Meet the Drums in Recovery Team

Marla Singleton is the Founder and President of Drums in Recovery, Inc., a Central Florida nonprofit using evidence-based rhythm programs to strengthen connection, resilience, social-emotional wellness, and recovery. A U.S. Air Force veteran, Marla has more than 25 years of experience in music education, community-based programming, and Arts in Health. She established and directed Music Together centers in Maryland and Florida and has dedicated much of her career to using music and rhythm to bring people together and improve individual and community well-being. Marla is a Master DRUMBEAT Facilitator with professional training and certifications in Rhythm2Recovery, HealthRHYTHMS, Village Music Circles, and professional drum circle facilitation. She is also a Certified Recovery Peer Specialist (CRPS) and previously served as a Behavioral Health Technician with Aspire Health Partners. In 2016, Marla founded Drums in Recovery, bringing her professional experience, leadership, and passion for community service together under one mission. For the past decade, she has led the organization in serving youth, adults, older adults, individuals in recovery, and people of diverse abilities through schools, treatment programs, senior communities, nonprofit organizations, and community partnerships throughout Central Florida. Marla remains actively involved in the community, building partnerships and expanding access to meaningful, evidence-based rhythm programs for those who can benefit from them most.

Director and Secretary Sonya Stewart is a resident of Orlando, Florida, and holds a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Fayetteville State University. She currently works in early childhood education, where she is dedicated to supporting the growth, development, and well-being of young learners. Sonya also brings experience from the hospitality industry, where she developed strong interpersonal and customer service skills. Sonya has participated in the DRUMBEAT program multiple times and values its impact on communication, self-awareness, and personal growth within a group setting. She appreciates the program’s ability to foster connection through fellowship, teamwork, and musical expression. As a member of the Board of Directors and now serving as Secretary, Sonya is committed to supporting the organization’s mission and identifying innovative ways to help Drums in Recovery grow and expand its reach within the community.

Director Julius Higger is an Orlando-based business professional with a passion for collaboration and helping organizations and individuals grow. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Virginia Commonwealth University and has extensive experience in business development, talent acquisition, and recruitment, having served as both a Business Development Manager and Agency/Corporate Recruiter. Julius is known for his ability to build strong relationships and work effectively in dynamic, team-oriented environments. His professional focus on connecting people with opportunities and elevating organizations aligns closely with the mission of Drums in Recovery. A valued supporter since the organization’s early days, Julius actively participates in events, volunteers his time, and serves as a trusted friend and business advisor. His strengths in technology, networking, and interpersonal communication make him an asset to the Board of Directors.

Billy Singleton is a dedicated business owner and Licensed Commercial Pool Contractor with over 40 years of experience in the swimming pool industry. As the owner and operator of Certified Pool Pros in Orlando, FL since 2013, he has built a reputation for excellence in custom pool construction, remodeling, maintenance, and repairs. Beyond his professional work, he is deeply committed to community service. He proudly serves as a board advisor and community advocate for Drums in Recovery.

Rebekah Stevenson is a high school teacher with a Master’s degree in Education from Rollins College and over two years of experience facilitating the DRUMBEAT program. She is passionate about creating safe, engaging spaces where young people can express themselves, build meaningful connections, and grow in confidence. Through rhythm, conversation, and intentional reflection, Rebekah supports youth in discovering their voice, developing resilience, and thriving both in and out of the classroom.

Anna Jones has always had a passion for service and a genuine desire to support others. With a professional background spanning healthcare and manufacturing, she brings strong organizational, administrative, and people-centered skills to her role as Administrative Manager for Drums in Recovery. Anna first discovered Drums in Recovery in 2015 when she participated in her first DRUMBEAT class. She was immediately drawn to the program’s unique, strength-based approach to group therapy. Her involvement deepened as she volunteered at fundraising events, later joining the Board of Directors in 2019, where she served as Secretary until 2021. In 2022, she stepped into her current role as Vice-President of the Board. Anna is a certified DRUMBEAT Facilitator and Rhythm2Recovery Facilitator, and she remains committed to expanding access to rhythm-based therapeutic programs across the community. She loves every day she works with Drums in Recovery, knowing that her efforts contribute to meaningful change in the lives of others.

Director Debra Dauven is a local business owner who has operated her own company for more than ten years, bringing valuable leadership and organizational experience to the Drums in Recovery board. She is actively involved in community service and has organized fundraisers for nonprofit organizations focused on recovery. Debra is also a local radio personality and has contributed to the production and promotion of musical and theatrical events. Debra strongly believes in the power of music as a healing force and its ability to support physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. She became a Certified DRUMBEAT Facilitator in 2023 and advanced to Senior Facilitator in 2025. Debra facilitates programs with a local recovery group and works with students at a charter high school, incorporating rhythm-based activities that promote connection, violence prevention, and bullying awareness.

Director and Facilitator Gina Bucci-Sheng is an Orlando-based hair artist, musician, and businesswoman with a passion for creativity, connection, and service. Originally from Nyack, New York, she later lived in Southwest Florida before settling in Orlando in 2021. Gina studied Musical Theatre at Florida School of the Arts Conservatory and Florida Gulf Coast University and performed for many years with The Naples Players at Sugden Community Theatre. Music and artistic expression have always been central to her life. Gina is deeply committed to the recovery community and has been an active member of Narcotics Anonymous and Alcoholics Anonymous for many years. She has served in leadership roles within the Oxford House Orlando Chapter, including House President, and has worked with outreach teams, treatment programs, and correctional facilities to help individuals find stable housing and support in recovery. Gina joined the Drums in Recovery Drum Team in 2021 and now serves as a facilitator and board member, giving back to a program that has had a meaningful impact on her life. She believes, “Art and music are a common thread that connect people from all walks of life. Love, connection, and relationship building are some of the most important things for people in recovery. It is, without a doubt, the basis of what we learn in drum class. Drums in Recovery has changed my life exponentially.”

David Maldonado is a music teacher, drummer, and composer originally from San Juan, Puerto Rico. He began playing music at the age of 16 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in music from the Inter-American University Metropolitan Campus in San Juan, Puerto Rico, and a master’s degree in Performing Arts and Management/Music Business from Florida International University in Miami, Florida. With more than 20 years of experience in teaching and performing, David has collaborated with both local and international artists and developed a passion for sharing the power of music with students and communities. His work reflects a deep appreciation for the cultural traditions of rhythm and music that bring people together. David currently serves as an elementary music teacher in Orlando, Florida, where he inspires young musicians through creativity, rhythm, and performance. Fluent in both English and Spanish, he enjoys connecting with students and families from diverse backgrounds. He is also a Certified DRUMBEAT Facilitator, bringing his musical expertise and passion for education to Drums in Recovery programs that use rhythm to build connection, confidence, and emotional well-being.

Deidre Bignall is a dedicated music educator with a background in both music and human resource management. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management and an Associate of Arts in Music Education and is a Certified DRUMBEAT Facilitator. Deidre serves as a music teacher with Orange County Public Schools, where she fosters creativity, confidence, and connection through music. She is passionate about creating inclusive learning environments and has provided music instruction for students with Autism through a Djembe Drum Group, using strategies that support diverse sensory needs and learning styles. Deidre has also led performing arts programs, coordinated school-wide music events, and taught both conga drumming and Broadway-style musical performances. Through her work with Drums in Recovery, Deidre brings her commitment to music education and supporting diverse learners to programs that use rhythm to build connection, confidence, and well-being.

Treasurer Carrie Bailey is a graduate of the University of Central Florida, where she earned a B.S. in Accounting and an M.S. in Taxation. She is a licensed Certified Public Accountant in the State of Florida and an active member of the Florida Institute of Certified Public Accountants, the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, and Beta Gamma Sigma. After fifteen years working with public accounting firms, Carrie opened her own practice in 2017. Her strong analytical and critical-thinking skills ensure efficiency and compliance across accounting, tax, and nonprofit regulations. She remains committed to continuous professional learning, allowing her to offer clients the most current and effective solutions in a constantly evolving field. Carrie balances her professional life with the joys of raising her daughter, who keeps her organizational and time-management skills well-refined. Carrie is the past President of the Central Florida Chapter of ISCEBS, has volunteered with DECA, participated in various pension study groups, and currently volunteers in several roles at daughter’s school. Carrie’s connection to Drums in Recovery began when she first brought her infant daughter to music classes taught by Ms. Marla—an experience that blossomed into a lasting friendship and deep commitment to the organization. As Treasurer of the Board of Directors, she is proud to support Drums in Recovery as it continues to grow and fulfill its mission.

Director Christina Kuchman is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and has been in the field of Social Work for 20 years. She has been afforded the opportunity to work in various settings with a diverse population of all ages. Some of the settings she has worked in include Aspire Health Partners as an Outpatient Therapist in Children's Unit, Coalition for the Homeless as a Therapist/Child Advocate under the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Program, Compass Counseling Services, LLC as Therapist/Clinical Director, Meridian Associates, LLC as Clinical Director and Accelerated Learning Solutions as a Family Support Specialist working with At-Risk Youth ages 16-21 years. Christina currently works in her own private practice Healing Pathways Counseling Services, LLC, and she is an Instructor with UCF School of Social Work. She became involved with Drums in Recovery and Drumbeat in Spring of 2022 after meeting Marla Stevenson and Debra Dauven at a Community Event for the opening of a local Recovery High School in Central Florida. The Drums in Recovery Program caught her eye right away and sounded truly inspiring. She was invited to attend the Drums in Recovery Group where she learned to play the djembe drum while growing in skills that strengthened her personally and professionally. She was then invited to join the Board in the Fall of 2022. She is truly honored to be a part of this amazing Team.

Director Vivianne Nieves joined Drums in Recovery in January 2023 as a DRUMBEAT Facilitator and now serves as a Senior Facilitator. A dedicated educator, Vivianne brings creativity, enthusiasm, and cultural awareness to every class she leads. She has a unique ability to engage participants through interactive activities while incorporating diverse cultural perspectives that enrich the learning experience and foster connection, understanding, and respect. Vivianne earned both a Bachelor of Arts in International Affairs and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Rollins College. She teaches high school Spanish where she inspires students through innovative teaching methods and a passion for language and culture. Her experiences as a U.S. Department of State Gilman Scholar, participation in study abroad and global leadership programs in Uganda and Rwanda, and service as a Global Volunteer at the Rosebud Lakota Reservation in South Dakota have further shaped her global perspective and approach to education. As a Senior Facilitator with Drums in Recovery, Vivianne combines her educational expertise with the power of rhythm to create engaging, inclusive environments where participants build confidence, strengthen relationships, and develop valuable social and emotional skills.

Marién A. Peña, Ph.D., is an expressive arts facilitator, educator, and dedicated member of the Drums in Recovery Board of Directors. She currently serves as a Clinical Social Work Intern with Drums in Recovery through her Master’s in Social Work program at the University of Central Florida. Marién is the founder of HEART Centered, where she provides expressive arts and eco-art experiences for children, educators, and communities. With extensive experience working with children, adults, and older adults, she brings a compassionate, trauma-informed approach to her work. She holds a Ph.D. in Applied Eco Psychology/Eco-Art Therapy, a Master’s in Education in Montessori Education, and a Bachelor’s in Art and Art History. She is certified in DRUMBEAT, Rhythm2Recovery Violence Prevention and Bullying Prevention, and expressive arts. Bilingual in English and Spanish, Marién brings creativity, cultural awareness, and a strong commitment to healing, connection, and community to her service with Drums in Recovery.

Kyle Broome serves as Project Manager and a member of the Board of Directors for Drums in Recovery, Inc. Kyle joined the organization as Project Manager in February 2025 and has since become an integral part of its program coordination, communications, and community outreach efforts. A certified DRUMBEAT and Rhythm2Recovery facilitator, Kyle brings firsthand knowledge of the rhythm-based programs at the heart of Drums in Recovery’s mission. Their work includes supporting program and grant reporting, maintaining data-tracking systems, developing email marketing campaigns, creating promotional and outreach materials, and coordinating sponsorship and fundraising efforts. Kyle is also a certified Yoga Nidra facilitator, classically trained upright bassist, and versatile composer, producer, and multi-instrumentalist. With a deep passion for music, mindfulness, and healing, Kyle is committed to sharing tools that promote emotional resilience, self-discovery, and personal growth. Kyle’s own recovery journey deeply informs their work and allows them to connect with others through authenticity, compassion, music, and community. They also remain actively involved in the recovery community through their service with Narcotics Anonymous. As a member of the Board of Directors, Kyle brings organizational knowledge, creativity, dependable follow-through, and a strong commitment to recovery and community service.