Reverend Adriene Thorne
Senior Minister, The Riverside Church in the City of New York
New York City Cohort
Reverend Adriene Thorne is the eighth Senior Minister of the historic and history-making Riverside Church in the City of New York, and the first African American woman to hold the position. She received her Master of Divinity degree from The Pacific School of Religion and completed post-graduate studies in Pastoral Care and Counseling at The Blanton-Peale Institute. Adriene is a healer, Presbyterian minister, and classically trained dancer who uses movement to heal bodies in the church and community. Her background in the performing arts includes credits with The Dance Theatre of Harlem, The Metropolitan Opera, and the world-famous Radio City Rockettes, among others. When she is not parenting, pastoring, creating, or mentoring, Adriene is probably scuba diving in a coral reef, on the squash court, or in the dance studio, fantasizing about what is newly possible. Adriene grounds her Christian practice and leadership in an appreciation for imperfection and leads with an understanding that even the resurrected Christ came back in a flawed body. When she is feeling open, though, Adriene will tell you that she has learned more about God from nature, art, and her child than from any classroom or book.
Allison Picott
Executive Director, The Lenny Zakim Fund
Boston Cohort
Allison Picott is a seasoned nonprofit leader with nearly 30 years of combined legal, nonprofit, and for-profit work and volunteer experience. She brings a unique set of skills and expertise to her work as the Executive Director of The Lenny Zakim Fund. Allison began her professional career as a law clerk to the Justices of the Massachusetts Superior Court, then spent the next five years as a litigation associate with Nixon Peabody and Prince Lobel & Tye. Desirous of a more personally gratifying career, Allison became a major gift fundraiser working for Phillips Academy Andover, the Walnut Hill School, and Boston College Law School. She then successfully combined her legal and fundraising work experience as a development consultant with The Wayland Group, and then as the founder of Advancement Advisers. Since 2018, Allison has worked at the intersection of nonprofit and philanthropy with two Boston-based intermediary organizations, The Social Innovation Forum and now The Lenny Zakim Fund, where she has served as Executive Director since 2022. Allison holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science from Trinity College in Hartford, CT and a J.D. from the University of Pittsburgh School of Law. She is the first African American alumna to serve on Andover’s Board of Trustees as an Alumni Trustee (from 2014 to 2018) and Charter Trustee (since 2022). Allison has the proud distinction of being the youngest recipient of Andover’s Distinguished Service Award. She also currently serves on the Hole in the Wall Gang Camp’s Board of Directors and as Vice President of the Empire Loan Charitable Foundation. On June 17, 2025, Allison will be recognized by YW Boston for her extraordinary leadership as one of their 2025 Academy of Women Achievers awardees. A long-time resident of Boston’s South End with her husband, Michael, Allison enjoys time with her dogs, cooking, traveling, Pilates, and boxing.
Antoinette Mims
Chief Financial Officer, National Network of Abortion Funds
Dallas Cohort
Antoinette Mims (she/her) is a Black, queer woman with nearly two decades of experience in nonprofit accounting and finance. She currently serves as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at the National Network of Abortion Funds (NNAF), an organization dedicated to removing financial and logistical barriers to abortion access. Antoinette is passionate about collaborating with organizations whose missions align with her vision of a society where all individuals have equal access to liberty. Outside of her professional endeavors, Antoinette enjoys traveling, savoring exquisite meals, indulging in whiskey-based cocktails, and spending quality time with family and friends.
Arthur Robinson
Director, Office of Community Engagement, Rhode Island Department of Labor & Training
Rhode Island Cohort
Arthur Robinson of Providence is the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training’s (DLT) Office of Community Engagement (OCE). The OCE aims to build meaningful two-way relationships with community representatives in order to ensure that all DLT services and programs are accessible, inclusive, and equitably distributed, with a focus on eliminating barriers and promoting access for historically marginalized and underserved communities. Arthur currently serves on the Board of Directors at the Community Action Partnership of Providence, as well as the Omni Development Corporation. He previously worked as a Probation Officer with the Rhode Island Department of Corrections, where he received the 2018 Community Corrections Award. Arthur earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Human Development and Family Studies at the University of Rhode Island, where he participated in the Talent Development Program. Arthur is a proud graduate of the Rhode Island Foundation Equity Leadership Initiative and hopes to utilize what he has learned to help make a positive impact on his community.
Ayesha Williams
Executive Director, The Laundromat Project
New York City Cohort
Ayesha Williams is the Executive Director of The Laundromat Project (The LP), a New York City community-based arts organization dedicated to making sustained investments in growing a community of multiracial, multigenerational, and multidisciplinary artists and neighbors committed to societal change. She is an arts professional with two decades of experience working with visual artists, presenting programs, and generating funding for commercial galleries and nonprofit institutions. Prior to The LP, she managed Visual Arts at Lincoln Center and served as the Director of Kent Gallery, New York. In addition to her professional experience, Ayesha is on the board of Rivers Institute for Contemporary Art & Thought and The Black School, and a member of Independent Curators International Independents. She completed the Stanford Impact Program for Arts Leaders and served as a Steering Committee member of the UN Women’s Conference in 2016. Ayesha received her Master’s degree in Visual Arts Administration from New York University and Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles.
Baionne Coleman
Chief Executive Officer & Principle, Rainier Valley Leadership Academy
Seattle Cohort
Baionne Coleman is the CEO & Principal of Rainier Valley Leadership Academy (RVLA). She has been an educator for 20 years and a community-based leader who works with scholars and families to decolonize education systems and provide a safe and inviting environment for them and other educators. Baionne believes that anti-racist systems led by global majority leaders, educators, families, and scholars will begin to dismantle systems of oppression, closing the opportunity and wealth gaps. She further believes social-emotional learning for adults is key to doing this work supporting global majority and abolitionist educators to support the families farthest from educational justice. Baionne has worked with the Committee for Children and Valor Compass, supporting the development of an anti-racist social-emotional curriculum. She has also consulted the University of Washington on various projects and was a graduate ambassador for Seattle University. Baionne founded Impact Public Schools, creating their social-emotional and educational model with colleague Pranti Kumar. She has supported the RVLA community by severing ties with a national charter management company to become the first anti-racist and Black-led charter school in Washington. Baionne holds certifications for teaching, special education, and administrative leadership with principal endorsements. She has presented at numerous local, national, and international conferences, ASCD, WA Charter Association, AMLE, and the National Principals Conference. She has also been on multiple panels and supports other organizations and schools to decolonize their systems and start their path to becoming anti-racist. Baionne holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science with a minor in Law, Society, and Justice from the University of Washington, a Master’s degree in Teaching from City University, and a Master’s degree in Educational Administration from Seattle University. She enjoys all things DIY, cooking, and spending time with her husband, four children, and extended family.
Christianne Malone
Chief Program Officer, TechTown & Assistant Vice President of Economic Development, Wayne State University
Detroit Cohort
Christianne Malone is the Chief Program Officer at TechTown and the Assistant Vice President of Economic Development at Wayne State University. A native Detroiter, Christianne brings over 15 years of small business and community development work to her roles, including leading transformational initiatives at the Detroit Regional Chamber, Ponyride, and the Build Institute. She has also contributed her knowledge and expertise to various collective impact initiatives and nonprofits in Detroit and across the region. Christianne holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and International Business from Xavier University in Ohio. She earned Diversity & Inclusion professional certificates from the University of Georgia and Northwestern University, and is also certified in DEI communications. When she’s not at TechTown, Christianne is hanging out with her husband and daughter or on the lacrosse field. An active professional, she is a past member of USA Lacrosse’s Executive Board of Directors and is the Co-Founder and President of Detroit United Lacrosse, a nonprofit focused on youth character education and development. Christianne is also a Level 3 certified coach, clinician, and coach development trainer.
Cornelius Finley
Founder & Chief Executive Officer, Access Unlimited
Dallas Cohort
As a trained lawyer, Cornelius Finley is the Founder of Access Unlimited (AU). AU has partnered with two major American school districts, thereby overseeing college and career readiness for over twenty schools, and has developed into a Comprehensive Management Organization, similar to that of a Charter Management Organization, developing an independent charter and private all-male Pre-K through 5th grade institutions. Cornelius has served as an adjunct professor at Columbia University, Tulane University, and St. Joseph College. He currently serves as an adjunct professor at Morehouse College. Seeking to embrace the metaphorical crown placed above his head via the high expectation of Mother Morehouse, Cornelius is a Fulbright Scholar/Specialist, a Gilman Scholar, and a U.S. Speaker Expert via the U.S. Department of State. Cornelius was also granted the opportunity to present and participate in the Race to the Top U.S. Department of Education Conference under the presidency of President Barack Obama. Cornelius was also nominated to attend the Forbes Under 30 Summit by New Profit Foundation and the NYC Mayor’s Office in 2016, all whilst speaking at the Inaugural Forbes Global Women’s Summit and being an invited participant of the Forbes Under 30 Global Summit in Israel and Jerusalem. Cornelius holds a Bachelor’s degree in English/Pre-Law, two law degrees, and is a prospective Doctor of Education degree candidate, focusing on Educational Leadership and Higher Education.
Courtney Underwood
Global Senior Vice President, People & Culture, Covenant House International
Dallas Cohort
With over 23 years of experience in human resources and leadership development, Courtney Underwood understands the unique challenges that nonprofits face when building and managing their teams. She currently serves as the Global Senior Vice President of People and Culture at Covenant House International, spearheading recruitment, retention, employee engagement, benefits management, training, and compliance. A proud Chicago native, Courtney graduated from DePaul University. She is an award-winning thought leader, noted public speaker, published author, SHRM Senior Certified Professional, and a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach. In addition to her current role, she leads Kassar Consulting, a management consulting firm. After serving domestic and international clients across several different industries, Courtney knew that she had to bring the proven strategies she created to heart-centered organizations with purpose. Outside of her professional commitments, Courtney spends quality time with her family, mentors youth, and explores her new hometown of Dallas, Texas.
Denella James Clark
President & Chief Executive Officer, Boston Arts Academy Foundation
Boston Cohort
Denella James Clark is a proud Jamaican immigrant who considers herself a servant leader and has spent the last 30+ years working for exemplary nonprofit institutions. She currently serves as President and CEO of the Boston Arts Academy Foundation, leading a dedicated staff and working alongside a passionate board to advance the organization’s mission of closing the funding gap for the City of Boston’s only public high school for the visual and performing arts. Ms. Clark also serves as the first Black woman to chair the Board of Trustees at Fontbonne Academy, an all-girls private school in which her daughter is an alumna. She is the current Co-Chair of the Campaign for Peace, a $25 million campaign, which includes constructing a building for the Louis D. Brown Peace Institute to support victims of homicide. Ms. Clark has received many awards and recognition, most recently as one of the Boston Business Journal’s “Women Who Mean Business.” Of all of her accomplishments, the one thing that matters to Ms. Clark is being mommy and chief to her son, Will, and her daughter, Cherina. She is also “Glammy” to four, and loves travel, shopping, and spas.
Eugenia Blackmon, Esq.
Executive Director, Global EEDI Strategy, AbbVie
New York City Cohort
Attorney and community leader Eugenia Blackmon, Esq. is a high-functioning professional that values relationships. Prior to joining AbbVie, Eugenia was General Counsel and Compliance Director for UniWorld Group Inc., the longest standing multicultural advertising agency in the United States, headquartered in Brooklyn, New York. Before working in advertising law, Eugenia was a Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions Senior Associate for the national office of PriceWaterhouseCoopers in Washington, D.C. Upon joining AbbVie, Eugenia expanded her expertise in digital marketing and led a digital transformation initiative for Allergan Aesthetics and Women’s Health. Now, she sits within AbbVie’s legal team and Office of Ethics & Compliance (OEC) as Executive Director, Global EEDI Strategy. Eugenia is optimistic about the possibilities for more inclusive corporate culture, as well as the opportunities for corporate leaders to leverage their expertise and knowledge for the benefit of those within marginalized communities. She is a wife to Edward of 15 years and mother to Elijah, 13, and Ember, 11.
Dr. Felisa Bryant
Executive Director, The IF Project
Seattle Cohort
Serving as The IF Project’s Executive Director, Dr. Felisa Bryant is a seasoned nonprofit leader with over 15 years of experience working with individuals who are currently or formerly incarcerated, providing support, advocacy, and guidance. Dr. Bryant has extensive experience in effective nonprofit management, strategic planning, diversity, equity and inclusion, and program development and implementation. Dr. Bryant has always been a fighter for individuals whose voices have been lost, ignored, or simply gone unheard. As a formerly incarcerated individual herself, Dr. Bryant knows firsthand that the needs of previously incarcerated women often go unacknowledged and unmet, and stands in a position of responsibility for those coming after her. She is also committed to centering the voices of incarcerated women and girls in the work of the organization, building on a 15-year legacy of programs co-designed with the women they serve. A tireless advocate for those furthest from opportunity, Dr. Bryant serves on Seattle University’s Crime and Justice Advisory Committee. She also serves on the Board of the Community Foundation of Snohomish County, and as Board President of Arms Around You, a nonprofit organization focused on providing people impacted by the justice system with reentry resources and referrals. Dr. Bryant earned her PhD in Psychology from Grand Canyon University and a Master of Science degree in Psychology from the University of Phoenix. Her dissertation was titled “Formerly Incarcerated Females’ Perception on Their Reentry Transition Back into Society: A Phenomenological Study.”
Geraldine (Gerri) Lawrence
Chief Operating Officer, Community Coalition
Los Angeles Cohort
Geraldine (Gerri) Lawrence joined Community Coalition in 2011 as a Program Assistant. Community Coalition, affectionately called CoCo by movement allies, is a social justice organization anchored in South Los Angeles. As an organization whose core values include leadership development, education, and training, Gerri’s hard work and commitment, along with institutional investments in these values, led to her appointment as CoCo’s Chief Operating Officer in 2022. As a member of the Executive Team, Gerri works collectively to advance a robust policy agenda, direct operations, and guide strategic direction to help build and sustain a strong political voice for low-income and working-class Black and Brown families in South LA. In her tenure, Gerri has leveraged her background as an artist and storyteller to support and co-lead multiple organizational endeavors, including the organization’s $6M capital campaign to renovate CoCo’s headquarters into a state-of-the-art facility, growing CoCo’s cultural organizing strategies through the execution of arts programming, fundraising for arts programming, and the creation of art pieces and installations. Gerri served as the lead artist for a community-driven photo collage consisting of hundreds of photos to commemorate the life of Trayvon Martin. This piece was featured on the calendar cover of the LA Times and was presented to Trayon’s parents as part of the Trayvon Martin Foundation. Born in LA and raised in housing projects in Pasadena, Gerri grew up seeing the inequitable conditions imposed on Black and Brown residents amidst an area of great affluence. These experiences shaped Gerri’s world outlook. Gerri grew up with a voracious appetite for reading, creative writing, and the arts. She studied Art at UCLA. After graduation, Gerri worked for both arts and educational nonprofits. She unexpectedly found her niche and voice working alongside the South LA community, a politically crucial region for Los Angeles and the country.
Gregory Davis
Managing Strategist, Rainier Beach Action Coalition
Seattle Cohort
Gregory Davis serves as the Managing Strategist at Rainier Beach Action Coalition (RBAC). An organizer in urban planner’s clothing since 1990, and a diplomatic, poised observer, Davis manages strategy for the RBAC. Focused on neighborhood engagement and empowerment, RBAC stewards the Rainier Beach neighborhood plan and organizes residents, particularly youth and organizations, to implement the strategies in the neighborhood plan. The innovative initiatives Mr. Davis has helped birth in an effort to advance Rainier Beach include: Rainier Beach – A Beautiful Safe Place for Youth (founding member, 2010), Rainier Beach Restorative Justice project (2015), Corner Greeters, which has resulted in a 40% reduction in crime and 30% stay in crime since inception (founding member with RB neighborhood youth, 2013), and the Targeted Local Hire Campaign (2012), which resulted in the Priority Hire ordinance within the city of Seattle – and eventually spread to King County, Port of Seattle, Seattle Public Schools and Sound Transit as Lead Adviser, and Transit Justice Youth Leadership (2010), which resulted in all high school and middle school students in the city of Seattle getting free ORCA cards with Mr. Davis serving as Co-Founder with Senator Rebecca Saldana, the Seattle Mix Zoning designation for Rainier Beach Light Rail Station Area (2016), and the Sugary Beverage Tax, which contributes resources to education and food justice efforts. Mr. Davis hails from West Compton, California, and has been a Seattle resident since 1984. He loves sports, especially track and basketball, jazz, classic, and R&B music, visual, performing, and culinary arts, gardening (his favorite flowers are Geraniums), and supporting young people’s aspirations through mentoring.
Josalyn P. Ford
Chief Advancement Officer, Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle
Seattle Cohort
Josalyn P. Ford serves as the Chief Advancement Officer at the Urban League of Metropolitan Seattle. Her purpose-driven work is to ensure racial equity and social justice are fully embedded and embraced by the philanthropic community and with the overall community in mind.
Kamilia Landrum
Executive Director, Detroit Branch NAACP
Detroit Cohort
Kamilia Landrum is a top millennial leader in Detroit’s nonprofit industry. She is the youngest Executive Director in the history of the NAACP Detroit branch, which is known for its extraordinary leadership and membership base, robust community engagement, and iconic Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner. In her 20-year commitment to the Association, Kamilia has been at the forefront of social justice advocacy issues, from the fight to uphold Affirmative Action to historical legislation such as Promote the Vote, which expanded voting access for millions of Michiganders. Kamilia oversees the implementation of strategic partnerships along with programming and fundraising for the Association’s five game-changers: education, economic sustainability, criminal justice, civic engagement, and health and healthcare access. In her first year as Executive Director, Kamilia hosted the 110th NAACP National Convention in Detroit, MI, which brought 10,000 people to the city and over $11.5 million in economic impact to the region. Most recently, she led the coordination of the historic June Jubilee celebration, which brought over 15,000 people together to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the March Down Woodward where Dr. King first delivered the “I Have A Dream” speech, and for the first time ever, included a combined celebration with the Annual Fight for Freedom Fund Dinner. Kamilia’s leadership skills and dedication have earned her numerous awards and recognition for her work in the community. Additionally, she serves on the Board of Directors for Detroit Future City, Michigan Education Commission of the States, Metropolitan Affairs Council, Black Leaders Detroit Funding Board, Michigan League of Conservation Voters, and the Michigan Supreme Court Attorney Discipline Board. Kamilia is also a current member of the Detroit Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. and the Renaissance (MI) Chapter of the Links, Inc., a small business owner, and an HBCU graduate.
Dr. Twila Ainsworth-Comfort
Partner, Detroit Children’s Fund
Detroit Cohort
Dr. Twila Ainsworth-Comfort is a nonprofit leader, education expert, and turnaround strategist. She brings a wealth of experience in urban education reform, executive leadership coaching, research, and practice. Dr. Ainsworth-Comfort’s professional repertoire as a partner, principal, program director, professor, instructional coach, curriculum developer, and research practitioner includes expertise in: 1) leadership of the overall administration, strategy, programming, partnerships, grants management, data analytics, and the financial management of a multimillion-dollar educational nonprofit; 2) facilitating executive coaching and professional development trainings for CEOs, superintendents, executive leaders at the university, district, and school levels; 3) managing strategic partnerships and synergizing the worlds of education, philanthropy, universities, and local businesses; 4) co-founding and directing a diversity, inclusion, anti-racist, and equity fellowship for district leadership and school staff that honors student identities by drawing upon culturally-relevant, equity-based frameworks and the intersectionality of social identities and systems of power; and 5) teaching multicultural and community graduate courses. Ultimately, Dr. Ainsworth-Comfort believes in the brilliance, beauty, and untapped potential of Black children, particularly those who come from the most under-resourced communities. As a native Detroiter and a devout urban educator, she has committed her career to honoring, educating, and empowering students to be the next generation of leaders that their families, communities, future industries, and cities need.
Dr. Maisha Beasley
Executive Director, Project Sankofa Inc.
Los Angeles Cohort
Dr. Maisha Beasley, a Livermore native, graduated from San Diego State University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication Studies, the University of the Pacific with a Master of Arts degree in Higher Education Administration, and the University of San Francisco with an Ed.D. in International and Multicultural Education. For over 20 years, Dr. Beasley has curated a professional career building sustainable programming for colleges, universities, school districts, and small businesses. Her professional experiences also include working in the educational technology field, building online orientation courses for new graduate students with universities across the country. These experiences led Dr. Beasley to steep her passion, education, and experiences into serving the intersections of her communities as an edupreneur. Dr. Beasley founded Project Sankofa Inc., a nonprofit focused on addressing the critical underrepresentation of Black educators in suburban and rural communities by establishing a dynamic pipeline program that places credentialed Black educators in these areas. This initiative not only seeks to fill gaps, but to position Black educators as leaders and changemakers in their communities, providing African American students in suburban communities with social, emotional, and college preparation skills. In addition to serving as the executive director of Project Sankofa Inc., Dr. Beasley co-authored a chapter of the book Cases on Academic Program Redesign for Greater Racial and Social Justice, titled “Make Space, Take Space: An Exploration of Academic Counter-Spaces for Black Collegiate Women.” Dr. Beasley is a compassionate leader, an engaging speaker, and a lifelong student of the field of education. Her experience and personable demeanor make her a relatable professional with the ability to touch people’s hearts, enhance their knowledge, and motivate them to think about ideologies and practices differently.
Dr. Marlo Rencher
President, Detroit Means Business, Detroit Economic Growth Corporation
Detroit Cohort
Dr. Marlo Rencher is an entrepreneur, anthropologist, and educator with over two decades of experience in startup and small business development. She currently serves as President of Detroit Means Business, an organization that champions the success of small businesses and entrepreneurs. Dr. Rencher co-founded Commune Angels, an inclusive network of angel investors. Previously, she was TechTown Detroit’s Senior Director of Technology-based Programs. Dr. Rencher has also founded or co-founded three tech startups, and was the co-author of digitalundivided’s 2016 #ProjectDiane report, which provided groundbreaking insight into the funding gap for Black women tech founders. She is currently engaged in deeper research on Black women tech founders. Dr. Rencher earned an undergraduate degree in Marketing from Michigan State University, an MBA from the Ross School of Business at the University of Michigan, and a PhD in Business and Organizational Anthropology from Wayne State University. She frequently speaks on technology entrepreneurship and inclusion, and has been a presenter at Harvard University, TEDxDetroit, Princeton University, and SXSW. Dr. Rencher was named one of Michigan’s 100 Most Influential Women by Crain’s Detroit Business in 2021.
Michael J. Bobbitt
Executive Director, Mass Cultural Council
Boston Cohort
Mass Cultural Council Executive Director Michael J. Bobbitt is the highest-ranking cultural official in Massachusetts’ state government. Since his appointment in February 2021, the Council has made significant strides, including crafting its first Racial Equity Plan, securing and distributing a historic $60.1M in state pandemic relief for the cultural sector, and crafting and adopting its FY24-FY26 Strategic Plan. Michael’s prior roles as Artistic Director at New Repertory Theatre in Massachusetts and Adventure Theatre – MTC in Maryland established him as a driving force in professional regional theater and theater training. In 2023, he was appointed by Massachusetts Governor Maura Healey to serve on her Advisory Council on Black Empowerment. Michael’s extensive arts management, business, and race equity training includes programs at Harvard Business School, Harvard Kennedy School, Cornell University, LEADBoston, artEquity, and National Arts Strategies, culminating in achievements for his dedication to the arts and educational theater, including the Kennedy Center Gold Medallion. His contributions have earned him recognition as one of Boston’s Most Influential Men of Color by Get Konnected!, Boston Business Journal’s 2023 Power 50 Movement Makers, and induction into the College of Fellows of the American Theatre. Additionally, Michael’s impact has resonated through his directorial and choreographic prowess as showcased in renowned theaters nationwide and internationally, alongside his written works, which have been featured in festivals and published by Concord Theatricals and Plays for Young Audiences. His commitment to the arts has been acknowledged with awards like the Excel Leadership Award from the Center for Nonprofit Advancement, the Emerging Leader Award for Montgomery County Executive’s Excellence in the Arts and Humanities, MassOpera’s Action Bearing Award, and OrigiNation Cultural Arts Center’s Sojourner Truth Award, honoring his exceptional contributions to cultural enrichment and innovative leadership.
Michelle Wilson
Chief of the Health Equity Institute, Rhode Island Department of Health
Rhode Island Cohort
Michelle Wilson has over 30 years of professional experience in the public, private, and not-for-profit sectors, building systems that center community, health justice, innovation, and equitable practices. Michelle has spent the last 14 years of her career at the Rhode Island Department of Health, including six years in emergency response. Michelle currently serves as Chief of the Health Equity Institute (HEI), where she leads several cross-cutting initiatives at the intersection of race, policy, and the social determinants of health. Within the HEI, Michelle’s work includes managing staff and overseeing programming for the state’s Office of Minority Health and Office of Refugee Health programs, training for compliance with Culturally and Linguistically Appropriate Services Standards and the American with Disabilities Act, and providing capacity-building supports within RIDOH and across state agencies on policies, systems, and frameworks intended to advance racial equity and health justice. Michelle serves as a mentor with Brown University’s School of Public Health, Health Equity Scholars Program and is a member of the University’s Advance RI Clinical and Translational Research Community Action Advisory Board. Michelle also serves on the Board of Beautiful Day, a social enterprise that connects refugees and the community through business, job training, and education. Michelle is a graduate of Howard University in Washington, D.C., where she received a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration. She is the proud mother of two young men with career interests in service to their country and humanity. In her spare time, Michelle likes to explore different cultures by way of travel, cooking, and the arts.
Nathan Christopher Pierce
Culture & Diversity Engagement Specialist, Tata Consultancy Services
Dallas Cohort
Nathan Christopher Pierce was born in Detroit, Michigan to a strong single woman in 1981. He was raised in the church with a Christian foundation and loves to be around close friends that are like family. After graduating from high school, Nathan left the state of Michigan to attend Alabama A&M University, where he received an academic and music scholarship to pursue his undergraduate degree. He became a member of the Student Government Association and joined Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. After graduating from Alabama A&M, Nathan began his career in human resources, which has taken him from Washington, D.C. (where he met his wife) to Columbus, Ohio and Dallas, Texas. Throughout this time, Nathan has worked for nonprofit organizations like the American Red Cross and the American Chemical Society, and for-profit companies like Express and his current employer, Tata Consultancy Services, where he now works as a Culture & Diversity Engagement Specialist. When he’s not working, Nathan enjoys spending time with his wife and three daughters, and loves to go to movies and watch NBA basketball.
Nicole Wilson
Executive Director, The Yunion
Detroit Cohort
Nicole Wilson has dedicated over 20 years to The Yunion, a Detroit-based nonprofit she co-founded and leads as Executive Director. Known affectionately as The Yunion’s “Mother in Chief”, Nicole brings a compassionate, holistic approach to leadership, grounded in her background as a Registered Nurse and her Master’s degree in Health Care Management. At the heart of her work is a commitment to the well-being of the whole child, addressing youth mental, physical, and emotional health through culturally relevant, trauma-informed programs. Under Nicole’s leadership, The Yunion has served over 10,000 youth and families, building a reputation as a trusted community resource. Her visionary approach has led to impactful mental health initiatives, including Hope 911 for adolescent suicide prevention and Sticks and Stones for bullying prevention, both with 12-week practice curricula. Nicole also oversees The Cave of Adullam, an emotional stability training program for young boys of color, which was featured in The Cave documentary – winner of Best Documentary at the 2022 Tribeca Film Festival – and now streaming on ESPN+. Nicole’s accomplishments reflect her deep commitment to equity and sustainability in youth services. She has helped secure nearly $20 million in funding and has forged over 36 community partnerships, expanding The Yunion’s reach. Nicole is an active leader in Detroit’s nonprofit community, serving as Vice Chair of the Black Executive Directors Alliance of Detroit (BEDAD). In 2024, she was honored as one of the Michigan Chronicle’s Standout Black Nonprofit Leaders and earned a certificate from Stanford’s Executive Program for Nonprofit Leaders. One of Nicole’s most prized roles is as the proud wife of Jason and mother to Alexis and Jason.
Dr. Omari Keeles
Senior Director for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging, Cornell Tech, Cornell University
New York City Cohort
Dr. Omari Keeles is the Senior Director for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Cornell Tech of Cornell University. His role is to develop and implement a vision for inclusion, equity, and belonging priorities across the campus in support of students, faculty, and staff of all identities and backgrounds. Omari has considerable experience with diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and initiatives. In his role as an Assistant Director for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Northwestern University, Omari developed and implemented initiatives around inclusion, equity, and diversity for faculty at all levels. Omari’s most recent role was the Director for Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging at Poly Prep Country Day School in Brooklyn, New York, where he was responsible for creating, fostering, leading, and advocating for the school’s diversity, equity, inclusion, and social justice programs and policies. Omari is also an adjunct professor in the Program of Public Health at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and the Department of Psychology at the University of Miami, as well as an Associate Consultant with ADR Consulting Group, LLC. Omari earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology from Howard University, a Master of Public Health degree from The George Washington University, a Master of Arts degree and Ed.M. in Psychological Counseling from Teachers College at Columbia University, and a Master of Science degree in Psychology and a Ph.D. in Education and Psychology from the University of Michigan. He also holds a certificate in French Language and Culture from the Université de Bourgogne (University of Burgundy) and participated in the Summer School on Black Europe in Amsterdam.
Otelia Jamecca Marshall
Deputy Executive Director, Bridge Builders Foundation
Los Angeles Cohort
Over the past 20 years, Ms. Otelia Jamecca Marshall has exhibited exceptional leadership, impressive expertise in designing and implementing effective programming, an undeniable flair for organizing diverse stakeholders for impact, and laudable success in building strong organizations. Ms. Marshall holds two Master’s degrees from George Washington University in Policy History and Public Policy with a focus on Social Welfare Policy and Bureaucracy Reform. As a former foster youth, she earned an undergraduate degree with honors from Stanford University in American History with a specialization in Race and Ethnicity. Born in Los Angeles and raised in both Los Angeles and Hazlehurst, Mississippi, Ms. Marshall has devoted her career to empowering Black and Brown leaders across multiple sectors and various spheres. In addition to leading several influential policy organizations in California, Ms. Marshall launched her consulting firm in 2017, dedicated to developing small- and mid-size Black and Brown-led nonprofits. Ms. Marshall envisions a society where every citizen, regardless of background, has equal access to academic success and the American Dream. Beyond her professional commitments, Ms. Marshall passionately supports the arts, travels, engages in politics, and volunteers across Los Angeles. Above all else, she enjoys spending time with her sister and her son.
Princess Sirleaf Bomba
Director of Equity, Community & Belonging, The Wheeler School
Rhode Island Cohort
Princess Sirleaf Bomba has been an advocate for social justice and education for almost 29 years. She is the Director of Equity, Community & Belonging at The Wheeler School, a coeducational independent day school in Providence, Rhode Island. Prior to this, Princess was the Educational Services Coordinator for the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families, where she advocated for the right to free and appropriate education for children placed in state custody. Princess began her career in higher education as an admissions professional for Rhode Island College. During her tenure at RIC, Princess oversaw a myriad of admissions programs for non-traditional students and taught a foundational course to students transitioning to post-secondary education. Formerly, Princess served on the Board of Trustees for The Wheeler School, Rhode Island Public Transit Authority, The Rhode Island Assault on Illiteracy Project, the Board of Directors of Youth in Action, The Center for Reconciliation, and The UCAP School, an independent public school in Providence. She also serves as a mentor for the Young Women’s Equity Coalition. Princess currently serves on the Board of Our Sister’s School in New Bedford, Massachusetts. In May 2022, Princess was awarded The Wheeler School’s Trustees Award, and later that year, she was also awarded the Adoption Rhode Island Children First and Always Award. Princess earned her Bachelor of Arts degree from Rhode Island College in 1989 and a Master of Arts degree in Counseling from Rhode Island College in 1996. Princess is a member of Ebenezer Baptist Church in Providence, where she serves as a Sunday School teacher, and lives in Rumford, Rhode Island with her husband and two sons.
Ralph Tavares Jr.
Vice President for Equity & Inclusive Excellence, Storbeck Search, Diversified Search Group
Rhode Island Cohort
Ralph Tavares Jr. (he/him/his) is a visionary problem solver who meets challenges with enthusiasm and an open heart. He is the Vice President for Equity & Inclusive Excellence at Storbeck Search, Diversified Search Group, where he helps build strategy and training to ensure colleges, universities, and independent schools are working towards their diversity, equity, and inclusion goals. Spending nearly two decades bridging equity and access to higher education for students of color, Ralph has worked with Salve Regina University, Providence College, and Roger Williams University School of Law. He has played critical roles in developing multicultural recruitment, retention, and mentoring plans and programs. Ralph is the founder and CEO of Upstream DEI Strategies, a lead consultant with Huckel Inclusive, former President and a member of the advisory board of Diversity and Inclusion Professionals (DAIP), a member of the planning committee for the National Partnership for Educational Access Annual Conference, board member of the Diversity Business Expo in Rhode Island, and member-emeritus of the Northeast Consortium Bridging Access to College (NECBAC). He is a graduate of Leadership Rhode Island’s Rho II cohort, and a recent graduate of the Rhode Island Foundation’s Equity Leadership Initiative. He is the recipient of the 2022 MVP Award from Storbeck Search, the 2021 Dean’s Distinguished Service Award from Roger Williams University School of Law, the 2021 Diversity Champion Award from Providence Business News, the 2019 Torchbearer Award from Providence College, and the 2015 Founder’s Award from the New England Counselors of Color Bridging Access to College. Ralph is a Providence College graduate with a Bachelor of Arts degree in English with a concentration in Black Studies, Women’s Studies, and Business, and a Master’s degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Strategic Management and Innovation from Salve Regina University.
Ramik Williams
Co-Executive Director, Kings Against Violence Initiative
New York City Cohort
Ramik Williams is an Adjunct Professor at the City University of New York and Co-Executive Director at the Kings Against Violence Initiative (KAVI). This nonprofit youth development organization aims to eliminate interpersonal violence from young people’s lives using healing-centered approaches that offer young people pathways to thrive. KAVI envisions a world where young people are valued as vital assets, empowered as creative problem-solvers, and embraced as partners in building safer, more just, and more connected communities. Ramik joined KAVI in 2022 as an expert, advocate, and evangelist of the K-16 education and workforce and youth development ecosystems. He has dedicated his career to eliminating racial disparities in economic, educational, and health systems for communities of color. Ramik grounds this work by leading organizations, programs, and initiatives designed to increase the activation of, and investment in, oppressed communities. Before joining KAVI, Ramik held executive and senior positions in philanthropic, research institutions, and service organizations. He led the effort to diversify the teaching population within New York City’s Public Schools by implementing the now-known NYC Men Teach program while serving as the Project Manager of the CUNY Black Male Initiative’s Teachers as Leaders Project. Since then, Ramik has led similar national efforts to diversify the STEM sector, and has lectured at Bard College and the Harvard Kennedy School. Ramik is currently on the Youth and Family Council of the Center for Reducing Racial and Ethnic Disparities in Juvenile Justice at Georgetown University and operates his own boutique consulting firm, Doing Good Business Well. Ramik holds a Master of Public Administration degree, a Bachelor of Arts degree in History, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Secondary Education from Fredonia College. He has also completed the Executive Level Program for Nonprofit Management at Columbia University’s Graduate School of Business, and is currently considering doctoral programs.
Rashad O. Cope
Deputy Chief, Worker Empowerment Cabinet, City of Boston
Boston Cohort
Rashad O. Cope serves as the Deputy Chief of the Worker Empowerment Cabinet for the City of Boston, where he provides guidance and oversight of initiatives to enhance workforce development, expand youth employment opportunities, and foster strategic partnerships that create pathways to economic equity and empowerment. A champion for addressing systemic inequities, Rashad offers instrumental support in advancing strategies that improve access and outcomes for residents and youth, particularly in Boston’s early career programs. His work spans public relations and workforce preparation, including educational training, job readiness, financial empowerment, and workforce grant initiatives for employers, training providers, and local job seekers. Dedicated to civic involvement, Rashad connects constituents with essential services and elevates community engagement. A proud Boston native and graduate of Boston Public Schools, Rashad credits his formative experiences at the BCYF Shelburne Community Center with shaping his deep commitment to service and leadership. He holds an MBA from Fitchburg State University, an MS Ed. in Education Studies, and a Graduate Certificate in Nonprofit Organizational Leadership from Boston University’s Wheelock College of Education and Human Development. Rashad finds joy in sports, fitness, church, reading a good book, watching a good TV series, and spending time with family and friends. His motivation is rooted in his mother’s nearly 40-year public human service legacy, his unique triplet experience, and his most cherished role as a devoted father to his son, Tavaj O. Cope.
Shalimar Gonzales
Chief Executive Officer, Solid Ground
Seattle Cohort
Shalimar Gonzales joined Solid Ground as Chief Executive Officer in January 2021. Her down-to-earth charisma belies a foundation of rigorous leadership development. Prior to joining Solid Ground, Shalimar served as District Executive for the YMCA of Greater Seattle, overseeing operations across five locations and 500 staff. During her 17-year career with the YMCA, Shalimar led diversity, inclusion, global capacity building, international partnerships, and more. Shalimar is the current Board Chair of the Washington State Community Action Partnership and Immediate Past Chair of the Community Roots Housing board.
Shane Woods
Executive Director, Girlstart
Dallas Cohort
Shane Woods began her career as a middle school science teacher in the Fort Worth Independent School District. In her 17 years with the district, Shane was able to make her mark in every position she held, from Department Chair to leading the entire district as the K-12 Science Director, overseeing curriculum and assessment development while supporting teachers in honing their skills through year-long professional learning opportunities. From 2019 to 2022, Shane acted as the Senior Director of the Girl Scouts of Northeast Texas STEM Center of Excellence, which is a 92-acre living laboratory where kids of all ages can explore and develop their competence and confidence in science, technology, engineering and math – all while cultivating essential skills, such as confidence, resilience, leadership, risk taking, and problem solving. In her current role, Shane serves as the Executive Director for Girlstart, a nonprofit focused on empowering girls in science, technology, engineering, and math. She remains active in the formal and informal education community as a highly sought after, nationally recognized, and award-winning leader and speaker in science education, equity in STEM, and leadership. She has made appearances on several podcasts, such as Quietly Visible, and enjoys teaching as a part of a panel for nonprofits like Play Like A Girl. Shane holds leadership positions in Dallas Afterschool, American Camp Association, and the Texas Girls Collaborative Project.
Shawn Brown
Executive Director, Youth Guidance Boston (BAM & WOW)
Boston Cohort
Shawn Brown joined Youth Guidance in 2017 as Founding Executive Director of the Becoming A Man (BAM) program in Boston, having previously served in the same capacity with Diamond Educators Mentoring, an organization he founded that is dedicated to improving academic performance of low-income and at-risk youth. Shawn has a passion for mentoring and more than 25 years of experience in the field of youth development and nonprofit leadership in Boston. As Executive Director of Youth Guidance Boston (BAM & WOW), Shawn oversees the Boston program, which provides school-based counseling services and mentorship to over 1,100 young men and women – predominantly young men and women of color – in 16 public schools across Greater Boston. Shawn’s expertise and contributions to the field of youth development have landed him on national panels hosted by My Brother’s Keeper Alliance with President Obama, the Hunt Institute (Race and Education), Northwell Health (Gun Violence Prevention Forum), CNN, and NAACP Boston to discuss issues such as race, education, and equity as they relate to youth. Shawn received a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Merrimack College and holds a Nonprofit Management and Leadership Certificate from Boston University’s School of Management.
Tanishia G. Harris
Division Director of Diversion & Care Management Programs, Los Angeles County Justice, Care & Opportunities Department
Los Angeles Cohort
Tanishia G. Harris is the Division Director of Diversion and Care Management Programs for the Los Angeles County Justice, Care, and Opportunities Department. As a social justice advocate and proven leader with a results-oriented and equitable management style, Tanishia develops, implements, and oversees behavioral health programs, employment services programs, and educational programs for more than 30,000 justice-involved individuals in Los Angeles County. Most recently, Tanishia was the Director of the Bureau of Victim Services with the LA County District Attorney’s Office. The Bureau of Victim Services is the largest victim services program in the United States, servicing over 25,000 victims of crime and 600 witnesses each year. As a true Los Angeles native, Tanishia is committed to connecting people with the services and support that they need during a time of crisis, or after reentry into society after being involved with the justice system. She is deeply committed to addressing health disparities and creating meaningful opportunities for vulnerable populations. Tanishia has a Master of Science degree in Counseling Psychology from Mount Saint Mary’s University in Los Angeles and a post-Master of Science degree in Trauma-Informed Care from Grand Canyon University in Phoenix. She received her Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of California, Los Angeles. Harris is a mother, author, lover of all things nature, and a 200-hour certified yoga instructor trained in Mindful meditation who enjoys traveling and experiencing new food eateries across the country.
Dr. Vincent T. Harris
Associate Dean & Director, Brown Center for Students of Color, Brown University
Rhode Island Cohort
Dr. Vincent T. Harris is a brother, son, partner, future father, and source raised in Birmingham, Alabama, one of the birthplaces of the Civil Rights Movement. As of June 2021, Dr. Harris serves as the Associate Dean and Director of the Brown Center for Students of Color at Brown University. He is an experienced higher education administrator-scholar whose professional and research track record restores and explores the lived experiences of undergraduate and graduate students of color as it relates to the intersection of gender, ethnicity, identity (sexual orientation), masculinities, and reimagining acceptance. In 2020, Dr. Harris founded Acceptance Reimagined, an LLC that centers an individual’s acceptance, leading to shifts in one’s approach to equity and inclusion. His work unapologetically centers Black men who identify as gay, bisexual, men of trans experience, queer, or questioning (GBTQQ). For five years, Dr. Harris served as California State University, Fullerton’s inaugural Director of the Male Success Initiative Center for Men of Color. In 2015, Dr. Harris completed his post-doc employment at Harvard University as an Administrative Fellow in the Harvard College Women’s Center, through the Harvard University Office of Institutional Diversity & Equity. Also in 2015, he earned his Ph.D. from Louisiana State University in the Educational Leadership & Research Program, focusing on Higher Education with a minor in Women & Gender Studies. Dr. Harris received a M.Ed. in College Student Personnel from Ohio University in 2012, and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Mass Communication with a minor in Marketing from Auburn University in 2006. Dr. Harris is also a Teach For America ’07 Houston alumni corps member. In his spare time, he loves to play with his playful 12-year-old black pug named Frankie and express his love for music on the karaoke stage, all while making valiant attempts to stick to his weekly jogging and workout schedule.
Vonya Quarles
Executive Director, Starting Over, Inc.
Los Angeles Cohort
Vonya Quarles grew up in Southern California and moved all over Los Angeles County the first 20 years of her life. Vonya worked in an oil refinery for 19 years while she went to school and earned a Bachelor’s degree, and then went on to earn a law degree. Due to her history of misdemeanor and felony criminal convictions, Vonya was limited on what law school she could go to; all of them told her that she would probably never be allowed to practice law, but one school let her in and Vonya was eventually allowed to. This was right after Vonya and her partner created Starting Over, Inc. to help people in the Los Angeles area by providing temporary and sober living environments. Vonya worked to build the organization up and now serves as the Executive Director. She currently lives in Riverside County, where she spends her time challenging and fighting systems that create health disparities. Vonya has worked in the criminal justice space with a keen focus on the intersections of housing, family, and economic justice. She sits on the Boards of the California Black Power Network, A New Way of Life, All About Change, and IE United. Vonya is co-creating the Ruchelle Cinque Magee Community Land Trust in honor of Ruchelle Cinque Magee to provide homeownership opportunities to returning residents. She continues to enjoy her work, building bridges of hope and opportunity, and being with family and community. Vonya has six children and 13 beautiful grandchildren, and enjoys reading and listening.
Alex Johnson
Amanda Seider
Andre Ebron
Dr. Angela Griffin
Antoine D. Jackson
AyeNay Abye
Chidinma Ume
Derek Steele
Jerry Hawkins
John Dobard
Kevin Mondy
Kilah Walters-Clinton
Kimberly R. Lyle
Dr. LaChelle Cunningham
LaTrice McClendon
Lauri Smalls
Michelle Merriweather
Monica Roberts
Nicholas Hamilton-Archer
Nirva R. LaFortune
Paige Clausius-Parks
Rahsaan Hall
Reginald Jean
Rodrigua Ross
Stasha Espinosa
Tamyra Gordon
Tiphany Pugh
Zamzam Mohamed
Alexis Coleman
Antong Lucky
April Allen
Carlon Howard
Charles Carter, Jr.
Charmane Higgins
David Noguera
Ibn Hashim Bakari
Kerry Bowie
Lisa Fortenberry
Lisa Ranglin
Michele Broadnax
Nakia Douglas
Nadine Dechausay
Natanja Oquendo
Ronnie Thomas
Shawndell Burney-Speaks
Starr Thompson
Weayonnoh Nelson-Davies