective marketing and communication strategies.
Marlon Jones
Business Development Director
Pronouns: he/him/his
Contact him about: CDK Business Inquires, sales, and networking.
Marlon is a highly accomplished and goal-oriented business development professional with a deep commitment to empowering entrepreneurs. With a track record of driving results, Marlon excels in motivating and nurturing individuals to become successful small business owners, fostering an inclusive and collaborative atmosphere. His keen ability to identify profitable opportunities and optimize business operations makes him an invaluable asset. Whether you need assistance in sales, customer service, or strategy, Marlon is the go-to expert who will provide you with his expertise and guidance. With his unwavering spirit and passion for empowering entrepreneurs, Marlon is ready to make a significant impact on the success of your business.
Sheena Foster
Business Program Manager
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Contact her about: Information about our offerings, Can-Do Camp and outreach.
Sheena started with us in 2011, coming from a fundraising background. Her experience with event planning, customer service, and project management helps small business owners bring their ideas to fruition and create the lives they want. During her many years at Can-Do she has worked alongside numerous entrepreneurs, with a specialization in the food industry. Her work focuses on fostering a nurturing learning environment that will help business incubates flourish.
When she isn’t working, Sheena enjoys listening to music, acting in theater productions, and spending time with her family and friends.
TONI WATSON
Administrative Coordinator
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Contact them about: Billing, Surveys, and Grant Reporting.
Toni brings 10 years of nonprofit experience to Can-Do Kalamazoo with a background in grant reporting, administration, nonprofit accounting and working with individuals with little to no work experience.
Toni’s passion for helping people overcome barriers to become self-sufficient is an invaluable resource to members of Can-Do. In her free time, Toni gardens, fishes and crafts.
Board of Directors
Our Board of Directors is in tune with the entrepreneurial ecosystem and sets the Ends, otherwise known as our work’s ultimate future outcome or guiding star. As a result of Can-Do Kalamazoo’s work, all entrepreneurs will have a pathway to business success that is clear, equitable, and attainable.
Current board members:
Pictured left to right: Hether Frayer (chair), Maddie Isch, Jill Parsons, Rachel Bair (vice-chair) (not shown), Jessica Hermann-Wilmarth (secretary) (not shown), John Schmitt (not shown), and Janice Scott (not shown).