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Shemeka Frazier Sorrells, M.S., LPC, PMP

FOUNDRESS

Passionate advocate for social justice, deep thinker and innovate leader with nearly 20 years of experience in the field of child welfare working for state government, nonprofits and philanthropy in program development, policy, housing, outreach, management and grant making. Shemeka’s professional and personal passions include community advocacy and race equity.

Nia I. Cantey, Ph.D., MSW

Experienced County Director with a demonstrated history of working in the government administration industry. Skilled in Nonprofit Organizations, Research, Government, Project Planning, and Program Management to include research in race, equity, and the intersect of managing multiple identities.

Lamar W. Smith

Lamar has been a child welfare practitioner and leader for the past 20 years with experience in state government in New Jersey and Georgia. He has served as Well-Being Services Director for the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services leading a dynamic team of professionals in the management of statewide programming and partnerships focused on early childhood services, education, youth development, physical and behavioral health, in-home services, and independent living programs. Lamar is passionate about collaborating with state, local, and national agencies to achieve positive outcomes for children and families.

Deborah Burrus

Passionate executive in the field of child welfare with nearly 30 years of experience specializing in Adoption. Passionate and skilled in developing strategies, curriculum and coaching to help children find & be with forever families. Deborah also serves on the National Adoption Exchange Association’s Executive Board.

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Dianne Kelly, MS, LPC, LMHC

Progressive leader with over 20 years of experience leading private social service and a state agencies in direct service, curriculum writing, training and program development ; providing child welfare consultation in several states and a US territory and owner of Touchstone Practice Group, a clinical practice and consulting agency. Dianne has a deep affinity for serving children and families.

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Anita Shannon

Hands-on and strategic leader who utilizes meaningful, community inclusive partnerships to positively impact children, families, and the communities in which we live. Anita has worked in the field of child welfare for over 30 years in the non-profit, public and private sectors. She also serves the community by way of her organization [Re]3 which curates a wellness space for black women to relax, release and renew.

Candis Jones

Impassioned thought leader and practitioner within the state child welfare sector for over 22 years, with a specific skillset in leadership development and workplace culture improvement. Most notable skills are in outcomes focused strategic planning, continuous quality improvement, lean innovation, teaching and coaching.

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Mamie Harper

Mamie is a self-proclaimed 'Champion of Children'. As she celebrates her 14th year in child welfare and mental health, Mamie has developed the skills sets in the following areas advocacy; direct service, grassroots mobilization, and specializing with conduct disorders. With experiences ranging from DFCS, therapeutic care, to the school setting Mamie holds the personal belief that "No child should ever look like the trauma they have endured”. She is the Founder & Executive Director of Carrie’s Closet of Georgia.