Meet the Team

  • Danielle Kovachevich

    Founder & Lead Coach

  • Yvelette Stines

    Creative Content Consultant

  • Allison Kuhn

    Senior Etiquette Coach

  • Amy Garcia

    Amy Garcia

    Senior Etiquette Coach

  • Kelli Robinson

    Senior Etiquette Coach

  • Elizabeth Erickson

    Senior Etiquette Coach

  • Sue Posuniak

    DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Danielle Kovachevich | DAE Founder & Lead Coach | Project 2 Co-Founder

In today’s world, having good manners and knowing how to create positive social interactions are key to setting yourself apart. Certified Etiquette Instructor, Danielle Kovachevich specializes in helping professionals navigate the modern business world with social graces, bringing dignity and kindness to daily work. Her expertise includes: business etiquette and protocol, digital decorum, corporate consulting, fine dining, and strategic communication impact and skills. Recognized by the media as an expert in her field, Danielle is a regular commentator on local and national news outlets sharing how the DAE etiquette skill set can set YOU apart from your competition.

Danielle founded Detroit Academy of Etiquette after witnessing firsthand how targeted programming positively impacted her clients and helped them achieve a new level of success, in both their professional and personal lives. “When given the right tools, participants feel a new sense of confidence that helps them conquer any new venture, whether it be a new client, a new job, a new position, a sophisticated social soiree, or a first date. We’ve got you covered!” says Danielle.

Danielle’s wide-ranging client list includes a number of national and international corporations, a “who’s who” of Detroit’s top executives, professional sports teams, Universities as well as entry level professionals, graduates, school age children, or anyone looking to level up and outclass the competition. 

She earned her undergraduate and master’s degree in Curriculum and Education and Communications from Michigan State University and is certified in Etiquette Instruction by the Etiquette Institute of St. Louis.

Detroit Academy of Etiquette proudly partners with Project 2, a nonprofit organization designed to help women reenter the workforce after facing difficult challenges and set-backs. Danielle founded Project 2 with her business partner and friend, Allison Kuhn. She believes her targeted business and etiquette training will provide Project 2 participants with a skill-set and confidence that will allow them to reach their highest potential.

Danielle is married and the proud mom of four! She loves to have a houseful of family and friends, entertaining, laughing, using the fine china and opening the good bottle of wine. “Every day is a gift…let’s celebrate!”

Allison Kuhn | Senior Etiquette Coach | Project 2 Co-Founder

Allison Kuhn is an experienced marketing and advertising professional with more than twenty years’ experience in various industries. Having worked the client and sales sides of the conference table has made Allison an expert on client relations, an experience that informs and inspires her work as a DAE etiquette coach.

Allison is passionate about etiquette because it equips individuals with the tools to approach any situation with confidence and grace. “Etiquette is not about rigid rules, it’s about fostering kindness, respect, and understanding in every encounter. Sharing these skills allows me to inspire others to engage with the world in a thoughtful and impactful way.”

In addition to her experience in the corporate world, Allison’s teaching approach is also inspired by a philosophy of service. She has lent her talents to her children’s school as president of the Parent Service Organization and chairperson of the school’s largest annual fundraiser. 

Allison also co-founded Project 2, a women’s empowerment workshop. Throughout her career, she has been supported and encouraged by women in leadership. She decided to pay it forward by helping other women realize their full potential and live their best lives.

Allison is married with two children and a puppy. 

Amy Garcia | Senior Etiquette Coach

Amy Garcia is an experienced educator with more than 25 years in a science classroom with middle school students. At DAE, Amy marries her education background with an excitement for sharing her knowledge of etiquette.

“I am excited to teach people about etiquette because it gives them greater confidence in different social situations. Many people believe etiquette is about stuffy rules when in reality, it is about making people around you feel comfortable. Knowing what to do and what is expected in different work and social settings can allow you to relax more, have confidence, and focus on the bigger picture while building relationships at the same time.”

 Amy earned her Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Western Michigan University and then went on to earn her Masters in Curriculum and Instruction from Michigan State. She is also certified in Etiquette Instruction by the Detroit Academy of Etiquette.

 While raising her family, Amy has been actively involved in PTOs, athletic boosters, and serving her children’s schools in various ways. She has also enjoyed coaching her kids in sports and teaching Sunday School at her church.

 Amy is a native metro Detroiter who loves to spend time with family and friends, read, and be outside.  She lives with her husband, three kids, and their dog, Nacho.

Kelli Robinson | Senior Coach

Growing up in the South, Kelli Robinson was taught the importance of manners as they pertain to tea parties and social grace at a young age. Today, Kelli blends that knowledge with many years of experience in teaching and event & social media marketing to help further the mission of DAE.

“Having lived in different parts of the US, Europe and Asia, and observing people of all walks and cultures interact, I deeply believe in the transformative power of kindness and hospitality in fostering acceptance and connection,” notes Kelli.

In addition to her role as etiquette coach, Kelli is an active mom of four, a singer in a band, and avid world traveler. She also loves exploring Michigan with her family, from the newest Detroit hotspots to the natural beauty of the north.

Elizabeth Erickson | Senior Coach

Elizabeth Erickson is a dynamic etiquette coach and dedicated attorney who believes in the transformative power of kindness in today’s social landscape. Her teaching approach is rooted in the belief that etiquette is not merely about formalities but about cultivating genuine connections and respect among individuals. Elizabeth combines her legal expertise with her passion for interpersonal skills, offering clients a unique perspective on navigating both professional and social environments.

Elizabeth’s journey into etiquette coaching was inspired by her grandmother, a home economics professor. Her legacy of teaching and nurturing shaped Elizabeth’s philosophy: etiquette is about fostering kindness and understanding, rather than adhering to outdated traditions. Through her work, Elizabeth not only honors her grandmother’s legacy but also strives to inspire a new generation to approach every interaction with grace and confidence.

In her free time, Elizabeth loves to spend her time with friends and run, often training for a marathon.

Yvelette Stines | DAE Creative Content Consultant

Yvelette Stines is a writer, teacher, and storyteller whose work educates, entertains, and creates safe spaces for individuals to evolve, flourish, and mature, holistically. Stines’ work reaches a broad audience and has been featured in renowned publications including Essence, Business Insider, SHAPE, T Brand Studio of The New York Times, Mind Body Green, Healthline, The Source, and more. She is a thought leader and an accomplished author of seven books and journals related to lifestyle, health, and wellness.

Stines is a valuable asset to the DAE team, helping develop vision, purpose and meaningful content. She has a gift of bringing clarity and authenticity to the DAE projects and programs.

As a writer, Stines leverages her invaluable experience in both education and public relations to develop messaging that resonates with multiple generations. Understanding that her audience lived dynamic and unique experiences, she taps into her teaching background to lead them to translate intentions into action, driving them closer to the life that they want. Her workshops take participants through a journey of self-discovery to achieve meaningful mind, body, and soul change, without compromising their values and priorities. 

In addition to guiding individuals to become better versions of themselves, Stines amplifies her impact by advancing equity in health and wellness. She has developed well-received programs for women and children encouraging them to create and sustain wellness practices that inspire and motivate them to achieve an intentional and well-rounded lifestyle.

Stines prides herself on practicing what she preaches. She is continuously evolving, growing, and pivoting as more of her life’s purpose reveals itself. While living out her purpose and creating her legacy through writing, wellness, and teaching, Stines finds balance in enjoying other leisure activities including traveling, photography, exploring culinary arts, and spending time outdoors. She continues to live life with an aligned purpose and encourages others to do the same.  www.yvelettestines.com

Sue Posuniak | DAE Director of Operations

After a long career in education, Sue reinvented herself as an executive assistant. Sue dedicates her skill-set to various businesses and non-profit organizations, utilizing her keen sense of professionalism, top-notch organizational skills, and her gift of making people feel at ease. Those years in the classroom have helped her easily transition into the business arena where her role changes moment by moment.

Sue assists the DAE coaching staff with programming, venue details and logistics.

Sue loves to spend time with her family and friends doing anything outdoors. You can catch her playing volleyball, watching a soccer game or trying to get a decent shot on the golf course. She also works out with a trainer, so she can indulge in her love of food and drinks.