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LEADERSHIP

The People Behind AREACH.

AREACH is guided by mission-driven professionals, board leadership, advisors, and Brain Trainers who are committed to helping young people build mental strength and lasting Mental Wealth.

Together, we lead with purpose, science, and heart.

Catedra Phillips

Founder & Executive Director

Catedra Phillips is the Founder and Executive Director of AREACH. She brings more than 20 years of experience spanning education systems, organizational management, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.

Jenay Sermon, PhD

Research Architecture Lead

Dr. Jenay R. Sermon is a qualitative researcher, program strategist, and learning science leader with more than 15 years of experience across education, EdTech, and nonprofit sectors.

Board of Directors

Eric Fears AREACH

Eric Fears

Board Chair

Ed Olwine

Board Member

Roy Cogdell III

Secetary

Ramana Annamraju

Board Member

Keairra Caldwell

Board Member

Ramesh Alexander

Board Member

Antonia White

Board Member

Advisory Board

Our Advisory Team Strengthens AREACH though strategic guidance, expertise and sector insights.

Mary Annamraju

Controller-CFO

Ursula Lentine

Internal Family Systems (IFS) practitioner

Ashley Martinez LPC, CPCS

Licensed Professional Counselor

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

Clinical Psychotherapist., PMH-C Owner/Therapist

Dr. Daniel Tesfaye, MD

board certified neurologist

Brain Trainers

Brain Trainers are the facilitators who guide Brain Fit experiences through
brain education, coaching, reflection, and interactive technology.

Lead Brain Trainers

Experienced facilitators who lead Brain Fit sessions and mentor others in best practices.

Program Facilitators

Facilitators who deliver engaging, evidence-informed sessions that bring Brain Fit to life.

Site-Based Support

Local partners and team members who ensure programs run smoothly and youth feel supported.

Additional trainer profiles can be added

Our growing network continues to expand across communities.

Connect With the Team Behind Brain Fit.

We're always happy to connect with partners, collaborators, and supporters who share our mission.

Contact Us
Make a Donation

Team Members

Nyanna Saunders

Deha Aniemeka

Taylor Hite

Brandon McCloud

Jaylynn Priester

Kendell Wimberly

Gabriella Beasley

Comfort Shikong

Taliyah Jackson

Aditya Vyas

Nehemiah Smiley

Isaiah Easley

Ariana Phillips

Allison Brown

Alexcia Tucker

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Catedra Phillips

Founder & Executive Director

Catedra Phillips is the Founder and Executive Director of AREACH, where she leads the organization’s mission to strengthen the cognitive, emotional, and mental well-being of young people through neuroscience, technology, education, and meaningful community engagement.

An Atlanta native and entrepreneur, Catedra brings more than 20 years of experience spanning education systems, organizational management, entrepreneurship, and community-centered work. From 2004 to 2014, she worked as a contractor in management within the Nutrition Department of Atlanta Public Schools, gaining firsthand experience inside a large urban education system and a deeper understanding of the environments that shape young people’s development and well-being.

Catedra founded AREACH in 2012 and became a full-time entrepreneur in 2015. Since then, she has continued to build at the intersection of youth development, brain science, wellness, and emerging technology. Her work has been informed by years of independent study, professional development, volunteerism, and hands-on exploration of approaches designed to strengthen focus, emotional regulation, resilience, self-awareness, and cognitive performance.

Under her leadership, AREACH has evolved into an innovative youth development organization incorporating virtual reality, neurofeedback, meditation, and neuroscience-based learning experiences to help young people better understand and strengthen how they think, feel, and respond.

Catedra is a certified Meditation Instructor and NeuroMeditation facilitator, bringing both practitioner experience and a deep commitment to making brain science practical and accessible. Her vision is to ensure that young people, particularly those in underserved communities, have access to tools, knowledge, and experiences that help them understand the power of their minds. Through AREACH, she is helping young people build cognitive and emotional skills they can carry throughout their lives.

Jenay Sermon, PhD

Research Architecture Lead

Dr. Jenay R. Sermon is a qualitative researcher, program strategist, and learning science leader with more than 15 years of experience designing and evaluating human-centered initiatives across education, EdTech, and nonprofit sectors. Her work focuses on expanding access, agency, and meaningful outcomes for underserved and nontraditional learners.

Her career began in K-12 classrooms, where she conducted behavior analysis observations and developed change programs that shaped her applied, learner-centered approach. That foundation deepened through interdisciplinary work in clinical psychology, neuroscience, and behavioral science, building a rigorous understanding of how people learn, adapt, and develop across environments.

As former Senior Director of Applied Learning Science at Kenzie Academy, Dr. Sermon led institutional research supporting a national technology credentialing program and helped strengthen career pathways for adult learners at scale.

At AREACH, Dr. Sermon leads research strategy, program evaluation, and impact measurement for the organization’s VR-based cognitive training and neurofeedback initiatives. Applying action research, metacognition, and inclusive evaluation principles, she assesses program effectiveness and documents cognitive and behavioral outcomes. Her work strengthens AREACH’s evidence base and provides data-driven insights that support decision-making, funder engagement, strategic partnerships, and long-term organizational growth.

Eric Fears AREACH

Eric D. Fears

CHAIR, AREACH BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Eric D. Fears is an economic development strategist, entrepreneur, and social impact leader with more than 15 years of experience building partnerships, strengthening organizations, and advancing community and economic opportunity.

As Chair of the AREACH Board of Directors, Eric provides strategic leadership as the organization strengthens its infrastructure, expands partnerships, and advances its long-term vision for youth cognitive health and Mental Wealth.

Eric is Managing Partner and Portfolio Strategist at J2RL Global LLC and Founder and CEO of Call Us First, LLC, where he helps businesses, nonprofits, and community organizations develop sustainable strategies and measurable results. His work includes leading a 20-year economic development strategy for Atlanta’s Grove Park neighborhood, integrating small-business growth, education, and community wealth-building.

Previously, Eric served as a Social Impact Strategist and Aide to Ambassador Andrew Young, supporting public-private partnerships and international development initiatives across Africa, the Asia-Pacific region, the Caribbean, and the American South. He also served as a City Council Member in Conyers, Georgia, from 2022 to 2026.

Eric earned a Bachelor of Science in Management from the Georgia Institute of Technology. His experience in governance, economic strategy, partnership development, and community impact strengthens AREACH as the organization expands access to Brain Fit and builds lasting opportunities for young people.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ramesh Alexander

Clinical Research Coordinator

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.

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.