- Our Mission -
Where Strategy Meets Community
At Strategic Minds Chess Academy, our mission is to cultivate strategic thinking, discipline, and creativity through the game of chess. We provide engaging instruction, mentorship, and competition for players of all ages and skill levels, fostering confidence, focus, and lifelong learning. Through thoughtful play and community connection, we aim to build not just stronger players—but stronger minds.
Dr. Tony Whitt holds a Ph.D. in Innovation and Technology Management and an MBA, bringing deep expertise in IT adoption, implementation, and organizational growth. A lifelong learner and creative educator, Tony has taught private guitar instruction for over 20 years and previously held the title of chess expert.
Tony first met Dmitry in 2002—when Dmitry was already an accomplished chess master and Tony was just discovering the game. The two quickly became friends, connected by shared passions for chess, music, and information technology. Dmitry has been coaching chess and piano for more than two decades, helping students reach competitive success and artistic excellence.
Tony later met Anna Whitt on the island of Guam in 2018, where the two quickly connected over their shared enthusiasm for technology, music, and chess. Anna is an established IT Administrator with a strong background in systems management and a passion for continuous learning. Together, Tony, Anna and Dmitry have become a synergetic force, combining their expertise in IT, creativity, and education to grow Hive5’s community mission.
United by a shared belief that learning should inspire both the mind and spirit, Tony, Dmitry, and Anna founded Hive5’s Strategic Minds (Chess) and Harmonic Minds (Music) programs to empower individuals through strategy, creativity, and connection. Their collective mission is to build a thriving community where innovation and artistry move in harmony—one move, one note, and one mind at a time.
