Board Members and Staff

Board Members

DeShawn Woods, MSOL, CLC

CEO and Founder

Melissa Blackmer, MBA, MSEd, LMFT, LMHC

(Board Member) - Human Resources Director

Melissa is a licensed coach and mental health specialist, who is passionate about human interactions and whole-body health.

Melissa directs the policies, practices, and interactions for the program.

Shakirah Kellam, MBA

(Board Member) Program Director

Shakirah is an experienced recruiter for PPD, Part of Thermo Fisher Scientific. She is extremely passionate about skillfully leading and guiding individuals to reach their full potential.

Shakirah strategically directs outreach, recruitment, and event planning for the program.

Volunteer Coaches

These volunteers help bring the Holistic Life Coaching model to reality.

Sydney Cale, CFP, MBA

Financial Literacy Coach

Sydney is a Certified Financial Planner™ at SYM Financial Advisors. Sydney is passionate about guiding individuals in understanding their past experiences with and feelings about money so that they can be self-aware and intentional in how they utilize their resources moving forward.

James Johnson, MSP

Spiritual Wellness Coach

James Johnson is an Associate Pastor for New Day Life Ministries. James is enthusiastic about leading others to achieve their spiritual goal and ultimately fulfilling their purpose.

Xavier Williams

Career Development Coach (Marketing & Entrepreneurship)

Xavier Williams is a professional marketing coach that is skilled at increasing involvement and engagement with audiences. Xavier has zeal for assisting up-and-coming business owners by teaching them the ins and outs of marketing and owning a business.