FOUNDER AND CHAIR

Dr. Elaine Richardson, Founder, holds a PHD in English and Applied Linguistics. She is Professor of Literacy Studies in The College of Education and Human Ecology at The Ohio State University. Elaine Richardson has extensive expertise working with individuals in Gender and Literacy Studies.

CO-CHAIR & STATUTORY AGENT

Diann Johnson, Vice Chair and Statutory Agent of EFF. She works in Economic Development for the City of Columbus. She holds a Juris Doctorate and has extensive experience mentoring community youth, raising funds for the education of Black students via the United Negro College Fund, Wilberforce University, and other initiatives. She is a trustee at Mt. Olivet Baptist Church. She sits on many boards and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

SECRETARY/ PROGRAMMING CHAIR

Ebony Richardson, Secretary/Programming Chair, holds a Master’s of Business Administration in Marketing from Argosy University. Ebony also holds a bachelor's degree in Strategic Communications from Ohio State University Ebony Richardson is a successful licensed realtor in Columbus and has formerly been a writer for Substream Magazine.

EDUCATION CHAIR

Dr. Alice Ragland, Scholarship/Education Chair, holds a PhD in Multicultural and Equity Studies from the College of Education and Human Ecology at The Ohio State University. She is an educational consultant specializing in educating people about all social justice issues through enrichment programs, workshops, and community education.

DEVELOPMENT CHAIR

Kaila Lee, Development Chair, is a former board member of The Northwest Civic Association and former vice president of United Students Against Sweatshops. She holds a History of Art degree from The Ohio State University. Lee formerly worked for the Ohio State University, Ohio Art League and was also a member of their board.

AT LARGE/COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

Fevean Keflom holds a BA in Communication and an MA in Intercultural Service, Leadership and Management. She is a community connector, change agent and creative. She has held leadership roles in numerous community organizations such as Made for Medicine, City Year Columbus, Habesha Networks, Maroon Arts Group, and The Columbus African Festival. Fevean works for Worthington Libraries.

AT LARGE/PROGRAMMING

Candace Brown is CEO & Founder of Devine Twist Consulting. Her passion is community engagement, project management, and event planning. She is a 2025 YWCA Columbus graduate of the Susan Duffy Leadership for Social Justice Cohort. She is also a women's and youth advocate. Candace has been recognized as an outstanding community advocate by Who's Who Black Columbus.  She is a member of Mt. Olivet Baptist Church, Columbus.