Clayton State University’s Social Mobility Summit provides a meaningful platform to evaluate the role of higher education as a key driver of social mobility and to identify ways that institutions of higher education can best partner with community stakeholders to promote social mobility. This Summit is designed to discuss common determinants of social mobility while also looking at the unique barriers present in the greater metro Atlanta area. The Summit will include panels, workshops, and discussions focused on issues related to social mobility, such as access to education, economic opportunity, and student success. This Summit is part of Clayton State University’s ongoing commitment to advancing social mobility on our campus, in the broader community, and throughout the state of Georgia.
Summit Parking & Internet
Summit attendees should park near the Student Activities Center: Lots K1, K2, L1, and L2. Please refer to the Campus Maps and Directions for more information.
For wireless internet access during the Social Mobility Summit, use the following credentials:
- Network: SummerClayton2025
- Password: CSUConference
Second Annual Social Mobility Summit
June 25, 2025 | Student Activities Center
Keynote Speaker
Dr. Mahnaz Charania, Chief Transformation Officer, TNTP
As Chief Transformation Officer, Dr. Mahnaz Charania drives innovation and growth by aligning leadership, expanding partnerships, and leveraging data to drive innovations and yield improved educational outcomes and economic and social mobility for all learners. She leads a dynamic team overseeing the organization’s national research agenda, leveraging evidence to design and scale TNTP's services, and ensuring the organization’s strategies remain adaptive and impactful in the evolving education ecosystem.
Prior to joining TNTP, she served as the founding Executive Director of the Rozhar Education Collaborative, where she partnered with PK-16 schools, districts, nonprofits, and intermediaries to enhance their capacity for courageous, systems-level leadership and implement innovative practices that support student success.
At the Clayton Christensen Institute, Mahnaz co-directed a multi-year, $1.5 million field-building initiative aimed at scaling innovative practices and education technology tools to expand students’ social capital through career-connected pathways, civic education programs, and place-based learning. Known for bridging the gap between research and practice, Mahnaz excels at designing meaningful, data-driven learning experiences. Previously, at Fulton County Schools, she established the inaugural Department of Research and Program Evaluation, led the district’s 2017 strategic planning process, and played a pivotal role in rolling out personalized learning across 96 schools.
Mahnaz holds a BS in Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin and a PhD in Experimental Social Psychology from the University of Texas at Arlington. She is a Pahara Fellow and a sought-after speaker on strategies for measuring non-academic outcomes and scaling innovative practices that support learners toward social and economic mobility.
Read TNTP's published research:
"Paths of Opportunity: What it Will Take for All Young People to Thrive."
Leadership
Dr. Georj L. Lewis – President, Clayton State University
Dr. Lewis, the sixth president of Clayton State University, started his career in higher education 30 years ago, and for the past 20 years, he has served in varying increasing roles of leadership to include Dean of Students at Georgia Southern University, Vice Chancellor for Student Affairs at Indiana University, Vice President for Student Affairs at Armstrong State University and Georgia Southern University.
In May 2019, Dr. Lewis was tapped to serve in his first presidency at Atlanta Metropolitan State College. He served in that role until February 2023 when he was appointed President of Clayton State University. Dr. Lewis is a graduate of Leadership Atlanta (class of 2024), the University System of Georgia Accelerated Leadership Academy (ALA), and Executive Leadership Institute (ELI).
President Lewis is active in the metro Atlanta community. He is the Chair of the Foundation Board for the ATL Airport Chamber, a member of the Georgia Chamber of Commerce, a member of the Board of Directors for the Metropolitan Regional Educational Service Agency (Metro RESA), One Goal Board Member, Learn4Life Leadership Council Member and Board Member of the Aerotropolis Atlanta Alliance, Inc.
Dr. Lewis has received several awards, including but not limited to, a 2021 Pillar of the Profession by the National Association of Student Personnel Administrators (NASPA). He is also a recipient of the Paragon Award for New Presidents by Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. Other honors include being inducted into the Edinboro University Hall of Fame as a football player; Honorary Membership in the Delta Epsilon lota and Golden Key Honor Societies; Deen Day Smith Service to Mankind Award; and a scholarship named in his honor, the Georj Lewis Leadership Scholarship at Georgia Southern University. Dr. Lewis is a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated and is also a member of Impact Church in East Point, Georgia.
As a native of southwestern Pennsylvania (and one of the Biggest Pittsburgh Steeler Fans Around), Dr. Georj L. Lewis earned a Bachelor of Science in Business/Accounting, a Master of Arts in Counseling/Student Personnel, both from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Georgia Southern University. Dr. Lewis is blessed to be the husband of Mrs. Anchelle Lewis, and proud to be the father of Miles, Georj II, and Jazmyn and the grandfather of Taylor, Taliya, Miles Jr. and Tres.
Dr. Jill Drake – Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Clayton State University
Dr. Jill Drake brings over 24 years of experience in higher education to her role as Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs. She is a transformational leader dedicated to enhancing student success, driving academic program innovation, and fostering institutional partnerships.
Before joining Clayton State, Dr. Drake was the Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs at Georgia Southwestern State University, where she spearheaded initiatives to improve student retention, expand academic offerings, and strengthen faculty development. Prior to that, she served as Associate Vice President for Academic Affairs at the University of West Georgia, where she advanced strategic priorities in new degree program development, co-curricular integration, and instructional innovation. Her leadership experience also includes serving as a department chair, during which she facilitated enrollment growth, cultivated community partnerships, and supported faculty excellence. Dr. Drake holds a Doctorate from the University of Georgia. She also earned an Education Specialist degree, a Master of Science degree, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Florida State University.
As Provost and Executive Vice President for Academic Affairs, Dr. Drake leads Clayton State’s academic programs, faculty development, and student support services. Her vision and leadership are instrumental in shaping the university’s future, fostering innovation, collaboration, and student success. Dr. Drake is married to Leroy W. Drake III, and they have two daughters, Maya and Camille.
Summit Executive Committee
Dr. Don Stansberry – Chair of Social Mobility Summit and Vice President of Student Affairs
Dr. Don Stansberry serves as the Vice President of Student Affairs at Clayton State
University. Prior to this role, he was the inaugural Presidential Fellow and Vice
President for Student Engagement and Enrollment Services at Old Dominion University
(ODU). A student-centered leader, Stansberry is deeply committed to fostering student
engagement, development, and cross-campus collaboration to enrich the student experience.
A first-generation college graduate, Stansberry is passionate about helping students persist to graduation and realize their full potential. His journey in student affairs began as a resident director and director of student activities—roles that sparked his lifelong dedication to student success. Over the course of his career, he has served at institutions including Defiance College, Western Illinois University, and Towson University. He spent more than two decades at ODU, holding progressively senior roles such as Director of Student Activities and Leadership, Dean of Students, Assistant Vice President, and Associate Vice President.
Dr. Stansberry earned both his Ph.D. in Higher Education and Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership from Old Dominion University. He also holds a master’s degree in College Student Personnel Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Organizational Communication from Ohio University.
Dr. Deborah Deckner-Davis
Dr. Deborah Deckner-Davis is a Professor of Psychology at Clayton State University.
She joined the Department of Psychology in August 2006, bringing a deep commitment
to applying developmental science to improve outcomes for children and families. With
a doctorate in developmental psychology, she centers her work on advancing equity
through evidence-based, two-generational strategies.
Over the past several years, she has spearheaded Clayton State University's Child Care Subsidy, a two-generational intervention designed to improve access to high-quality childcare for low-income parenting students pursuing a four-year college degree. This program embodies the transformative power of quality education for both parents and their children and is emblematic of two-generation poverty reduction initiatives. To date, CSU’s Child Care Subsidy has secured millions in federal and philanthropic grants and has served hundreds of parenting students and their children. “I’m honored to be part of the ongoing conversation around social mobility at CSU and look forward to exploring how we can deepen our partnerships with community agencies to accelerate this vital work.”
Taralyn Keese
Taralyn Keese is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Social Sciences at Clayton
State University. She also serves as the Program Coordinator for the Minor in Social
Work program at CSU. She holds a BA in Psychology from Indiana-Purdue University Indianapolis.
She earned a Master of Social Work degree from Georgia State University and is pursuing
a doctoral degree in Sociology with a concentration in Race and Urban Studies there.
As a professional social worker for 15 years, she has worked with and advocated for
young women whose lives are impacted by familial, educational, economic, and political
challenges. As an educator, her expertise and research interests are in culturally
responsive pedagogy and praxis, DEIA faculty professional development, and inclusive
and equitable policy and program design in higher education.
Jada Mitchell
Jada Mitchell has served in various roles in her 13-year tenure at Clayton State University.
She is currently the Executive Director of Student Success where she oversees the
Center for Advising & Retention, the Center for Academic Success, Student Success
& New Student Programs, and International Education. With almost 20 years in higher
education, her areas of experience include academic support, advisement, first-year
experience, nontraditional student services, registrar operations, and enrollment
services. Jada has a passion for engaging students, coaching them to overcoming challenges,
and supporting them in meeting their goals. Jada holds a B.A. in Journalism from Elon
University, a M.Ed. in Higher Education Administration from Georgia Southern University,
and an Ed.S. in Instructional Technology from Valdosta State University.
Dr. Matthew Sansbury
Dr. Matthew Sansbury is an Associate Professor of English at Clayton State University,
where he teaches both graduate and undergraduate courses in the areas of Digital and
Multimedia Writing, Cultural Rhetorics, and Multimodal Composition. He serves as the
Director of First-Year Writing & The Writers’ Studio and as a Coordinator of the Peer
Academic Mentoring Program.
A former Advanced Teaching Fellow at Georgia State University and Research Fellow at the Digital Archive of Literacy Narratives, Dr. Sansbury joined the Department of English in 2019 and has received multiple awards for teaching, scholarship, and service, including the Alice J. Smith Award for Clayton State Faculty Member of the Year (2024-25) and Kairos Service Award (2017). Recently, he was honored to serve as Macebearer for Dr. Georj L. Lewis’s Presidential Investiture and Deputy Faculty Marshal for all commencement ceremonies in 2024–25.
Dr. Sansbury holds a PhD in English, MA in English, and BA in English from Georgia State University. He is the editor of Clayton State’s custom, in-house textbook for first-year writing, Connections, which he helped develop into an OER via an Affordable Learning Georgia grant, culminating in statewide adoption for the university system’s eCore English 1101 curriculum. He also has published work in Peitho, Kairos, and Computers and Composition Online as well as the edited collections Threshold Conscripts: Rhetoric and Composition Teaching Assistantships and The Rhetoric of Participation: Interrogating Commonplaces in and Beyond the Classroom.
Sponsors
Special Thanks to Our Sponsors!
Presenters & Sessions
Panel 1 | Students & Alumni Share Their Story
Bringing together current students and alumni to explore the transformative power of education and community in promoting social mobility, this panel discussion will highlight the personal journeys, challenges, and triumphs of Clayton State University students and alumni who have navigated systemic barriers to achieve academic, personal, and professional success. Our panelists will share how their experiences at the university helped shape their paths, what obstacles they faced along the way, and how they are using their platforms to create change and uplift others. From first-generation college students to alumni now leading in their fields, these voices provide insight into how access to higher education can shift the trajectory of entire families and communities.
Jacob Corn
Jacob Corn is a student leader at Georgia Gwinnett College and the Programming Director
for Grizzlies Serve, the college’s volunteer and service organization. He is passionate about creating
meaningful events and service opportunities that connect students to their community
and to each other. Jacob also supports the GGC Care Pantry and helps lead campus initiatives
that promote equity, access, and student well-being. His work focuses on building
a culture of service and support where every student has the chance to thrive.
Dania Flores Rivera
Dania Flores Rivera is a senior majoring in Marketing who expects to graduate in Spring 2026. She currently works in the Office of Career and Professional Development. As a first-generation college student and the oldest sibling in her family, Dania’s college experience has been based on self-navigation, determination, and a sense of responsibility. With no one at home who fully understands the college experience, she often has found herself on her own: decoding financial aid letters, choosing classes, and finding resources. While it hasn’t been easy, this experience has made her more resourceful and deeply committed to achieving her goals.
Dania enrolled in college to make her parents proud and to take advantage of an opportunity they never had. When she first started college, she had many doubts, but one objective: to do whatever it takes to succeed. This mindset has guided her through every challenge, from balancing school and part-time work to being a role model for younger siblings. Now, as a senior with a perfect GPA, Dania looks back and realizes how far she has come, academically and personally. What looked impossible is now becoming more reachable. “I'm not just working toward a degree: I’m making history in my family.”
Kayla Miller
Kayla Miller is a proud wife, mom of two teens, and college student pursuing a career
in Health Science at Clayton State University with dreams of working with a professional
women’s basketball team. Kayla currently serves as Recording Secretary for Delta Sigma
Theta Sorority, Inc. and President of Parents Loch’d In, where she advocates for parenting
students and helps connect them to valuable campus resources.
Originally from Oklahoma and now living in Georgia, Kayla brings a mix of heart, hustle, and purpose to everything she does, whether it’s leading in her community, showing up for her family, or chasing her professional goals.
Marlene Parga-Sanchez
Marlene Parga-Sanchez is a first-generation Latinx graduate student pursuing a master’s degree in Clinical/Counseling Psychology at Clayton State University. She currently serves as an academic coach at the university's Center for Academic Success where she works directly with students to provide personalized academic support and promote overall well-being. Marlene also has experience in case management and community outreach through her work at Calvary Refuge Center, where she supported individuals navigating housing instability and mental health challenges.
Deeply passionate about mental health equity, Marlene’s mission is to "Empower Latinx youth to heal, thrive, and speak out."
Jahedy Rojas
Jahedy Rojas is a cum laude graduate from Clayton State University with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Minor in Psychology. During her time at Clayton State, Jahedy has been deeply involved in the English Department. She works for The Writers' Studio as a consultant and Peer Academic Mentor, which means she has helped students and staff with every step of the writing process. This position has allowed her to express her love for helping individuals become the best writers they can be! Jahedy is the treasurer and a proud member of the Creative Writing Club. Her commitment to the department is evidenced, in part, by her recent receipt of the Bill Pasch Senior English Award.
Jahedy also has published work in the Department of English newsletter Vibrant Voice and two works in Clayton State's literary magazine Cygnet. Now, she plans on continuing her education by acquiring a master's in fine arts in creative nonfiction and then a PhD in Rhetoric and Composition, so she can become an English professor and continue teaching her love for the written word.
Panel 2 | Focus on the Why: Partnering to Create
Social Capital Platforms that Promote Upward Social Mobility
Having a shared understanding of why supporting the success of students is vital to improving economic mobility outcomes and serves as an essential first step in creating impactful education experiences. This panel will focus on how Clayton State University partners with different College Access organizations to support students in their postsecondary education journeys. We will take a deep dive into why these organizations are committed to the work they do, how the data from their work contributes to our partnerships, and what the landscape of social mobility in Metro Atlanta is now and where it could be in the future.
Sam Aleinikoff
Sam Aleinikoff serves as the Founder and Executive Director at College AIM. He began
his career in education teaching math at Towers High School in 2011. His students
mastered academic content, but too often they graduated from high school without postsecondary
plans. In partnership school faculty, Sam founded College AIM in 2013 to help his
students forge paths to and through college and into careers.
College AIM has now grown to support more than 5,000 incredible high school and postsecondary
students each year. As the Executive Director of the organization, Sam works with
community partners to expand College AIM's reach and direct the vision of the organization
and works internally to lead the staff's development and advocacy efforts.
Sam holds a bachelor's degree from Cornell University. He was a 2019 Civic Innovation Resident and 2018 Civic Innovation Fellow at the Center for Civic Innovation, was named to the Young Nonprofit Professionals Network of Atlanta's 30 under 30 in 2018, was a member of the Class of 2016 with New Leaders Council in Atlanta and was named Towers High School Teacher of the Year in 2015.
Frank Brown, Esq.
Frank Brown, Esq. is the Chief Executive Officer of Communities In Schools of Atlanta. The organization’s
mission is to surround students with a community of support, empowering them to stay
in school and achieve in life.
CIS of Atlanta is part of the nation’s largest and most effective organization dedicated to keeping kids in school and helping them succeed in life. CIS site coordinators work within local schools to improve attendance, behavior and academic performance while connecting students and their families to basic and critical resources. During the current academic year, CIS of Atlanta has programs at over 72 schools within the City of Atlanta, Fulton, Clayton, DeKalb, and Spalding Counties. Under Brown’s leadership, CIS of Atlanta has invested in innovative new programs and partnered with private corporations and other nonprofits to increase its impact. Such new partnerships and programs include CIS of Atlanta partnering with the Multi- Agency Alliance for Children (MAAC) to support youth in foster care CIS of Atlanta has also created an Alumni Affairs Division that provides support to students in college and a LatinXcellence program that provides bilingual and culturally responsive wrap- around services.
Communities In Schools of Atlanta won the 2018 Mark O’Connell Community Impact Award for showcasing an above-and-beyond commitment to improving Child Well Being throughout greater Atlanta. For the past five years, Atlanta Magazine recognized Brown as one of Atlanta’s most powerful education leaders. Brown is also a graduate of Leadership Atlanta, Class of 2019, and in 2022 completed the Strategic Perspectives in Nonprofit Management program at Harvard Business School.
Dr. Cheryl Watson-Harris
Dr. Cheryl Watson-Harris is an exceptional education leader with over three decades
of experience in education and community service. Cheryl serves as the President/Executive
Director of Achieve Atlanta, Georgia's largest need-based scholarship and support
program, assisting low-income students in accessing, affording, and earning a postsecondary
credential. In addition to her current role as the Board Chair and superintendent
in the residence of Leading Now, she supports national cohorts of superintendents.
She has been described as a "champion for children," drawing praise for her innovative leadership style that improves employee engagement and capacity throughout organizations and positively impacts student achievement. Throughout her 34-year career as an educator, administrator, and community leader, she has demonstrated outstanding skills and knowledge of teaching and learning, professional development, and building collective impact initiatives that remove barriers to success and create empowering opportunities for all children and their families.
Raised in New York City, Watson-Harris started her teaching career in 1993 in Brooklyn, NY. She was quickly praised as her district's nominee for the Mayoral "Most Excellent New Teacher" award. After completing her master's degree from Harvard University, Watson-Harris joined the Boston Public Schools, where she was selected as the youngest principal in the district's history. She served as a turn-around principal for 15 years. She was a Network Superintendent for Boston Public Schools before rejoining the New York City Department of Education, where she quickly rose to First Deputy Chancellor, the district's second-in-command position. She led and supported 1,600 schools and a diverse cohort of 1.1 million beautiful and brilliant scholars in this position while navigating the COVID-19 pandemic. As Superintendent of Georgia's third-largest district, DeKalb County Schools, she successfully led the district's reaccreditation and a ten-year comprehensive master planning process for the district's facilities. She has been a resident mentor for the Harvard University Graduate School of Education Ed. L.D. program and a member of the Harvard University Principal Center Advisory Board.
Watson-Harris holds a B.S.Ed. from Marymount College, an M.Ed. from Harvard University, and an Ed. D. from New York University. She has received numerous awards and was selected as a LEAD Boston, Leadership DeKalb, and Leadership Atlanta member.
Concurrent Session | Advancing Social Mobility Through
High-Impact, Industry-Aligned Pedagogy in Higher Education
This session explores how High Impact Practices (HIPs) can serve as effective drivers of social mobility within higher education, particularly for students from historically underserved backgrounds. By embedding long-term, hands-on learning into the curriculum, institutions can better prepare students for meaningful, career-aligned opportunities. Key strategies include immersive simulations and industry application projects that challenge students to solve real-world problems. These experiences foster practical skill development and professional confidence. ePortfolios are also integrated as reflective and promotional tools, allowing students to showcase their skills, learning growth, and career readiness through curated content and mock interview preparation.
Additional pedagogical techniques such as debriefs and structured reflections reinforce learning outcomes and maintain an industry focus. Guest speakers help connect classroom content to real-world expectations, expanding students’ understanding of potential career pathways. Together, these methods support a holistic approach to student development—academic, professional, and personal. The presentation will highlight how these practices are implemented in the classroom and their impact on student success. Student comments and feedback will be included to provide insight into the effectiveness of these strategies and their influence on career confidence, skill development, and upward mobility.
Dr. Joie Hain
Dr. Joie Hain is an award-winning Associate Professor of Marketing at Clayton State University, where she teaches both graduate and undergraduate students in the areas of Digital Marketing and Social Media Marketing and at the undergraduate level in Professional Selling, while incorporating the impact of Artificial Intelligence in all courses. She received her DBA in Marketing from Kennesaw State University in 2015, her MBA-Finance from Mercer University and her BSBA - Accounting from Auburn University.
Dr. Hain joined Clayton State University after 25 years in entrepreneurship and commission based financial services sales, where she consistently received awards for superior sales volume. In February of 2025, she was chosen as a State of Georgia’s Governor’s Teaching Fellow. In January of 2024, the MBA - Digital Marketing degree, was ranked #3 in the U.S.A. by TechGuide. In 2020 and 2022, she was awarded Clayton State’s College of Business’s Professor of the Year. In 2021 she was recognized by Stukent, a global simulation and education company, as their Professor of the Year and remains active with Stukent as an “Innovation Partner.”
Concurrent Session | Empowering Futures:
Faculty-Led Collaborations with Community Agencies and Nonprofits
This lightning talk will highlight innovative faculty-led initiatives within the College of Health that engage students in meaningful collaborations with community agencies and nonprofits. Drawing on firsthand experience, presenters will share strategies for establishing and sustaining cross-sector partnerships that enhance student learning while addressing real-world community needs. Through these efforts, students gain critical skills, professional connections, and a deeper understanding of the social determinants of health—key elements in promoting social mobility.
Aligned with the summit theme, Bridging Partnerships, Building Futures, this session demonstrates how faculty can serve as catalysts for lasting institutional-community relationships. These partnerships not only support student development and civic engagement but also directly contribute to expanding access, equity, and opportunity in underserved populations. Designed for educators, community leaders, and policy influencers, the session will offer practical insights into creating impactful collaborations that prepare students for future careers while simultaneously advancing community well-being. Attendees will leave with ideas for replicating and scaling partnership models that drive upward mobility through education and service.
Heather Eddy
Heather Eddy currently serves as Assistant Professor and Senior Clinical Director
of Dental Hygiene at Clayton State University. Prior to academia, she worked as a
clinical dental hygienist in general and pediatric dentistry. She earned an Associate
and Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene at Clayton State University and a Master
of Science in Dental Hygiene at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences.
Heather is also a current doctoral student in the Higher Education Leadership Practices
Ed.D. program at the University of North Georgia.
As a dedicated educator and researcher, Heather has a passion for advancing the profession of dental hygiene and dental hygiene education. With years of combined experience clinically and in education, she has mentored students and novice faculty, collaborated with interdisciplinary teams, and contributed to the literature as a published author. Her commitment to fostering supportive learning environments and addressing educator shortages reflects her strategic and compassionate leadership. She is committed to service, advocacy, and working to improve access to oral healthcare. She balances her professional life with her roles as a wife and mother of three.
Kimberly Pyron
Kimberly Pyron is an Assistant Professor and Junior Clinical Director of Dental Hygiene
at Clayton State University. Prior to this role, she worked as a clinical registered
dental hygienist for specialty offices such as periodontics for 11 years and pediatrics.
She also worked as an adjunctive faculty for the CSU dental hygiene program and as
a professional educator promoting oral health for her profession. In addition to this,
she has also collaborated and made significant contributions to literature as a published
author.
Kimberly earned her Associate of Science in Dental Hygiene from Armstrong Atlantic State University, her Bachelor of Science in Dental Hygiene from Clayton State University, and her Master of Public Health from A.T. Still University.
With numerous years of experience both clinically and in academia, Kimberly is dedicated to continuous professional development. She stays at the forefront of dental advancements and brings that knowledge into the classroom. With a strong belief in the power of emotional intelligence to foster meaningful relationships, she uses their leadership skills to motivate, guide, and inspire those she works with.
In addition to her professional accomplishments, Kimberly is a devoted wife and mother, balancing her career with a deep commitment to family. Her ability to manage both her personal and professional responsibilities is a testament to her strong organizational skills and her passion for nurturing those around her.
Dr. Kendolyn Smith
Dr. Kendolyn Smith serves on faculty as an Associate Professor at Clayton State University
in the College of Health. Dr. Smith is also a pharmacist advocating for medication
safety, medication compliance, public health literacy and overall medication management
services. She has served as an adjunct faculty for Mercer University School of Medicine's
Master of Public Health program. Dr. Smith completed a Doctor of Pharmacy degree at
Creighton University Medical Center’s School of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions,
a Master of Public Health in Health Policy and Management at Emory University's Rollins
School of Public Health and is also an undergraduate alumnus of University of Georgia.
Throughout her career Dr. Smith has taught courses spanning Pharmacy Technician certifications, Healthcare Communication, Ethics in Healthcare, Epidemiology in Risk Management, Social Disparities of Health and Mental Health Issues in Healthcare. Dr. Smith was featured in the Winter- 2012 issue of Emory School of Public Health magazine “Learning from a Distance.”
Dr. Naquilla Thomas
Dr. Naquilla Thomas, Assistant Professor and Chair of Dental Hygiene at Clayton State
University, has dedicated her career to advancing educational equity and social mobility
through healthcare and academic leadership. With a background spanning clinical practice,
program direction, and academic administration in Georgia’s technical college system,
she now mentors future dental hygienists while serving as Vice Chair of the College
of Health Faculty Organization and a site visitor for the Commission on Dental Accreditation.
A first-generation college graduate and Distinguished Alumni of the Medical College
of Georgia, Dr. Thomas holds advanced degrees in education and uses her platform to
foster inclusive learning, improve access to care in underserved communities, and
empower students—particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds—to achieve upward
mobility through education.
Concurrent Session | From Access to Impact:
Designing Cross-Sector Pipelines for Equitable Student Success
This interactive workshop equips participants with tools to design and strengthen K-16 pipelines that promote equitable access, persistence, and upward mobility. Grounded in real-world partnership between DeKalb County School District’s IGNITE program and Clayton State University School of Education, this session highlights how cross-sector collaboration can dismantle systemic barriers and build sustainable pathways to college, career, and workforce success.
Dr. LaTasha Adams
Dr. LaTasha Adams is an Associate Professor in the College of Education at Clayton
State University, where she serves as the coordinator of the New Teacher Residency
Program/MAT in Elementary Education, in partnership with the DeKalb County School
District. A passionate advocate for educational equity and social mobility, Dr. Adams
focuses her work on developing pre-service and in-service educators to make intentional
and measurable impact in the classroom. Dr. Adams has been recognized with multiple
faculty awards at Clayton State University for her excellence in teaching, service,
and academic leadership. Through her research, instruction, and community partnerships,
Dr. Adams continues to champion initiatives that increase access, retention, and success
for underserved student populations across Georgia and beyond.
She holds a B.A. in English and Religion from Spelman College, an M.Ed. from Cambridge College, a non-profit management certificate from Kennesaw University, and a Ph.D. in Curriculum and Instruction/Urban Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. In her spare time, she enjoys traveling with her husband, daughter Zoe, and pandemic puppy, Mapenzi.
Dr. Winifred Nweke
Dr. Winifred Nweke is a Professor and the Assessment Director in the School of Education
at Clayton State University. She has a Ph.D. in Measurement and Experimentation from
the University of Ottawa, Canada; a Post-Doctoral Fellowship from the University of
Michigan; an MBA from Eastern Michigan University and a B.Sc. in Education from the
University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria. Before coming to Clayton State,
Dr. Nweke taught at Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, in the School of Education and
School of Business (1987-1997). She also served as the Coordinator for Research &
Evaluation at the Georgia Professional Standards Commission (GAPSC), a state agency
that oversees educator preparation and certification/licensing in the state of Georgia
(1997-2013). Dr. Winifred Nweke has conducted research, presented and published works
in both Education and Business. Her current research interests include Educator Workforce
Supply and Demand, Educator Dispositions Assessment, Validity and Reliability of assessment
evidence and instruments. In conjunction with her duties as the Assessment Director,
she teaches courses in Classroom Assessment, Fundamentals of Educational Measurement
and Action Research at the undergraduate and graduate levels in the School of Education.
Dr. Winifred Nweke is a member of professional organizations such as the American Educational Research Association (AERA), Georgia Educational Research Association (GERA), Georgia Association of Directors of Assessment (GADA), and American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education (AACTE).
Concurrent Session | From Alumni to Professional: Building Social Capital Beyond Graduation
Join a dynamic panel of Clayton State University alumni as they share real-world stories of how campus involvement, mentoring relationships, and leadership opportunities shaped their professional journeys. Learn how these experiences helped them build social capital and successfully navigate the job market. This session highlights the power of college networks in fostering social mobility and offers valuable insights for students, educators, and leaders committed to expanding opportunity through higher education.
Roodgine D. Bray
Roodgine D. Bray is a Partner at Davis Bozeman Law Firm, PC, where she leads the Litigation
Team. A native of Port-au-Prince, Haiti, and fluent in Haitian Creole, she is a passionate
advocate for justice and community empowerment.
Attorney Bray earned her BS in Criminal Justice from Clayton State University and JD from Thomas M. Cooley Law School. She is admitted to practice in Georgia state and federal courts and is a graduate of leadership academies with the State Bar of Georgia and the American Association for Justice.
She serves as the 44th President of the Georgia Association of Black Women Attorneys (GABWA), is co-founder of the Haitian American Lawyers Association of Georgia, and remains active with GTLA, AAJ, and other legal organizations. A dedicated civic leader, she also sits on the Clayton State University Alumni Board and engages with several community groups, including Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Jack and Jill of America, and Springfield Baptist Church.
Attorney Bray has received numerous honors, including Top 40 Under 40 Attorney by the National Black Lawyers Association. She frequently educates the public on civil rights and legal issues, building on her extensive experience in advocacy, litigation, and community service. She is married to U.S. Military Veteran Earl Bray.
Jesús Cadena Jr.
Lieutenant Jesús Cadena Jr. serves with the Conyers Police Department and is also
active with the Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office. A 2012 graduate of Clayton State
University with a degree in Criminal Justice, Jesús has more than a decade of experience
in public safety, spanning patrol, investigations, community outreach, and leadership.
He is a certified Field Training Officer and a bilingual leader fluent in English
and Spanish, committed to both public service and community engagement.
Marcus A. Dickerson, Esq.
Marcus A. Dickerson is Managing Attorney of The Dickerson Firm, LLC, where he leads
offices in both Atlanta and LaGrange. He is a seasoned trial attorney specializing
in personal injury and criminal law, with prior experience as an associate at The
Mabra Firm and an intern with the Fulton County DA’s Major Cases Unit. Marcus earned
his J.D. from John Marshall Law School and holds a B.S. in Political Science with
a Sociology minor from Clayton State University (Class of 2010). He is an active mentor,
musician, and community volunteer.
Juron Dobbs
Juron Dobbs is the Founder and Executive Director of The Grenee Dobbs Foundation. He brings deep experience in nonprofit leadership, fundraising, and healthcare recruitment, currently overseeing $10 million in annual revenue across eight states. A 2013 graduate of Clayton State University with a degree in Business Management and a Marketing minor, Juron is also a long-standing community volunteer and former team captain of the Clayton State Men’s Basketball team.
Joseph Echols
Joseph Echols is a proud graduate of Clayton State University’s College of Business
and holds an MBA with a concentration in logistics. He currently serves as the Dual
Enrollment Director for the Technical College System of Georgia. With nearly two decades
of experience in higher education, Joseph is passionate about shaping the narrative
that empowers youth, reduces student debt, and challenges outdated perceptions about
postsecondary pathways. When he’s not advancing educational opportunities, you’ll
likely find him behind a camera, spending time with his beautiful family, or enjoying
anything sports related.
Bridgette McDonald
Bridgette McDonald, Executive Director, Career and Professional Development, has worked
in Career Services at Clayton State University since January 2007. Prior to that time,
she served in Career Services at Southern Polytechnic State University, Mercer University,
and Hinds Community College. She holds a master’s degree in guidance and counseling
and a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Jackson State University.
She has held several leadership roles in the Georgia Association of Colleges and Employers,
including serving as president and treasurer, Bridgette is incredibly active in the
local Atlanta area Chambers of Commerce and Workforce Development.
Bridgette has an extensive professional history in Career Services where she specializes in educating students and professionals on various career development topics such as resume and cover letter writing, job and internship prep, interview and salary negotiation techniques, college to career prep, and career change for professionals. She most enjoys assisting clients in telling their career stories, highlighting achievements and accomplishments in formats that are appropriate for Federal, non-profit, and corporate positions.
Concurrent Session | From Barriers to Bridges: Advocacy in Action for First-Gen Mobility
This session highlights how faculty, campus professionals, and community nonprofit leaders can partner to support first-generation college students through intentional, advocacy-driven collaboration. A brief panel will showcase real examples of partnerships that promote student success and social mobility from academic engagement to mentoring and community-based programs. Designed for professionals across functional areas, this session offers a dynamic look at how advocacy can move from concept to action in support of first-gen students.
Sarah Ray
Sarah Ray serves as the Assistant Dean of Students for Student Care & Support at Clayton
State University, where she provides leadership for the offices of Disability Services,
Community, Belonging & Veterans Center, and the Care Center. With over sixteen years
of experience in higher education, including leadership roles at Lone Star College
in Houston, TX and Rhodes College in Memphis, TN, Sarah's career has been marked by
a commitment to empowering students, fostering their personal and academic growth,
and contributing to the overall success of their educational goals. Sarah has championed
student success by advancing support structures for underrepresented student populations,
students facing basic needs insecurities, and those navigating systemic inequities.
Sarah holds a B.A. in Criminal Justice from the University of Southern Mississippi, an M.S. in College Student Personnel Services and Administration from the University of Central Arkansas and is pursuing her Ed.D. in Student Affairs Leadership at the University of Georgia. At the core of her work is a belief in helping students identify their purpose and persist toward their goals, even in the face of significant obstacles.
Dr. Mya Richardson-Echols
Dr. Mya Richardson-Echols serves as the Dean of Students at Clayton State University,
where she provides leadership as the university ombudsman and oversees behavioral
intervention, first-generation student support, and campus-wide efforts in student
advocacy, care and well-being, and success. With over a decade of experience in higher
education and student affairs, she is committed to building student-centered strategies
that promote engagement, retention, and a strong sense of belonging.
Dr. Richardson-Echols earned her bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Legal Affairs from Kennesaw State University, a master’s degree in Higher Education and Student Affairs from Eastern Michigan University, and a Doctorate in Student Affairs Leadership from the University of Georgia — Go Owls, Eagles, and Dawgs! Outside of her professional work, she enjoys traveling and all things music and spending meaningful time adventuring with her husband and their three children.
Panel 3 | Community Agency Partners
This panel brings together community leaders working at the intersection of education, equity, and advocacy to explore inclusive pathways to opportunity across Metro Atlanta. With a focus on system-level change and community-driven solutions, panelists will share insights on how public policy, cradle-to-college education, grassroots organizing, and equitable development can dismantle barriers and foster upward mobility.
Dr. Keon N. Berry
Dr. Keon N. Berry, Vice President for Public Policy and Community Awareness, Georgia
Association for the Education of Young Children, will highlight the foundational role
of early childhood education in long-term social and economic mobility, drawing on
his expertise in early learning, social justice, and nonprofit leadership.
Suzanne Burnes
Suzanne Burnes, Just Growth Director, Southern Partnership for Equity, will discuss
how equitable growth strategies can revitalize communities and expand access to opportunity,
informed by her work across nonprofit, government, and consulting sectors.
Jhanai Y. Gates
Jhanai Y. Gates was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. She is a proud alumna of Spelman College (C’2024), where she earned her B.A. in Political Science. As a committed advocate, Jhanai works to influence policies and laws that impact her local and state communities, particularly through her engagement with various government agencies. As a Georgia Women’s Policy Institute (GWPI) alumna, she deepened her knowledge of the policymaking process and contributed to shaping policy that supports women, girls, and families across Georgia.
Currently, Jhanai serves as the Advocacy Program Coordinator at YWCA Greater Atlanta, where she works to eliminate racism and empower women through social advocacy. She also continues her involvement with Spelman College’s Social Justice Program and GWPI, furthering her dedication to equity and systemic change. Jhanai previously served as President of her campus chapter of the NAACP, a role that strengthened her understanding of and commitment to social, political, and economic justice.
Looking ahead, Jhanai plans to attend an accredited law school following her gap year. She aspires to earn her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree and pursue a career in entertainment law and civil rights law, with the ultimate goal of founding her own law firm. Through her work, she aims to be a champion for underrepresented voices and a catalyst for meaningful change. Jhanai understands that achieving her goals will not be an overnight task, but with patience and diligence, it will happen.
Elle Knott
Elle Knott (she/her) is the Advocacy Program Manager at YWCA Greater Atlanta, where she leads their Georgia Women’s Policy Institute (GWPI), a non-partisan civic engagement, policy advocacy, and leadership training program for people interested in improving the lives of women and families in Georgia.
Elle is a proud Master of Social Work graduate of the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies at Georgia State University and holds her master’s degree in divinity. Elle deeply believes that systemic injustices can be addressed through progressive policy advocacy and is passionate about bringing more diverse voices to the policy-making table. When not working, Elle enjoys eating good food, travel, thrift shopping and adding to her sneaker collection.
Dr. Lara Ohanian
Dr. Lara Ohanian is Partner of Strategy Lab at TNTP, where she leads the development
and scaling of research-informed services that help education systems apply the Science
of Learning to real-world challenges. Her work focuses on service design, implementation
strategy, and cross-functional coordination to support school systems in building
practical, sustainable solutions. Prior to this role, she led districtwide initiatives
in multilingual learning, gifted and advanced education, and extended learning at
Baltimore City Public Schools, launching the district’s first Gifted and Advanced
Learning Policy and developing a multilingual strategic plan grounded in improvement
science. She also directed major reforms to Baltimore’s school choice and early childhood
enrollment systems. Dr. Ohanian holds an Ed.D. from Johns Hopkins University, an Ed.S.
from Virginia Tech, an M.A. in Bioethics from the University of Houston, and a B.A.
in Biology and Philosophy from SUNY Geneseo.
Falyn Richardson
Falyn Richardson is Program Manager of Digital Learning at YWCA Greater Atlanta, where she co-leads initiatives that expand access to digital literacy, STEAM exposure, and economic opportunity for women and girls. With more than 20 years of experience in hospitality and commercial contracting, she brings operational expertise and a people-centered approach to community-driven programming.
Falyn blends systems thinking, strong community relationships, and a deep commitment to equity to foster high-impact, trust-based programs. She is known for her ability to bridge systems and community needs, ensuring every participant feels seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
Outside of work, Falyn is an avid traveler, food explorer, wellness advocate, and a proud dog mom to Luna, her miniature Shiba Inu.
Sooraya Williams
Sooraya Williams is a digital equity strategist and Program Director of Digital Learning at YWCA Greater Atlanta, where she leads the Digital Skills Academy and Teen Girls in Technology program. As the architect behind these programs, she designs inclusive pathways to opportunity for women and girls of color, integrating digital literacy, financial empowerment, career readiness, and community-driven support.
Named a Future Emerging Leader by Bank of America and recognized in YWCA USA’s 35 Under 35, Sooraya brings a background in policy and data analytics to her equity-driven work. She centers community voice and lived experience to challenge systemic barriers to economic mobility through innovation and inclusive program design.
Outside of work, Sooraya coaches a high school dance team and finds joy in mentoring young people, building community through the arts, and being a proud dog mom to Ghost and Bullet.
Featured Research Poster | Sustaining Social Mobility Through Sport Psychology: Navigating Professional Standards for Equity Implementation and Institutional Support in Higher Education
This study, grounded in cultural sport psychology, explores how educators navigate evolving national regulations affecting Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Belonging, and Justice (DEIBJ) initiatives. DEIBJ principles enhance performance, promote equitable opportunities, and support culturally responsive practices within the scientist-practitioner model. Recent policy shifts also involve a shift in institutional support and educator responses in classrooms, scholarship and service to communities in needs.
Using a mixed-methods, cross-sectional survey design, data were collected from 29 faculty and athletic staff in higher education, primarily tenured or tenure-track, affiliated with ACSM, AASP and APA Division 47. Participants represented diverse U.S. regions and institutions, with 70.6% working directly with student-athletes. The survey included quantitative and qualitative items assessing awareness, support, and emotional impact related to equity regulations.
Findings revealed high awareness (82%) and significant emotional impacts (59%), with themes of anxiety, fear, and exhaustion. Despite this, 76% remained committed to equity-integrated teaching. Institutional support was strongest at the departmental (56%) and college (63%) levels, and weaker at the system/state (38%) and national (33%) levels. Participants employed self-care and professional engagement strategies to sustain resilience.
This work highlights the role of mental performance in promoting social mobility particularly for underrepresented students. Faculty commitment to culturally responsive practice, despite regulatory pressures, reflects institutional resilience. The findings offer policy-relevant insights on sustaining equity efforts in higher education and underscore the need for cross-sector partnerships and targeted support to maintain driven programming.
- Dr. Mélanie Poudevigne, Main Author, Survey Creator, and Submitter
- Dr. Eric Bridges, Survey Co-author
- Dr. Pinar Gurkas, Survey Co-author, Statistician, and Summit Presenter
- Dr. Michelle Nelson, Summit Presenter
- Dr. Comfort Obi, Reviewer
- Jermaine Rolle, Survey Co-author
- Dr. Naquilla Thomas, Reviewer
2025 Summit Schedule
| Time | Event |
|---|---|
| 8:30 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. |
Check-in & Continental Breakfast |
| 9:00 a.m. |
Opening Session
|
| 9:10 a.m. |
Panel 1 - Students & Alumni Share Their Story
|
| 10:00 a.m. |
Keynote - Dr. Mahnaz Charania, Chief Transformation Officer, TNTP |
| 11:15 a.m. |
Panel 2 - Focus on the Why: Partnering to Create Social Capital Platforms that Promote Upward Social Mobility
|
| 12:00 p.m. |
Lunch |
| 1:00 p.m. |
Concurrent Sessions Advancing Social Mobility Through High-Impact, Industry-Aligned Pedagogy in Higher Education | Ballroom A
Empowering Futures: Faculty-Led Collaborations with Community Agencies and Nonprofits | Ballroom C
From Access to Impact: Designing Cross-Sector Pipelines for Equitable Student Success | Laker Lounge
From Alumni to Professional: Building Social Capital Beyond Graduation | Ballroom B
From Barriers to Bridges: Advocacy in Action for First-Gen Mobility | Student Organizations Lounge (2nd Floor)
|
| 2:00 p.m. |
Resource Fair & Energy Break |
| 2:45 p.m. |
Panel 3 - Community Agency Partners
|
| 3:30 p.m. |
Closing Remarks
|
Resource Fair Participants
- Atrium Health | Lorea Reid
- Center for Academic Success | Tuni Acosta
- Clayton State Club Sports | Kevin Adkins
- College of Arts & Sciences / College of Health, Clayton State University | Dean Dwanye Hooks
- Disability Services | Tenesea Grant
- Embark Georgia Center, University of Georgia | Jason Bedgood
- Georgia Institute of Technology | Clarence Anthony Jr.
- Kennesaw State University | Lauren Padgett
- MONARC | Lisa Holland-Davis
- NAMI | Sheila Taylor
- OneGoal | Elaina Ross
- Quality Care for Children | Satara Clark
- Quality Care for Children | Angie Wilson
- TNTP | Reginald Hutchins