At Bryant & Co. Foundation, our mission is bold—and so is our leadership.
Our Board of Directors is made up of visionaries, groundbreakers, and bridge-builders who bring a diverse range of expertise in real estate, construction, disaster relief, education, philanthropy, law, community organizing, and beyond. But more than their titles, what unites them is a shared commitment to dignity, justice, and rebuilding what matters most: people, families, and futures.
These are the stewards of our mission—individuals who guide our strategy, uphold our values, and ensure every decision we make reflects integrity, impact, and innovation.
Their wisdom shapes our path.
Their courage strengthens our work.
Their hearts fuel this movement.
Scroll down to meet the leaders behind the legacy.
Colleen brings a dynamic blend of finance, real estate development, and creative media expertise to the Bryant & Co. Foundation board. With a 7-year tenure as a Private Mortgage Banker in New York City, she developed a deep understanding of finance and housing—skills she now channels toward supporting families and communities rebuilding after disaster.
Beyond finance, Colleen is an accomplished entrepreneur and media producer. As Executive Producer and star of Pet Stars on Netflix, and with multiple productions in development, she leverages her creative reach to amplify the Foundation’s mission. She is also the founder and CEO of the world’s largest animal talent agency and The Global Find, where she cultivates international trade partnerships in China and Africa to source unique home and lifestyle products.
Having personally developed her own home from the ground up, including navigating overseas importing, Colleen offers the Foundation invaluable expertise in strategic real estate planning, global sourcing, and creative production. Her diverse skill set supports Bryant & Co. Foundation’s initiatives in rebuilding homes, fostering resilient communities, and inspiring innovative, sustainable solutions for those affected by disaster.
Damon K. Kimbrough brings over 20 years of law enforcement and executive protection experience to the Bryant & Co. Foundation. A retired Detroit Police Officer, Damon also served with the Wayne County Sheriff Department and the U.S. Marshals Task Force, holding a Top Secret Security Clearance and extensive expertise in risk management and public safety.
In addition to his law enforcement career, Damon has worked internationally in executive protection and consulted in the film and music industries, blending security expertise with strategic problem-solving. Certified in CPR and multiple martial arts disciplines, and holding a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice from Capella University, Damon’s diverse skill set strengthens the Foundation’s commitment to safety, preparedness, and community resilience in disaster relief and rebuilding efforts.
Dr. Cherise Irby brings over 25 years of experience serving diverse communities through psychology, nonprofit leadership, and grant development. As former Executive Director of Family Promise of Sacramento and the Human Outreach Agency, she has helped countless individuals and families overcome homelessness and rebuild their lives. A Certified Grant Writer, Reviewer, and Consultant, Dr. Irby has secured over $1.5 million in funding for community-based initiatives.
Currently a licensed Staff Psychologist with the California Department of Juvenile Justice and founder of Piece By Peace Psychological Services, Dr. Irby offers the Foundation expertise in mental health, trauma-informed care, and nonprofit strategy. Her lifelong commitment to healing and empowerment supports Bryant & Co. Foundation’s mission to help communities recover and thrive after disaster.
Ian Burney
Ian Burney brings nearly a decade of expertise in construction management and project coordination to the Bryant & Co. Foundation. Since 2017, he has served as a Construction Manager, Field Supervisor, Project Manager, and BIM (Building Information Modeling) Coordinator, overseeing residential, commercial, and community development projects across California.
With a strong background in managing field operations and utilizing innovative construction technologies, Ian has helped deliver large-scale projects on time and within budget, while maintaining a focus on quality and safety. His deep understanding of California’s construction landscape allows him to provide valuable insight into the Foundation’s rebuilding initiatives, particularly in disaster-impacted communities.
Based in California, Ian is passionate about leveraging his industry knowledge to help the Bryant & Co. Foundation advance its mission of rebuilding homes, creating workforce opportunities, and strengthening community resilience.
Joe McKinley
With over a decade of mortgage expertise and more than 20 years in sales and customer service, Joe McKinley brings a deep commitment to integrity and relationship-driven leadership. Throughout his career, Joe has built a reputation for doing the right things for the right reasons—believing that when integrity leads, success follows.
Joe shares Bryant & Co. Foundation’s belief that strong communities are built on connection, collaboration, and resilience. In a rapidly changing world, he champions innovation while holding fast to the truth that we are only as strong as the bonds we create.
As a board member, Joe is dedicated to advancing the Foundation’s mission by fostering opportunities, empowering underserved communities, and inspiring others to lead with courage and compassion.
His passion is to uplift those willing to think differently, embrace diversity, and create lasting impact where it’s needed most.