2026 Jarena Lee Preaching Academy Lookbook

Dean of the Academy

Founder & CEO, and Plenary Leader

Artist-in-Residence

Plenary Leader

Plenary Leader

Chaplain-in-Residence & Plenary Leader

Cohort Leader

Cohort Leader

Cohort Leader

Director of Programs & Cohort Leader

COO

Program Assistant

Reverend Isis Agyei is a natural-born servant leader, serving as the “First Woman and youngest President” of the East Orange Clergy Association Incorporated. She was the senior mentee and first woman licensed at Christ Resurrection Missionary Baptist Church under the founding pastor the late Rev. Dr. Leora Liggins.

Rev. Isis Agyei is the beloved wife of Michael Kofi Agyei Jr. … the two met as students at The Newark School of Theology and married at First Baptist Peddie Memorial Baptist .They are cat parents to their furry baby Ms. Fufu Agyei!!

Rev. Isis Agyei is a life member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated a sisterhood she became a member of while an undergraduate student at the historically Bennett College for Women. She is alumnae of both RISE Together National Mentorship Network for Women of Color in Ministry at Union Theological Seminary in New York City and Iron Sharpers Iron A Women Leadership Program at Princeton Theological Seminary where she earned a certificate in Executive Leadership.

Sushama Austin-Connor is a faith leader, public minister, and seasoned nonprofit executive committed to spiritual formation, social justice, and community care. She currently serves as Chief Program Officer at Faith Matters Network, a national nonprofit that equips spiritually grounded leaders to build more just and compassionate communities. In this role, she oversees the organization’s signature initiatives, including the Movement Chaplaincy training program and public programming that centers collective care, healing justice, and ethical leadership.

With a deep grounding in Womanist theology and over two decades of experience in faith-based program development, Sushama brings a unique blend of pastoral presence and strategic vision to her work. She is particularly passionate about accompanying clergy, activists, and community leaders through seasons of transition, burnout, and reimagining. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to creating spaces of restoration, reflection, and radical hope.

She holds a Master of Theological Studies and a Doctor of Ministry degree, with research focused on “liberative wellness” and holistic leadership among Black women clergy. Whether behind a pulpit, in a strategy room, or at a kitchen table, Sushama leads with care, clarity, and a deep belief in the transformative power of community.

Laura Booth is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over two decades of ministry leadership and a strong foundation in mental health and education. She draws inspiration and purpose from 2 Timothy 1:7 — “For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power, love, and a sound mind.”

With more than 20 years of ministry experience, Laura has served in various leadership capacities, including co-founding and co-pastoring a church alongside her husband for five years. Currently, she works as a Mental Health Clinician and School Social Worker, providing compassionate support to adolescents, adults, and families as they pursue holistic wellness — mind, body, and spirit.

A lifelong learner, Laura holds a BA in Theater from Central State University, a Master of Arts in Teaching (Middle Grades Social Studies/Language Arts) from Mercer University, and a Master of Social Work from the University of Georgia. She is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity at Columbia Theological Seminary, with anticipated graduation in May 2025.

Laura has been married to her husband, Barry Booth, for 35 years. They are the proud parents of five adult children and grandparents to one grandchild. 

Javon Elisea Bracy was born and raised in New Orleans, LA. She currently lives in Denver, CO where she is a minister, mental health practitioner, and lupus awareness advocate. She holds a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling from Seminary of the Southwest (Austin, TX); a Master of Divinity from the Iliff School of Theology (Denver, CO); and a B.A. in English from Xavier University of Louisiana (New Orleans, LA). Javon was licensed to ministry in 2018 and ordained in 2023. She currently serves as the Assistant Pastor at New Hope Baptist Church (Denver), where she facilitates ministry group support as well as digital media and communications. She also co-leads the Gathering and Daily Ripple (devotional app) ministry teams at Juniper Formation (a virtual UCC congregation).

As a mental health practitioner, Javon has experience working with individuals, facilitating groups, and presenting workshops. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor Candidate (LPCC) in the State of Colorado and is a Mental Health Therapist on staff at Michelle Simmons Counseling Group. Javon has rendered service to the community through various organizations. After being diagnosed with lupus, she established The Purpletuity Project, a lupus awareness and advocacy organization. She is an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

Javon’s motto is “To edify, to glorify, to do all things in love.” Her desire is to work in and create spaces that combine her heart for ministry and service, as well as her passion for (among other things) mentoring, Black culture, community development, technology, and holistic wellness.

My name is Takiyah Bryant. I was licensed in ministry in 2020 and ordained in 2022. I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and a Master of Divinity, combining a love for ministry with a background in leadership and organizational development.

I currently serve as the Small Group Coordinator at my church, where I help cultivate vibrant, Christ-centered communities that foster connection, growth, and spiritual development. As part of this work, we are now in our third year of offering the MasterLife Discipleship course by Avery Willis—a powerful tool that equips believers to grow in spiritual maturity and live out their faith with intention. I oversee group structure and support, train facilitators, and help ensure that each group is a safe, engaging space for members to journey together.

Whether I’m teaching, mentoring, or creating tools for spiritual growth, my heart is to equip the body of Christ to walk in clarity, confidence, and purpose. I believe spiritual formation is both personal and communal, and I’m passionate about helping others discover their identity in Christ and faithfully live out the Gospel in everyday life.

Minister Byars accepted her call to ministry in 2014 and was licensed under the leadership of Dr. Jerry D. Fryar, Senior Pastor of Gospel Lighthouse Church in Columbus, Ohio, where she serves as part of the Ministerial Team of Ministers and Elders.

Her ministry focus is helping people experience freedom from the bondage of self and others, by learning of and leaning into the Love of Jesus. 

Minister Marquita attended Urbana University  and is currently in seminary at Winebrenner Theological Seminary with anticipated graduation in Fall of 2026 with Master’s of Practical Theology.

Brittanei Cain is a teacher by trade, an evangelist in nature, and a worshiper above all else. 

Born in Monroe, Louisiana, and nurtured in Mesquite, Texas, Brittanei carries the warmth of the South in her heart. She pursued her academic dreams at Texas A&M University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communications and Journalism. Her quest for knowledge didn't stop there; she further honed her skills with a Master of Arts in Teaching Early Childhood Education from National Louis University in Chicago.

As a faithful member of the Historic Quinn Chapel AME Church in Chicago, Brittanei serves on the Steward Board and as the Director of the Young Peoples’ Department. Her visionary leadership was instrumental in founding the Quinn Chapel Freedom School, where she served as the Executive Director, empowering young minds to pursue joy and justice.

When she's not busy transforming lives, Brittanei enjoys the simple joys of life in Chicago with her beloved cat, Winnie Marie Cain. 

Rev. Amber Coates-Johnson attended Governors State University where she completed her Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies. She received a Certificate of Theological Studies at Chicago Theological Seminary and a Certificate of Black Studies from McCormick Theological Seminary. 

She currently attends Loyola University where she will complete her Master of Divinity ’26 with a concentration in Healthcare chaplaincy. She became one of the first ordained female deacons at First Baptist Church of University Park in 2013 and is an ordained minister under Progressive National Baptist Convention. Rev. Amber received the James B. Ashbrook Award in Pastoral Care and Pastoral Theology celebrating her chaplaincy work during the pandemic. She currently serves as hospice chaplain at Angels Grace Hospice in Bolingbrook, IL where she advocates for her patients and families.

Rev. Amber is married to Bryan T. Johnson, Executive Director of Sacred Music at Trinity United Church of Christ and has one teenage daughter, Janiya. In her free time, Rev Amber enjoys watching British shows and movies and is a committed museum nerd.

People-loving, deliberate, and multi-faceted are all words that accurately describe Beryl Cowthran. She passionately teaches and preaches the Word of God as Founding Pastor of Grace Hill Church. Through church consulting and coaching, leadership and personal development workshops, and her evangelist reach, she continues to help others to discover and thrive in purpose on purpose.

Beryl is deliberate in her encouragement of others to embrace their God-given gifts and calling. Her love for people has led to her love for mission work in United States and abroad. Her enthusiastic desire has manifested through her professional work as a registered respiratory therapist, registered diagnostic cardiac sonographer, clinical instructor, and owner of Cowthran Coaching and Consulting.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the Wiley University, a Bachelor of Science in Cardiopulmonary Science from Louisiana State University School of Allied Health Professions, Master of Arts in Industrial Organizational Psychology, and a Doctor of Philosophy in Christian Counseling from Louisiana Baptist University.

As proud member Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Beryl eagerly and enthusiastically continues to serve the community locally and with broad strokes. She is the youngest daughter of Rev. Athan Cowthran, Jr. and Mrs. Betty Cowthran and enjoys laughing with her mother, spending time with family, traveling, reading, and watching HGTV.

The Rev. Erika Jackson-Essiem is a queer Black Episcopal priest, preacher, and writer. She was the first Black woman ordained to the priesthood in her diocese and the first woman ordained and canonically resident in the Anglican Diocese of Cape Coast as a transitional deacon. Her journey—from single motherhood and homelessness to Harvard Square and pulpit leadership—has shaped a ministry rooted in womanist theology, prophetic preaching, and the radical welcome of God. She is passionate about dismantling systems that oppress and silencing shame with truth. Her current work explores pastoral memoir, healing from religious trauma, and reclaiming the callings the church has tried to bury.

Dominique Francisco is a passionate advocate, communicator, and faith-based leader from Cincinnati, Ohio, dedicated to empowering youth and young adults through intentional community engagement. With a strong foundation in faith, justice, and storytelling, Dominique’s journey bridges the worlds of ministry, advocacy, and strategic communications.

She currently serves as the Director of Public Relations and Marketing for United Women in Faith, where she leads national communications efforts to amplify the organization’s mission and mobilize faith-rooted responses to pressing social issues. Dominique is also the founder of Cisco Consulting, a boutique consulting firm specializing in political campaign management and communications strategy. She is currently pursuing her Ph.D. in Public Theology and Community Engagement at Hampton University. Dominique holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Communication from the University of Cincinnati.

As an active member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Dominique lives out her commitment to sisterhood, scholarship, and service in every space she enters. In her free time, Dominique enjoys teaching praise dance, working out, and traveling. Whether she’s in the boardroom, the classroom, or the sanctuary, she brings a vibrant spirit of hope, justice, and transformation to everything she does.

A native of the Washington Metropolitan area, Reverend Beverly Goines, Ph.D., is committed to the ecumenical and interfaith movement as a means to repair the political, social, and economic fractures that have been caused by religious intolerance. Her research examines the mosaic of the American pluralist religious scene by focusing on the different ethical approaches that exist within the ecumenical movement. It brings to light the connection between ecumenism and social and race consciousness in black denominations; it provides insight into what prompts black churches to participate in ecumenical activity with the very denominations from which they broke away; and it engages different academic and theological worlds by building bridges that expose avenues for communication and understanding to groups of people who have histories of misunderstanding.

Ordained in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), Dr. Goines was called to National City Christian Church in Washington, District of Columbia, where she served on the ministerial staff for almost 20 years. She is currently the Interim Pastor at Shepherd Park Christian Church. She serves on the boards of the Washington Theological Consortium, The African Heritage Cultural Institute, and the Disciples Center for Public Witness. She enjoys engaging in social justice advocacy that crosses denominational and religious boundaries to find common cause.

The Rev. Tamika Jancewicz is a Spiritual empath and ordained Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Evangelical Lutheran Church. She is a proud mother of two amazing humans, Nya and Arion, and the co-creator and co-host of ForCollardGirls. She considers herself a womanist scholar, preacher and theologian. She is currently the Associate Pastor of First Evangelical Lutheran Church in Ellicott City, Maryland, and has her eyes set on a PhD program in the near future. 

Quanda Jessie is an ordained and dedicated Associate Minister at Tabernacle Baptist Church, where she actively serves in multiple ministry roles. Professionally, she is a Clinical Mental Health Therapist at First Step Counseling Center, providing compassionate, evidence-based care to individuals and families. She is currently pursuing her Doctoral Degree in Leadership at Columbia International University, further equipping her to lead with excellence in both ministry and mental health settings. Quanda is happily married to Mr. Oscar A. Jessie, and together they are the proud parents of two children.

Born in Nairobi, Kenya. Raised in Ann Arbor, Michigan. A graduate of Clark Atlanta University,  where Wanjiku obtained her Bachelor of Arts in Mass Media Communication in Public Relations. Wanjiku is a dedicated and compassionate chaplain with a deep commitment to spiritual care, social justice, emotional support, and holistic healing. With a background in Theology from Gammon Theological Seminary at The Interdenomational Theological Center and Pastoral Studies from Garrett Evangelical Theological Seminary, Wanjiku brings both academic and practical experience to the ministry of chaplaincy. Over the years, Wanjiku has served in diverse settings including hospitals and campus ministries. Wanjiku is passionate about walking alongside individuals  through seasons of transition, growth, and healing. Whether mentoring students navigating college life or supporting patients and families in times of vulnerablity. I have led interfaith dialogue, spiritual formation progrms, and social justice intitives that empower young adults to explore faith, identity, and purpose.

Megan Mason is a passionate speaker, faith leader, and community advocate dedicated to creating spaces where people feel seen, valued, and loved by God. A proud daughter, sister, auntie, friend, and prayer warrior, Megan’s roots are grounded in Norbeck Community Church—a ministry her family founded to serve and uplift their community.

That legacy of service continues through her work as co-founder of Pauperism Project, Inc., a ministry supporting individuals in crisis, and as a Vision Team member for beloved—a retreat created for and by Black women, femmes, and gender-expansive people to reclaim their divinity through care, practice, and rest.

With a message centered on love, dignity, and healing, Megan brings honesty, empathy, and lived wisdom to every stage and gathering. She has hosted impactful events including Girl Talk 101, The Cookout in Washington, D.C., and a weekly Virtual Fellowship during the COVID-19 shutdown—each designed to build connection, compassion, and community.

Rev. Keila Mumphord, a Memphis native, has been deeply influenced by the city’s vibrant music scene. Raised in the 13th District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, she was actively involved as a youth leader, praise team member, and in the liturgical dance ministry to name a few. At the age of fifteen, during an evening service at her Annual Conference, she felt called to the ministry and accepted her call to preach.

Rev. Mumphord earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology with a minor in Classical Voice from Howard University, where she also pursued musical theatre. While at Howard, she became a dedicated member of the Howard Gospel Choir, touring over nine countries.

In May 2023, she received her Master of Divinity from Emory University’s Candler School of Theology and was ordained as an Itinerant Elder in the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Combining her love for musical theatre, music, and theology, Keila aims to provide spiritual care for performers and foster authentic dialogue in communities of faith.

Meghann L. Scott is a religious education leader, youth advocate, and social impact professional who is passionately committed to empowering those marginalized around the world. She teaches, manages Chapel, and develops the religious education curriculum at an inclusively Christian middle school in Atlanta. She earned a Master of Divinity from Emory University and a Bachelor of Arts in journalism and African American and African Diaspora Studies from Indiana University. Meghann has served as an educator, chaplain, in youth ministry, and as an educator in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, and Tanzania. She is an alum of the RISE Together Women in Ministry Mentorship Network. Meghann is a Returned Peace Corps Volunteer who enjoys international travel, the arts, reading, and working out. She is married to her best friend, Irvin, and they are the proud parents of their toddler son, Nehemiah. 

Minister Onica Stewart, originally from Trinidad and Tobago, has called Georgia home since 1999. She faithfully serves at Grace Church International under the leadership of Bishop Johnathan E. Alvarado and Co-Pastor Toni Alvarado, where she has held various ministry roles over the years.

She is the Founder and CEO of the Prayer & Intercessory Training Academy (P.I.T. Academy) Global LLC, where she mentors and trains intercessors to pray strategically and fervently for their families, churches, communities, and nations. Her gift lies in discerning areas of spiritual stagnation and guiding intercessors back to alignment with their divine purpose.

Minister Stewart holds a Master of Arts in Theological Studies with a concentration in New Testament and a Master of Theology in Biblical Interpretation from Columbia Theological Seminary. She is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry degree. Her academic work is enriched by over two decades of professional experience in marketing, planning, and resource analysis, particularly in aviation and distance education.

Tiffany M. Stubbs, PharmD, M.Div. is a Licensed Pharmacist and Chaplain.  Tiffany is a graduate of Samford University (BA Religion), Xavier University of New Orleans (Doctorate in Pharmacy) and Mercer University (Master of Divinity). She completed one unit of CPE at Grady Hospital (Atlanta) followed by CPE Residency at UAB. Tiffany is an ordained Elder in the Full Gospel Baptist Church. Tiffany is passionate about her mission and calling to provide strategies of transformation at the intersection of ministry and medicine.

Her hobbies include reading, writing poetry, and organizing. 

Min. Kim, a native Washingtonian, is a 2025 MDiv graduate of Howard University school of Divinity. Her theological focus engages Womanist Theology and has been honored to present some of her research at international and domestic sessions of the Society of Biblical Literature. Additional research focuses on Black ASL as a Form of Liturgy and Worship, which she was honored to present at both The American Academy of Religion, and the 40th Anniversary of the Claggett Statement. Most importantly, Min. Veney is Mamma to Womanist-in-training, Kendal. They are avid travelers and have recently welcomed new furry family member, Shuri Nakia to their lives. 

Rev. Melinda Weekes-Laidlow, Esq. is a social change architect, strategist, expert facilitator, and ordained minister. She is the President of Weekes In Advance Enterprises– an organizational development firm offering facilitation, leadership coaching, and collaborative capacity-building services in arts and culture, racial equity, and social innovation sectors. She is also the Founder/CEO of Beautiful Ventures, a narrative change social enterprise that centers Black, story-driven creatives and builds Black narrative power.

As a preacher and teacher of The Gospel, Rev. Melinda has served on the ministerial staff of the Greater Allen Cathedral of New York, Bethel AME Church - Boston, and Trinity AME Church - Atlanta, GA.

Born in The Bronx, New York, she is also a proud "Georgia Apple" who now makes home and community in the dynamic city of Atlanta, Georgia with her husband, actor Sekou Laidlow. She loves fitness, good music, plant based food, oceans and quality time with friends and family.

Rev. Dr. Darice Wright is an ordained minister and has served at both mega and small churches in the Chicagoland area as a leader/teacher in Christian Education, and as part of the ministerial team responding to the pastoral care needs of the congregation.

Rev. Dr. Wright launched the S.E.E Justice Ministry and the Support Group for family and friends of incarnated loved one’s prison ministry at New Faith Baptist Church Intl. in Matteson, IL.  Presently, she serves as Assistant Pastor for the congregation at Life Church in Chicago Heights, IL, where she oversees the Justice, Discipleship, Pastoral Care, Prayer/Outreach, and Women’s ministries. 

Rev. Dr. Wright has a B.S. in Finance and a Graduate Certificate in Teaching Economics from the University of Illinois-Chicago.  She has a Master of Arts in Urban Ministry from McCormick Theological Seminary where she graduated with academic distinction and was the recipient of the Marshall Scott Urban/Labor Ministry Award. She defended her doctoral thesis on Treating “Whiteness” And White Supremacy Through Antiracist Pastoral Care, Discipleship”, and completed her Doctor of Ministry degree in Pastoral Care from McCormick Theological Seminary in May 2023.  

Reverend Britney Zanders is a dynamic worship leader and dedicated servant of God. She faithfully serves as the Minister of Worship at Shaw Temple AME Zion Church in Smyrna, GA, and as an Associate Minister at Jesus Movement Ministries of Columbia, SC. Britney is passionate about leadership, administration, and logistics. She is the daughter of Elder Dr. Harriet and Mr. Milton Zanders, Jr. of Columbia, SC.

Britney was licensed and ordained to preach the gospel in July 2019. Currently, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology (‘07) and a Master of Arts in Teaching (‘10) from Winthrop University. Britney will complete her MDiv at McAfee School of Theology in May 2025. Upon completion, she desires to explore the intersections of faith, hospitality, and sociology as a foundation for furthering her education. Britney seeks to win the world for Christ one Word at a time.

Her mission is to equip, encourage, and empower.

Britney is a singer, teacher, preacher, business-owning, craft-loving wanderlust who can often be found crossing a jet-bridge, spreading positivity, love and laughter, encouragement, and “clutching her pearls”. She is the owner and founder of Grandma’s Special, LLC, Tripz Ahoy, LLC, Peculiar People, and Harriet’s Daughter Ministry Collective. She enjoys serving her community as a Lifetime Ambassador of the Authentique Beauties Pageant System, and a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.