Eleversity

Maria Cruz has worked in not-for-profit organizations for over 16 years and currently is the senior director of equity and inclusion at Evergreen Health and president of the Hispanic Women’s League.
Born in Puerto Rico, Cruz’s passion for creating positive change and her Latino community has always been at the forefront of her journey. With a strong determination to break barriers and inspire others, Maria has become a driving force in her community. As a natural collaborator, Cruz has brought diverse voices together to tackle complex issues and find innovative solutions. Her ability to foster unity and empower others has led to remarkable transformations within her community.
Her leadership extends beyond her community, as she advocates for gender equality and social justice on a broad scale. Cruz uses her platform to uplift underrepresented voices, break barriers, shatter stereotypes and create opportunities for all. With her unwavering dedication, Cruz continues to inspire and motivate others to embrace their unique identities and make a difference by embodying empathy, inclusivity and a deep commitment to creating a better future for all. Her passion, resilience and unwavering belief in the power of unity make her a true force to be reckoned with.
Cruz received her bachelor’s degree in conflict and dispute resolution from Hilbert College. She is currently pursuing her master’s degree in human rights from Arizona State University.

Tara Banks has worked in non-profit organizations for more than 20 years. She currently works at Heritage Christian Services as an Associate Director of Residential Operations where she oversees the operations of residential IRAs in our community. Tara received certification by 540 West Mains Anti-Racist Fellowship where she completed an intense training to facilitate and create anti-racist curriculum. Tara is currently a fellow of 540 West Main and continues to work towards pushing the needle forward of being an Anti-Racist through dialogue and advocacy for black and brown people. Tara is a NYS Certified Family Peer Advocate where she supports parents and guardians with children diagnosed with mental and developmental challenges through her lived experience as a mother of a young person with autism. Tara's professional background consists of supporting domestic violence survivors at Willow Domestic Violence Center, mentoring at risk youth at Monroe County Children's Center and bridging the homelessness gaps with the Center for Youth, Catholic Charities, HCR and the YWCA. Tara is a 2020 graduate of the United Ways AALDP and has previously served on boards providing guidance through a DEI and Trauma Informed lens.

Dinorah E. Baines is the Digital Information Officer for the NYS Office for People With Developmental Disabilities. She has almost a decade of experience working in communications, primarily focusing on digital communications, digital accessibility, strategic communications, and crisis communications. Mrs. Baines is a Buffalo native who grew up in West Buffalo, attended Buffalo Public Schools and received a dual bachelor’s degree in communications and psychology from The State University at Buffalo. She has a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Walden University. Mrs. Baines is passionate about volunteerism and giving back to the community. She is on the Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Committee for the Buffalo History Museum, a Board Director for the Hispanic Heritage Council of WNY and the Independent Health Foundation, and A Council Member for the Communities of Giving Legacy Initiatives.

Latrice M. Gray is a Relationship Officer with Key Bank. In this role Ms. Gray administers and manages all aspects of the client relationship within Key Bank’s Western New York Commercial Loan Portfolio Division. Her day-to-day duties include but are not limited to, customer service, compliance, and liaison for the client’s day to day banking. Ms. Gray’s portfolio consists of companies with revenues from $10MM to $250MM annually.
Ms. Gray has more than 17 years of experience in the banking industry as a Relationship Officer, Senior Team Leader, Team Leader, and various other positions in Key Bank’s Retail Contact Center. Her years of experience has taught her the importance of teamwork and unfailing customer service.
Ms. Gray has over 32 years of experience in management and customer service. Before joining Key Bank in 2007, Ms. Gray worked for 16 years in two other organizations Blockbuster Video and Client Logic. In these roles Ms. Gray was responsible for team management, employee development, customer service and technical support.
A big believer in charity work and giving back to the community Ms. Gray supports, Boys and Girls Clubs of Western New York and has volunteered numerous hours of her time helping children. She is the Vice President of the Key Bank’s African Heritage Business Impact and Networking Groups Buffalo Chapter. Ms. Gray is an Eastern Star for International and Modern Free Masons. She serves as Worthy Matron of Rising Star Chapter #451 and Past District Youth Grand Matron for Annie Walker Youth Court #132. She is a Christian who attends First Timothy Missionary Baptist Church regularly. She serves as a Missionary and member of the Pastor’s Aide Committee. She serves on the African American Arts and Culture Corporation as a Secretary; Destination We board as Treasurer. And ENBOR board as Financial Chair.

Dr. Deborah C. Stamps is the founder and chief executive officer for Deborah Stamps Consulting, LLC. Stamps has over 30 years of progressive healthcare leadership, holding a variety of roles including the inaugural chief diversity officer at Rochester Regional Health. Stamps created the professional academic workforce model to advance the educational and economic mobility of underrepresented minorities in nursing and is a 2023 Academy of Nursing Fellow and the recipient of the Center for Nursing NY Driscoll Award. Stamps earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from SUNY College at Brockport, a master’s degree in gerontological nursing from Nazareth University, a master’s degree in business administration and management from Rochester Institute of Technology and a doctoral degree in education from St. John Fisher University.

Dr. LaShawnna Harris is an education entrepreneur, with over two decades of experience as a teacher, school administrator and leadership coach. She is currently the CEO of two education-focused organizations: Creative Station, an improvement strategy and leadership consulting firm; and sharEDtalent a tech platform that connects schools with expert vendors for excellence. Harris received her bachelor’s degree in management from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, a master’s degree in teaching from Fordham University, a master’s degree in school building leadership from Mercy College and a doctoral degree in executive leadership from St. John Fisher University.

Honorable Fatimat O. Reid is the first African American woman ever to serve on Monroe County Family Court. Prior to her history-making election, it had been over thirty years since a candidate of color was elected to any Monroe County judgeship, whether for Family Court, County Court, or State Supreme Court. A seasoned litigator, transactional attorney, and administrator, Judge Reid has served Monroe County’s citizens since 2006 in both public and private practice. Prior to her historical election, she served as Chief of Staff of the Rochester City School District. Judge Reid previously served as a Municipal Attorney for the City of Rochester Corporation Counsel’s Office, overseeing the City’s contracts and litigation.
Judge Reid began her career as a litigation associate in private practice, working at the firms of Davidson Fink LLP and Wolpoff & Abrahamson LLP. Judge Reid’s past and present community involvement includes service on the boards of Caring and Sharing Junior Academy, the Federal Employees Parent Association, and Children Awaiting Parents. She also supervises her five children, who started their own not-for-profit, Sisters Investing in Sisters (“SIS”), which raises funds to provide young girls worldwide with an opportunity to rise out of poverty through education. Judge Reid is a graduate of the University at Buffalo School of Law, and the State University of New York at Oneonta. Judge Reid was raised in Nigeria but later immigrated to the United States.
A former foster care youth, Judge Reid often lends her background and experience to encouraging youth and young adults. Judge Reid serves as a mentor to many in and out of the legal profession. In 2021 Judge Reid became the first African American woman to serve as Acting New York State Supreme Court Justice in the 7th Judicial District. In 2022, 7th Judicial District Administrative Judge William K. Taylor appointed Judge Reid New York States first District Wide Coordinating Judge for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. In 2022, Hon. Gerald J. Whalen, Presiding Justice of the Appellate Division, Fourth Department appointed Judge Reid to the Attorneys for Children Advisory Committee. Judge Reid serves on the Executive Board of the Rochester Chapter of Jack and Jill of America, Incorporated. Judge Reid is blessed to be the mother of five amazing children: Aniyah, Kiley, David, Benton and Victoria.

Tiera Proctor is a dedicated pharmacist with a strong commitment to community engagement and health equity. With over a decade of experience, she has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in increasing medication adherence and immunizations among the underserved populations.
Currently serving as Director, Pharmacy Services at Trillium Health, Tiera leads initiatives to promote health equity and community engagement. Her previous roles at Kmart and Walmart allowed her to train and develop pharmacy staff and students while implementing direct patient care strategies for clinical programs.
Tiera earned her Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Daemen University in 2009 and her Doctorate in Pharmacy from Lake Erie College of Medicine (LECOM) in 2014. Her passion for improving healthcare access and outcomes for all continues to drive her work in the field of pharmacy. Tiera lives with her family in Webster, NY.

Bold is the best way to describe Krystle Ellis. Ellis is a multidimensional powerhouse, owner of Ellis K Consulting, and Executive Director of the Women’s Foundation of Genesee Valley. Known as "The Culture Broker", Ellis specializes in catapulting businesses in varying industries to the next level by implementing system-wide change methods through a positive and appreciative lens, while simultaneously being able to locate operational threats and challenges serving as a barrier to success and profitability.

Krystle stands as a unique leader in the areas of policy remapping, professional development, conflict mediation, and operational support. She has a proven track record of successfully navigating the complexities of organizational restructuring, while still prioritizing inclusivity and fairness. Regarded as a mastermind and chief strategist, Krystle was named a Woman of Distinction by New York State.

She sits on multiple boards and has been featured in national publications because of her work as a diversity, equity, and inclusion practitioner. To only name a few, Ellis has been trusted to train members of the New York State Department of Health, Rochester Police Department, University of Rochester Medical Center, and countless agencies across the U.S.

Krystle is a philanthropist and founding member of the Rochester Institute of Technology Sentinel Giving Society. She firmly advocates for the rights of women and providing equitable access to healthcare for children. She believes in having transparent conversations that inspire people to soar higher and values the currency of transformational love and honor."

Lisa A. Johnson is a creative visionary and brings innovation and inspiration to all aspects of her work. Her poetic voice serves as a powerful tool for storytelling and social change, addressing issues of identity, resilience, and empowerment. In addition to her artistic talents, Lisa is a dedicated DEI specialist, committed to fostering inclusive environments and advancing equity and social justice. With a background in English education, she brings her passion for literature and language into the classroom, engaging students in critical thinking and meaningful dialogue. Lisa A. Johnson is a Renaissance woman whose talents span across education, poetry, and diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) advocacy. With a passion for fostering creativity and empowering marginalized voices, Lisa serves as a beacon of inspiration in multiple spheres.
As an English teacher, Lisa ignites a love for literature and language in her students, fostering critical thinking and empathy through engaging classroom discussions. Her innovative teaching methods create dynamic learning environments where students feel valued and supported. With a bachelor's degree in English and a master's degree in Education, Lisa combines her passion for literature with her expertise in teaching to inspire students and drive social change.
Beyond the classroom, Lisa's poetic voice resonates with depth and authenticity, addressing societal issues with grace and insight. Through her artistry, she sheds light on topics of identity, resilience, and social justice, inspiring others to reflect and act.
As a DEI advocate, Lisa champions inclusivity and belonging, working tirelessly to dismantle barriers and create spaces where everyone feels seen and heard. Her expertise in facilitating difficult conversations and implementing anti-racist practices makes her a trusted leader in the field.
Driven by a vision of a more equitable world, Lisa A. Johnson continues to use her talents and expertise to uplift communities, empower individuals, and catalyze positive change. She has facilitated WOMENSPEAK, a community dedicated to amplifying the voices of Black and Brown women, fostering sisterhood, and advocating for social change through authentic storytelling and collective empowerment. She is a true exemplar of creativity, compassion, and courage in action.

Constance McMillan is a Human Resources Professional from Buffalo, NY. In 2023 Constance assumed the role of HR Manager at an internationally known not for profit organization. Constance working alongside the HR Director is responsible for the overall administration of the HR Department. She ensures that the department supports the agency’s strategic and business plans, as well as complies with all federal, state, and local employment regulations. As the HR Manager Constance sits on the Management team. Constance spent the first 2 months of her employment hiring over 100 employees who represent the demographics of the community in which this organization resides. She has developed an onboarding program, and innovated hiring processes. She has also developed and facilitates the organization’s Management 101 training program, a training program for the people leaders of the organization, creating and delivering trainings that develop skills and equip managers with the tools to be better leaders. Constance has successful experience in talent acquisition, community outreach, employee and benefits management. She has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with a concentration in Human Resources Management from the University at Buffalo. A strong believer in process improvement in the workplace, Connie strives to learn and to teach. She is a member of the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and has acquired her PHR certification.
Constance is the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Sponsorships of the Buffalo Niagara Human Resources Association, having served on the board since 2019. She is also a Board Member of Graycliff Conservancy since 2023.

Dora Mendez is a leadership coach and diversity, equity and inclusion consultant. Mendez played a pivotal role on the senior leadership team of the United Hospital Fund as the vice president of human resources and chief DEI officer, aligning her human resources and DEI expertise with UHF's mission and values. She formerly served as the director of talent and DEI at the Student Leadership Network, dedicated to achieving education equity for underserved students. In public service, Mendez contributed to hundreds of investigations into human rights violations at the New York State Division of Human Rights and Fair Housing Rights, and created a unique training program for domestic violence survivors at HELP USA's Fair Housing Justice Center. Mendez holds a master’s degree from the City University of NY-John Jay College of Criminal Justice, where she now teaches as an adjunct professor.

Evelyn Parker is a global DEI Leader and a seasoned DEI practitioner, bringing over 22 years of expertise in human resources, learning and development, talent management, coaching, change management, project management and business operations. She holds a master's degree in organizational leadership and development and holds numerous certifications including certified diversity practitioner, a certified associate in project management and is a certified bias reduction in internal medicine trainer. Currently, she serves as the chief diversity and culture officer for Catholic Charities Family & Community Services. She is a winner of the 2024 Top 100 DEI Professional Icon Awards and was a finalist for the 2023 Athena Award and 2023 Colors of Success DEI Leadership Award. She is also the founder and principal consultant for the All Things DEI consulting firm.

Karmina Miller is a certified leader in human resources, diversity, equity and inclusion and operations at a creative agency. Miller works to break through individual and systemic barriers to create improved experiences and better outcomes for everyone, centering her work on those who are the most excluded and marginalized. Additionally, Miller serves as a mentor, community partner, coach and vice president of diversity, equity and inclusion for the American Advertising Federation of Greater Rochester's executive board.

Shawn James is a licensed clinical social worker, bringing over two decades of experience in human services to the table. In her private practice as a trauma-informed and trauma-focused psychotherapist, she is committed to delving deep into the root causes of emotional burdens. In her mission to uplift women, she advocates for the transformative power of emotional freedom, viewing it as the key to unlocking boundless potential. Her approach is both empathetic and empowering, aiming to guide women towards a life of authenticity and fulfillment. James holds a master’s degree in social work Roberts Wesleyan University.

Marisa Geitner is the president and CEO of Heritage Christian Services. Last year, she celebrated 30 years with the organization and through her leadership, continues to steer and shape the agency’s work in building an inclusive organizational culture. Geitner challenges the status quo, pushing to exceed quality standards for both services and employment, including raises wages for the agency’s direct support workforce three times in 2.5 years, aligning with regional anti-poverty initiatives. She has been recognized with a doctorate of humane letters from Nazareth University, as an ATHENA award honoree, a Power 100 leader and has been inducted into the Rochester Business Journal’s Circle of Excellence.

Donna Mostiller is Heritage Christian Services’ senior vice president of people and culture. She leads the department of workforce and talent development, ensuring that the workforce of more than 3,800 across Rochester and Buffalo has access to professional development opportunities, wellness services, top-notch employee benefits and equitable pay. Mostiller brings more than 25 years of expertise and fresh ideas to strategic work focused on workforce development, diversity and inclusion, communication, compensation and recognition. She has been recognized with a Sacred Heart Academy Alumna award and holds certifications in Six Sigma, the Society for Human Resource Management and as a senior professional in human resources.