Elevate Oregon Staff
Meet the Elevate Family: Our Dedicated Staff
The Elevate Oregon Team
On the Ground: Our Teacher/Mentors and Program Managers work in the classroom, 1:1 with students, and behind the scenes to help Elevate students to be their best selves. Our entire staff is committed to promoting educational equity in schools and community.
Donell Morgan
Executive Director
Donell Morgan’s role as Executive Director at Elevate Oregon is the culmination of his entire life’s experiences.
He grew up in the inner city, starting his basketball career in high school and continuing through college, which led him to playing basketball around the world. After retiring from basketball, Donell worked first-hand with troubled youth at Echo Glen Children’s Center, a detention home where he helped young men & women piece their lives back together. For 10 years, he coached basketball at Umpqua Community College, kick-starting his mentorship of young African American men and becoming the first African American coach in Douglas County. Donell worked to open two Boys & Girls clubs in his hometown of Tacoma.
Now, as Executive Director at Elevate Oregon, Donell continues to mentor students and build life-changing relationships. His goal is to give back to his communities all that was given to him and more. An energetic and engaging speaker, Donell aims to inspire and develop the next generation of leaders who will transform communities and build a better future. His 5 years of service on the Oregon Department of Education’s African American/Black Student Success Advisory Committee are just one of the ways he works towards that aim.
In his free time, Donell recently earned an MBA at Willamette University. He enjoys learning, cooking, and – never having given up his love of the game – coaching Parkrose High School’s Varsity basketball team for the last 7 years.
Kesha Roper
Chief of Staff
Luz Ruiz Ruiz
District Manager
Luz Ruiz Ruiz is a former Elevate student and a Parkrose High School graduate. This experience allows Luz to bring a unique perspective to our team, as she understands our district partners and Elevate programming itself from the inside out. She joined the Elevate Oregon staff in December of 2020 in a new, full-time Teacher/Mentor position at Shaver Elementary School. She served as our elementary school program’s lead mentor in 2023-24 before her promotion to district manager. Luz is currently working towards her bachelor's degree in psychology from Portland Community College.
Jennifer Jones
District Manager
Jennifer is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit, ministry, and education sectors. She has held roles ranging from Program Director to Executive Director, and now serves as District Manager at Elevate Oregon. Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Jennifer spent most of her career in Michigan before moving to the Pacific Northwest. Known for her gift of connecting people to purpose, she’s passionate about helping youth discover their potential. Jennifer is excited to support Vancouver students and help them thrive through meaningful opportunities and relationships.
Michelle Braxton
District Manager
P. Michelle Braxton is a Portland native and a long-time resident of the Parkrose neighborhood. She brings over 20 years of skills, knowledge, and experience in child advocacy and education to her role at Elevate Oregon. In her work as a youth mentor, Qualified Mental Health Associate, Restorative Justice Coordinator, Foster care Provider, Behavior Specialist, and SUN School program manager, she has been privileged to work with some of the most underserved and displaced communities in Oregon. Michelle is an intentional and committed Change Maker, using her influence to speak for the voiceless, serving as a positive role model, and selflessly advocating for underserved populations in need of a helping hand. This work feeds her soul. In her free time, Michelle enjoys spending time with family, traveling, and event planning.
District Manager
Carlton Slater
District Manager
Employee photo coming soon!
Originally from Los Angeles and raised in Portland, Carlton Slater brings over 25 years of experience in youth development and disability services. His passion for empowering youth and individuals with disabilities has shaped a lifelong commitment to service.
Outside of work, Carlton enjoys bowling, poker, fashion, sneakers and connecting with friends at community events. His favorite quote is: “My only purpose is to swim the seas, find the truth and spread it around. Give it to the children that know how to listen, so they can pass it after I drown.”
Jamarsae Brown
Teacher/Mentor
Adofo Lawrence
Teacher/Mentor
Adofo joined Elevate Oregon after nearly 20 years in youth development. His passion for working with youth began in high school when he volunteered as a student leader with Outdoor School. Since then, he has worked with a variety of organizations as an Educational Assistant, In School Coordinator, Caregiver, Youth Development Mentor, Camp Counselor and Group Leader. Adofo grew up playing sports, attending summer camps, and playing at parks around the inner city neighborhoods in St. John’s and NE Portland. He attended Jefferson, Marshall and Vocational Village High Schools before attending Portland Community College. In his free time, he enjoys cooking, watching sports, and coaching basketball.
Dominique Lincoln
Lead Teacher/Mentor
Jordan Griffin
Teacher/Mentor
Serena Smith
Teacher/Mentor
Serena Smith is a driven and dedicated individual who has always strived for excellence. She completed her high school education at Union High school in Camas, WA and continued her academic journey at Cal Poly Humboldt University. There, she started a Black Student Athlete Union and worked in the Umoja Center for Pan-African Student Excellence. She graduated in May 2023 with a degree in Kinesiology, focusing on pre-physical therapy. Serena’s passion for helping the youth stems from her own experiences of overcoming challenges in the education system with limited resources. As a former cross-country and track & field athlete in both high school and college, Serena learned the importance of hard work and perseverance. Her goal is to empower young people to embrace their potential, connect with their communities, and become leaders in all aspects of their lives.
Jessica Ruiz Rodriguez
Teacher/Mentor
Jessica was born and raised in Mexico, immigrating to the U.S in 2003. Decisions that she made during her teen years led to her marrying and having children at a young age. This experience gave her valuable life lessons about the choices we make, and still informs her parenting and mentorship of teens today.
Jessica developed a passion for working with students over 10 years serving as a volunteer in her children's schools. Most recently, she coordinated and taught a middle school girls wellness/health class. Jessica plans to study Mental Health and Substance Abuse Counseling for Youth at MHCC. She loves being able to be a part of a team that focuses on supporting and mentoring youth while working to changing lives for the better.
Kevin Jones
Teacher/Mentor
Born and raised in the Portland metro area, Kevin graduated from Wilson High School in 2004. He began his career in construction, but found his true passion while working in a care home for children and young juveniles. That experience led him to roles supporting youth, including as an educational assistant at Arata Creek, a behavioral school.
Creating joyful spaces where young minds can thrive is Kevin's mission. He is dedicated to nurturing creativity, making learning fun, and helping children grow through imagination and connection.
Jaelen Blake
Lead Teacher/Mentor
Jaelen is a former Elevate Oregon student and a Parkrose High School graduate. He’s an avid gamer with a passion for helping youth and the community he grew up in. He joined Elevate as a student in 2014, and became a staff member in December of 2020, starting at Sacramento Elementary School. Jaelen is now the full-time lead mentor at Ron Russell Middle School.
Chandra Roseby
Lead Teacher/Mentor
Darius Strickland
Employee photo coming soon!
Teacher/Mentor
With over a decade of experience in education from school security to classroom teacher to Dean of Students. Darius is passionate about supporting youth and building positive learning environments. Currently he is pursuing his education license at Warner Pacific University, and is committed to growing as both an educator and a leader.
Outside of school, Darius is a certified collegiate and high school basketball official. He loves traveling, sports, and movies. His favorite being Money Talks.
Tess Webb
Teacher/Mentor
Employee photo coming soon!
Tess grew up in Vancouver, Washington, and is fresh off her graduation from the University of Portland, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in communication studies and a minor in Spanish. She has wide-ranging experience working with youth, including instructing, program coordinating, and counseling, but her longstanding position as a lead taekwondo instructor and coach has instilled a deep-rooted passion for mentorship and relationship building. Tess is excited to join the Elevate Oregon family and leverage her culminating experiences to make an impact on youths’ lives. Outside of work, Tess enjoys all things active, reading, playing the guitar, and spending time with her friends and family.
Anthony Green
Lead Teacher/Mentor
Anthony was raised in the heart of NE Portland. Growing up without a father and having little to no exposure to male role models help fuel his passion to be a part of the change that is needed for today's youth. His journey for youth advocacy began through volunteering as a Community Ambassador with Nike's Made to Play Program, and as a mentor with the Big Brother Big Sister program. Anthony's goal is to inspire the next generation by teaching them the fundamental skills of self-advocacy and leadership.
Carliss Holland-Smith
Teacher/Mentor
Jamaal Goodlow Jr.
Teacher/Mentor
A 2017 graduate of Grant High School, Jamaal brings strong communication skills and a people-first mindset to everything he does.
Outside of work, Jamaal enjoys playing slow-pitch softball, spending time outdoors, and hanging with family. He also volunteered at a local food drive for two years following the COVID-19 pandemic. Fun fact! He has traveled to Chicago by train over 15 times!
His favorite movie is The Sandlot, and he lives by the quote: “There is nothing worse than wasted potential.”
Braxton Knight
Teacher/Mentor
Brenda Norell
Teacher/Mentor
A'mere Ledbetter
Teacher/Mentor
A’mere Ledbetter is a dedicated childcare professional with nearly a decade of experience working with youth, and creating safe and nurturing spaces for children. A 2022 graduate of David Douglas High School and 6A cheer state champion, she brings energy, structure, and heart to her work.
Originally from Connecticut, A’mere moved to Portland at age 8 and is now pursuing a degree in Psychology and Early Childhood Education at Mt. Hood Community College. Her dream is to open a preschool that gives kids the strong start they deserve.
Ray Ray Crain
Teacher/Mentor
Ray Crain, a Portland native and Jefferson High School alum, is a former collegiate athlete with a Ph.D. in Business from the University of Oregon. He brings experience from professional football operations and a passion for mentorship. At Elevate Oregon, Ray is dedicated to helping students overcome limitations and build lifelong confidence and vision. He believes in the power of education, resilience, and representation to transform lives. Outside of work, Ray enjoys traveling and exploring new cultures.
DeMiya Collins
Teacher/Mentor
DeMiya grew up in SE Portland and graduated from David Douglas High School, where his passion for working with youth first began. Since high school, he has dedicated himself to mentoring, supporting, and uplifting young people in his community, driven by a deep belief in their potential and resilience.
Now, as a teacher mentor, DeMiya is able to focus on building strong relationships with students and educators, helping to create spaces where young people feel seen, supported, and empowered to thrive.
De'Corey Cooper
Teacher/Mentor
With over seven years of experience in education, De'Corey has developed strong leadership, communication, and relationship-building skills. His work in schools has fueled his passion for supporting others and connecting across diverse communities. He is committed to helping families reach their goals with integrity, focus, and care.
Athletics have shaped his discipline and drive. He has competed in football, wrestling, basketball, track, and now stays active through softball and mushball.
Willie Hall
Employee photo coming soon!
Teacher/Mentor
Willie holds a Bachelor of Education from Urbana University and an Associate of Science from the College of Southern Nevada. With over a decade of experience in youth advocacy, education, outreach, and program management, he brings a deep commitment to empowering young people through mentorship, academic support, and community engagement. Outside of work, Willie enjoys watching movies, running, and spending time at home. He also volunteers as a coach and finds inspiration in the quote, “An injustice to one is an injustice to all.”
Mikayla Reed
Accounting Assistant
Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Mikayla is currently working on her Bachelors of Business Administration in Accounting through Western Governors University. After spending several years exploring different job avenues and career possibilities, she is excited to complete her education while working for a company with an incredible mission. Outside of Elevate Oregon, Mikayla works part-time as a kickboxing instructor where she helps empower and guide women through their workouts. She also enjoys all things artsy and outdoorsy including photography, writing, painting, hiking, and skiing. Her favorite quote is: “Whether you say you can or you can not- you are right.” -Henry Ford
Angela Taylor
Director of Finance
Born and raised in inner city Portland, Oregon, Angela was an at-risk youth who skipped school, got bad grades, and eventually dropped out of high school to become a teen parent. Years later, she earned a GED at PCC and then graduated from the Portland State University School of Business Administration for Accounting. Her passion and dedication for the community has led to a decade serving local area nonprofit organizations. Angela is excited to share her personal and professional experiences to support Elevate Oregon's mission. In her spare time, she enjoys nature photography, cooking, hiking, and playing the piano.
KJ Mack
Training & Development Manager
KJ was born and raised in South Carolina, where he experienced firsthand the transformative power of deep, intentional relationships during his time in youth and college ministry. KJ went on to spend multiple years working with a wide variety of middle, high school, and college students as a ministry leader and youth pastor. Now, he continues to serve and impact the next generation through his work at Elevate Oregon. He has a deep desire to help others grow and succeed and loves designing systems and processes that help people and communities flourish. KJ earned a BA in Public Health from the University of South Carolina and a MA in Christian Studies from Southeastern (SEBTS). In his spare time, he enjoys hanging out with friends and family, exploring new places, reading, writing, and playing sports.
Claire Olmstead
Grants and Data Specialist
Born and raised in the Pacific Northwest, Claire first earned an associate’s degree at Mt. Hood Community College before going on to graduate summa cum laude from Portland State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Arts & Letters. Claire is a multi-disciplinary artist, poet, and author, whose work has been published in both Perceptions and Pathos liberal art magazines. With ten years of experience in retail and customer service prior to earning her college degrees, Claire is pleased to be able to bring both technical and creative skills to the table for the Elevate Oregon team.
Dequesha Smith
Human Resources Generalist
Born and raised in Vancouver, WA, Dequesha comes from a large, loving family with five sisters. From an early age, she knew her career would involve helping people, which naturally led her to Human Resources. With over five years of experience in the corporate sector, Dequesha made a significant career shift to work for a non-profit organization. Growing up surrounded by children, she developed a deep passion for empowering and nurturing young minds. Her goal is to bring positive change and support to underserved youth, ensuring they have the resources and opportunities to thrive. Outside of work, she enjoys reading, running, and spending quality time with friends and family. Dequesha’s commitment to personal growth and community service continues to inspire her professional journey.
Kristen Robertson Rogers
Director of Development & Communications
A native Oregonian, Kristen attended the University of Oregon and Mills College in Oakland, California. With a strong writing background, she oversees Elevate Oregon's fundraising and communications efforts. Kristen has been deeply committed to Elevate Oregon’s work toward Educational Equity since 2017, when she started as a volunteer grant writer. In her spare time, she enjoys taking pictures, hiking with her dog, reading great books, and hanging out with her family.
Bianca Malone
Development Associate
Photo coming soon!
A Pacific Northwest native and first-generation college graduate, Bianca is passionate about education, equity, and community empowerment. At Union High School she founded the district’s first Black Student Union and excelled as a varsity athlete. She went on to earn her Associate’s degree from Clark College and a B.S. in Psychology from Washington State University. With experience in leadership, fundraising, and program growth, Bianca now advances Elevate Oregon’s mission, committed to “lifting as she climbs” by inspiring and creating opportunities for future generations promoting education, self-reliance and achievement.
Tony Ande
Chief Operating Officer
With over 40 years of experience, Tony Ande has held top roles like CEO, Executive Director, COO and CFO. He earned degrees from the University of Illinois, National University, the University of San Diego, and is a Certified Public Accountant in Oregon. Known for expertise in accounting, financial analysis, leadership, and management, Tony is a true numbers guru. Beyond the office, he is a passionate bowler and golfer and has volunteered for over 35 years with various non-profits. When not crunching numbers, he enjoys reading "Crossing the Unknown Sea, Work as a Pilgrimage of Identity" by David Whyte and watching "Top Gun: Maverick." Fun fact: Tony was a professional bull rider for 10 years! His favorite quote is, “It’s amazing what you can accomplish when you do not care who gets the credit.” – Harry S. Truman.