About Us
At Eduruna, we are unwavering in our commitment to empowering individuals in underserved communities through work-based learning and training programs. We firmly believe that everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances, deserves a chance to gain valuable work experience that can pave the way to meaningful employment opportunities.
In these communities, access to such opportunities is often limited, perpetuating cycles of unemployment and economic hardship. Our dedication to this cause stems from our belief in the transformative power of work-based learning. By providing access to hands-on training, mentorship, and skill development, we aim to break down barriers, build confidence, and equip individuals with the tools they need to secure employment and achieve self-sufficiency.
At Eduruna, we are driven by the conviction that every person's potential should be nurtured and harnessed, irrespective of their background, and we are committed to creating a more equitable and inclusive future through our work-based learning initiatives.
Antoinette Sands
Board Member
Antoinette Sands is a seasoned web developer with over 15 years of experience in the tech industry. She has a proven track record of creating dynamic and user-friendly websites, leveraging her deep knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and various web development frameworks. Antoinette's passion for coding extends beyond professional development; she is also dedicated to education, having taught coding to both kids and adults. Her engaging teaching style and ability to simplify complex concepts have inspired many to pursue careers in technology. Through her dual roles as a developer and educator, Antoinette continues to shape the future of web development while fostering a love for coding in the next generation.
Balpreet Guraya
Board Member
Experienced Visual Designer with a demonstrated history of working in the design industry. Skilled in Adobe Creative Suite, UI Design, Photography, and Management. Strong arts and design professional with an Associate of Arts degree focused in Design and Visual Communications, from Ohlone College, California.
Chaunda Dallas
Advisor
Chaunda C. Dallas, MSIT, PhD student, is a dynamic cybersecurity professional with expertise in healthcare technology. As a WiCyS Technical Mentor and experienced Cybersecurity Data Analyst, she empowers individuals through education initiatives. Currently pursuing her PhD in Cyber Offensive Engineering, she actively engages in competitions like the DoD Cyber Sentinel Skills Challenge. Transitioning from hands-on healthcare to safeguarding patient EHRs, Chaunda is dedicated to ensuring data security and privacy.
Darren Foster
Advisor
Darren plays a key leadership role in representing and overseeing the interests of boat owners in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia areas, his responsibilities include leading meetings, coordinating events, advocating for members’ interests with local authorities, managing the operations and finances of the DMV Boat Owners Association and the DMV Boat Owners Club, and fostering a sense of community among members.
Katrice Johnson
Advisor
Katrice has been in business as a graphic designer and marketer for over 23 years. She uses her expertise to consult with and provide services to small, medium, and large companies. She has been in the Graphic Design and Marketing field since 2001. She has dedicated her business to helping hundreds of small business owners develop brands and grow businesses. While in business Ms. Johnson also shared her experiences and expertise with small business owners through the PowerLink Business Expo where she offered workshops and educational training. Among many of her accomplishments, Katrice has also had several pieces of her artwork exhibited at the Pensacola Naval Aviation Museum, in Pensacola, FL. In addition, Katrice was recognized and awarded by The American Advertising Awards which is one of the most prestigious organizations for Graphic Design and Art in 2015 and 2016.
Paul Pearson
Founder
With over 20 years of experience in the IT industry and 10 years of management expertise, I excel in leveraging technology to enhance team productivity, streamline processes, and effectively fulfill organizational missions. I possess a comprehensive understanding of marketing and information technology, coupled with a genuine passion for education and cyber threat intelligence (CTI). Known for my consistent, honest, and reliable approach, I have successfully collaborated with teams of all ages on a global scale, including non-profit organizations, federal government agencies, Department of Defense (DoD), and small businesses.
LinkedIn Profile
Precious Ezumoha Umunnakwe
Board Member
Precious is an experienced and results-driven leader with over 5 years experience in community leadership, operations management, business development and cybersecurity GRC. Using her unique blend of skills and leveraging her understanding of industry trends and technologies, she has spearheaded strategic initiatives to foster collaboration, drive engagement and promote knowledge within communities. She is an expert at crafting tailored strategies and innovative approaches to enhance organizational growth, and with her strong leadership and communication skills she has inspired teams and stakeholders towards achieving business objectives.
Rachael Cook
Board Member
Talented and passionate graphic designer with a keen eye for creativity and innovation. With years of experience in the industry, Rachael has honed her design skills and developed a profound love for art. As an avid mentor, she finds great joy in guiding and inspiring other aspiring designers, helping them unlock their full potential and achieve their creative dreams. Rachael's dedication to nurturing emerging talents and her unwavering passion for the world of art make her an invaluable asset to the design community.
Senan Gounjo
Scholarship Program Lead
Originally from Benin, West Africa, Senan moved to the U.S. 15 years ago, inspired by the American dream. He earned an associate degree in hospitality management from Montgomery College and a bachelor’s in hospitality and tourism management from the University of Maryland Eastern Shore, where he led student groups in both institutions. Before coming to the U.S., he earned a degree in hotel management from the Institute of Commercial Management in the UK and built a 15-year hospitality career with Marriott International and other roles across West Africa.
Recently, he completed a master’s degree in management information systems from the University of Maryland Global Campus. As the Lead IT Specialist at Salamander DC and host of the Hospitality Tech Show, he is passionate about advancing the hospitality industry. Senan also aims to establish the Hospitality Global Foundation to support the African hospitality and education community and lectures at the Center of Training in Hospitality & Tourism in Benin. Fluent in French, he continues to inspire future leaders in hospitality and tech.
Tazha King
Co-Founder
An experienced and data-driven leader with nearly 15 years of progressive experience in management, fundraising, and program development, execution, and evaluation. Has a track record for reaching ambitious goals on an “impossible” timeline, cultivating impactful relationships that drive outcomes for clients and stakeholders, and thriving in the “gray spaces” of program launch and scale.
LinkedIn Profile