Executive Director, Co-Founder

With over 15 years of marketing and communications expertise, Sheila brings a spirit of collaboration and passion to lead our organization of entrepreneurs helping entrepreneurs.

Programs & Community Coordinator

Andrea brings writing, admin and marketing experience to her role with BEFH supporting programs, events and membership relations.

Co-Founder and Board Chair

With two decades of Information Technology and management experience, Jermain brings technology infrastructure and entrepreneurship expertise.

​Board Member

Dr. Mailey has skill working with diverse clients and presenting issues. Areas of professional interests include: addiction concerns, helping veterans and military personnel readjust to civilian life, exploring PTSD symptoms, helping individuals manage race-related stress, men's issues, depression, anxiety, and managing interpersonal conflict. Dr. Mailey believes in providing a safe, supportive, and genuine environment wherein individuals can navigate the concerns that they may have that are disrupting their lives. He also believes in the power and potential of the human mind as a means for altering perceptions and reducing unhealthy negative emotions/behaviors.

​Board Member

Teresa Parks is a South Carolina native who has been a Manhattan KS resident since she was 10. She graduated from Manhattan High School, has a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology from Kansas State University and a Master’s in Administration of Justice and Security. Teresa has spent a large portion of her professional career providing advocacy for everything from domestic violence and sexual assault survivors to wounded soldiers before transitioning into vocational and employment training for the military. Teresa started with the Career Center in 2021. Her biggest passion is helping people and she finds no greater pleasure than working with students and helping them prepare for a successful future.

​Board Member

Tychelle S. Jones, LSCSW, is the owner of 365 Days 365 Ways Counseling Services. She has an extensive educational and professional background, holding a BS in Criminal Justice (2002), an MS in Youth Development (2006), and an MSW (2012). Since beginning her career in 2002, she has been dedicated to supporting individuals impacted by family violence through various roles including managing a shelter, court advocacy, and law enforcement collaboration. In 2006, she enhanced her skills at Fort Riley by aiding in domestic violence and sexual assault cases. Recently, Jones has provided virtual therapy via inpatient behavioral health services and the Veteran's Crisis Line, serving a diverse clientele.

Adviser

JElmore Cross Cultural Consultants

Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging, CASE

A visionary educational advancement leader dedicated to the development of authentic and cross-cultural opportunities, Jessica brings expertise in engaging and building relationships with students, alumni, donor, communities and cultures.

Adviser

Founder, President ISBA, Inc.

Lazone has long been a proponent of workforce development and training opportunities for low-income individuals. He has a proven track record of changing the narrative, and public policy change, and a pioneer in the digital inclusion movement.