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THE OWNERS

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Voncher Walker

Owner, The Eleanor Roosevelt School | Historic Preservationist | Risk & Community Strategy Professional
Voncher Walker is an owner and managing preservation lead of the historic Eleanor Roosevelt School in Warm Springs, Georgia. With more than two decades of experience in insurance, claims, risk management, litigation oversight, and program strategy, she brings a distinctive risk-based approach to historic preservation, community stewardship, and long-term project development.Since acquiring the Eleanor Roosevelt School with her brother and business partner, Debron Walker, Voncher has helped lead the preservation, restoration, strategic planning, grant development, historical research, partnership development, and broader vision for the site. Her work has included coordination with preservation organizations, public agencies, community leaders, Roosevelt family representatives, and educational and civic partners to help protect the school’s history while developing sustainable opportunities for its future use.Her preservation interests extend beyond the Eleanor Roosevelt School. Voncher is developing broader community preservation and advocacy strategies focused on identifying historically significant places before they reach a point of crisis, strengthening local stewardship, documenting community history, and helping communities better understand the tools available to protect important cultural assets.She is also the founder of Elite Claims Services & Consulting, LLC, an independent consulting entity rooted in her professional background in insurance and risk management. While the consultancy remains part of her broader professional framework, her current focus is primarily on the Eleanor Roosevelt School, preservation work, community initiatives, and the development of long-term educational and cultural programming.
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Debron Walker

Owner, The Eleanor Roosevelt School | Founder, Green Mine Growers, LLC| Preservationist
Debron Walker, community advocate, lecturer, and strategist, is spearheading the historic preservation and educational revitalization of the Eleanor Roosevelt School in Warm Springs, Georgia. As the founder of Green Mine Growers, a state vocational provider, Walker has established a key network across Georgia, including the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, Retired Educators Association, The Roosevelt Foundation, Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency, Duke University's Fuqua School of Business, Rotary, Kiwanis, and the Georgia Farm Bureau. He has led a team in developing and implementing innovative vocational training programs that serve residents across all 159 Georgia counties under the ERSO Project, utilizing cutting-edge technology, AI-powered educational programs, and personalized learning pathways. A passionate ally for agriculture and vocational training, he specializes in supporting individuals with developmental, intellectual, and medically complex conditions. Green Mine has undertaken many new collaborations, from Aquaponics in School Systems to the Victory Garden Initiative, to reintroduce Georgians to history through agriculture and advance education in sustainable food production. As a lecturer, Walker has delivered keynote addresses for The Little White House, The Roosevelt Institute, and the Georgia Fair Grounds on the significance of the Eleanor Roosevelt School. In addition, he has worked with representatives on both sides of the aisle and state teams of both Senators to champion workforce and community development, bringing Franklin Roosevelt's vision from 1936 back to life.

Meet the Team

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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
Preserve History, Ignite Change: Support Restoring The Eleanor Roosevelt School

Support

To support the Eleanor Roosevelt School, donations can be made, via PayPal, to ContactUs@erso1936.comAll donations will be accepted by The Neighbors of the Eleanor Roosevelt School (Non-Profit Organization) If you do not have PayPal, Please fill out the requested information and click the Support button below. Someone from the ERSO team will follow up with you to complete donation.
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