Denise Gray, J.D. is a visionary servant-leader committed to purpose, resilience, and community transformation. As Executive Director & President of Nia Imani Family, Inc., she provides strategic leadership and stewardship for Milwaukee’s longest-operating transitional housing program for young mothers and their children. Under her guidance, families are supported on a path toward healing, stability, and sustainable independence—grounded in hope, accountability, and love.

Deniseg@niaimanifamily.org

Shannon Lopez is a Wisconsin entrepreneur and owner of Roots Salons, Be Better Salon Consulting, and Be Better ERC Consulting. With expertise in financial planning, budgeting, and business development, she specializes in building systems that strengthen operations and support long-term growth. A Nia Imani Family board member since 2019, Shannon is committed to bridging social, racial, and economic gaps in Milwaukee and empowering young women through financial literacy and independence.

Board@niaimanifamily.org

Tess holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and an MBA in Finance. With more than 25 years in financial services, she brings extensive experience in banking, underwriting, risk management, and compliance, currently serving as an Auditor in Risk and Compliance.
Driven by a servant’s heart, Tess supports young women through strategic, faith-centered nonprofit work. A mother of three and proud grandmother, she draws on both personal and professional experience to help families build stability and long-term success.

Tessl@niaimanifamily.org

Anne is a longtime advocate for social justice and human concerns, volunteering with Dr. Pittman and Nia Imani Family for nearly 30 years. She is active with Ignatian Volunteer Corps and several faith-based service committees. Her professional background includes leadership roles in project management, development, marketing, and engineering. Anne holds degrees in Industrial Engineering, Project Management, and Theology, and remains deeply committed to faith, family, and community service.

Anned@niaimanifamily.org

Carolyn Owens Norton, a Milwaukee native and Vincent High School graduate, is an educator of 24 years with expertise in leadership, education, and coaching. A Learning and Behavior Specialist, she has served as an Assistant Principal, Instructional Coach, and professional development facilitator. Passionate about removing barriers to student success, she mentors women and children through faith and mindset transformation. A wife of 42 years, mother of three, and grandmother, she believes, “When students don’t learn the way we teach, we must teach the way they learn.”

Carolynon@niaimanifamily.org

Oluwapelumi Oguntade is a real estate developer at OLUOMO Group focused on sustainable, community-centered housing that empowers underserved families. She is also the founder of OLUOMO WORLDWIDE, a fashion brand specializing in African clothing and accessories that promotes confidence and self-expression. A proud Milwaukeean and Marquette University graduate, Pelumi brings creativity, strategy, and a people-first perspective to Nia Imani Family’s board.

Pelumnio@niaimanifamily.org

Davinab@niaimanifamily.org

Edwardn@niaimanifamily.org