.jpeg)
.JPG)
Debron Walker
School Co-Owner Founder of Green Mine Growers, LLC.
As a child of Dr. Mary Bethune, Mr. Walker's educational journey began at Bethune-Cookman University, where he studied education in Daytona Beach. From these modest beginnings, he embarked on a remarkable trajectory, becoming a custodian of history and a catalyst for community advancement. His ownership of a site personally built by Franklin D. Roosevelt firmly establishes him in the annals of American history, preserving invaluable heritage for generations to come.Mr. Walker's influence goes beyond historical stewardship. Collaborating with state agencies, he imparts horticultural education to vocational learners, delivering transformative training experiences. A dynamic public speaker and community organizer, Mr. Walker passionately advocates for the restoration of the Eleanor Roosevelt School, fostering robust community engagement.Guided by a dedicated team, Mr. Walker's efforts extend to meaningful interactions with the Roosevelt family and public officials, positioning him as a pivotal figure in navigating institutions through transformative phases.
Voncher Walker
School Co-Owner - InvestorFounder and President of Elite Claims Services & Consulting, LLC.
Voncher Walker brings a wealth of experience and a unique set of skills to the restoration and operation of the Eleanor Roosevelt School. With nearly two decades in the insurance and risk services industry, she honed her expertise in strategy, risk assessment, and client relations. However, her journey took an exciting turn when she pursued her passion for the arts and entrepreneurship, establishing her own art studio and consultant firm.In 2019, Voncher was presented with an opportunity that would not only redefine her entrepreneurial vision but also contribute significantly to the preservation of history and community development. Her brother, Debron, approached her to become an investor and business partner in the acquisition of the Eleanor Roosevelt School. Voncher, with her innate ability to transform concepts into reality, took on the role of Historic Preservationist and assumed the mantle of Managing Director, bringing her artistic vision and innovative thinking to the forefront of the school's renovation plans.Her remarkable talent for promoting events and marketing, cultivated through years of diverse business experiences, became invaluable in shaping the school's future. Voncher's people skills, finely honed over her career, are instrumental in establishing connections and fostering partnerships that are essential for the success of this venture.Once the Eleanor Roosevelt School is fully restored, it will not only serve as the base of operations for Voncher's consultant services firm but will also become a hub for her passionate pursuit of Historic Preservation. In her role Managing Director and curator at the school, Voncher will oversee the school's museum, art gallery, and the coordination of special events, ensuring that the institution becomes a vibrant and integral part of the community.With her unique blend of business acumen, creative vision, and dedication to preserving cultural heritage, Voncher Walker is poised to make an indelible mark on the restoration of the Eleanor Roosevelt School and play a pivotal role in its ongoing operations. Her commitment to community development and her ability to bridge the past with the present make her an invaluable asset to this ambitious project.
.jpeg)
Denitrie Tisdale RN, BSN
Operations and Research
Denitrie Tisdale's unique background as a registered nurse provides her with a profound understanding when exploring the Roosevelt legacy, especially Franklin D. Roosevelt's time at Warm Springs. Her expertise allows her to uncover and emphasize just how significant FDR's accomplishments were, considering the personal health challenges he faced. This medical perspective, rooted in her nursing experience, underscores the resilience and determination of Roosevelt, offering a deeper comprehension of his journey.Her research doesn't stop at FDR. Denitrie ambitiously delves into the contributions of Eleanor Roosevelt and the interconnections with the Rosenwald legacy. This comprehensive exploration ties together two monumental American families, shedding light on their shared and individual impacts on education, healthcare, and societal progress.In her role with the ERSO Project, Denitrie ensures that the stories of Booker T. Washington, the Roosevelts, and the Rosenwalds are told with accuracy, depth, and relevance.
Javon Broadwater
Analytics Director
Javon K. Broadwater is a highly accomplished Technical Account Manager with a strong background in data analysis and customer relationship management. Graduating with a Bachelor's Degree in Electrical Engineering Technology , Javon has since excelled in various roles. His vast expertise and analytical proficiency have been pivotal in furthering the institution's mission, always in sync with the ethos envisioned by the school's Co -Owners, Debron and Voncher Walker.
Javon's talent in data analytics has facilitated meaningful collaborations with notable state legislators and elected officials, ensuring that the Eleanor Roosevelt School's invaluable contributions to the American educational landscape receive the recognition they deserve. Outside of the academic realm, Javon has been part of various initiatives, including engagements at the Little White House, underscoring his commitment to highlighting and preserving the school's storied legacy.
Otha Thornton
National Education Advocate and Retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel
Otha Thornton is a national education advocate and retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, known for his historic role as the first African-American male to serve as President of the National Parent Teacher Association (National PTA). During his tenure, he worked closely with the White House, Congress, and the Department of Education, contributing to the passage of the "Every Student Succeeds Act" and advancing educational support for military children through the Military Interstate Children's Compact.Thornton’s career includes close collaboration with First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden on national initiatives like Joining Forces and Let’s Move, supporting military families and promoting child health. A decorated military veteran, he served in Baghdad with U.S. Forces-Iraq and earned the Bronze Star Medal for his leadership during Operation Iraqi Freedom.In addition to his advocacy, Thornton ran for Georgia’s State School Superintendent in 2018, receiving 1.8 million votes. He currently serves on the Advisory Group for Georgia’s Partnership for Excellence in Education and leads Elberton’s Promise, a rural mentoring program for youth in Georgia.Thornton holds degrees from Morehouse College and Michigan Technological University and is pursuing his doctorate from the University of Charleston, West Virginia. His numerous honors include the National PTA Lifetime Achievement Award and recognition on Ebony’s Power 100 List.
Darrell Spraggins
ERSO Project Curriculum/Specialist at The Eleanor Roosevelt School
Darrell Spraggins, a seasoned educator with over two decades in the field, began his academic journey at Alabama State University with a Bachelor of Science in Education. This foundation led him to pursue advanced studies at both Troy State University and Walden University. With roles like ELA Lead Teacher at the esteemed Atlanta Public Schools and a STEM Program Specialist, Darrell masterfully combines traditional pedagogy with modern technological tools.Certified across early childhood to middle grades in diverse content areas, Darrell's expertise is both deep and wide-ranging. His specialized trainings encompass areas from technology integration to crisis prevention, reflecting his commitment to all-encompassing educational development.At The Eleanor Roosevelt School's ERSO Project, Darrell plays a central role, demonstrating the future of innovative education. With a strong proficiency in Title I Curriculums, institutions looking for educational transformation will find in him and the ERSO team a resource poised to significantly enhance their educational strategies and outcomes.
Felecia Jones
Administrative Specialist/Executive Assistant
Felecia Jones serves as the Administrative Coordinator for all facets of the ERSO Project. A Georgian at heart and West Virginian raised, her diverse background brings depth to her role. Having contracted with the Woodruff Arts Center, Felecia has adeptly managed executive schedules, coordinated pivotal meetings, and prepared essential executive documents.Her skill set is vast and includes proficiency in QuickBooks, Microsoft Office Suite, and other pivotal data management tools. These proficiencies equip her to tackle tasks such as data entry, inventory management, and comprehensive database oversight seamlessly.In her central role with the ERSO Project, Felecia ensures that administrative operations run smoothly, communication is efficient, and every task is executed meticulously. Her academic grounding from Fairmont State University further solidifies her standing as a key figure in the project's success.
Justin "Master Peace" Nickelson
Horticultural/Agricultural Development
A proud graduate of Howard University's College of Engineering and Architecture, Justin Nickelson merges his architectural background with a profound commitment to urban agriculture and green design. As an Urban Agriculture professional, Justin's resume boasts expertise in farm management, green design, program management, and farm-to-table food sourcing. Central to his achievements is his management role with the AgLanta Grown USDA Local Food Promotions Program for the City of Atlanta, underlining his dedication to enhancing food systems and community engagement.At HABESHA, Inc., Justin has showcased his leadership capabilities, both as the Urban Green Jobs Field Coordinator and the Community Garden Manager. He successfully developed interns into professionals, highlighting his acumen in food production, green infrastructure practices, and business dynamics related to farm-to-market ventures. Moreover, his endeavors have consistently focused on enhancing community access to fresh food, emphasizing his role in promoting sustainable agriculture, fresh food accessibility, and youth programming. His skills further extend to the technological realm, proficiently navigating tools like AutoCad, Revit Autodesk, and more, reflecting a well-rounded approach to his work.As an integral contributor to The Eleanor Roosevelt School's ERSO Project, Justin’s combined expertise in architecture, green infrastructure, and urban agriculture promises a multidisciplinary perspective. His passion for creating sustainable community-centric solutions and his unwavering dedication to enhancing urban food systems are invaluable assets to the ERSO Project, ensuring its objectives align with cutting-edge practices in sustainability and community.
Elizabeth McCarthy
Aquatics/Safety Training
Elizabeth McCarthy stands out as a seasoned professional in the realm of aquatic education, with a rich 20-year history centered on cultivating safe and engaging aquatic environments. At the forefront of her expertise is her role as the General Manager and Master Trainer at Aqua-Tots Swim Schools. Here, Elizabeth has ensured high standards of water safety, tailoring curriculum for various age groups, and promoting drowning prevention. Notably, she has designed and overseen adaptive training programs, providing specialized attention to adults and those with special needs.Her skills aren't merely confined to water safety; Elizabeth exhibits a comprehensive understanding of aquatic maintenance, first aid & CPR, certified swimming instruction, and child development. This suite of skills ensures she’s adept at crafting training programs that go beyond just swimming techniques. Elizabeth's approach integrates cognitive and physical development, nurturing both the body and mind of learners.As a valued member of The Eleanor Roosevelt School's ERSO Project, Elizabeth brings her profound knowledge in aquatic education, guaranteeing an enhanced learning experience for students. Her contributions are an asset to ERSO's mission, ensuring students receive top-tier aquatic education rooted in safety, inclusivity, and comprehensive development.
.JPG)
Deborah Allen
Education/Curriculum
Deborah M. Allen is a dedicated educator with a passion for preserving and celebrating the legacy of the Roosevelts through her involvement in the ERSO Project. With a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education from Kennesaw State University and a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, she brings a wealth of educational knowledge and experience to the project. Deborah's expertise is further amplified by her Georgia certifications, including a Gifted In-Field Endorsement, Reading Endorsement, and Orton-Gillingham Certification, making her a valuable asset to the project.In her role within the ERSO Project, Deborah's primary focus is on connecting the historical significance of the Roosevelts to their contributions to American society. Her background in education allows her to develop engaging and informative content that highlights the educational, healthcare, and societal progress brought about by the Roosevelts. By meticulously researching and presenting these insights, she contributes to the project's mission of preserving this rich legacy for future generations.Deborah's ability to analyze data, develop curriculum, and provide valuable guidance to fellow educators makes her an indispensable member of the ERSO Project team. Her dedication to educational excellence and her commitment to preserving the stories of the Roosevelts ensure that the project continues to thrive and fulfill its mission of celebrating this remarkable American family..
Jenelle Brown
Horticultural/Agricultural Development
Jenelle Brown, member of The Power 30 division under the ERSO Project, hails from St. Thomas, Virgin Islands, but her upbringing in North West Georgia has instilled her with a valuable skill set. Her expertise extends far beyond the realm of historical preservation, making her a versatile asset. Jenelle brings an array of skills to the table, essential for successful projects in historical preservation, including vetting contracts, skillful bidding, and adept procurement. Her attention to detail shines in contract management and project execution, ensuring seamless operations. Jenelle's skill set encompasses inventory management and a mastery of painting, adding an artistic touch to her preservation work. Beyond historical preservation, Jenelle's talents venture into agricultural projects that align with the ERSO Project's mission. She excels in cultivating victory gardens and spearheading community garden initiatives. Her dedication to preserving history and fostering sustainable practices makes her a valuable contributor to any project. Additionally, Jenelle is the Owner and Founder of JAB Nation and Minister To Me, non-profit organizations focused on helping the underserved homeless and children in need. Her commitment to excellence, preservation, and social impact underscores her role as a strong asset to The Power 30.
Melanie Hardy
Senior Accountant
Meet Melanie Hardy, our Senior Accountant at The ERSO Project. With a passion for precision and an impressive background in financial management, Melanie plays a pivotal role in ensuring the project's financial success. Her skills include excellent communication, mathematical expertise, and a knack for multitasking in fast-paced environments. Melanie's leadership and problem-solving abilities, honed through years of experience, make her an invaluable asset to our team. She's proficient in various accounting software and has a track record of preparing complex financial reports and reconciliations. With Melanie at the helm of financial operations, we're confident in our journey to restore the Eleanor Roosevelt School.Melanie's career journey has been marked by a commitment to excellence. As a Senior Accountant, she's handled financial responsibilities for prominent organizations, showcasing her ability to manage fixed assets, prepare financial statements, and lead teams effectively. Melanie's educational background includes a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Bethune-Cookman University, where she graduated with honors. Her academic achievements and practical experience make her a standout professional in the world of finance. Melanie Hardy's dedication to financial accuracy and her vision for success align perfectly with our mission to restore the Eleanor Roosevelt School through The ERSO Project.