Meet the Board
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Nnenna Onukwufor
Vice President
As a member of the board, Nnenna has been an invaluable member of the community, working closely with the local public school system and serving both adults and children on a personal level for many years. Her commitment to education and community outreach has made her a key figure in the growth and development of the area. Since joining the CENV team in 2014, Nnenna has consistently demonstrated her passion for helping others.
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Jacqueline R. Phan
Executive Director/Founder
Community Empowerment Northern Virginia (CENV) is a non-profit organization that is dedicated to strengthening communities and empowering those in need. Our founder, Ms. Phan, has a background in social work and has worked in the DMV area for two decades, compassionately offering aid to those who need it. She leads a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to helping others by developing skills and providing resources.
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Dr. Gina Guillaume-Joseph
President
Gina Guillaume-Joseph, PhD is a highly accomplished individual with a range of impressive accomplishments in the worlds of technology and business. With a proven track record of thought leadership, Gina is widely recognized for her ability to drive innovation and growth in any organization she is a part of. Her broad range of skills and expertise make her a valuable asset to the CENV team.
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Deirdra Young
Finance and Operations Advisor
Deirdra Young, MBA brings extensive experience in finance management and is a recognized leader in optimizing financial operations for nonprofit organizations. She is widely known for her expertise in budgeting, auditing, and uncovering opportunities to enhance operational efficiency. Deirdra’s strategic insight and comprehensive skill set make her an invaluable asset to the CENV team.
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LaToya Knight
Homelessness Response Program Director
LaToya Knight has dedicated over a decade to serving her community through homeless outreach initiatives. With a strong background in early childhood education, she brings a unique blend of compassion, structure, and empathy to her role. LaToya is driven by a deep commitment to uplifting individuals and families experiencing homelessness by connecting them with vital resources, offering unwavering encouragement, and restoring hope. Her work reflects a lifelong passion for creating positive, lasting change in the lives of those facing adversity.
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Kaylee
Junior Community Leader
Kaylee serves as a Junior Community Leader, bringing a fresh perspective and a strong commitment to empowering youth in our community. As part of her role, she acts as a positive role model to younger girls, showing them the importance of leadership, kindness, and resilience. She contributes by assisting with community events, supporting donation drives, and encouraging her peers to get involved in volunteer efforts. Kaylee also provides valuable input on youth engagement initiatives, helping to ensure that programs remain accessible, relevant, and impactful for the next generation. Her dedication to service and her passion for making a difference highlight her commitment not only to personal growth but also to the well-being of the community. Kaylee’s leadership inspires other young people to step into roles of responsibility and see themselves as active changemakers.

