Meet The Team

Dr. Elisa Biggers is a distinguished leader in organizational leadership, curriculum development, and diversity training, with extensive experience across both public and private sectors. She earned her Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Argosy University, along with an MBA and a BBA from the University of Phoenix.

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Currently, Dr. Biggers serves as an Online DBA Chair and Adjunct Business Instructor at Belhaven University. Her academic career also includes teaching roles at Virginia College and Columbus Technical College, where she taught business, accounting, and economics, including dual enrollment courses. She has designed and developed a wide range of courses, curricula, and assessments for colleges, universities, and professional organizations nationwide.

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As founder of Diversified Educational Concepts LLC, Dr. Biggers won her first government contract in 2018 with the U.S. Virgin Islands Army National Guard, where she taught two, two-day senior leadership workshops. Since then, she has delivered specialized leadership and professional development programs to military bases across the country, servicing Marine Corps bases in Georgia and North Carolina.

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She is a certified Myers-Briggs Specialist and Microsoft Office Specialist and has served as an Instructional Systems Designer at the Homeland Security Federal Law Enforcement Training Center since 2018, where she develops curricula for the federal police.

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Dr. Biggers is also the Executive Director of Positive Movements Inc., a nonprofit based in Columbus, GA, focused on expanding educational and career opportunities for underserved, at-risk, and minority communities. In the nonprofit sector, she has advanced job readiness, placement, and transitional support services for underserved communities and individuals facing barriers to employment.

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With a proven record of fostering inclusive environments and transforming complex concepts into actionable strategies, Dr. Biggers continues to champion education, leadership, and community empowerment.

Dr. Frank Silvey Czarny is a seasoned scholar-practitioner with over two decades of experience in higher education, specializing in leadership studies, organizational systems, and qualitative research. He earned his PhD in Human and Organizational Systems from Fielding Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, California, where his dissertation, Qualitative Case Studies of Orchestrated Leadership in African-American Families Affected by Incarceration, reflected his enduring commitment to exploring the intersections of leadership, equity, and social systems.

 

Dr. Czarny also holds a Master of Arts in Human and Organizational Development from Fielding Graduate Institute and has completed extensive graduate work in education and applied teaching strategies. His expertise spans undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral instruction in business ethics, organizational behavior, leadership theory, and research methodology.

 

At the doctoral level, Dr. Czarny has chaired and served on numerous dissertation committees at the University of Phoenix and Capella University, guiding student research on topics ranging from transformational leadership to STEM education, racial equity, urban development, and organizational change. His mentorship has contributed to a growing body of practitioner-based knowledge rooted in social justice, cultural competence, and systems thinking.

 

As an adjunct and associate faculty member, Dr. Czarny has taught a wide range of interdisciplinary courses across the humanities, social sciences, and business schools. His teaching philosophy centers on critical inquiry, student empowerment, and applied learning, particularly in online learning environments. He is also a certified faculty trainer and workshop facilitator, having led faculty development initiatives on APA writing standards, dynamic classroom engagement, and supporting adult learners.

 

Dr. Czarny's academic and professional career is marked by a dedication to inclusive education, evidence-based practice, and developing leaders who thrive in diverse, complex, and evolving organizational contexts.

Dr. Michael Carpenter Harris II is an Assistant Professor of Communications and the Director of the Regents Bachelor of Arts (RBA) Degree Program at West Virginia State University (WVSU), where he brings over a decade of experience in teaching, academic leadership, and student-centered program development. A proud alumnus of WVSU, Dr. Harris has devoted his career to educating and empowering students and advancing interdisciplinary education rooted in accessibility, relevance, and community engagement.

 

Dr. Harris earned his Bachelor of Science in Communications from WVSU, followed by a Master of Science in Strategic Leadership from Mountain State University and an Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction from Marshall University. His doctoral dissertation, “The Curriculum of Reconciliation at West Virginia State University,” reflects his commitment to education as a transformative force for individuals and communities.

 

In addition to his administrative and teaching duties, Dr. Harris actively supports grant writing, curriculum development, and university-wide student success initiatives. His academic interests include philosophy, interdisciplinary education, adult learning theory, public speaking, and community empowerment. He is a frequent keynote speaker and workshop presenter on topics such as educational leadership, communication, and the transformative power of higher education.

Dr. Edward Strickland is a seasoned Behavioral Specialist (CMHCP) serving the southern region of Mississippi, with a distinguished background in business management spanning over 12 years in the banking and retail sectors. He holds a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Belhaven University, with a focus in Strategic Management, Leadership, Business Administration, and Finance.

 

Dr. Strickland is a results-driven leader with a consistent track record of exceeding revenue targets, expanding market presence, and building high-performing teams. He brings expertise in strategic planning, business development, and customer relationship management, with a demonstrated ability to optimize sales operations, cultivate strategic partnerships, and enhance organizational profitability.

 

Combining a strong academic foundation with hands-on industry experience, Dr. Strickland excels at aligning business strategies with organizational goals to drive sustained growth. His diverse skill set and passion for performance excellence make him a highly qualified and impactful professional in both behavioral health and business leadership.

 

Dr. JaNitta Wiley is an Information Technology Digital Marketing Specialist with a strong background in the industries of package/freight delivery and digital program marketing and development. She holds a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA), with a focus on Project Management and a Master's degree in Business Administration, with a focus on Human Resources, Leadership, Public Administration, and Finance from Belhaven University. 

 

She has a proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives, design and implement effective marketing strategies, and drive measurable business growth. Her DBA research explored consumer behaviors and preferences in North Mississippi and their influence on marketing strategies for local businesses.  

 

In essence, Dr. Wiley is a results-oriented professional with a strong academic foundation and practical experience in driving successful marketing initiatives and program management.  She is a highly qualified professional, backed by her advanced degrees and diverse skill set.

Dr. Ike Ugboaja is an accomplished higher education executive, workforce development leader, and business professional with more than 20 years of experience in academic leadership, student success, workforce engagement, program development, and organizational growth. He currently serves as Executive Director of Workforce and Adult Learning at Talladega College, where he leads efforts to expand workforce development and adult learning opportunities while strengthening connections among higher education, employers, industry, and the broader community.

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In his role at Talladega College, Dr. Ugboaja focuses on developing educational pathways that respond to the evolving needs of adult learners and today's workforce. His leadership includes supporting the college's Workforce and Adult Learning Pathways, including the FastTrack Accelerated Program and Prison Education Program, while cultivating partnerships designed to connect education with meaningful career and economic opportunities.

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Prior to joining Talladega College, Dr. Ugboaja served as Provost and Vice President of Academic Affairs at Clinton College in South Carolina, where he helped guide the institution's academic direction, workforce initiatives, and continued growth. During his tenure, Clinton College secured $3 million in workforce development funding and launched its first fully online MBA program. He also developed relationships with business, healthcare, education, and community partners to strengthen connections between academic programming, student needs, and workforce demands.

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Throughout his career, Dr. Ugboaja has remained committed to academic excellence, innovation, and holistic student development. His leadership philosophy reflects a belief that education should extend beyond degree attainment by providing students with practical pathways to career advancement, economic mobility, professional growth, and lifelong learning.

Dr. Ugboaja holds a Doctor of Business Administration and brings to his work a unique combination of higher education leadership and business experience. His approach emphasizes understanding where students want to go and building the academic programs, partnerships, experiences, and professional connections necessary to help them move confidently toward those goals.

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As Director of Academic Affairs & Institutional Success for Rising Scholars Inc., Dr. Ugboaja provides strategic guidance in academic programming, institutional partnerships, workforce alignment, student success, and educational pathway development. His experience as a provost and chief academic leader, combined with his current work in workforce and adult learning, provides RSI with valuable insight into the priorities and challenges facing colleges and universities.

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Through his leadership with Rising Scholars, Dr. Ugboaja helps strengthen initiatives that connect academic achievement, graduate and doctoral education, professional development, workforce readiness, and institutional success. He also supports RSI's efforts to build sustainable partnerships with higher education institutions and create pathways that help scholars progress from educational aspirations to degree completion, career advancement, and lifelong professional growth.

Stefano Bitjoka is a retired United States Navy veteran whose career reflects a longstanding commitment to service, leadership, and community engagement. He began his military career in December 1998 as an Aviation Machinist’s Mate and served at duty stations throughout the United States, including Maine, Florida, Hawaii, and Washington.

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Throughout his military career and beyond, Stefano developed an appreciation for teamwork, discipline, adaptability, and service to others. Following his retirement from the Navy, he continued his commitment to giving back through community involvement and youth coaching.

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As Director of Veteran and Community Engagement for Rising Scholars Inc., Stefano brings a valuable perspective to the organization’s efforts to reach veterans, military-affiliated scholars, and the broader community. His leadership supports RSI’s commitment to creating meaningful connections, expanding community partnerships, strengthening volunteer engagement, and ensuring that individuals from diverse professional and life experiences recognize advanced education as an attainable pathway.

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Stefano is particularly passionate about mentorship and service, values that closely align with Rising Scholars Inc.’s mission of helping scholars overcome barriers and continue progressing toward their educational and professional goals.

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In his role with Rising Scholars, Stefano helps cultivate relationships with veteran and community organizations, supports outreach and volunteer initiatives, and contributes to opportunities that connect service, mentorship, leadership, and education. His dedication to helping others makes him an important part of RSI’s continuing efforts to build a supportive community in which scholars are encouraged to persist, achieve, and rise.

Meshi Carter is an accomplished operations professional, entrepreneur, and emerging business strategist with expertise in organizational operations, logistics, event execution, and data-informed decision-making. Known for transforming ideas into well-structured, efficiently executed initiatives, she brings a thoughtful blend of analytical insight, operational leadership, and entrepreneurial experience to the Rising Scholars Inc. Board of Directors.

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A graduate of Tuskegee University with a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Studies, Meshi is currently pursuing her Master of Business Administration at Mercer University’s Atlanta Campus, with a concentration in Business and Data Analytics. Her continued education strengthens her ability to use business intelligence and data to improve organizational performance, streamline processes, and support strategic growth.

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Professionally, Meshi manages key travel, accounting, and operational functions, coordinating the systems, logistics, and workflows that keep organizations moving forward. Her entrepreneurial experience further demonstrates her ability to build and manage successful ventures. She is the owner of Live F.I.V.E. Events LLC and co-owner of Revive & Thrive Healthcare LLC, where she applies her strengths in planning, organization, leadership, and execution.

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As Director, Operations & Strategic Initiatives for Rising Scholars Inc., Meshi brings her expertise in operational strategy, data analytics, event coordination, and organizational development to help strengthen the infrastructure behind the organization’s mission. She supports the planning and execution of conferences, community programs, and strategic initiatives while helping ensure that Rising Scholars’ continued growth is supported by effective systems and sustainable practices.

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Meshi is passionate about creating structure, solving complex logistical challenges, and helping mission-driven organizations turn ambitious ideas into measurable, lasting impact.

Jasheika Askew serves as the Director of Executive Operations & Board Secretary for Rising Scholars Inc., providing essential administrative and operational support to the organization’s executive leadership and Board of Directors. In this dual role, she helps ensure that RSI’s day-to-day operations remain organized, responsive, and aligned with the organization’s mission and strategic priorities.

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Working closely with the President and organizational leadership, Jasheika coordinates executive schedules, correspondence, meetings, and administrative activities while helping to track priorities, deadlines, and follow-up actions. Her role is instrumental in maintaining effective communication among leadership, board members, staff, and other key stakeholders.

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As Board Secretary, Jasheika supports effective nonprofit governance by maintaining accurate organizational and board records, preparing meeting agendas and materials, documenting meeting minutes, and helping ensure that board decisions and action items are appropriately recorded and communicated.

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Jasheika also provides administrative support for RSI’s strategic initiatives, programs, events, and organizational projects. Her attention to detail, organization, and commitment to effective communication help create the operational foundation necessary for Rising Scholars to expand its programs and continue serving doctoral scholars and institutional partners.

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Through her combined responsibilities in executive operations and board governance, Jasheika plays an important role in transforming organizational priorities into coordinated action and ensuring that Rising Scholars Inc. operates with professionalism, consistency, and accountability.

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Role with Rising Scholars: As Director of Executive Operations & Board Secretary, Jasheika provides executive-level administrative and operational support while coordinating the governance functions of the Board of Directors. She helps keep RSI organized and connected by managing executive activities, maintaining board records, coordinating meetings and communications, tracking organizational priorities, and supporting the successful implementation of strategic initiatives.

Dr. Betty Diggs is a higher education consultant, doctoral research strategist, motivational speaker, author, and academic coach whose work is centered on helping learners successfully navigate the journey from educational aspiration to degree completion. With extensive experience in doctoral education, research development, adult learning, and student persistence, she is committed to creating practical systems that help scholars overcome academic barriers, strengthen their research, and achieve their educational and professional goals.

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Dr. Diggs holds a Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership, a Master of Arts in Adult Education and Training from the University of Phoenix, and a Bachelor of Arts in English from Mills College. Her multidisciplinary background allows her to combine organizational leadership, adult learning, academic writing, research methodology, and student development in her work with doctoral scholars and higher education institutions.

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As the founder of Dissertation Navigator and Academic Consulting Practice, Dr. Diggs provides structured dissertation coaching and research-development support to doctoral candidates across universities and academic disciplines. Her work includes assisting scholars with proposal development, research alignment, research questions, conceptual frameworks, qualitative and quantitative methodology, Institutional Review Board (IRB) preparation, and dissertation defense readiness. She also develops cohort-based completion programs, academic workshops, and progression systems designed to strengthen doctoral persistence and completion.

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Dr. Diggs is also the motivational voice behind Digging Deeper with Dr. Diggs, through which she delivers presentations, workshops, and educational programs focused on perseverance, leadership, lifelong learning, academic success, and personal growth. As an author and speaker, she encourages students and professionals to move beyond obstacles, establish meaningful goals, and remain committed to their educational and professional development.

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Her commitment to education extends beyond higher education. Dr. Diggs has supported youth and families through community-based organizations, including the Boys and Girls Club of Vallejo and GIFT'D programs, and has collaborated with organizations throughout the Bay Area to promote academic achievement, leadership development, educational access, and college and career readiness.

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As Director of Academic Innovation & AI Integration for Rising Scholars Inc., Dr. Diggs helps advance innovative approaches to doctoral education and scholar development. She contributes her expertise in research methodology, academic coaching, curriculum development, and emerging educational strategies to help RSI develop resources and programming that strengthen doctoral writing, research alignment, persistence, and degree completion. She also supports RSI's efforts to help scholars understand how emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, can be incorporated responsibly and purposefully into the doctoral learning process.

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Through her work with Rising Scholars, Dr. Diggs embodies the organization's commitment to ensuring that doctoral learners receive not only academic resources, but also the structure, encouragement, guidance, and innovative support necessary to persist through the doctoral journey and ultimately cross the finish line.

Marcus Kelley is a strategic business leader, consultant, and entrepreneur whose multidisciplinary expertise strengthens Rising Scholars Inc.’s commitment to advancing doctoral success, educational equity, and professional readiness. With a career spanning healthcare operations, sales strategy, and cross‑industry consulting, he brings a results‑driven, analytical perspective to organizational growth, stakeholder engagement, and long‑term sustainability.

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His professional background includes advising organizations across multiple sectors, with a particular focus on performance improvement, accountability systems, and relationship‑centered leadership. His understanding of how domestic and global policy environments shape business strategy adds a unique dimension to the board’s collective insight, reflecting the diverse professional experiences represented within Rising Scholars Inc.’s governance structure.

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Marcus earned his Bachelor’s degree in Consumer Affairs from The University of Alabama, a multidisciplinary program grounded in consumer behavior, financial literacy, business principles, and socio‑economic decision‑making. This foundation informs his holistic approach to problem‑solving and his ability to translate complex concepts into practical, actionable strategies.

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A committed advocate for education and workforce development, Marcus has served as a featured speaker on healthcare and career‑readiness panels at The University of Alabama. He regularly engages undergraduate and graduate students on navigating career pathways, transitioning from academia to industry, and building competitive professional portfolios. 

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Marcus is deeply committed to mentorship and community impact. He is passionate about preparing the next generation of leaders to excel in an evolving workforce and contribute meaningfully to society. His service on the Rising Scholars Inc. Board of Directors reflects his dedication to elevating standards of excellence, expanding access to opportunity, and supporting scholars as they pursue advanced degrees and transformative careers.

Dr. O’nae Chatman is an award-winning educator, nationally recognized speaker, author, servant leader, and transformational leadership consultant dedicated to empowering students and strengthening educational communities. His work spans education, social-emotional learning, mentoring, faith, equity, student leadership, and emotional intelligence, with a particular commitment to creating opportunities that help students recognize their potential and achieve academic and personal success.

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Dr. Chatman’s personal journey is central to his passion for education and mentorship. Born to teenage parents and raised in Mississippi, he experienced challenges along his own educational pathway, including leaving college at the age of nineteen. Rather than allowing those experiences to define his future, he used them to shape a lifelong commitment to education, leadership, perseverance, and service. His journey from college dropout to doctoral scholar and nationally recognized educator provides a powerful foundation for his work with students navigating their own academic and personal challenges.

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In 2026, Dr. Chatman received national recognition when the National Education Association (NEA) selected him as the recipient of the H. Councill Trenholm Memorial Award through its Human and Civil Rights Awards Program. The honor recognizes contributions to advancing educational opportunity, justice, and equity for historically underserved and marginalized communities.

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As Founder and CEO of the Chatman Consultant Group, Dr. Chatman works with public school districts, colleges and universities, churches, youth organizations, and community agencies to develop mentoring initiatives, leadership academies, and social-emotional learning programs. Through keynote presentations, workshops, consulting, and mentoring, his work has reached students, educators, parents, administrators, and community leaders across the country.

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As Director of Scholar Engagement & Educational Outreach for Rising Scholars Inc., Dr. Chatman helps strengthen the organization’s efforts to engage, encourage, and develop scholars throughout their educational journeys. He contributes expertise in mentoring, leadership development, emotional intelligence, resilience, and student engagement while helping RSI expand relationships with educational institutions and community organizations.

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In his role, Dr. Chatman also supports initiatives designed to strengthen scholar persistence, belonging, leadership, and personal development. His experience helps Rising Scholars address an important dimension of academic success: recognizing that completing an advanced degree requires not only academic preparation, but also confidence, resilience, meaningful relationships, mentorship, and a strong sense of purpose.

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Through his leadership with Rising Scholars, Dr. Chatman continues his commitment to helping learners overcome barriers, recognize their capacity to lead, and transform educational challenges into opportunities for growth and achievement.