Board Of Directors

Ericka Ward,President

Ericka Ward is a democratic educator and community strategist who is passionate about creating spaces where people feel listened to, valued, and cared for. She earned her BA in Individualized Study at NYU with a focus on Social Change, Culture & Communication. Ericka continued her studies at Vanderbilt University where she earned her M.Ed. in Learning & Design. Her research seeks to understand what mindsets, cultural beliefs and social practices support individuals in resisting apathy, cultivating resilient hope and taking action on the belief that they can impact their community. She has a deep belief in people. She works every day to see, honor, and cultivate the beauty and power that lives within each person. Her practice is rooted in democratic pedagogies, popular education, and participatory action research.

Turelane Jackson,Board Member

With a dynamic career spanning multiple industries, Turelane (TJ) Jackson is a seasoned professional with extensive experience in business consulting, real estate, finance, education, marketing, and leadership development. Her expertise in strategic operations, digital marketing, and business growth solutions has positioned her as a valuable asset to organizations seeking innovative and results-driven leadership. TJ’s journey includes leadership roles in retail management, real estate, mortgage financing, education administration, ministry, and business development. She has successfully managed multi-state programs, directed nonprofit initiatives, and spearheaded digital marketing transformations, consistently driving efficiency and profitability. Currently serving as the Digital Marketing Director at Connected, TJ specializes in leveraging technology, automation, and high-impact marketing strategies to help businesses enhance their online presence and customer engagement. Additionally, her entrepreneurial background in real estate investing, fix-and-flip projects, and e-commerce reflects her ability to identify market trends and execute profitable business strategies. With a degree in Psychology and Business and a Master’s in Non-Profit Management and Leadership Development, TJ combines analytical insight with leadership expertise to foster organizational growth. Her work as an author of a business networking guide further highlights her commitment to helping professionals and entrepreneurs build meaningful connections and expand their opportunities. As a native of Seattle WA, she is a dedicated leader, wife, mother of three, and grandmother of seven, TJ’s personal and professional experiences have shaped her into a resilient, innovative, and purpose-driven professional who thrives on creating impactful solutions.

Deidra Johnson,Board Member

Bio Coming Soon

Njugunna Grisha,Board Member

Bio Coming Soon