Leadership

  • AREACH
  • Leadership
donate now!

EXECUTIVE BOARD

Retired Major

Ed Olwine

Clinical Research Coordinator

Ramesh Alexander

Community Engagement Director

Roy Cogdell III

Brand strategist

Keairra Caldwell

President MedBricks

Ramana Annamraju

CEO owner of Immaculate Beauty Bar

Antonia White

Executive Director of The Salvation Army, author, poet, presenter

Joshua Dickerson

ADVISORY BOARD

CONTROLLER-CFO

Mary Annamraju

Internal Family Systems (IFS) practitioner

Ursula Lentine

Licensed Professional Counselor

Ashley Martinez LPC, CPCS

Clinical Psychotherapist., PMH-C Owner/Therapist

Shakenya Burch-Oliver, Ph.D., LPC, LCMHC, NCC, ACS, PMH-C

board certified neurologist

Dr. Daniel Tesfaye, MD

Executive Team

Jenay Sermon

Research Architecture Lead

Jenay R. Sermon, PhD is a qualitative researcher and program strategist with 15+ years designing inclusive, human-centered initiatives across education, EdTech, and nonprofits. Her work spans strategic research, program evaluation, and design that expand access, agency, and impact—especially for underserved and nontraditional learners. Trained at Spelman College with interdisciplinary experience in clinical psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science labs, she began in K–12 classrooms conducting behavior analysis and designing change programs—grounding her applied, learner-centered approach. As Senior Director of Applied Learning Science at Kenzie Academy, she led institutional research for a national tech credentialing program. Through Learn Ubique and AREACH, she advances action research and inclusive evaluation to shape research strategy and measure the cognitive and behavioral impact of VR-based cognitive training.

Jenay Sermon

Catedra Phillips

Founder, and Executive Director

Catedra Phillips, an Atlanta native and entrepreneur, has dedicated her career to the benefits of brain science, mental health, and authentic youth engagement. As the founder of AREACH (Advancing, Resilience, Education and Cognitive Health), a non-profit organization, Phillips brings over 10 years of experience working with Atlanta Government-funded Educational systems and close links to youth. With certifications as a Meditation Instructor, and NeuroMeditation facilitator, she continually conducts small studies focused on neuroscience. Phillips’s ultimate goal is to raise corporate consciousness of social responsibility and equip young minds with the skills needed for positive decision making. Alongside leading AREACH, she actively volunteers with other organizations aiming to bridge the economic gaps for disadvantaged minority youth. Through her work and involvement, Phillips is making a lasting impact on the lives of young people and the community as a whole.

Team Members

Nyanna Saunders 

Taylor Hite 

Jaylynn Priester 

Gabriella Beasley 

Taliyah Jackson

Nehemiah Smiley  

Ariana Phillips

Alexcia Tucker 

 

Deha Aniemeka

Brandon McCloud

Kendell Wimberly

Comfort Shikong

Aditya Vyas

Isaiah Easley

Allison Brown

 

Join your hand with us for a better life and beautiful future.

became a volunteer
donate now

Ed Olwine

retired Major

Ed Olwine, a retired Major League Baseball pitcher for the Atlanta Braves, has seamlessly transitioned into a successful career as a top-performing realtor. Using his expertise in both athletics and real estate, Olwine has found a way to channel his passion for helping others. As a Real estate professional, he not only assists in buying and selling properties but also dedicates himself to guiding young athletes towards success. With his unique background, Olwine understands the importance of life skills and the enhancement of athletic ability. Through his mentorship, he inspires and empowers young athletes to aspire to greatness both on and off the field. With a professional tone of voice, it is evident that Edward R. Olwine’s dedication and knowledge make him an invaluable asset to those seeking guidance in their athletic careers and real estate endeavors.

RAMESH ALEXANDER

B. A NEUROSCIENCE AND MS BIO-MEDICAL

Ramesh Alexander is a highly skilled professional in the field of neuroscience, utilizing an impressive combination of research expertise and artistry to further our understanding of the human brain. With a Master of Science in Biomedical Science from GA-PCOM and a Bachelor of Arts in Neuroscience from Vanderbilt University, he has a solid foundation in both the scientific and creative aspects of his work. As a Clinical Research Coordinator with M3 Wake Research, Ramesh brings his comprehensive knowledge and honed skills to conduct studies that bridge the gap between clinical research and artistic expression. His dedication to the field of neuroscience, coupled with his remarkable academic achievements, make him a valuable asset in advancing our understanding of the intricate workings of the brain and program development within AREACH.

Roy Cogdell III

Secretary

Roy Cogdell is a highly dedicated and experienced professional who serves as the Volunteer Coordinator with the Grove Park Foundation. With a keen focus on finding co-dreamers who share the neighborhood’s vision, Roy dedicates himself to transforming these dreams into tangible realities. Demonstrating an impressive commitment to community welfare, he has led volunteer programs centered around food security in collaboration with esteemed organizations such as Open Hand Atlanta, Hosea Feed the Hungry, and Meals on Wheels Atlanta for over five years. Originally from Connecticut, Roy’s connection to Atlanta blossomed during his time at Morehouse College, where he fell in love with the vibrant city. Roy’s dedication to serving his community is nothing short of inspiring.

KEAIRRA CALDWELL

B. A PSYCHOLOGY

Keairra Caldwell, the CEO and owner of ASH Beauty Products and Services, has leveraged her psychology studies from Clark Atlanta University to propel her entrepreneurial success. Applying her profound understanding of the human brain, Keairra has not only built a thriving business but also provided mentorship to hundreds of individuals, helping them embark on their own entrepreneurial journeys. Her involvement extends beyond the business realm, as she has selflessly volunteered over 800 community service hours for numerous Atlanta organizations, with a strong dedication to fostering positivity among the youth. Keairra Caldwell’s entrepreneurial accomplishments, coupled with her commitment to giving back to the community, exemplify her professional and altruistic approach.

RAMANA ANNAMRAJU

Masters degree in computer science and physics

Ramana Annamraju, President of MedBricks LLC, has spearheaded the development of a groundbreaking healthcare model that is revolutionizing the industry. With an impressive background in physics, computer science, and nuclear engineering, he is not only a healthcare innovator but also a versatile professional. With over 20 years of experience in the field, Ramana has authored and designed numerous workflow processes specifically tailored to the cardiology and radiology sectors. Moreover, his extensive knowledge led him to successfully own and operate imaging centers for a remarkable 15 years. As a Board Member of AREACH, Ramana’s professional tone and breadth of knowledge make him an invaluable asset, contributing to the organization’s vision and mission in the most impactful way possible.

Antonia White

CEO owner of Immaculate Suites

Antonia White is the CEO and owner of Immaculate Suites with two locations in Decatur, Ga. In addition to her entrepreneurial journey she committed countless hours to volunteering in her community. This remarkable 23-year-old entrepreneur and philanthropist has also coached neally 1000 women to become business owners and navigate the challenges. Antonia’s impressive track record of leadership is a testament to her boundless potential. With a keen sense of vision and a depth of knowledge, she brings a unique blend of skills to further the mission of AREACH. Her remarkable journey serves as an inspiring example to her peers and a reminder that anyone can chart their own path to success.

Joshua Dickerson

Joshua T. Dickerson lives in Atlanta, Georgia. Author of multiple books, he has created several programs to empower youth, has helped establish chess and robotics clubs in partnership with various program, and uses his experience and affection for children to train teachers and administrators on incorporating literacy into daily educational activities. Currently, he is the Executive Director of the Salvation Army Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Atlanta