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Pathways To Promise Presenters

                                  Presenters

Lenora Jackson

Lenora Jackson, Retired Financial Aid Director

Lenora Jackson brings more than 35 years of experience in financial aid and higher education finance, dedicating her career to helping students and families navigate the challenging process of securing funding for college. She has provided her expertise to numerous institutions across the country, including Spelman College (Atlanta, GA), Edward Waters College (Jacksonville, FL), Benedict College (Columbia, SC), Bennett College (Greensboro, NC), Jackson State University (Jackson, MS), Paul Quinn College (Dallas, TX), and Tennessee State University (Nashville, TN).

Even without a current institutional appointment, Jackson remains deeply committed to student success. She can often be found making calls, mentoring families, and walking campus halls—particularly at Morehouse College and Clark Atlanta University—advocating for students as they pursue institutional and privately funded financial resources. Her support extends beyond undergraduate education, as she also assists students seeking funding for graduate school and advanced studies.

Guided by the belief that no student should be burdened with insurmountable debt to achieve their educational goals, Jackson champions informed financial planning and responsible borrowing. She acknowledges that some limited educational debt may be necessary and considers it an investment in a student’s future.

When she is not working directly with students and parents, Jackson is actively engaged in community service, volunteering with her local chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and contributing her time and talents to her church.

Matt Huberty

Matthew Huberty, M.S., Assistant Director of Community-Based Organizations, Undergraduate Admissions, The University of Georgia

Matthew Huberty serves as the Assistant Director of Community-Based Organizations at the University of Georgia, where he works closely with community-based organization (CBO) staff and students to expand access to higher education. Deeply committed to college access, collaboration, and student success, Matthew plays a key role in connecting community partners with UGA resources through both virtual and in-person engagement, helping students navigate pathways to enrollment, persistence, and achievement.

Originally from St. Paul, Minnesota, Matthew brings a strong foundation in communication, outreach, and student development to his work. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Marketing with a minor in Communication Studies, followed by a Master of Science in College Counseling and Student Development from St. Cloud State University. His academic training and professional experience allow him to approach college access work with both strategic insight and a student-centered lens.

At UGA, Matthew focuses on building sustainable partnerships with community organizations that support students historically underrepresented in higher education. His work emphasizes collaboration, clear communication, and removing barriers so students and families can make informed decisions about their educational futures.

Matthew is also proud to be the first member of his family to be affiliated with the University of Georgia, a milestone that fuels his passion for helping other students reach similar opportunities. Outside of work, he enjoys traveling, staying competitive in fantasy football leagues, and embracing UGA traditions—especially ringing the Chapel Bell and spending time at Sanford Stadium. His favorite college class, History of Rock ’n’ Roll, sparked a lifelong appreciation for music and storytelling.

Darryl Robinson

Darryl Robinson, Ed., Counselor, North Atlanta High School

Darryl Robinson is a highly impactful school counselor at North Atlanta High School, where he has served for over a decade as a trusted advocate and guide for students navigating academic planning, admissions strategy, and scholarship attainment. With deep experience supporting students across IB, AP, and specialized academic pathways, Mr. Robinson has helped hundreds of families successfully navigate the complexities of transcript evaluation, college admissions, merit- and need-based financial aid opportunities.

Known for his relational counseling approach, he emphasizes the importance of partnership between students, families, and their counselor — empowering families to ask effective questions, engage early in the process, and build a strong post-secondary plan aligned to each student’s unique strengths and ambitions. Mr. Robinson has championed equity and access in college-bound readiness initiatives, including specialized scholarship support programs, first-generation student guidance, and targeted strategies for competitive awards and institutional aid.

At the heart of his work is the belief that every student — regardless of background, circumstance, or starting point — deserves both the information and encouragement necessary to pursue meaningful higher education pathways. His mission is to ensure that students and families are not merely navigating the system — but are confident, informed, and empowered partners in the journey.

Bretta Carihters

Bretta Carithers, MBA, FAAC®, Director of Processing and Scholarships, Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid, Kennesaw State University

Bretta Carithers has worked in higher education since 2007 and currently serves as the Director of Processing and Scholarships in the Office of Scholarships and Financial Aid at Kennesaw State University.

She began her financial aid career at her alma mater, the University of South Florida, in the Office of Financial Aid. Bretta holds dual bachelor’s degrees in finance and management, as well as a Master of Business Administration, and is a Certified Financial Aid Administrator® (FAAC®).

An active member of both her state and regional associations of student financial aid administrators, Bretta has served on numerous committees, delivered presentations on specialized topics, and contributed as an instructor for the SASFAA New Aid Officer Workshop.

Bretta is passionate about serving and educating students and giving back to her community. In her free time, she volunteers with at-risk youth and individuals experiencing housing insecurity. Through service, mentorship, and advocacy, she strives to be a consistent source of hope and support for those around her.

Jini Thornton

Jini Thornton, CPA, Founder & CEO, Thank Me Later

Jini D. Thornton, CPA, is a serial entrepreneur, author and finance expert in media who is committed to helping people build, maintain, and protect their wealth.

Thornton is the founder and CEO of Envision Business Management Group, a boutique firm that provides a full range of accounting and money management services for clients exclusively in the entertainment industry. Her A-list clientele encompasses artists, producers, songwriters, actors, record labels, and talent management companies.

Thornton is also the founder of Thank Me Later, a financial education platform that guides women on how to transform their relationship with money through events, products, and courses. As the host of her weekly podcast, The Thank Me Later Show with Jini, she teaches her listeners how to master their money so they can transform their lives.

Radio has been Thornton’s biggest classroom over the last 27 years. She is currently the financial expert for Radio One and appears weekly on the nationally syndicated “Rickey Smiley Morning Show,” “The Willie Moore Jr. Show,” and “Get Up! Mornings With Erica Campbell.” You can tune in weekly and hear her in over 90 cities nationwide.

Thornton received a Master of Science in Taxation from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from North Carolina A&T State University. She is also on the Board of Trustees at her alma mater.

Victoria Lamar

Victoria Lamar, Founder & CEO, Securing Degrees, LLC

Victoria Lamar isn’t just changing lives – she’s transforming the entire landscape of educational funding. As Founder & CEO of Securing Degrees, she’s built the mobile-first platform that has helped over 10,000 students secure more than $50 million in scholarships. Through Securing Grants, she’s guided nonprofits and schools to $10 million in funding that creates measurable impact across entire communities.

Lamar’s approach is rooted in lived experience. After securing $3 million in scholarships for herself and launching profitable six-figure businesses, she became the first grant writer in the Southern Regional Education Board’s 76-year history, completely transforming their funding strategy in the process.

Her background as a People Consultant at Ernst & Young, combined with her entrepreneurial success, gives her unique insight into what funders actually seek and how organizations can position themselves for success. This proven combination has earned her recognition from the nation’s most competitive accelerators: Taco Bell Ambition Accelerator, Black Ambition, Camelback Fellows, Halcyon Fellowship, and the Fearless Fund Get Venture Ready Cohort.

As a sought-after speaker, Lamar delivers presentations that go beyond motivation to provide practical action. Her talks are comprehensive guides for turning obstacles into opportunities, packed with the exact strategies that have generated millions in funding. From university auditoriums to corporate conferences, she’s known for leaving audiences with clear, actionable next steps.

Lamar’s impact speaks for itself: students who were considering dropping out suddenly secure six-figure scholarship packages, and organizations that were struggling financially become fully funded and able to scale their mission. Her platforms have consistently turned seemingly impossible funding goals into achievable realities.

Through Securing Degrees and Securing Grants, Lamar is building a future where talent and potential aren’t limited by financial circumstances. She’s creating pathways for the next generation of innovators, ensuring that breakthrough ideas, life-saving research and world-changing solutions don’t get lost due to lack of funding.

Tre Watson

Tré Watson, Sports Broadcaster, Podcast Host, and Football Coach, Jesuit High School, Tampa, Florida, Former All American & 5 Year professional football player

In recognition of his academic and community contributions, he was awarded the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Ronald E. McNair International Scientific Achievement Award in 2017.

Watson went on to enjoy a five-year professional football career, beginning as an undrafted free agent with the Miami Dolphins in 2019, followed by impactful seasons in both the XFL and CFL (2020–2023). He also served as a CFLPA Player Representative in 2022, advocating for player interests across the league.

Today, Watson brings his insight and expertise to sports media and athlete development. He is the host of the Hitman’s Haven Podcast, a color commentator and studio analyst for ESPN+ and the Big Ten Network (BTN), and a dedicated high school football coach at Jesuit High School in Tampa, Florida.

His leadership, perspective, and commitment to excellence continue to influence athletes, fans, and future leaders in the game.

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Terry McClure

Terry McClure, Hitting Coach, Buford High School

Terry A. McClure is a former Minor League Baseball player and respected high school baseball coach whose career reflects a longstanding dedication to player development, leadership, and excellence on and off the field. A 2013 graduate of Riverwood High School, he emerged early as a standout athlete, earning recognition as a 2012 Under Armour All-American—a distinction reserved for the nation’s top high school baseball talent.

His exceptional performance and potential led to him being selected in the 8th round of the 2013 MLB Draft by the Colorado Rockies, where he spent six seasons competing within the organization. During his professional career, he developed a reputation for discipline, persistence, and a deep understanding of the game.

Following his playing career, Terry transitioned seamlessly into player development and scouting roles, bringing his firsthand experience to the next generation of athletes. He served in Player Development for the Seattle Mariners from 2022–2023, where he contributed to shaping emerging talent and supporting athlete performance pathways. His eye for talent was further recognized when he became an Amateur Scout for the Mariners (2023–2024), playing a role in identifying top prospects—including contributing to the selection of first-round pick Tai Peete.

In 2024, he joined the Cincinnati Reds Player Development department, continuing his commitment to strengthening player pipelines and building strong, competitive teams.

Today, Terry brings this wealth of professional experience to Buford High School Varsity baseball, where he is the hitting coach. Terry coaches with passion, purpose, and an athlete-centered approach. His journey—from elite high school prospect to professional player, scout, and player-development specialist—guides his mission to mentor young athletes, foster their growth, and prepare them for success at the next level.

Terry has earned a BA in Business Administration and is currently pursuing a master’s in health and physical education from Columbus State University. He has also followed in his parent’s footsteps in the insurance industry as the owner of Terry McClure Allstate Agency, Inc. For enjoyment, he loves playing golf, family time, traveling, watching sports and volunteering as the General Manager of the Rocket Baseball Organization.

Kandice Mitchell

Kandice P. Mitchell, M.Ed, Director of Athletics, Drew Charter School and mother of three athletes

Kandice Mitchell is the Senior Director of Athletics at Drew Charter School in Atlanta and a nationally respected leader in education-based athletics whose career reflects excellence across sport, leadership, and community impact. A former elite athlete, she competed at the University of Texas and earned gold medals representing Team USA in both track and field and women’s tackle football. With more than two decades of experience, she has served as an educator, coach, and athletic administrator, known for building programs that prioritize equity, character development, and competitive excellence.

Well-versed in education, pageantry, tackle and flag football, and athletic administration, Mitchell brings a uniquely multidimensional perspective to every space she enters. Her leadership is deeply informed by both her professional expertise and her lived experience, including raising three college athletes, one of whom now competes at the professional level in the NFL. This journey has strengthened her commitment to mentorship, youth development, and creating pathways for young people, especially girls and students from underserved communities to discover their power through sports.

Mitchell continues to advocate for athletics as a transformative vehicle for confidence, discipline, and life readiness, using her platform to inspire, elevate, and expand access to opportunities that shape future leaders on and off the field.

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Mark Hayes

Mark Hayes, CEO & Founder, Varsity Connects

With nearly three decades of experience in the news industry, Mark Hayes has been a trusted voice in major cities including Dallas, Denver, Detroit, and Baltimore. His most significant accomplishments, however, were achieved during his tenure in Atlanta, GA, where he was a fixture on early morning television with “Good Day Atlanta.” Mark’s most noteworthy moment was his extensive 20-hour live coverage of the Fulton County Courthouse shootings and the capture of Brian Nichols, which earned him two Emmy nominations and national recognition for spot news coverage from the National Press Photographers Association.

In November 2023, Mark leveraged his extensive media expertise to launch Varsity Connects, a subsidiary of Mark Hayes Consulting, LLC, founded in 2010. Varsity Connects is dedicated to transforming the relationships between parents and their student-athletes, moving from frustration to confidence, and fostering family enjoyment and the growth of young athletes into mature adults.

Mark Hayes Consulting, LLC, is a boutique firm specializing in maximizing media exposure for clients ranging from CEOs to small business owners. Mark’s passion for community service is evident through his longstanding support of Boys and Girls Clubs and his advocacy for drug abuse recovery and prevention.

Mark and his college sweetheart, Latonya, met at Howard University and have been inseparable since 1988. They are proud alumni from the classes of 1989 and 1990, respectively, and have celebrated 25 years of marriage. Together, they have two children, Malcolm and Kenny. A member of the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Mark is also an avid traveler who enjoys exploring the world.

Tazim

Tazim Wajid Wajed, Retired NFL Player, Financial Services Professional, Hitman’s HAVEN Podcast Host and father of two professional football players

A native of Fort Valley, Georgia, Tazim Wajid Wajed—born James Timothy Watson, Jr.—legally changed his name in 2019 after discovering his family’s ancestral heritage, a reflection of his deep commitment to identity and legacy. Throughout his life, Wajed has embodied excellence in both academics and athletics. A standout three-sport athlete and honors student at Peach County High School, he went on to Howard University, where he became the first athlete in school history to earn GTE Academic All-America recognition while collecting numerous athletic and scholastic awards. His achievements propelled him into a seven-year professional football career, beginning with his selection by the Green Bay Packers in the 1993 NFL Draft, followed by impactful seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs, Philadelphia Eagles, and teams in the World League and Arena Football League. After retiring from professional sports, Wajed transitioned into business, building a multifaceted career that includes life coaching, financial services, and leadership roles such as Financial Services Specialist and Agency Recruiter with State Farm Insurance. A published author, dynamic speaker, and cohost of the “Hitman’s HAVEN Podcast,” he continues to share insights shaped by his experiences in professional sports and business. Deeply committed to service, Wajed remains active in his community through charitable initiatives, youth coaching and athlete development, and leadership roles in organizations including the NFL Alumni Association and Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He is married to his college sweetheart, Lisa, and is the proud father of five children—among them Christian and Tré, both professional football players. In a remarkable family milestone, Christian and Tazim became one of only six father-son duos in NFL history drafted by the same team, when the Green Bay Packers selected Christian in the second round of the 2022 NFL Draft.

Tracy McClure

Tracy McClure, Owner, TM Agency, Allstate Insurance and mother of former Minor League Player, Terry McClure

Tracy McClure is currently an Allstate Insurance Agency owner of the TM Agency, Inc. She is a highly regarded new agency owner having started her agency from scratch just over a year ago but has grown the agency to a value of over $4 million, which ranks her Number 10 in growth of all Allstate agencies, nationwide.

While her current career is in insurance, her passion is and will always be in education. As a former assistant principal, McClure is known for her expertise in both academic and corporate environments. A strategic and results driven leader, she is deeply committed to mentoring and empowering youth. Her professional journey reflects a passion for impact, continuous learning and service to her community. She is a devoted and active alumni member of both Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated and her beloved alma mater, Florida A&M University.

While attending FAMU, she earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and was the first female sports editor in the school’s history. She later earned her master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling and Educational Leadership from the University of West Georgia.

McClure resides in Atlanta with her husband Dion, loves to travel, enjoys reading, decorating, event planning, and of course, watching all sports! She is the biggest fan of her son, Terry who was drafted out of high school to play major league baseball. During basketball season you can find her cheering in the stands wherever Terry is coaching or for her favorite Atlanta team, the Atlanta Hawks!

Glenn Ford, Jr.

Glenn T. Ford Jr., Chairman, Founder ,College CB Coach, iDareU Academy Inc.

Glenn T. Ford Jr. is the Chairman and CEO of iDareU Academy, a premier athlete development organization based in Atlanta, Georgia. Founded in 2006, iDareU Academy celebrates its 20-year anniversary in 2026, marking two decades of elite football development, mentorship, and college placement..

Since its inception, iDareU Academy has successfully placed more than 400 student-athletes into college programs, collectively earning over $52 million in scholarship opportunities. The academy proudly counts 24 NFL players among its alumni, including standout defensive backs Minkah Fitzpatrick and A.J. Terrell, underscoring iDareU’s proven track record at the highest levels of the sport.

Widely regarded as a “DB Guru,” Ford has earned a national reputation as an outstanding tactician, organizer, motivator, and leader. His disciplined, detail-driven approach to athlete development has garnered the attention of college programs across the United States. Under his leadership, iDareU athletes are known for their determination, resilience, and grit—often distinguishing themselves and outperforming peers at elite college camps, combines, and workouts.

In recognition of his commitment to youth development and community impact, Ford was awarded an official Proclamation from the City of Atlanta on June 20, 2016, honoring his dedication to the transformation of young lives through mentorship, discipline, and opportunity.

Ford’s vision extends beyond the field. His commitment to structure, accountability, and long-term athlete development has positioned iDareU Academy not only as a football powerhouse, but as a nationally respected model for preparing young men for sustained success in college, professional athletics, and life beyond sports.

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Keeva Linton

Keeva Linton, 2 sport Hall of Famer, CAU 2019; IT Manager, Georgia Department of Public Health; Parent of Chase Linton #85, OLB, University of Georgia; APS Parent of 3

Keeva Linton is a devoted mother of three and a lifelong champion of youth athletics and community involvement. Her children have competed in a wide range of sports—including cross country, softball, basketball, baseball, football, wrestling, girls’ lacrosse, and track and field—often leading her to juggle overlapping practices, games, and travel schedules with the support of a strong community network. Linton’s own athletic background includes a brief stint in gymnastics, in addition to her distinguished collegiate career as a two-sport athlete and Clark Atlanta University Hall of Famer. Her passion for sports extends beyond her family: she has volunteered at virtually every level, serving as a Team Parent, Booster Board Member, Girls Basketball Coach, Boys Basketball Assistant Coach, Athletics Community Board organizer, social media manager, and sports photographer. A resident of Northwest Atlanta, she is the proud mother of two college students attending Georgia State University and the University of Georgia.

Uwonda Carter

Uwonda S. Carter, Esquire, Carter Woodard, LLC

Uwonda S. Carter is a founding partner of Carter Woodard, LLC and a transactional attorney who advises clients on both business and entertainment matters and focuses on securing and negotiating recording and other music-related agreements, television and film agreements, contracts for licensing, sponsorship and endorsement opportunities and book publishing. Uwonda’s roster currently includes award-winning recording artists, music producers and songwriters; television personalities, television production companies, comedians, authors, fashion companies and entertainment industry executives. Presently, some of Uwonda’s clients include Lil Yachty, Metro Boomin, Avery Sunshine, Lil Duval, Organized Noize, Earl on the Beat, and Tenderfoot TV.

In 2021, Uwonda, along with Carter Woodard partner Donald Woodard, received the Dealmakers Award from Black Entertainment and Sports Lawyers Association (BESLA). Uwonda was also recognized by BESLA in 2017 as its Entertainment Lawyer the Year, by Variety in 2024 as one of its Top Entertainment Lawyers and in 2023 as one of the Top Music Attorneys; and by The Hollywood Reporter as one of its Power Lawyers in 2023. Additionally, Billboard Magazine named Uwonda as one of its Women in Music honorees for 2025 and has also recognized her as one of Billboard Magazine’s Top Music Lawyers in 2022, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

Uwonda is a Lifetime Member BESLA; a member of the Recording Academy and the Entertainment and Sports Law Section of the State Bar of Georgia, where she served as the Entertainment Vice-Chair for six years. Uwonda earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Criminal Justice from Georgia State University and subsequently earned her Juris Doctorate from Georgia State University College of Law. She is a member of both the State Bar of Georgia and the State Bar of New York.

Donald Woodard

Donald Woodard, Esquire. Carter Woodard, LLC

Donald Woodard is a nationally recognized transactional lawyer who represents world renowned talent, high-profile athletes and companies in the entertainment and sports industries. He served as Chief Business Affairs/Deputy General Counsel at USA Track & Field until his departure in January 2021 to start Carter+Woodard, a boutique entertainment and sports law firm in Atlanta, GA. An influential dealmaker, Woodard specializes in negotiating and structuring complex commercial transactions for businesses and individuals in all facets of their careers in the entertainment, music, and sports industries.

His client list includes Grammy award winning record artists and producers. With respect to his sports practice, Woodard advises Chicago Sky’s 2024 #7 WNBA draft pick, Angel Reese, who, while a collegiate athlete at LSU, was the first student-athlete to sign a sneaker and lifestyle deal with Reebok. He also represents LSU basketball player Flau’jae Johnson, the first women’s college basketball player to sign a sneaker deal with Puma and a recording contract with Roc Nation. He advises Colorado quarterback and 2025 Georgia’s High School Player of the Year, Julian “Ju Ju” Lewis who was the first high school football player to appear on the cover of Sports Illustrated. He is also legal counsel to 2024 Heisman Trophy runner up, running back Ashton Jeanty who rushed for 2,601 yards, falling just short of Barry Sander’s single-season rushing record and was the 6th pick in the NFL draft to the Las Vegas Raiders.

Beyond his legal accomplishments, Woodard is widely respected by his peers as a leader within the legal community. He is consistently among an elite group of lawyers selected as a Top Hollywood Entertainment Lawyer by Variety Magazine, Top Music Lawyer by Billboard Magazine and Georgia Super Lawyer. He was recognized as one of the Top 10 To Watch in sports by Diverse Representation. He is an advocate who fought for the right of all Georgia high school athletes to profit off their Name, Image and Likeness (NIL). He is widely known as a thought leader with respect to NIL in college and high school sports nationally.

Woodard grew up in Temple Hills, Maryland. He is a graduate of Morehouse College and Indiana University-Maurer School of Law, Bloomington.

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Geary Woolfolk

Geary Woolfolk, Educational Consultant,
Founder of Woolfolk Works

Geary Woolfolk has enjoyed successful IT career as a Director of IT Systems Engineering, but his true passion lies in working with teens in his community. You will typically find him mentoring at local schools, conducting college prep sessions for high school parents and students, and leading a teen worship service at his church. He is the proud father of three sons who all received full-ride academic scholarships to their respective colleges. Geary’s goal is to use his mentorship and leadership experience to assist as many young people as possible towards reaching their college admissions and scholarship dreams!

Ashley Rudolph

Ashley Rudolph, , MS, CRC

I’m Ashley Rudolph, MS, CRC, a Counselor 3 with GVRA. I have over six years of experience supporting students with disabilities as they explore post-secondary options and career pathways. As a Certified Rehabilitation Counselor and District Mentor Champion, I also train and mentor new counselors to strengthen service delivery and case management across our district. I’m committed to empowering students to recognize their abilities, build confidence, and pursue meaningful education and employment opportunities.

Bachelor of Science in Recreational Therapy from Alabama State University, Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling from Troy University and Certified Rehabilitation Counselor (CRC) credential.

Frances Jones

Frances Jones, Counseling Professional

Frances S. Jones is a dedicated counseling professional with extensive experience supporting individuals through mental, educational, and vocational challenges. As a Counselor 3 with the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency (GVRA), she assesses needs, determines eligibility, and develops individualized plans that empower clients to achieve long-term career success. With more than two decades of mental health and family support experience, Frances brings a seasoned, compassionate approach to her work. A graduate of Fayetteville State University, a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and a proud mother of 3 and spouse of a retired U.S. Army Chaplain, she is deeply committed to service, community, and leadership.

Huda Hassan

Huda Hassan, Educator and Career Development Specialist

Huda Hassan is an experienced educator and career development specialist dedicated to helping students successfully navigate their transition from school to college, training, and employment. With nearly a decade of experience in Career and Technical Education (CTE), work-based learning, and instructional support, Huda currently serves as a Transition Liaison with the Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency, where she guides students with exceptionalities in exploring career pathways, building workplace skills, and accessing the resources they need to thrive.
Prior to this role, Huda led statewide initiatives for the Nevada Department of Education, including work-based learning programs, CTE technical assessments, and industry-recognized credential reporting. Whether collaborating with educators, families, or community partners, Huda is passionate about helping young people discover their strengths and confidently take their next steps toward a meaningful future.

Sharese Taylor Cross

Sharese Taylor Cross, Transition Liaison,
Georgia Vocational Rehabilitation Agency
and Liaison for Atlanta Public, Clayton County, Henry County and Fulton County (South)

I am an Atlanta native, graduating from Benjamin E. Mays High School and have over 26 years in education and management spread between public, nonprofit, private and state organizations. I am a licensed educator in Georgia, Arkansas and Tennessee.
I have a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from THEE Jackson State University, Master of Arts in Curriculum from Clark Atlanta University and a Master of Divinity from Mercer University.
I began teaching in Atlanta Public Schools at Parks Middle School in 1999. Since then, I have served as a Science Teacher, Graduation Coach, Instructional Coordinator, Teach Mentor, Special Programs Manager, Public School Program Advisor for the Arkansas State Department of Education, Adjunct Faculty in two universities, Curriculum Specialist, Operations Manager for Educational Programs with the Clinton Foundation and now Transition Liaison.