About EJI

What We Stand For

  • Health Education – We work in under-served communities to reduce health disparities.
  • Social Justice – We work with local elected officials to address social issues within the community.
  • Leadership and Entrepreneurship Development – We offer leadership seminars for under-served communities.

Who We Are

Dr. Linda Taylor, Ed.D., M.A. - Organizational Leadership and Business EJI Managing Executive

Dr. Linda Taylor brings over 45 years of experience in organizational and business management, with expertise in research, project management, fundraising, public relations, and events management. She served as Executive Director of the National Policy Alliance (NPA) for 15 years, where she led advocacy efforts for Black elected officials and organized the historic 2016 and 2020 National Black Political Conventions. Her career spans corporate, higher education, and nonprofit sectors, including roles with Fortune 500 companies, Howard University, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), and the NAACP. At the NAACP, Linda directed economic development initiatives and oversaw corporate partnerships impacting key industries. Linda is also the founder of Women Love Sports Too!, an organization empowering women to explore sports as careers and business opportunities, and she produces the Another Sports View podcast. A Chicago native, Linda holds an Ed.D. in Educational Leadership, an M.A. in Organizational Communications, and a B.A. in Public Relations. She is an avid sports fan, mentor, and advocate for equity in education and business.

Dr. Chevelle Hall, Ph.D., M.Ed. - Leadership in Sports Management and Education

Dr. Chevelle Hall is an accomplished Associate Professor at Virginia State University with a distinguished career spanning K-12 education and higher education leadership. As a former teacher and principal, she has cultivated a deep understanding of educational systems and leadership development. Dr. Hall is a Fulbright Scholar and U.N. Peace Ambassador, earning international recognition for her dedication to promoting equity in education. Her commitment to fostering global educational opportunities and addressing disparities has made her a prominent voice in international education initiatives. In addition to her scholarly work, Dr. Hall plays a pivotal role as a mentor and leader, serving as the chair for several Virginia State University doctoral students as they pursue their Ph.D. journeys in 2024. Her contributions to education and leadership continue to inspire and empower learners and educators worldwide.

Dr. Marlyn J. Pierce, Ed.D., M.A. - Leadership in Education and Organizational Development Deputy Director of K-12 Initiatives

Dr. Marlyn J. Pierce is a dedicated education professional with a doctorate in Education Administration and Supervision from Virginia State University. Her career exemplifies service, innovation, and a commitment to student success. She is a U. S. Navy veteran. As a seasoned leader in education, Dr. Pierce has held pivotal roles, including School Testing Coordinator with Suffolk Public Schools and Program Manager for GED Transition and Online High School Programs at Bryant & Stratton College. She also spearheaded the Southeastern Virginia Regional GED program, helping countless students achieve educational milestones. Dr. Pierce is a proponent of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) and has shared her expertise internationally, including at the Athens Institute for Education & Research (ATINER) and Educational Justice Conferences. Her presentations on SEL emphasize its role in supporting students during key transitions, such as moving from middle to high school. Beyond her work in education, Dr. Pierce has been featured on media platforms like The Hampton Roads Show and WTKR Channel 3, advocating for the transformative power of GED programs. Her efforts have been instrumental in raising awareness and driving change with a strong faith and an unwavering belief in the potential of every learner, Dr. Pierce embodies the transformative power of education. in education access.

Dr. Arifah Goodwin, Ed.D., M.A. - Leadership in Education and Organizational Development Corporate relationships and Professional Development

Dr. Arifah Goodwin is a dynamic leader in higher education, career services, and student success, currently serving as the Assistant Director of Employer Relations at Virginia State University. In her role, she builds strategic partnerships to bridge the gap between students and transformative career opportunities. A passionate educator, Dr. Goodwin has a robust teaching career focused on professional development, leadership, and organizational strategy. She has also designed and delivered impactful workshops aimed at preparing students for career readiness and workforce success. Dr. Goodwin is a three-time published author, with works that include Leadership in Action: Navigating Change with Purpose, Breaking Chains: Healing from Generational Trauma, and Resilient Minds: Overcoming Adversity. Her writing reflects her commitment to empowerment, resilience, and transformative leadership. Her doctoral research, titled The Historical Perspective of Black Women in Leadership Roles and the Complexities of Work/Life Balance, underscores her dedication to advancing equity and inclusion. Dr. Goodwin’s career is defined by her unwavering commitment to fostering growth, empowering others, and shaping the future of education and leadership.

Verona Davis - Administrative and Travel Services

Verona Davis is a seasoned travel professional with extensive experience in the travel and hospitality industry. She has successfully supervised a team of 15 sales consultants at a major international airline call center, demonstrating exceptional leadership and operational expertise. An award-winning sales agent, Verona Davis consistently achieved remarkable results, generating over $1.1 million in monthly sales through tour packages, airline ticket sales, and hotel bookings. Her innovative approach to enhancing sales techniques, particularly for international airline upgrades, hotels, tours, and car rentals, has been instrumental in driving revenue growth. Verona Davis has also showcased her ability to handle high-pressure environments, managing over 450 inbound and outbound calls daily while maintaining outstanding customer service. Additionally, she has a strong commitment to accessibility, assisting mobility clients with the proper documentation required for Paratransit services. Her dedication, strategic mindset, and expertise in the travel industry make her an invaluable asset to the EJI team. “Empowering minds, transforming futures, and bridging communities—together, we are the architects of equity and justice in education.”