Dr. Christopher L. Edwards is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Research Psychoneuroendocrinologist. Dr. Edwards is retired and served as the Medical Director of the Biofeedback Laboratory and Pediatric Neuropsychology Service, and Director of the Chronic Pain Management Program within the Pain and Palliative Care Program at Duke University Medical Center. He also served as a faculty member with several clinical appointments in the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Medical Psychology and Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology at Duke University Medical Center. In addition to the above, he served an appointment in the Durham Veterans Hospital, the Duke Pain and Palliative Care Center, and the Duke Comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease Center. Dr. Edwards’ research continues to primarily focus on three areas: (1) psychoneuroendocrine issues associated with chronic pain; (2) neurocognitive decline in patients with chronic illness; and (3) methods for recruiting populations of diverse subjects into clinical trials. Dr. Edwards is the author of close to 300 publications, book chapters, encyclopedia entries, and related scientific communications. He is very involved in the community as an advocate for racial equality and the promotion of minority health. The history of Dr. Edwards work has primarily been the focus on clinical diversity among African Americans with chronic illnesses. We are elated to have him serve our organization.
Glenda Lawrence-Knight, Psy.D.
Dr. Knight has a passion for empowering others and fostering self-sufficiency, particularly among youth. In 2007, she founded TIPS, INC. to provide holistic services that would increase the quality of life for individuals while promoting wellness.
Dr. Knight is a distinguished graduate of Fayetteville State University with a bachelor's degree in psychology and Walden University, where she earned a master's degree in psychology and was inducted into the National Honorary Society (Psi Chi). She obtained her Doctor of Psychology degree with Magna Cum Laude honors from CalSouthern University in 2007. In 2004, she also graduated as Valedictorian from a three-year Community Fellows Leadership Program.
With 25 years of proven achievement in the Human Service field, Dr. Knight is a wife, mother, Executive Certified Life Coach, Former Psychotherapist, Certified Victim Practitioner, and Certified Meditation Instructor. She serves on several multidisciplinary teams, Board of Directors, and advisory committees. She is committed to community service. She is a retired 15-year volunteer for the Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) program and Y-Pals, formerly Big Brothers/Big Sisters.
Her hobbies include fishing, research, and writing. She is a member of several organizations, including the Psi Chi National Honorary Society, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and the Order of the Eastern Star, PHA. Her first novel, "Twisted Paths: An Authentic College Experience," reflects her belief that understanding one's past is crucial to knowing one's future. She is currently collaborating with her adult son on an ADHD guide, set for release in late 2024, along with other self-help publications (i.e., eBooks). Specializing in clinical wellness and resolution management, Dr. Knight is also a motivational speaker, known for delivering inspiring and impactful presentations for both adults and youth. Book Dr. Knight for speaking engagements through the Contact link.
Ronda Dunning earned a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling, Medical College campus of Virginia. She has certification as a School Counselor from East Carolina University (ECU). She possesses 25 years of experience in the Mental Health field (MR/DD). Currently, she serves as an Elementary School Counselor and Independent Mental Health Contractor.
Brittney Hinnant is a locs hairstylist in the DMV area. She is the proud mother of three and enjoys quality time with her family. Her hobbies include creative expression through hair, poetry and sketching.
Leteshia Mercer earned a Bachelor & Master's Degree in Forensic Science from Fayetteville State University (FSU). Currently, she serves as a Graduate Residential Assistance at Methodist University. Her hobbies include internet surfing and downtime. Leteshia also serves as the liaison between the board and the Junior Advisory Committee. One of her greatest charitable contributions is with the Order of the Eastern Star, St. Mary's Chapter #12, Order of the Eastern Star, PHA and Delta Sigma Theta.
Christopher Levon Edwards, PhD, BCIAC, IABMCP
Chief Executive Officer, CEO
Chief Clinical Consultant
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JUNIOR ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Joia Chance is a graduate of East Carolina University where she completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. Her hobbies include reading, traveling, internet surfing and spending time with friends and family. She possesses excellent time-management and multitasking skills.
Alexandra Knight is the founder of the Lady ^ Mentoring Program. She is a fashion designer entrepreneur and is pursuing a career as a cosmetologist. Alexandra has completed three children's books & is working on publication. She loves being with her family, hanging out with friends, writing and internet surfing. She also loves her active pit bull, Bella.
Chairman of Board of Directors
Tyronda Whitaker is the Chief Operating Officer (COO), providing executive guidance and strategic decision-making to enhance operational efficiency. She resides in Tarboro, NC, and is a proud graduate of Southeast Halifax High School. Tyronda holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science from the University of Maryland and is currently pursuing a second bachelor's degree in Gerontology.
A mother to four wonderful sons, one of whom has made her an enthusiastic Indianapolis Colts fan—Go Tyquan!—Tyronda brings over 12 years of experience in the long-term care industry. For the past 8 years, she has worked as a long-term care social worker in a skilled facility and now serves as a Regional Long Term Care Ombudsman.
In her free time, Tyronda enjoys spending time with her family, reading, traveling, and shopping. She understands the importance of having a mentor, guide, and parental figure and is committed to being an inspiration to others.
Elder Gloria Carter, Vice Chair (In Memory 2024) is a native of Wilson, North Carolina. She was educated in Wilson public schools. She attended Shaw University, Raleigh, NC, where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Psychology. She furthered her studies at Georgetown University, Washington, DC, in the area of Contract administration. She also received a Bachelor’s of Theological Studies from the Sure Foundation Theological Institute of Seminole Florida. She received her Master’s of Religious Education degree from United Christian College, Goldsboro, North Carolina. She retired after 32 years as a Senior Contracts Specialist from the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy, Washington, DC. Elder Carter currently serves as an Associate Minister at Faith Temple United Holy Church. She also serves as the armor bearer of her Pastor Dr. Ernestine H. McGee.
Amber Barnes graduated from high school in 2005. She received a degree in Criminal Justice Technology in spring 2007 from Edgecombe Community College. In 2009, she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree cum laude from Barton College in Criminal Justice and Criminology. In 2013, Amber received a Master of Arts in Human Services concentrating in Marriage and Family from Liberty University. Currently, Amber and her husband are proud business owners in Edgecombe County, Tarboro, North Carolina. Amber is in pursuit of an advanced degree, Doctor of Psychology at CalSouthern University. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Dee Dee Draughn is the Chief of Staff (COA), providing strategic operational planning while managing program and project operations. Ms. Draughn resides in Rocky Mount, NC, and is a graduate of North Edgecombe High School. She is currently pursuing a bachelor's degree in business management with a concentration in Supply Chain Services. Dee Dee has two wonderful children.
With over 18 years of experience in the transportation industry, Dee Dee has spent the past 3 years specializing in supply chain management. She currently serves as a Supply Chain Specialist for Qurate Retail Group, known as the QVC shopping network. Dee Dee is also the Worthy Matron of St. Mary's #12 Order of the Eastern Stars in Tarboro, North Carolina, and serves as an administrator to the pastor at Kingdom Empowerment Worship Center.
Over the past year, Dee Dee has had the privilege of working as an advisor with the Princeville Youth Academy. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading, traveling, and listening to music. The life lessons of single parenting have built her character and strengthened her resilience. Dee Dee understands the importance of a balanced life and maintaining a spiritual mindset and is committed to serving her community.
