Keisha brings a wealth of experience spanning 18 years in higher education, with a strong dedication to students' development, inclusion, and success. Her expertise encompasses both four-year institutions, such as NC A&T State University and Georgia State, as well as two-year colleges like GTCC and DDCC. Currently holding the position of Chief Student Services Officer at Davidson-Davie Community College, Keisha leads various departments within Student Affairs.

Within her role at Davidson-Davie, Keisha's commitment to social justice shines through her involvement in multiple committees. Notably, she co-chairs the Davidson-Davie Equity Steering Committee and the Equity Professional Development Sub-Committee, contributing significantly to the college's pursuit of equity-mindedness.

Keisha's dedication extends beyond her college campus. She actively serves on committees and advisory boards within the NC Community College System and the broader community. In addition, she takes on leadership responsibilities, exemplified by her role as the President of the Central NC Chapter of the National Council on Black American Affairs. Moreover, she devotes 25% of her time to the NC Community College system as the Director of Equity for the NC Student Success Center. In this capacity, Keisha provides crucial professional development and support related to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging to all 58 community colleges in the state.

Originally from Greensboro, NC, Keisha holds degrees from NC A&T State University in Political Science and Community Agency Counseling. As a proud mother, she balances her impactful career with parenthood, nurturing her 22-year-old son.

Keisha's extensive experience, leadership roles, and commitment to social justice make her an inspiring force within higher education and the broader community.

Abraham Luis Dones affectionately known as Abe was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA. He grew up in a predominately Puerto Rican and Black neighborhood where he understood the cultural wealth and richness that stemmed from his upbringing and community. After graduating high school, he was the first male in his family to leave home and attend college. He went to the University of Pittsburgh where he obtained a Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering. He began his educational career as a Bilingual Secondary Mathematics Teacher for the School District of Philadelphia. He later transitioned into an IT career at Drexel University where he would further his education by earning a Master of Science in Higher Education Administration. The Dones’ relocated to Raleigh, NC and Abe returned to his first passion, education. He worked in student affairs at North Carolina State University. After serving as the Assistant Director of Multicultural Affairs for 5 years, he began working at Durham Technical Community College. He attributes his commitment, passion, and purpose for working in higher education to the academic experiences of his mother who was an adult learner and graduated from a community college. He credits his pursuit of the Educational Doctorate in Adult and Community College Education to his mother and family. Currently, Abe is the Vice President, Chief Student Services Officer at Durham Technical Community College.

Abraham Luis Dones is a highly experienced practitioner who seeks opportunities for organizational change to improve student services and support. An equity champion who implements strategies addressing access, success and completion with a focus on social capital and upward mobility of marginalized students. A creative thinker, problem solver, decision maker, and motivator with extensive enrollment management experience, employee development, and promoter for outstanding customer service. He has worked at several higher education institutions culminating over 20 years of experience. Throughout his professional experiences he has lived by a “Student’s First” Philosophy.

Dr. LaShan Lovelace is an experienced senior executive professional and consultant in higher education with a demonstrated history of strategic leadership, management, and development in various capacities, including, Equity, Diversity, Accessibility, Inclusion, and Belonging (EDAIB), Human Resources, Academic Affairs, and Student Affairs. He received his Bachelor of Art and Master’s degrees from Liberty University, focused on management and leadership, and his doctorate from Walden University, focused on higher education leadership. As a results-driven visionary with over 15 years of experience, LaShan exemplifies a stellar record of success focused on developing and operationalizing strategies and programs that engage, enhance, and unite diverse organizations focused on trust, commitment, and care. LaShan currently serves as the Chief Inclusive Excellence and Belonging Officer at Forsyth Technical Community College, with a proven track record of success in infusing high-impact practices focused on organizational development, management, and leadership while creating a compelling vision, communicating a call to action, and building high-performing teams enthusiastic about achieving organizational objectives focused on equitable outcomes. LaShan is a transformational change leader that promotes holistic development through awareness, advocacy, and accountability.