EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

With 20 years of experience as an educator and leader in DC Public Schools in Wards 5, 6 and 7, Heather is responsible for strategic leadership and oversight of all Girls Inc. DC programming; managing staff, program administration and interfacing with the National Girls Inc. DC organization. Born and raised in the DC area, Heather holds a B.A. in Sociology as well as a Master of Arts in Teaching (MAT) and a master’s in Education leadership and Supervision. Heather recently completed her Ed.D. in Education and Organizational Leadership, focusing her research on intersectionality and gender studies, specifically exploring sense of belonging and perceptions of safety for adolescent Black girls. Heather is a Board Member at EcoRise and a member of Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.

PROGRAM DIRECTOR

As Program Director, Ebony is responsible for leading the development and implementation of programs that align with the Girls Inc. pillars of strong, smart and bold. A graduate of American University with a bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education and a Minor in Health Promotion, Ebony has 10 years of experience, working with scholars from ages 3 to 17. Prior to Girls Inc. DC, Ebony taught first grade at Friendship Public Charter School, where she was a Host Teacher, First Grade Team Lead and also the First Grade Math Lead in the FPCS District. She also coached the middle school girl’s basketball team. Ebony has also published two children’s books — “Fine, You Tell Me Who I Am” and “The Adventures of Zy and Fuzz.”

DEVELOPMENT & COMMUNICATIONS ASSOCIATE

Briyante is a dedicated professional with a passion for social work and community development. A proud native of Memphis, Briyante's career began with Girls Inc. of Memphis, where she served as a school-based facilitator, working closely with young girls, empowering them with essential life skills, self-confidence, and knowledge to overcome challenges and succeed in their personal and academic lives. Most recently, Briyante served as intern with the Child Welfare League of America supporting their development work with grant writing, fundraising and campaigning.