Trevor is a Senior Partner at New Profit. He previously led New Profit’s Portfolio Investing activities and also sat on the organization’s Operating Council. Prior to that role, he was the lead Partner for the Personalized Learning Initiative.

Trevor is an experienced growth advisor that has worked both domestically and abroad in an array of industries and functional areas. He was a Partner at Next Street, where he advised business owners and nonprofits on growth strategies, operations, and organizational development priorities.

Prior to Next Street, Trevor worked at The Monitor Group, where he managed teams of consultants on strategic growth projects for Fortune 1000 clients. During his time at Monitor, Trevor also oversaw Monitor’s graduate, undergraduate, diversity and experienced-hire recruiting operations for the U.S. Trevor graduated from Tufts University with a BA in Economics and holds an MBA from the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia.

Though originally from the Greater Hartford, CT, area, Trevor now lives in Miami, FL, with his wife, Marice, three children, Maria-Paz, Mariana, and Ian, and Goldendoodle Bacon.

Dorinda Carter Andrews is a professor and chairperson of the Department of Teacher Education at Michigan State University. She earned a B.S.I.E. from Georgia Tech, M.Ed. from Vanderbilt University, and an Ed.M. and Ed.D. from Harvard University. Her research is broadly focused on Black education and racial equity and justice in P-20 learning environments. She utilizes critical racial and Black feminist/womanist frameworks and methodologies to examine issues of race, culture, and power in schools.

Dr. Carter Andrews works with school districts, universities, municipalities, corporations, and civic organizations on how to develop and maintain culturally responsive, inclusive, and equitable learning and work environments. She is a former industrial engineer, high school math teacher, and kindergarten teacher and has teaching experience in suburban, urban, charter, and independent schools.

In addition to numerous honors, Dr. Carter Andrews has given two TEDx talks on education – one entitled, “The Consciousness Gap in Education: An Equity Imperative” and another entitled, “Teach Kids to Be Eagles: Overcoming Educational Storms.” Her insights on racial equity in education have appeared in the New York Times, Education Week, and on WKAR, NPR, CNN, and other media outlets. Dr. Carter Andrews’s research and scholarship has also been published in several top-tier academic journals.

Winston is a passionate and visionary educator, leader, and activist with 30 years in professional practice. He began his career as a Humanities teacher in the Cambridge and Boston, MA public schools. Winston went on to become a principal at the elementary, middle, and high school levels, in Boston and in Washington, DC.

Winston also served as the national Director of Turnaround Schools for Expeditionary Learning, now EL Education and as National Implementation Director for Turnaround Arts at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

In addition to his role as Chairman of the Board for the Center for Black Educator Development, Winston serves as a board member at the Fender Play Foundation. He and his wife, Laina, also a career public educator, recently launched their own consultancy, Cox LEADS, LLC.

As proud parents and community members, they share a passion for and commitment to empowering school administrators, teachers, students, and parents to be bold leaders of their own learning and growth. And they extend their expertise in public education to support leaders in other fields in the areas of leadership presence, emotional intelligence, culture and climate, authentic assessment, arts integration, and equity and belonging.

Dr. Harding is the Executive Director of the Campaign for Our Shared Future, where she is responsible for the overall health, sustainability, and success of COSF’s work.

Throughout her career, Heather has focused on the intersection between access to high-quality education and racial equity. She believes that respectful collaboration between parents and teachers is an essential tool for helping our kids succeed in life.

As a mother of two teenagers, she knows that parents play the role of a child’s first and primary teacher. Before earning master’s and doctoral degrees from the Harvard Graduate School of Education, Heather taught middle school and high school in underserved communities. Since then, her mission has been to improve education opportunities for all children, regardless of their class, color, or neighborhood.

She had an opportunity to do this while serving as Teach for America’s Senior Vice President of Community Partnerships; as the founding Executive Director of EdCORE, a DC-focused education research consortium to improve outcomes for the students of the nation’s capital; and in senior philanthropic leadership roles at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and most recently the Charles and Lynn Schusterman Family Philanthropies.

Dr. Mahalia A. Hines is currently the Board President of the Common Ground Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to the empowerment and development of urban youth in the United States. The organization was founded by Academy Award winning artist Common and herself over twenty years ago.

In 2017, Dr. Hines was appointed to the Board of Directors for the President Obama Foundation and is currently a serving member. In 2011, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel appointed Dr. Hinesto the Chicago Board of Education where she served for 8 years and retired in June, 2019. 

Dr. Hines has worked in the educational field for over 35 years as a teacher and principal. During her fifteen-year stint as a principal, she serviced grade levels from elementary through high school in Chicago’s underserved communities. Additionally, she has worked as coach and mentor for first-year, current, and prospective school leaders in Chicago and other parts of the country. 

Since retiring from the principalship, her involvement with children – which is her passion – has not diminished. In addition to her work with the Common Ground Foundation, she continues to work with school leaders of the public and charter schools in urban areas throughout the country.

She is committed to developing effective school leaders who will guide others to provide the best possible education for the children least likely to receive it. Dr. Hines received a PhD from the University of Illinois, MBA from Northeastern University and BA from Central State University.

Dr. Hudson has 15 years of education management, professional development, relationship/account management, and human resources management experience focused on leading instructional design and program assessment.

She began her career in human resources and evolved into teaching and found a love for educational innovation which led her to working as an Executive Director, Online Learning, and Chief Learning Officer overseeing professional development, mentoring, coaching, and setting the strategic direction for creating career development pathways for K-12 and higher-education professionals.

Dr. Hudson brings to her role a wealth of experience in professional development and leadership; instructional design for online learning; and best practices in education administration, continuing education, academic operations and enrollment management.

Vanessa is a results-driven leader with a strong track record of accomplishments in both the private and public sectors. In her role at the Center, she supports the CEO on strategic planning, special projects, and executive coordination.

She began her career in the education sector with Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools where she supported C-level leaders while also managing major strategic initiatives. Vanessa has also led a non-profit that provided apprenticeships to middle school students, consulted with school districts and charter management organizations to resolve complex issues, and facilitated professional development workshops to help school leaders improve their critical thinking and decision-making skills. She also worked for an education technology firm supporting personalized learning initiatives in client districts.

Before joining the education sector Vanessa worked in the financial services sector in a variety of roles.

Vanessa earned her bachelor’s degree in accounting from the University of Pittsburgh and her master’s in business administration from the Darden School of Business at the University of Virginia.

Dr. Reynolds-Whitaker has more than three decades of experience in accounting, financial analysis, business management, and school administration. Prior to the Center, she served in roles as  Business Manager, Chief School Business Official and Assistant Director of Finance for various school districts and as a regional consultant for the Illinois State Board of Education. She has also worked as a project manager for OfficeMax, a cost accounting manager for Bankers Life & Casualty, and has also held various accounting/leadership positions for corporations such as: Sprint PCS, CB Richard Ellis, CNA Insurance and IBM.

In addition to her work at the Center, Dr. Reynolds-Whitaker is currently an Adjunct Faculty at Olivet Nazarene University and has enjoyed sharing the knowledge gained through these professional experiences with her students. She has spent the last 15 years working on education and career development initiatives in the community and is dedicated to diversity work in United States and the surrounding countries.

Joshua, a fervent educational activist, is always ready to be called to action when it has to do with the equity of treatment in the educational space. With eight years of professional expertise under his belt, he has always had a major passion towards aiding other communities in multiple capacities, from coworking collaborations, government affairs and, most recently, education-based nonprofit.

Within his existing role at the Center, he primarily oversees the production of the Center’s live weekly podcast, Building the Black Educator Pipeline, which features impactful conversations with many of our Black and Brown co-conspirators to meet the challenge of diversifying the teacher pipeline.

Additionally, Joshua aides in day-to-day operations, including HR and research support. Joshua attended Prince George’s Community College, majoring in mass communications while also studying CompTIA A+ and interning at DCTV in production/film.

A native Philadelphian and dedicated teacher, Makael’s history students achieved the highest benchmark data in the Mastery Charter Schools network.

In addition to his classroom experience, working with students, he also helped lead Uncommon Schools and managed teacher leadership and development at Teach For America.

Brionna is a fundraising professional who sees building better relations as the ongoing theme of her career and equitable educational access as the ongoing philanthropic priority. With eight years of development experience, Brionna continues to be active in her community, working to bridge education and environmental gaps. A writer at heart, she enjoys connecting with the community through the written world of fundraising – inspired by the late James Baldwin’s words, “Not everything that is faced can be changed; but nothing can be changed until it is faced.”

Brionna graduated from Kentucky State University with a bachelor’s in English and holds a Graduate Certificate in Philanthropic Studies from Indiana University, Lilly School of Philanthropy. She is a member of the Grants Professional Association and the Association of Fundraising Professionals.

Tanaisha is a liberation-centered strategist whose role at the Center allows her to build and sustain intentional spaces with a focus on increasing teacher diversity. Prior to joining the Center, she fostered intentional spaces in higher education and diversity, equity, and inclusion by conducting cultural assessments, designing and facilitating training and workshops, and assisting organizations with mindful strategic planning.

She also has experience creating higher education curriculums for students designed to transform students’ perspectives to be more inclusive and intersectional through dialogues on diversity-centered, service-learning practices and programs on identity awareness.

Tanaisha earned a bachelor’s degree in English and communications at Easter University, a master’s in organizational development at Abilene Christian University, and is pursuing a doctorate in education in social justice at the University of San Diego.

Denise brings over a decade of experience developing and managing educational programs focused on academic excellence, equity, and diversity. In 2014, Denise joined Good Shepherd Services as the Program Director for Brooklyn Lifelink, a college access and retention program.

From there, she oversaw a mentoring program in partnership with Ernst and Young and the District Attorney’s office, a transition-to-high school program, and afterschool programming for Bronx Bridges High School. In 2018, she became the director of programs at Behind the Book leading culturally responsive, multidisciplinary literacy programs in K-12 Title 1 NYC public schools.

Denise holds a bachelor of arts from The New School and is a graduate of Stanford University where she has a master’s degree in elementary education.

Dana has been an educator for more than 25 years, bringing to her work a sense of passion, urgency, energy, and enthusiasm that both inspires and propels projects and programs forward. She was raised and educated in Detroit, MI and received a bachelor’s degree in secondary education at the University of Michigan and a master’s degree in educational administration from Wayne State University.

Dana previously taught English and language arts to students in grades six through twelve, during which time she earned more than 60 awards, including the 2001 Newsweek and WDIV Detroit High School Teacher of the Year Award. She was also the co-creator and chief administrator of Wolverine Pathways, a program designed to increase diversity, equity, and inclusion at the University of Michigan.

Dana has dedicated her work to education and the empowerment of all young people, and particularly Black youth.

Celeste brings over a decade of experience across various educational sectors, encompassing teaching, program evaluation, instructional coaching, curriculum design, program management, educational consulting and facilitation. She holds a Master of Science in Reading from Florida International University and a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and Psychology from the City College of New York. Additionally, Celeste earned a graduate certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from UMass Global and has earned a Women’s Entrepreneurship Certificate from Cornell University, underscoring her commitment to ongoing learning and multifaceted expertise.

Celeste’s dedication to CBED’s mission is palpable from her previous role as Virtual Program Manager, Interim Program Director and Project Manager. She brings invaluable institutional knowledge and a fervent commitment to empowering Black educators.

A serial entrepreneur with a heart for the Black community, Celeste is the Miami Chapter President of The Black Girl Social Club., where she actively works to promote social connectivity and empowerment among Black women. With her strong leadership skills, extensive educational background, and unwavering dedication to excellence, Celeste is committed to make a lasting impact as the Managing Director of Training and Implementation.

Ann has more than a decade of successful experience in accounting, specializing in working with not-for-profit organizations. She is a co-founder of QBOF2, a consulting and accounting company that helps community based nonprofit entities create a standard of high fiscal responsibility and transparency while being agents of change, addressing socio-economic community concerns. A strong believer in the power of social and human services organization, Ann regularly volunteers, as well.

She earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting at the State University of New York, has several certifications in various software applications, and continuously participates in CPEs for Accounting. She is a member of Black Women with Nonprofits (BWWN), Nonprofit Network International and Nonprofit Executive Network.

Andrea is a North Carolina native living in Atlanta. Her professional experiences are rooted in education and administration, including roles in K-12 operations and, most recently, as a community liaison.

In addition, she’s worked with smaller organizations and community-serving start-ups. Andrea is a 2017 graduate of Chowan University with a bachelor’s degree in psychology.

“Ever since I was small, the people who were working in this program and in this space really saw me for who I was–the fullness of who I am–and I think that is something that not a lot of young people get to experience. They are stigmatized a lot; and unfortunately not a lot of Black students are pushed in ways that are going to help to make them stronger.” 

A former teacher, Ansharaye oversees the Liberation Academy at the Center, a multi-year program that provides high school students with an intellectually rigorous, collaborative environment designed to foster a love for educating, personal and professional character development, and a strong foundation for pursuing long-term careers in education.

As a result of the formative instruction, mentorship, and leadership opportunities gained through her years with Philadelphia Freedom Schools, Ansharaye has internalized the significance and impact of educational spaces that center the objectives, development, and intellectual genealogy of people of African descent. Her research and academic expertise focus on Africana history and experience, educational institution building and resistance in Black Philadelphia, and Africana educational philosophy and curriculum.

She received a bachelor’s degree in Afro-American Studies and a bachelor’s in English from Howard University, as well as a master’s degree in education, culture and society from the University of Pennsylvania.

Hallela brings administrative and research experience to the Center from former roles at BARR Center (Building Assets, Reducing Risks) and KIPP DC. She wears many hats in her current position, all which allow her to hone her nonprofit management, community development strategy, and educational innovation knowledge and skillset.

Before joining the Center, she received her bachelor’s degree in Spanish and religious studies with a concentration in American studies from Grinnell College.

Kenyata is a well-versed educator with more than 10 years of experience with core educator competencies in socio-economic studies, parental relations, research and analytical abilities, standardized testing, counseling and mentoring. She is a graduate of University Of Memphis with a B.A. in African American History and from Union University, where she earned her M.A. She has worked in both academic and non-profit settings, providing advising services to students ranging in grades from 9-12.

Kenyata’s experience has taught her how to identify student needs and connect them with the appropriate resources. She is skilled at communicating with diverse populations and building relationships within an institution. In her previous role as a Mentor Teacher, she helped first-generation high school students navigate their way through higher education by developing individualized graduation plans and assisting with time management skills development. As a result, 100% of her advisees met or exceeded their semester credit goals.

Kenyata’s goal is to help all students succeed in reaching their personal and professional aspirations. ​​Throughout her career, she has consistently demonstrated dedication to helping students succeed by working tirelessly to create engaging and innovative lessons that inspire students to think critically and learn more deeply about the world around them.

London previously served in various roles in the non-profit sector, advancing policies centered on strengthening the public school system and expanding reproductive autonomy. After receiving her bachelor of arts degree in political science, with double minors in sociology and intercultural studies from Saint Mary’s College, she stepped into the roles of organizer for Stand for Children, an education advocacy organization, and policy associate at SisterReach, a women’s reproductive justice organization.

London currently serves as Tennessee State Senator for District 33 in Memphis, TN; the youngest female and youngest African American legislator in Tennessee Senate history. She also serves as Chairwoman of the Senate Democratic Caucus. As the conscience of the legislature, Senator Lamar champions strong schools, healthy families and safe neighborhoods.

London is honored to have received recognition from more than 10 organizations and has appeared in numerous national publications for her work that uplifts families and communities. She serves on several state level and national boards. In her spare time, she likes to travel and cuddle with her Yorkie Sugar.

Sean is a native Baltimorian where, before joining the Center, he spent the last 8 years serving gifted black boys. During his time as a special educator, his students saw significant growth and standardized state assessments.

In addition to his time teaching middle school students, Sean has served as a literacy coach and mentor teacher.

He holds a bachelor’s degree from Morgan State University and is currently at NYU Steinhardt working on a master’s degree.

Renisha Pierre is a passionate and consummate professional with years of experience in leading and executing programs for at-risk youth and families, in non-profit and educational settings.

Before beginning her most recent role as School Director at Key Collegiate Charter School, in Brooklyn, NYC, she started as a Founding Director of Operations, where she prepared the school for launch by working with the Head of Schools on student enrollment, facility readiness, compliance, and staff onboarding.

She designed and executed systems to create the environment for teachers and students to excel every day. Renisha also brings experience from her director level roles at Pathways to Leadership and SUNY Downstate Medical Center. Renisha holds a master’s degree in social work from Hunter College and a bachelor’s degree in social work from City University of New York City.

From both growing up and teaching in an urban area, Shelonda understands how imperative it is to make sure every student receives an excellent education and, for Black students, that means ensuring they have access to Black educators leading in classrooms.

Throughout her career, Shelonda has served as a teacher, mentor, educational grassroots advocate, and educational consultant. Her civic and organizational involvement includes volunteering at a multitude of organizations and conducting inspirational workshops.

Shelonda received both her bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in education from Christian Brothers University in Memphis, TN.

Jahdiya has nearly 15 years of charter school and nonprofit operations, finance and HR experience. Some of her previous roles include Director of Operations & HR, Senior Financial Consultant and Director of College and Career Readiness.

She is highly skilled in assembling, developing and empowering high-performing teams. Jahdiya has a proven history of partnering with cross-functional teams to ensure strong systems and processes are threaded across an organization.

Jahdiya holds a Master of Business Administration from Metropolitan College of New York and a Bachelor of Government and Politics from St. John’s University.

Gervase Ware, Ed.D. is a seasoned professional with over a decade of experience in social media marketing, copywriting, web coordination, and graphic design. Holding a double master’s in media design from Full Sail University and master’s in Educational Leadership from Cornerstone University, Dr. Ware furthered her education with a Doctoral degree in Organizational Leadership from Northcentral University.

Known for her detail-oriented approach and organizational skills, Dr. Ware excels in developing engaging content that resonates with audiences and drives action. With a passion for collaboration and innovation, Dr. Ware is committed to delivering top-notch results while fostering solid relationships. Her comprehensive academic background equips Dr. Ware with a diverse skill set and a deep understanding of media design and educational leadership.

Mimi is an educator and educational justice advocate with more than eight years of experience working in the classroom and in the nonprofit sector. In her current role, she is responsible for developing and executing a highly strategic, innovative, and collaborative plan to engage a coalition of partner organizations to build a Black Teacher Pipeline model for Black students across the country.

Prior to working at the Center, Mimi was the Special Projects & Community Manager at The 74, a nonpartisan, nonprofit education media group. Mimi’s passion for education policy and advocacy stemmed from her Teach For America experience.

She is an alumna of American University where she earned her master’s degree in public administration and also holds a bachelor’s degree in political science with a minor in women’s studies from Texas Christian University.