Meet Our Team

Chris and Ashanti Brooks

Owners

We are excited to bring the Building Kidz philosophy of developing the “whole child” while building confidence, commitment, and character to Tennessee. We believe that to impact a community you must impact its future generations. It is our personal goal to provide children with a safe place to learn and develop while providing parents with peace of mind in knowing their child is being well cared for.

Chris graduated from Middle Tennessee with a degree in Liberal Studies and a minor in mathematics. He has an extensive history in Business and Human Resources having worked in Retail Management for over 22 years. He is passionate about instilling in young people a love for learning, a love for self, and most importantly a love for others.

Ashanti has a Bachelor of Science degree in Family Consumer Science from California State University Northridge and a BS in Business Administration from Lipscomb University. She also has over 10 years of experience in the insurance industry. Her passion for working with children began when she was in High School working at a children’s after-school program. She enjoyed providing fun and engaging activities for children that fanned the flame of a lifelong love for learning.

We are most happy when spending time with our two beautiful girls. In our free time we love attending events at TPAC, cheering on the Titans, bowling, or traveling to any destination where there is water.

Ketra (Nicole) Dillard

Center Director

I am the director at Building Kidz Nashville. I really enjoy being a part of the growth in children’s social, emotional, developmental, and educational milestones in life. I have worked with children and families since 1998 in various institutes such as early childhood centers, school age programs and social work. I grew up in Nashville and was born in Memphis. I graduated from Maplewood High in 1997 and TSU in 2007 with a bachelor’s degree in early childhood and family relationships. I have one hardworking daughter  and her 2-year-old fur baby. I also have a son starting high school in the 2021 school year that I spend my days enjoying. I love walks and playing in the park with my family. My favorite color is purple, may favorite game is phase 10, my favorite snack is hot peanuts, and I love scarfs!