Our team brings together experienced professionals, dedicated advocates, and compassionate leaders to drive our mission forward. Together, we work to improve health outcomes and elevate the voices of families impacted by Trisomy 18 and other rare diseases—while equipping the professionals who serve them.
Executive Leadership
Sarita Edwards, MHA, BS
Leadership Strategist | Consultant | Doctoral Candidate
Chief Executive Officer & President
Licensed minister, global speaker, and nationally recognized health advocate with 20+ years of experience in Health Systems Leadership.
Kareem Edwards, BS
Senior Business Manager
Vice President of Operations, Board Chair
Brings 20+ years of business and logistics expertise to streamline operations and support strategic growth.
Board of Directors
Shane’ Jackson, Ph.D.
Minister | Coordination of Benefits Analyst
Board Member
Minister and mental health advocate focused on emotional wellness and support services.
Kenneth Powe
Production Superintendent
Board Treasurer
Provides leadership in operational efficiency, financial stewardship, and organizational oversight.
Sheyenne Walmsley, MS
Certified Genetic Counselor
Board Secretary
Specializes in genetic counseling, offering clinical insight and strategic planning expertise.
Program Advisory Committee
Jasmine Hightower, MSW
Social Worker
Expert in family services, case management, and connecting families to vital community resources.
Crystal Stephens, MSN, CRNP
UAB Medicine
Advanced practice nurse specializing in pediatric complex care and patient-centered outcomes.
Trinisha Williams, CM, LM, MPH, FACCE, LCCE, LC
Adjunct Professor | Founder & President Haven Midwifery Collective
Nationally credentialed midwife and maternal health advocate advancing equitable birth practices.
Scientific Advisory Committee
Helen Hernandez
Research Scientist, KAL Research Initiatives, LLC
Leads rare disease research initiatives with an emphasis on data integrity and translational impact.
Zollie Yavarow, Ph.D., MA
Zaris Consulting
Public health researcher and consultant focused on epidemiology and qualitative research.
Trisomy 18 Consultant
Deborah A. Bruns, Ph.D.
Principal Investigator, TRIS Project
Professor, School of Education, Southern Illinois University Carbondale (Retired)
Researcher and advocate for children with Trisomy 18 and other rare syndromes.
2025-2026 Intern
Kennisha Powe
University of South Alabama
Executive Intern
Emerging leader in health advocacy and nonprofit operations.
The E.WE Foundation 