Cohort 9 Doctoral Bios

Joanna's passion for food and healthy eating started at a young age when she would check cookbooks out at the library and cook elaborate multi-ethnic meals for hours, serving dinner at 9pm to her family. She narrowed down her interests in college to nutrition science and history eventually settled on becoming a Registered Dietitian. She has spent most of her career helping people with diabetes improve their health outcomes, and most recently became a full-time professor at Hood College. She is excited to be training up the next generation of Dietitians! Outside of diabetes care, Joanna has enjoyed working community, public health, and consulting roles for various nutrition programs. She lives in Frederick, MD with her husband, son and three rescue dogs. She enjoys hiking, gardening, musical theater, reading, gluten free baking and trying new foods.

Education

MSPH, Health Education and Health Communication, Johns Hopkins University, 2015
B.S. Nutrition Science, Russell Sage College, 2010

With three decades of experience in higher education leadership across universities, non-profit organizations, and corporate businesses in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, Tanith Fowler Corsi brings extensive expertise in international and graduate education, strategic planning, organizational leadership, project management, communications, and cross-cultural competency.

Since 2019, Tanith has served as the Director of Graduate Admission at The Graduate School at Hood College. Before this role, she advanced international higher education, leading study abroad initiatives and establishing global education programs at George Mason University and the Catholic University of America. She also contributed to NAFSA: Association of International Educators as the Senior Director of study abroad and diversity-leadership initiatives. Additionally, Tanith held the position of Director of Membership & Outreach at the College Consortium of International Studies (CCIS), where she managed international partnerships and academic collaborations.

Born and raised in Monaco and the South of France, Tanith completed a Baccalaureate in Literature & Philosophy with Honors in the French education system. She earned her bachelor’s degree in political science with a focus in International Relations from the University of California, Riverside, and a master’s degree in International Communication from American University in Washington, DC. Bilingual in English and French and conversant in Italian and Spanish, Tanith is a passionate advocate for higher education and cross-cultural engagement, having traveled extensively across most continents. In pursuit of further academic achievement, she is now undertaking a doctoral degree in Organizational Leadership at Hood College, with a focus on leading with cultural competency.

In her free time, Tanith enjoys practicing yoga & meditation, spending time in nature, grilling on her deck , as well as spending time with family and friends. Her son Adrian is a first-year student and soccer player at Hood College, and they hope to walk and graduate together in 2028!

Education

M.A., International Communication, American University
B.A., Political Science (International Relations, University of California, Riverside

Quiera M. Harris is a dynamic and passionate professional whose career beautifully weaves together municipal government, federal contracting, and the performing arts. As a federal Contract Specialist, she deftly handles complex contracts, ensuring they not only meet regulatory requirements but also drive meaningful progress. Her impressive journey includes leading transformative projects like implementing electric vehicle charging stations and driving digital innovation at the City of Baltimore.

With 18 years of devoted service, Quiera excels in managing multimillion dollar contracts and spearheading significant initiatives such as the Cityworks implementation and a MAS Modification Guidance Google Drive for her division. Her skillful grant writing has secured over $400k for EV projects, showcasing her commitment to impactful solutions.
Beyond her professional achievements, Quiera infuses her life with creativity and warmth through her work as a performer and stage manager. She also authored a heartfelt children’s book inspired by her late Grandmother and Great-Aunt, capturing the journey of a tiny cardinal chick navigating a whirlwind of emotions with the loving support of family and nature.

Quiera’s dedication to equity and inclusivity is evident in every project she undertakes, reflecting her deep commitment to fairness. She honors the legacy of remarkable women in her family, including her great-grandmother, whose entrepreneurial spirit paved the way for future generations.

Outside of work, Quiera treasures time spent with her husband and their beloved fostered kitten, Chip. Her love for lifelong learning and commitment to making a positive impact is further exemplified in her role as a Director and Board Member on the Telluride Association Board. Quiera’s life is a testament to her belief in service, innovation, and the power of community.

Education

M.S., IT Project Management, Colorado Technical University

Judea Hill is a 6th Grade Team Leader and Special Education Math Teacher for Montgomery County Public Schools in their LAD program at Silver Spring International Middle School. After earning her Masters Degree from George Washington University, Judea began leading and mentoring in the Social Emotional Special Education Service Program as a Cooperative Teacher, training new teachers from her alma mater. While training new teachers, she also taught 6 self-contained Special Education classes for Middle School Math and Science. In her current school Judea is a member of the Instructional Leadership Team, Assistant Directs the Theater Productions, Leads the Diversity Committee, and is the club sponsor for No Place for Hate. A modern Renaissance Woman, Judea has studied Classical Flute Music at Julliard, has a degree in Fine Arts (Printmaking & Painting) and choreographs wheelchair dances for Adults with Multiple Disabilities at Potomac Community Resources.

An undergrad at Drew University, Judea excelled in running student organizations and planning campus wide events. In addition to a full course load every semester, Judea also took on being a member of the University Programing Board (VP of Special Events), working 40 hours (work-study), being on the Rugby team, Flute Orchestra, and a Housing Assistant for a Themed House dorm. Being involved, organizing, and working actionable outcomes allowed Judea to thrive in college which earned her a Gold D and Dean's award at graduation.

Working with individuals with disabilities is a passion of Judea’s that was inspired by her mother, who was a former educator herself and had a disability that impacted her walking. Judea watched her mother do the work to make her Brooklyn school and neighborhood a better, happier, and safer place for children. After suddenly losing her mother in 2013, Judea began applying to teach. After 10 years in the field, Judea has now decided to pursue a degree in Organizational Leadership to support her career in Education.

Education

M.Ed. Special Education and Human Development concentration Children with Emotional Behavior Disabilities, George Washington University, 2016
B.A. Fine Arts (Studio Art, Psychology, Chemistry), Drew University, 2013

Kevin Hoover has long been fascinated with supporting decision makers; from his undergraduate research informing coral reef conservation to his master’s degree studying decision making in ant societies. He now continues that work as a Data Scientist for the National Security Agency where he uses his expertise to surface relevant data and rigorously test assumptions as a part of the US intelligence community.

However, over the years Kevin has learned that having the right data is only part of making better decisions one must also consider those intangible qualities like personalities, risk tolerance, and the ever-dreaded office politics. Furthermore, making a decision is only one step of the cycle also containing continuous observation, orientation and action. In short, a lot can go wrong. This is why Kevin is taking the time to develop his organizational leadership skills through Hood’s DOL program.

When at home, Kevin supports his loving wife by ensuring she has a hot cup of tea and a warm meal after long days in the pool. He also ensures their two huskies don’t get into too much mischief. When they both have free time Mr. and Mrs. Hoover enjoy playing board game and hiking with their dogs. After all, a tired dog is a good dog!

Education

Graduate Certificate in Terrorism Analysis; University of Maryland, College Park
M.S. Biology; University of Colorado, Denver
B.S Biomathematics; Florida Institute of Technology

Mitchel Jackson developed her passion for food safety while working as a Quality Assurance Laboratory Specialist with Phillips Seafood. She moved forward with this career working with various food manufacturers gaining 15+ years of experience. Her professional journey equipped her with innovative solutions as a driver for sustainable management while delivering safe and quality products.

Mitchel currently works as Corporate Product Quality Assurance and Food Safety Manager for Sodexo. She handles internal and external suppliers’ regulatory compliance on food safety ensuring that local, state, federal, and international regulations are met. She processes and resolves customer complaints in North America and Canada, performs risk assessments, and conducts internal and external audits of food manufacturing facilities. As a Certified Comprehensive Food Safety (CCFS) Professional, and ServSafe Certified Instructor and Registered Proctor, Mitchel conducts training and seminars to promote safe food handling and prevent foodborne illness outbreaks.

In her personal time, Mitchel loves to travel, cook, and volunteer for various organizations such as RedCross and Move for Hunger. She dedicates herself to alleviating food insecurity through feeding activities and food drives. As an army veteran, she also volunteers with Veterans Services Organizations to help other veterans and their families in need.

Education

M.S., Environmental Management, University of Maryland Global Campus, Adelphi, MD
M.S., Biology, University of the Philippines, Miag-ao, Iloilo
B.S., Biology, University of the Philippines, Miag-ao, Iloilo

Clarivel Jones is a Human Resources Consultant with over 20 years of HR Management and Finance experience. As a strategic business partner, both in the public and private sectors, Clarivel is dedicated to cultivating future leaders and advancing Inclusion and Diversity within organizations through education, conversation and application. Clarivel is a servant leader with the belief that you do not need to live an experience to respect someone else's.

Clarivel is passionate about developing emerging talent and creating opportunities, believing that it is leadership’s responsibility to foster growth and create diverse and inclusive environments. Committed to a lifetime of learning, Clarivel approaches each experience as an opportunity to gain new perspectives or insights.

Clarivel has a customized approach in working with leaders and organizations because she believes that Diversity is a business strategy. Clarivel is a leader who understands that authenticity and culture add can be achieved without compromising professionalism, integrity or order. By integrating innovative strategies and best practices, Clarivel has built dynamic teams and driven organizational success, while continuously evolving and adapting in the ever-changing HR landscape.

Clarivel holds a Master's degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources Management complimented by a Graduate Certificate in Organizational Management from Hood College. Clarivel received her Bachelor’s of Arts in Psychology from the University of Maryland, Baltimore County and is currently pursuing her Certified Diversity Executive (CDE) certification.
 

Education

MBA, Hood College, 2020
BA Psychology, UMBC, 2011

Rashida Kimbrue-Major’s foundation and career path have made her a natural advocate for empowering students to learn about themselves. Her diverse experiences have reinforced her belief that everyone has a unique superpower, discoverable with the right opportunities. Having struggled with self-doubt as a child, Rashida is dedicated to fostering students' belief in themselves and ensuring they access meaningful, real-world experiences. She knows that belief and opportunity are inseparable and is committed to helping students unearth their superpowers to prosper as adults.

She's supported 20 school teams across 19 systems to design innovative solutions that are both inclusive and equitable. She's amplified the voices and advocated for vulnerable youth and over 650 school leaders. With over 10 years of experience, Rashida has strategically guided and influenced bridging the gap for children in educational settings. Her impact has been felt at The Learning Accelerator, The Chicago Public Education Fund, AppleTree Early Learning, Montgomery County Public Schools, and PG County's Court Appointed Special Advocates.

Outside of work, Rashida enjoys time with her husband, daughters, and extended family. She holds a Bachelor of Science from Hampton University and a Master of Arts from Full Sail University. She volunteers actively and is passionate about creating a brighter future for all through her community involvement.

Education
M.A., Public Relations, Full Sail University, 2014
B.S., Business Administration, Hampton University, 2011

Darlene Martin’s sense of duty and responsibility to others was formed early in childhood as she watched her parents give to so many through military, public, and community service. Darlene combined her sense of duty to serve with her keen love of science to pursue a career in public service as a public health professional. Currently, Darlene serves as the Deputy Director in the Office of Regulatory Operations in FDA’s Center for Biologics, Evaluation, and Research where she provides direction for the development and interpretation of policies and procedures for the regulatory review of drugs, biologics, and medical devices. Darlene has served in the public sector for more than 27 years spending the last 16 working to improve health outcomes through FDA’s primary mission to ensure the medicines are safe and effective. Prior to serving at FDA, Darlene worked for the DEA protecting public health by disrupting the supply of illicit drugs across the country.

In her personal time, Darlene enjoys reading, puzzles, pickleball, volunteering to work with children, and spending time with family and friends.

Education

M.S., Biomedical Science/Regulatory Compliance Conc., Hood College, Frederick, MD
B.A., Biology, Hampton University, Hampton, VA

Pamela Price's philosophy of leadership is more of a familial aspect. For her leadership in its truest form is working alongside one another for a common goal. Pamela has spent the better part of her career in customer service and/or assistance within a corporate setting. She began her career with Verizon Communication--when it was previously known as Bell Atlantic. Although, she wore many hats during her time there--she was afforded the opportunity to move on to her true passion which is volunteerism. Pamela has been able to put her talents and expertise towards giving back to her community through various efforts. She has served her church as a youth leader and mentor for all students in various stages of life. She has also had the opportunity to cross connect with groups that benefit disadvantaged mothers and their dependents. Efforts toward collecting school supplies, meals, clothing etc. This is and has been championed in a team-based environment. Pamela, along with other work group members, can bring their own spin on what will bring success to their work/volunteer efforts. The feeling you have by helping others and seeing them in turn go on towards greater success is an indescribable feeling. Pamela has most recently returned to work full-time with Verizon and has a different insight on leadership and the skills she'd like to build upon during her doctoral pursuits.

Pamela is blessed with a son, Alex and a daughter, Olivia with whom she shares with her amazing spouse, Jeff. They all spoil two sweet cats, Louis and Lola. Pamela and her family love being residents of Frederick. They are active in the Steeplechaser run club community and downtown initiatives. She is also a member of the PTSA for New Market Middle school, PTO at Blue Heron Elementary (she is on the board as VP) and an active member of the Women's Giving Circle of Frederick County. She loves to travel, enjoying mind-clearing runs with friends, baking old fashioned desserts with a southern flair, watching British murder mysteries, anything Disney and spending time with her loved ones.

Education

M.A.L.S., Hollins University, Roanoke, Virginia
B.A., Communications Studies, Roanoke, Virginia
A.S., Accounting, Virginia Western Community College, Roanoke, Virginia

Zach Roberson currently serves as the Coordinator of Student Leadership and Service as well as the Orientation Manager at Frederick Community College in Frederick, Maryland.

Born and raised in Frederick County, and a proud Graduate of Walkersville High School ‘08 and Hood College ‘12, Zach set out to explore the world professionally and personally after he received his undergraduate degree! Zach’s professional journey has predominantly been spent in arts education, combining his passion for art with the emerging interest of creating educational opportunities for students to grow beyond the classroom, specifically in developing community.

Zach’s previous roles include:
- Residence Life Hall Counselor and Student Activities Manager at Interlochen Arts Academy in Interlochen, Michigan
- Director of Community Programs at Walnut Hill School for the Arts in Natick, Massachusetts
- Associate Director of Operations at New England Conservatory Preparatory School in Boston, Massachusetts

Zach understands the value of community and the vital role it plays in developing senses of belonging. This frame continues to inform his work and spark his research.

In his personal time, Zach can be found supporting live theater and spending time outdoors. He enjoys staying connected with his friends and traveling to see them all over the country when possible.

Education

M.Ed., Higher Education and Student Affairs w/ concentration in Student Affairs, University of South Carolina, 2017
B.A., Art and Archaeology w/ concentration in Art History and minor in Film Studies, Hood College, 2012

Leslie (Lee) Strathern is a second-generation biologist aspiring to become the third generation Strathern with a doctoral degree. Her family doctoral predecessors are her grandfather, for whom she is named, and her father. She will be the first female Dr. Strathern in the family line. Lee’s entire family is a driving force and the source of inspiration in her life. She hopes to carry on that inspiration for future generations as they look to pursue their own goals.

Lee’s college experience began at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, where she graduated in 2002 with her Bachelor’s in Biology. She obtained her Master’s degree in Biomedical Science from Hood College in 2018. Most recently, Lee completed her Project Management Professional certification in June of 2024.

Lee began her career in science as a high school intern for the National Cancer Institute at Fort Detrick. That kick-started a 24-year career in laboratory research. Lee transitioned to project management in 2018 and serves in the Project Management Operations Office of Leidos Biomedical Research, Inc. in support of the Frederick National Laboratory. Lee loves the challenge that her current position requires; allowing her the ability to apply her communication, organization, and leadership skills, while still being close to the science.

Outside of work and school, Lee loves spending time with her 10-year old daughter, her menagerie of animals, and her family. Lee has a green thumb, she is passionate about gardening and house plants. She also enjoys baking, delighting friends and family by sharing cookies, pies, cakes, and cinnamon rolls. Ask her about the traditional family Scone-Henge.

Education

M.S., Biomedical Science, Hood College
B.A., Biology, St. Mary’s College of Maryland

Omega Tawonezvi is a seasoned Executive Director with over 18 years of leadership experience leading in both public and government sectors. In her volunteer role as Executive Director of Immigrant Community Services, Inc., Omega has managed the organization’s core functions in development and administration, communications and Finance. Driven by a deep commitment to community-centric program development, particularly in immigrant and under-represented communities, Omega has successfully developed and implemented community outreach programs that bridge gaps between county governments and marginalized populations. Her leadership extends to resource mobilization, where she has secured significant funding from U.S. Government and private donors, including grants from US Department of State, the Maryland Department of Health and Montgomery County, Maryland. She is highly skilled in stakeholder engagement, having built strong collaborations across government, private sectors, and community organizations, amplifying the impact of the programs under Omega's direction.

Education

Bachelor of Business Administration. Austin Peay State University (2003)
Master of International Enterprise Management University of Maryland University College (2010)
Master of Business Administration. University of Maryland University College (2011)

Berri A. Wells, MS, PCC, is an international, award-winning, ICF-certified career and leadership development coach and founder of Turning Point Solutions. As a consultant, she crafts and designs learning initiatives that challenge, engage, and inspire. 

Berri enjoys helping leaders to reframe resistance and a victim's mentality by identifying their G.A.L.S.’s©: Gremlins, Assumptions, Interpretations, and Limiting Beliefs.  From there she partners with her coaching clients to set expectations, provide feedback, and challenge perceptions that stand in their way. 

Having worked with several leadership programs including the inaugural cohort of Leadership Prince William and Leadership Henry County (Georgia), she welcomes the opportunity to support Leadership Frederick County.

The empty nester is an active member of her church, the Henry County of Commerce, SHRM, and Toastmasters. Her leisure activities include scrapbooking, arts and crafts.

Education

M.S., Adult Learning and Continuing Education, Virginia Tech
B.A., Business Administration, Marketing, Howard University