Learn More About Us
About our Board Members
Aretha’s commitment to excellence extends beyond the workplace. She actively participates in community initiatives, serving as Chairperson of the Library Action Committee of Corona-East Elmhurst, Inc., and Treasurer of the East Elmhurst-Corona Civic Association, Inc. Her dedication to community engagement underscores her passion for making a positive impact beyond professional realms.
Aretha holds an Associate Arts Degree in Business Administration from Borough of Manhattan Community College. She is also a licensed Notary in the state of New York.
Prior to her current role, Marjorie served as an Executive Producer at Uniworld Group for 15 years, where she oversaw international and domestic production for esteemed clients including Ford, Lincoln, and Pepsi. Marjorie’s illustrious career also includes key positions at MTV Networks, Columbia Records (Division of Sony Music), and Def Jam Recordings, where she played pivotal roles in shaping the artistic direction and marketing strategies for iconic artists and groups. Her tenure at Columbia Records saw her rise to the position of Vice President, Special Markets, where she led innovative initiatives in R&B, gospel, and rap.
In addition to her corporate endeavors, Marjorie is the owner of Makeda Productions LLC, where she continues to produce and consult on major entertainment projects nationwide.
Marjorie holds a Bachelor of Arts from Syracuse University, and holds a certificate from the Wharton Graduate School of Business through the American Management Association. She is actively involved in industry organizations such as New York Women in Film, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., and the Corona East Elmhurst Civic Association.
During Yasmeen’s tenure as Controller at Greenhope, she provided astute fiscal oversight, managing audits, overseeing contract systems, and navigating payroll intricacies. Also, Yasmeen revamped financial systems, managed multi-million-dollar budgets, and steered the organization toward enhanced fiscal accountability at Allen AME Church.
Yasmeen’s commitment to financial stewardship extends beyond the professional realm. She has actively contributed to the Corona/East Elmhurst Historic Preservation Society, championing community causes and fostering a spirit of civic engagement. Additionally, her involvement with the Black Panther Commemoration Committee underscores my dedication to social justice and historical preservation.
Yasmeen holds a Bachelor of Business Administration from Baruch College, CUNY, supplemented by an Associate in Applied Science – Accounting Degree from NYC Community College, CUNY.
Currently serving as the Social Work & Professional Studies Librarian at Columbia University Libraries, Kae liaises with various academic programs, providing essential reference services and instruction to students and faculty. Kae held positions that underscore their dedication to community engagement and education. As the Entrepreneurship & Social Science Librarian, they facilitated workshops and provided research support to patrons from diverse backgrounds. Previous to joining Columbia University Libraries, Kae worked with Queens Public Library’s Job & Business academy in their home borough of Queens. Beyond their professional roles, Kae is actively involved in professional associations such as the Association of College and Research Libraries NY (ACRL/NY) and the Oral History Association (OHA).
They hold a Master’s in Oral History from Columbia University, a Master’s in Library Science from Queens College (CUNY), and a Bachelor’s degree from Fordham University, where they majored in English with a minor in Communications.
Throughout her career, she has had many great working experiences and mentors. One that stands out most and she is very proud of is when she worked for the honorable Dr. Kenneth B. Clark and Dr. Mamie Phipps Clark whose groundbreaking work led to the Brown vs. Board of Education case in 1954, (which revealed that Separate but Equal was not Separate but Equal) and the case was won in the Supreme Court by The Honorable Thurgood Marshall.
Patricia teaches networking and coaching skills and how to present yourself with confidence for optimum success. She conducts vision board workshops, mentors’ young adults, practices yoga and mindfulness, is an avid reader and loves to keep abreast of current events and trends. She also loves traveling, visiting family and friends, attending fashion events, museum exhibits, dancing and listening to various genres of music.
Patricia holds a Master of Science in Human Resource Development Degree from Fordham University, a Bachelor of Business Administration in Marketing Degree from Baruch College (CUNY), Certificate in Women’s Executive Leadership from Cornell University, Certificate in Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, (DEI) from the University of South Florida, and is a Certified Image Consultant from Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT) and Certified Life Coach from the Institute of Professional Excellence (IPEC).
Her tenure at various educational institutions within the New York City Department of Education is marked by leadership and innovation. Professor Atterbury has consistently demonstrated her dedication to student engagement through her roles as Dean, Special Education Teacher, Black History Program Coordinator, and Conflict Resolution Workshop Presenter at the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. High School Complex. She has also taught at the College of New Rochelle’s School of New Resources in the topics of American Experience and Black Women in America and CUNY’s Borough of Manhattan Community College on the disciplines of Early American History and Sociology.
Throughout her career, Professor Atterbury has remained a steadfast advocate for equity and diversity in education. Her unwavering commitment to empowering students from all backgrounds reflects her belief in the transformative power of learning. As she continues to inspire the next generation of learners, Professor Atterbury remains a beacon of excellence in the field of education.
Professor Atterbury holds a Master of Arts in American Studies from Columbia University, a Master of Science in Special Education from Fordham University, and a Bachelor of Arts in Education from the University of Charleston. She was also a recipient of a Fulbright-Hays Fellowship Group Project Abroad in South Africa.
As the President & Consultant at Passion To The People, LLC, Brandon provides invaluable strategic guidance to nonprofit organizations and small businesses. Currently, Brandon serves as the Director of Student Affairs at Queens College where he oversees the admission and recruitment process. Brandon’s tenure as the Program Director of Youth Programs & Services at Queens Defenders, Queens County, New York, underscores his ability to effect tangible change within communities. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the launch of the Rockaway Community Justice Court, a groundbreaking initiative recognized for its innovative approach to restorative justice.
Brandon holds a Master’s degree in Library Science from Queens College and a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Information Studies and Technology from Syracuse University. His achievements have garnered widespread recognition, including the prestigious “Community Builders Award” from the Rockaway Development & Revitalization Corporation and the “Assiduous Public Servant” Award from the Ministry of the Mt. Carmel Baptist Church.
Beyond his professional endeavors, Brandon remains deeply engaged in community affairs, serving on various boards and task forces dedicated to social progress. As an Interim Co-chair of the Far Rockaway Arverne Nonprofit Coalition and a Community Partner with the 101st Precinct, Brandon continues to advocate for positive change and equitable opportunities for all.
With a background spanning various sectors, Raquel’s educational background includes a focus on Deviant Behavior and Social Control from John Jay College of Criminal Justice and Sociology/Criminal Justice from Norfolk State University. She holds certifications in Method of Instruction and Crime Prevention, demonstrating her commitment to professional development and enhancing community safety.
Specializing in navigating difficult conversations in and outside of the workplace, Wendy excels at facilitating effective relationships, building trust, and improving communication between leaders, team members, and stakeholders. She holds an MBA in Organizational Behavior, Psychology, and Human Resources.
Throughout her career, Wendy has held corporate leadership roles at JetBlue Airways, AIG, and several notable nonprofits such as the National Urban League, United Way of New York City, Volunteers of America, and The Doe Fund / Ready, Willing & Able.
Passionate about supporting people of color and women leaders, Wendy dedicates herself to helping them find their true voices and achieve greater balance, fulfillment, and effectiveness in both their personal and professional lives. She authentically shares her personal challenges of navigating the corporate world while staying true to herself.
With a background in workforce development, Shakira has facilitated the training and placement of more than 1500 Queens residents. She is deeply committed to supporting individuals marginalized by social injustices and economic inequalities, demonstrating her dedication to her community.
“My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style” – Maya Angelou
