Meet the Team

“You can only become truly accomplished at something you love. Don’t make money your goal. Instead, pursue the things you love doing and then do them so well that people can’t take their eyes off of you.”
― Maya Angelou

Founders of NGEM

Serita M. Reels

Co-founder and Executive Director

Dr. Serita Lewis is a practitioner-researcher, educator, author, and student affairs professional with a deep commitment to equity, servant leadership, and holistic student support. Known for her humor and warmth, she creates engaging environments that inspire collaboration and growth.

Her research focuses on health disparities by race and gender, basic needs, social determinants of health, and housing insecurity among college students. She has led community-based public health initiatives and managed large-scale, federally funded programs serving marginalized populations.

Serita brings a diverse background spanning academia, nonprofits, and state agencies, with expertise in program development, strategic planning, and translating research into practice. She holds an EdD in Educational Leadership from Cabrini University, where she studied the impact of housing insecurity on Black male students, an MPH in Community Health from Drexel University, and a BS in Biological Sciences with a minor in Sociology.

Tisha Dill

Co-founder & Chief Operating Officer

Tisha Dill is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in the healthcare sector.  Her expertise extends to strategic talent acquisition, employee development, and the implementation of best-in-class work practices. Tisha has a proven track record of empowering employees to reach their full potential and building cohesive, high-performing teams. Her deep understanding of facilitating collaboration, honed through decades of experience within a large national healthcare organization, makes her a highly trusted resource.

Beyond her professional achievements, Tisha is deeply committed to serving her community, offering support and guidance to individuals navigating life's challenges. Her passion for helping others reflects her belief in the power of empathy and resilience.

Board of Advisors

  • Ivy-yon Jackson

    ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

    Ivy-yon Jackson graduated from La Salle University in 2024, with her BA, and a 4.0 GPA. Her studies consisted of a double major in Psychology and Sociology and a minor is Criminal Justice. A Philadelphia native, Ivy-yon has a passion for mental health and serving her community. She plans to pursue a career as a therapist. She is currently serving as the Community Program Developer at the Nonprofit Center. At age sixteen, Ivy-yon co-founded The Young Artist Program, an arts and social justice program for queer and transgender youth of color, ages 14-25, in Philadelphia. She currently serves as Co-Executive Director and Lead Teaching Artist at this program.

    Ivy-yon is a visual artist, specializing in digital drawing, fiber arts, painting, and collage.  Ivy-yon is also an avid reader, having read 39 books so far this year. When not reading or creating, Ivy-yon spends her time caring for a dog, cat and several dozen house plants

  • Luisa Enriquez

    ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

    Luisa Enriquez is a valued member of the New Generation Empowerment Ministries Advisory Board. She contributes to the NGEM mission of supporting emerging adults as they enter adulthood. Luisa Enriquez is a valued member of the New Generation Empowerment Ministries Advisory Board. She contributes to the NGEM mission of supporting emerging adults as they enter adulthood. Luisa Enriquez is a valued member of the New Generation Empowerment Ministries Advisory Board. She contributes to the NGEM mission of supporting emerging adults as they enter adulthood.

  • Dr. Chappelle Washington‑Freer

    ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER

    Dr. Chappelle Washington‑Freer is a dynamic educator and leader with an MBA in International Business, a Doctorate in Educational Leadership & Policy, and a background in management. She currently serves as Director of Admissions at Fusion Academy Buckhead, where she brings more than a decade of experience in higher education, student affairs, and community-based leadership.

    Driven by her passion for personalized learning, Chappelle excels at designing student-centered programs that foster academic growth and emotional well-being. She’s known for building collaborative communities, guiding schools and nonprofits in culturally responsive initiatives, and infusing every project with empathy, creativity, and a warm sense of humor.