Founder & Executive Director

Hawa Peter is the visionary behind Utica Royalties. With a deep passion for youth empowerment and community development, she founded the organization to provide safe, creative spaces for young people to grow, lead, and succeed. Her leadership is rooted in lived experience, compassion, and a strong commitment to equity and opportunity for all youth.

President of Utica Royalties

Instructors- Management Information System

Abdelshashakour Khamis supports the executive leadership of Utica Royalties and oversees strategic operations. As Vice President, he helps guide the organization’s direction. In addition to his leadership role, he also serves as an Instructor in Management Information Systems, helping youth build essential technology and digital skills. His work reflects a strong commitment to empowering young people through both leadership and education.

Secretary

Heather serves as the Secretary of Utica Royalties, supporting internal communications, organizing important documents, and assisting with meeting coordination and reporting. Her role ensures that administrative tasks run smoothly and that team communications are clear and organized

Assistant Director – IT & Digital Operations

Mohamed is part of the IT Department at Utica Royalties, where he supports the organization’s digital operations and technology needs. He helps manage the website, online forms, communication tools, and internal data systems. With a background in Computer Information Systems and a passion for technology and service,

Secretary

Kari Procopio brings over 20 years of experience in communications, public policy advocacy, and fund development to the Board of Utica Royalties. She currently serves as a Corporate Public Relations Specialist and is the founder of McKendrick Consulting, LLC, where she provides grant consulting and communications strategy services.

Kari holds a bachelor’s degree in Journalism with a concentration in Political Science from Utica College of Syracuse University.

Contributor – Photography & Media

Brian Lazore is the founder of Lazore Photography, where he captures the spirit of Upstate New York through evocative nature, landscape, and event photography. As a proud contributor to the Utica Royalties Youth Program, Brian documents key moments from youth events, creating compelling visual stories and marketing materials that celebrate community pride and engagement.

His work blends artistry with purpose, turning everyday scenes into lasting impressions that uplift, educate, and connect.

Digital Communications Manager

Handles the website, social media, and digital outreach.

Creates content, shares updates, and helps tell the story of Utica Royalties online.

Arts & Culture Coordinator

Leads creative expression through art, dance, and culture.

Plans performances, cultural events, and creative activities that help youth explore identity and talent.

Financial & Grants Manager

Handles budgeting, grants, and reporting.

Tracks spending, assists in writing grant applications, maintains donation records, and ensures transparency in financial operations.