Board Members

Tori Mabry, Chair

Tori Mabry is a native of Richmond, Virginia, a first-generation college graduate, and a passionate advocate for strengthening individuals, families, and communities. She earned her Bachelor of Social Work from Liberty University and is currently pursuing her Master of Social Work at the University of Kentucky, where she is concentrating on trauma-informed care and the lifelong impact of trauma on health and well-being.

Tori serves as the Manager of Government Affairs for the Virginia Hospital & Healthcare Association (VHHA), where she works at the intersection of health policy, advocacy, and community engagement. Her professional experience spans local and state government, including service as a foster care social worker and supporting senior leadership within the Office of the Governor of Virginia.

Known as a servant leader, community connector, and solution-oriented strategist, Tori is dedicated to helping communities move from surviving to thriving. Her passion for public service was shaped by her lived experiences and a deep commitment to removing barriers that prevent individuals from reaching their full potential. She believes meaningful change happens when people, organizations, and systems work together to create pathways to opportunity.

Tori is a certified trainer on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) through DBHDS and is deeply committed to advancing trauma-informed practices in communities, schools, healthcare systems, and organizations. She currently serves on the Board of Directors for the Attachment & Trauma Network (ATN), a national organization dedicated to improving the lives of children impacted by trauma, abuse, neglect, and prenatal exposures through support, education, and advocacy. Through her work with ATN, Tori helps advance awareness of trauma-informed and resilience-building approaches that strengthen families, promote healing, and support positive outcomes for children and caregivers.

She is passionate about bringing people together, fostering collaboration, and building bridges between communities, policymakers, and service providers to create lasting impact.

Outside of her professional and academic pursuits, Tori enjoys volunteering, reading, attending concerts, exploring nature, and spending time with family and friends. She remains committed to a life of service and believes that every person has the ability to positively influence their community and help create a brighter future for others.

Shannon Kendrick, Vice Chair

As a public servant, Shannon Kendrick formerly served as a Member of the School Board of the City of Virginia Beach. She is a human rights commissioner for the City of Virginia Beach, a board member of Enjewel Against Human Trafficking, Virginia Beach Sister Cities, and vice president of the Black Society for Economic and Social Transformation. As an international affairs professional, Shannon Kendrick currently works in development at International Cooperating Ministries, a Christian nonprofit organization dedicated to building Hope Centers around the globe. She serves on the Virginia Israel Advisory Board for the Commonwealth and previously served at the Peace Corps, directing strategic partnerships and managing intergovernmental affairs.

A public speaker and specialist in government and community relations, Shannon Kendrick is President of the Kendrick Consulting Group and has held senior executive roles in federal government, economic development, international affairs, academia, and nonprofit organizations. She has also served on the White House Initiative for HBCUs. She is recognized nationally as MAVPAC's "Future 40," Virginia Leadership Institute's Trailblazer, Inside Business's "Top 40 Under 40," and YWCA's Woman of Distinction.

Shannon earned her MBA from Regent University and her Bachelor of Arts in Government and Law from Oral Roberts University. She is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and a former member of The Links, Incorporated.

Gilbert Wilkerson Sr., Secretary

Gilbert Wilkerson Sr. is the Founder and C.E.O of Black Society for Economic & Social Transformation. Black Society's mission is to assist in elevating the health and welfare of the Black community by providing financial literacy and social stability through political, grassroots, cultural and educational development.

Black Society was founded out of a profound passion and tenacious commitment to circumnavigating the various obstacles precluding Foundational Black Americans from excelling financially and socially. Gilbert's steadfast commitment to economic development and social transformation are evidenced by his consistent action to bring about change in the Black community. Gilbert is also a member of the Billy Graham Rapid Response Team.

For 34 years Gilbert served as a Judge’s Assistant at the Richmond Circuit Court.  Post-retirement, Gilbert continues his commitment to the Black community by maintaining his crucial role as Police Chaplain, 25 years at Henrico Police Department; 3 years at Richmond Police Department. As Chaplain.  Gilbert continues to promote Black excellence within the community through his proactive participation as: President for the 'Coalition Against Violence, Board member for Students Reaching Students Former Chairman of the Board, for the East End Pregnancy Center. Gilbert is a Published Author and Conference Speaker.

Gilbert is graduate of National Business College, Roanoke Virginia.

Gilbert and his wife of over four decades are Blessed with four  children and reside in Glen Allen, VA.

Dr. Cheryl Ivey Green

Dr. Cheryl Ivey Green currently lives in Chesterfield and serves as the Executive Minister of First Baptist Church of South Richmond. Prior to serving as Executive Minister, she served as a computer professional at Bank of America. She has also previously served as a member and chaplain of Richmond Metropolitan Area Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. She has completed several terms on the Board of Directors of the Southside Child Development Center and has served on the board of Richmond Behavioral Health Authority. She received her bachelor’s degree from Virginia Commonwealth University, master’s degree from Virginia Union University, and doctoral degree from United Theological Seminary. Cheryl is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated.

MonicaFaye Hall

MonicaFaye Hall is a seasoned e-commerce and digital marketing expert with over 18 years of experience. With a Fortune 500 healthcare company for over twelve years, she was the E-Commerce Director before transitioning fully into business ownership. In 2022, she founded The Digital Hall, a Google Partner agency. With over twenty years of hands-on experience, Hall holds advanced certifications in Google Analytics, Search, Display, SEO, content marketing, and Microsoft Advertising.

MonicaFaye is renowned for her innovative approach to digital strategy and her ability to drive success for her clients. Her expertise extends to high-profile applications such as Magento, Microsoft Dynamics (D365), Microsoft Visual Studio, Microsoft Power Apps, and Adobe Creative Cloud. The Digital Hall focuses on providing comprehensive digital solutions to businesses, with services including SEO, content creation, social media strategy, and analytics.

Mrs. Hall's professional achievements go beyond her role as an e-commerce and digital marketing expert. She is a published author, and her book, E-commerce Management: A Simplified Guide to Manage Your Online Store Successfully, is a testament to her extensive experience and insights. But her impact doesn't stop there. Through her writing, consulting services, and online platform, she empowers entrepreneurs and e-commerce professionals with the knowledge and tools necessary for success in the competitive online marketplace.

MonicaFaye has been married for 29 years and is a proud mother of two adult children who are also married.

Ernisha Hall

Ernisha Hall is a dynamic leader whose vision and dedication to empowering socioeconomically disadvantaged groups have made her a pivotal figure in the fight to close the racial wealth gap. As the Founder, President & CEO of the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to enhancing economic sustainability and capacity for Black business owners.

In 2020, Ernisha and her wife, Tracey Hall, co-founded the 501c3 nonprofit organization, the Virginia Black Business Directory (VABBD). The VABBD has grown into an influential voice for Black business owners across Virginia, boasting nearly 1200 members and leading to the establishment of the Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce (VABCC). The Virginia Black Chamber of Commerce provides indispensable resources such as access to resources and capital, technical assistance, education, and community engagement, all with the aim of bolstering the visibility and resilience of black-owned businesses.

Ernisha's strategic and forward-thinking approach has paved the way for the development of groundbreaking initiatives and programs that empower these businesses. Her leadership has garnered recognition and accolades, including the Unsung Hero Award from Dumfries Mayor Derrick Woods, a Resolution from the Town of Dumfries, and two Resolutions presented by the Virginia House of Delegates.

Beyond her work with the VABCC, Ernisha also serves as the Board-President of Fredericksburg Area Health Support Services (FAHASS). She has been acknowledged as one of the most influential women in Stafford’s region, reflecting her tireless dedication to advancing economic justice issues in Virginia.

Ernisha's educational background is as impressive as her professional achievements. She holds a BA in Forensic Psychology from John Jay College of Criminal Justice, a Master of Business, and a Master of Social Work. Currently, she is pursuing her PhD with a specialization in Entrepreneurship at Walden University.

Originally hailing from New York City, Ernisha now calls Virginia home. Outside of her professional life, she is a proud wife and mother who cherishes spending time with her family.

Ernisha Hall's ambition, drive, and success make her an inspiration for all aspiring leaders. Her tireless advocacy for the Black community and her leadership of the VABBD are making significant strides towards economic empowerment for Black business owners. Ernisha Hall is a role model whose impact will undoubtedly resonate for generations to come.

Ellen Luckey

Ellen Victoria Luckey is the Founder & CEO of Victoria's Kitchen & Southern Spreads. She is married to her best friend and Business Partner Romell Luckey & Mother of three Amazing Daughters: Arianna, Jasmine and Rachel. She has over 15 years of Corporate Experience in Legal, Finance, Accounting & Public Speaking & over 10 years of Entrepreneurship under her belt. Ellen Victoria's passions in life are her Family, Her Faith, Youth, Community, Teaching, Culinary Arts & Public Speaking. Recently - Victoria was sworn into Office as a Board Member of The African American Advisory Board to Governor Glenn Youngkin. She has also been awarded the following prestigious recognitions: 2024 Emerging Leader under 40 by Richmond BizSense & Edward Brown, 2023 Young Entrepreneur of The Year by ChamberRVA & HYPE ICON & 2019 Community Front Runner by ChamberRVA & HYPE ICON.

After having two successful marketing and advertising businesses - in which she started while in college at Virginia Commonwealth University - Ellen Victoria continued to pursue her Corporate Career while still attending Virginia Commonwealth University. In 2016 Ellen Victoria Embarked on her next round of Entrepreneurship - Victoria's Kitchen. Victoria’s Kitchen is a Cooking School, Licensed Kitchen Rental Facility & Food Manufacturer Facility - with an Event Space coming soon.

It was after helping one of her children through a rough food intolerance and digestive issue journey - as well as seeing how well her concoction of academics in the kitchen worked for her own children that she began to realize her next calling in life - to teach children, their families and her community about the importance of using food and being together in the kitchen - to bridge gaps between generations and to create that missing fellowship.

In 2019 Victoria & Romell launched Southern Spreads - prepackaged homemade sides. Soon after starting Southern Spreads - Victoria had to make the hard decision to pause Southern Spreads - due to the Pandemic Shutdown. Later in 2023 - Victoria & Romell Relaunched Southern Spreads in two local grocery stores: The Market at 25th & Good Foods Grocery - with more stores to come!

Victoria also realized another calling for her was to help encourage fellow entrepreneurs along their specific journeys - to help provide them with a "Safe Space" and to share her business journey as a stepping stool for others. For this reason she created her brand: Victoria_Inspires. Victoria_Inspires provides Motivational & Business Workshops with a focus on helping Food Businesses launch in her Victoria’s Kitchen Commissary Kitchen & Food Manufacturing Facility.

Patrina Mosley

Patrina is a speaker, author, and advocate for the right to life, combatting sexual exploitation, faith, and the Black family. Patrina Mosley is the founder and principal at PPM Consulting, LLC, where she guides organizations, campaigns, and policymakers in elevating women's dignity issues with a special focus on the African-American community. Her commentary has been featured in The New York Times, The Hill, Washington Examiner, Townhall, The Washington Times, The Federalist, and more, including over 100 published issue briefs, reports, and opinion editorials. Patrina’s sought-after expertise has placed her before multiple state legislatures, congressional briefings, and the United States Senate Judiciary Committee. She has had the privilege of serving in various leadership roles focused on advocating for pro-woman and pro-family policies both domestically and internationally, serving as an appointed Human Rights advisor in the United States Agency for International Development. Patrina is an Ambassador member of the Project 21 Black Leadership Network and an adjunct professor for the Helms School of Government at Liberty University, where she graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Religion and a Master of Arts in Public Policy.

Bishop Ron D. Willis

Bishop Ron D. Willis is a visionary leader, U.S. Army Veteran, and seasoned executive with a distinguished career spanning military service, federal government leadership, business innovation, and community engagement. He currently serves as Executive Pastor of Vision Community Church in Fredericksburg, Virginia, where he leads a growing, multi-cultural congregation committed to empowerment, service, and community transformation.

Bishop Willis also serves as First Assistant Presiding Prelate of the Global Empowerment Fellowship of Christian Churches, Inc., providing national and international leadership support to faith-based communities. His career in federal service includes a distinguished tenure with the United States Department of Defense, where he retired after an accomplished career supporting national security and strategic operations.

In the private sector, Bishop Willis is the CEO of R&D Acquisition Consultants, a firm specializing in research and development acquisition strategies and emerging technology consulting. His expertise bridges government, innovation, and economic development, making him a valuable contributor to public-private partnerships.

He holds a Bachelor of Business Management and a Master of Business Administration in Logistics from Trinity College and University, as well as a Doctor of Divinity from St. Thomas Christian University. Additionally, he is a Certified Life Coach and serves as the Director of Community Care with The Healing Station Counseling Center, a nonprofit organization focused on expanding access to affordable mental health services.

Bishop Willis serves on multiple advisory boards and is widely recognized for his exemplary executive leadership, strategic vision, and unwavering commitment to strengthening communities through collaboration, advocacy, and empowerment. In recognition of his service and impact, he was honored with the 2025 Community Service Award from the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated® Fredericksburg Chapter and the 2025 Legacy Builder Men of Impact Service Award. His appointment to the Virginia African American Advisory Board reflects his continued dedication to advancing equity, expanding opportunity, and creating meaningful impact across the Commonwealth.

Princess Philomena Desmond-Ogugua

Princess Philomena Desmond-Ogugua is an international development professional who promotes US-Africa trade and investment and advises investors and companies on doing business in Africa. Princess Philomena has successfully built relationships and strategic partnerships between US investors and companies interested in exploring the African market. She is an accomplished executive with over twenty years of experience in Africa market entry, project and deal identification, investment facilitation, and in-depth work in infrastructure, energy, agribusiness, financial services, healthcare, and the education sectors. Princess Philomena Desmond-Ogugua currently resides in Woodbridge.

Justin Saunders

Justin Saunders serves as Vice President of Membership & Strategic Growth for the Hampton Roads Chamber, the largest chamber of commerce in the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Chamber is the fourth oldest in the nation and has earned a prestigious five-star accreditation from the United States Chamber of Commerce, placing it among the top one percent of chambers nationwide.

Recognized for his leadership and impact, Justin has been named a CoVa Biz Magazine Next Generation honoree, a Top Forty Under 40 by Inside Business, a national Top Forty Under 40 by the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives, and a statewide Top Forty Under 40 by Virginia Business.

Justin also serves as an Honorary Commander with the United States Air Force, supporting the 755th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Group, as well as the 63rd Intelligence Squadron at Joint Base Langley-Eustis.

His extensive community involvement includes service on numerous boards and advisory councils, including this current board with the Commonwealth of Virginia; the Better Business Bureau of Greater Hampton Roads; the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives-(Membership Chair); YMCA of South Hampton Roads Corporate Board; Tidewater Community College Workforce Solutions; the Virginia African American Cultural Center-(Development Chair); and the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition’s Virginia Advisory Committee. Through these roles, Justin leverages his expertise with purpose and passion to advance economic opportunity and community development.

A committed mentor, Justin actively supports leadership and career development for individuals ranging from middle school students to young professionals. He dedicates significant time to mentorship through formal programs and informal engagement, helping cultivate the next generation of civic, nonprofit, and business leaders.

In addition to his board service and mentorship efforts, Justin volunteers with a wide range of local, regional, statewide, national, and global nonprofit organizations. He also contributes to several working committees, including the Didlake Business Advisory Council and Chesapeake Worlds of Work, among others focused on supporting the evolving needs of businesses and individuals across the region.

Justin holds a bachelor’s degree from the University at Buffalo and is a graduate of Lead757.

Michael Watson

Michael Watson is a U.S. Army Soldier, community leader, and equity-focused program manager with a track record of advancing access, inclusion, and outcomes for African American communities across Virginia and the greater DMV region. His multidisciplinary background spans military service, public health, education, and community engagement, with a focus on addressing systemic inequities through both policy and grassroots solutions.

Mr. Watson has held leadership roles in nonprofits and higher education, including the Alzheimer’s Association, where he led initiatives centered on health equity, brain health education, and caregiver support for historically underserved communities. His work emphasized culturally responsive outreach, strategic partnerships, and expanding access to critical resources.

In higher education, he has served as an Adjunct Professor at the University of the Potomac, supporting diverse adult learners and promoting educational access through inclusive teaching practices.

Alongside his civilian work, Mr. Watson serves in the U.S. Army, where he leads community service efforts, coordinates volunteer programs, and builds connections between military families and local organizations. His service reflects a deep commitment to integrity, accountability, and public good.

He is honored to bring both lived experience and professional expertise to the Virginia African American Advisory Board, working to advance equity and opportunity for African American communities across the Commonwealth.