Rethink and Redefine Inclusion: A Workshop for the Future of DEI

Public Relations Coordinator Intern

Janae Olive serves as the PR Coordinator Intern at Elation Communications, acting as a link between creative strategy and seamless execution. She is a current junior student at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County, pursuing a Media and Communications degree. Janae will support the team with media outreach, publicity strategy, and crafting compelling narratives. Her passion for communication is matched only by her love for writing and reading, which keeps her inspired and ready to tackle new challenges for Elation’s clients.

Director of Videography

Mehran Ali is the Director of Videography at Elation Communications and manages video products for the company and its clients. He is a professional video editor with over five years of experience creating impactful brand commercials, promotional content, and app promotional videos for clients worldwide. He specializes in producing custom-made videos designed to help businesses stand out and capture attention. Delivering buyer satisfaction is always his top priority, and he consistently strives to exceed client expectations. He looks forward to bringing your vision to life through powerful and engaging video content.

Data Equity Expert

An authority on education policy and quality assurance, Dr. Jacob Easley II delivers insight into how data-driven leadership creates lasting, systemic change. Dr. Easley is a nationally recognized leader in educational leadership, policy, and improvement sciences. His work helps institutions and organizations use data to drive equitable outcomes, strengthen strategic planning, and communicate results in ways that move people to action. His approach blends rigor, relevance, and humanity — making him the ideal guide for this conversation.

Human Resources & DEI Expert

A trailblazer in HR, DEI policy, and risk mitigation, Dr. Alicia Michelle Straughter equips organizations with frameworks for accountability and sustainable strategy. With more than 25 years of experience transforming organizations across the nonprofit, corporate, and government sectors, Dr. Straughter brings unmatched depth and clarity to this critical topic. She is the founder and CEO of a human resources and leadership development firm, a podcast host, and a published author who specializes in embedding DEI into institutional strategy—not just policies. Known for her ability to turn crisis into opportunity, Dr. Straughter has helped organizations save millions in potential liabilities while reshaping their reputational standing and leadership culture. Her work empowers leaders to stop viewing DEI as an obligation and start treating it as a competitive, values-driven imperative.

Communications Coordinator

Devan Thurman is the Communications Coordinator at Elation Communications. With a love for writing, Devan is a natural for creating engaging content that rivets key audiences and enhances business brands and reputations. Her exceptional gift at storytelling earned her the title of Co-Editor and Chief of her school newspaper, The Aquila. Her published articles have been featured in literary magazines, school websites, and her local library. At Elation Communications, Devan contributes to our blog, grows community engagement, and assists with media outreach and publicity for clients.

Director of Web Development

With 26 years of experience in web development, Debbie oversees web services for Elation Communications and its clients. She specializes in design, development, optimization, consultation, integration, and maintenance. Her expertise spans diverse industries and client needs, from startups to established enterprises. Her success stems from a genuine passion for design and technology, coupled with an ability to quickly master emerging tools and frameworks. She excels at building lasting client relationships through a strong work ethic, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex technical solutions in clear, understandable terms. Whether clients need a complete website overhaul, performance optimization, or ongoing technical support, Debbie delivers tailored solutions that drive results and exceed expectations.

Graphic Design Specialist

Mikaela Jackson is the Graphic Design Specialist at Elation Communications. She specializes in logo designs and brand development for businesses. Her approach is to create designs that serve a purpose and reflect the individuality of the client. She holds a Bachelor of Fine Art with a concentration in Graphic Design and a Master of Arts in Teaching. Passionate about her craft, Mikaela serves as an arts educator to shape the future generation of designers.

Accounting Advisor

Hilario Rios manages accounting and bookkeeping for Elation Communications. As a trusted partner and Certified QuickBooks Pro Advisor, Hilario has over 15 years of experience working with small businesses. Hilario founded Rivers Bookkeeping in 2010 and provides QuickBooks bookkeeping services for small businesses in Washington DC, Maryland, and Virginia.

Director of Social Media

Jessica McElroy is the Director of Social Media at Elation Communications, helping clients transform content chaos into clarity. She partners with purpose-led brands to streamline operations, craft engaging content, and build visibility through intentional strategy and storytelling. With a decade-plus background in early childhood education and leadership, Jessica brings a thoughtful mix of structure, creativity, and heart to every client experience. Her approach empowers founders to show up consistently and confidently — without the burnout. Outside of client work, Jessica is a twin mama, content creator, and host of The Slay Vibez Only Podcast, where she shares real-life stories of faith, entrepreneurship, and building a life aligned with your calling. Jessica’s mission is simple: to help purpose-driven brands slay their systems, grow their socials, and create lasting impact — one aligned move at a time.

Director of Events

GiGi Sheppard is the Director of Events for Elation Communications, where she brings a wealth of expertise in planning and executing events that make a difference. Specializing in non-profit events as well as those tailored to neurodivergent and differently-abled communities, GiGi is dedicated to creating inclusive and memorable experiences. With extensive experience in in-person, hybrid, and virtual event production, she has a keen eye for audiovisual design and a background in culinary arts, ensuring every event is thoughtfully designed from concept to completion. GiGi’s passion for her work is deeply personal. As a mother to a son with down syndrome and autism, she understands the importance of creating environments that cater to diverse needs and abilities. Her commitment to inclusivity, attention to detail, and creative vision make her a trusted leader in crafting impactful events for all audiences.

Fractional Chief Operating Officer

Cecilia Sepp is the Fractional Chief Operating Officer at Elation Communications. A content creation and podcast guru, Cecilia is a dynamic executive who partners with clients to respond to their most pressing challenges. Cecilia is a recognized authority in nonprofit organization management and a leader who translates vision into action. She shares her expertise as a consultant, writer, speaker, podcast host, and skilled facilitator adept in all aspects of nonprofit management. Her 23 years of experience include expertise in strategic planning, research, audience analysis, finance and operations, investor and stakeholder relations, communications, team leadership, and fundraising. Throughout her career, Cecilia has made an impact as an association CEO, a volunteer leader, and a nonprofit management consultant. She has partnered with groups across the nonprofit sector, from small volunteer organizations to global professional societies, to advance their missions. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science. Cecilia is the producer and host of “Radio Free 501c,” a weekly podcast bringing together nonprofit and for-profit business professionals from around the United States and the world.

President & CEO

Jerrica Thurman is a visionary leader in the realm of strategy, communications, and nonprofit management with over two decades of transformative impact. As the President & CEO of Elation Communications, she drives organizational growth and innovation through strategic partnerships, impactful storytelling, and a deep commitment to empowering teams. With a rich background in securing federal grants, leading national advocacy campaigns, and fostering educational initiatives, Jerrica is a champion for change. Her work, characterized by a blend of strategic vision and operational excellence, has left an indelible mark across various sectors, particularly in supporting individuals with disabilities and advancing educational reforms. Holding an MBA from Frostburg State University and a Master’s in Communications Management and Post Baccalaureate Certificate of Strategic Public Relations and Integrated Communications from Towson University, Jerrica’s leadership is underpinned by a solid academic foundation and a passion for making a meaningful difference in the world. As a guest speaker and client advisor, Jerrica brings a wealth of knowledge, experience, and a proven track record of success. Through her work, Jerrica Thurman continues to inspire and influence the next generation of leaders, advocating for meaningful change and demonstrating the profound impact of visionary leadership in the modern world.

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