Meet Our Executive Board,
Leadership,
& Staff Support
Our professional team is here to help you with any questions or concerns. Learn about each staff member and our roles.
Executive Leadership & Support Team
Dr. Angelia Barfield
Executive Director
Dr. Angelia Barfield is one of the original founders (4) of the Black Students of California United in 2016 and served as Board President through 2020. She currently serves in the role of Executive Director and oversees the operations and staff of the BSCU, including the Youth Leadership programs and signature events. Dr. Barfield has been engaged in education and community building for more than 20 years and is a dedicated advocate of youth voice and educational excellence.
Tyler Alcé
Program Manager
Tyler Alce is a dedicated program manager at Black Students of California United (BSCU), a student-led, membership-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering Black students, their communities, and families across California through leadership, education, advocacy, and mentorship, whose mission is to uplift and inspire the next generation of Black leaders. Tyler oversees the strategic development and implementation of culturally relevant programming and initiatives in collaboration with the BSCU Leadership Team. Additionally, she works closely with BSCU Youth Leaders, providing them with the necessary tools and opportunities needed for leadership and civic engagement.
Crystal Green
Program Coordinator
Crystal Green assists in the development and coordination of the Black Students of California United (BSCU) annual events including the Black Excellence Student Leadership Conference. Her role as a Program Coordinator requires her to work in partnership with the Program Director and Executive Director to maintain various BSCU programs and relationships with advisors, vendors and event hosts.She also works with the BSCU Webmaster to provide behind the scenes technical support for the myBSCU platform and the BSCU official website.
Leslie Loftis
Communication & Youth Leadership Support
Leslie Loftis serves as a key member of the BSCU leadership team, working in close collaboration with the Executive Director and Program Manager to design culturally responsive programs and tools that uplift and support the academic and personal success of Black students across California. Her work centers youth voice, leadership, and advocacy, ensuring that every initiative reflects the lived experiences and brilliance of the over 300,000 Black students throughout the state. With a deep passion for mentorship, Leslie is committed to creating spaces where young leaders feel seen, supported, and equipped to step into their power. She is responsible for developing and coordinating campaigns that engage and inspire BSCU Youth Leaders. These efforts foster cultural pride, build character, and encourage students to speak out and advocate on behalf of their peers across the state.
Myles Lee
Media Coordinator & Videographer
Based in Fresno, CA, Myles Lee is a videographer and visual storyteller known for transforming real-life moments into cinematic experiences. His work blends bold color grading, dynamic editing, and a creative eye to craft powerful, visually striking content. Whether he's filming athletes in action or covering high-profile events in cities like New York, Myles approaches each project with professionalism, originality, and a deep passion for storytelling. Myles is driven by a commitment to authenticity and growth, values that are consistently reflected in his creative process and online presence. He frequently shares behind-the-scenes insights, creative breakdowns, and motivational reflections that resonate with both clients and peers. From branded content and event coverage to short-form storytelling and social campaigns, Myles brings a unique, uplifting perspective to every frame.
Neveah Williams
Social Communication Coordinator
Nevaeh Williams serves as the Social and Communications Coordinator for BSCU and Editor-in-Chief of The Standard Magazine. With a passion for storytelling, visual culture, and community building, she leads the magazine’s editorial vision while overseeing the organization's digital presence and public engagement. Her work reflects a commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices and fostering meaningful dialogue across platforms.
Sherinda Bryant
Community Partner & Jabali Village Coordinator
Sherinda Bryant is a passionate educator, social justice advocate, and innovative curriculum developer who propels multicultural education forward through her visionary work. With a distinguished career spanning over a decade in the Bay Area, Sherinda has skillfully navigated roles as an Instructional Associate, English teacher, Black Student Union advisor, and Social Justice elective teacher, culminating in her recognition as a 2019 Innovative Teacher by the California Teachers Association. As the visionary founder of the Afrofuturism Discovery Academy and the director of Culturally Restorative Learning Supports (CRLS), Sherinda creates spaces where students can see themselves reflected in the curriculum, affirming and restoring their positive identities. She also co-founded the Redwood Learning Collective, extending educational and wellness support to all students, with an emphasis on historically underserved communities.
BSCU Executive Board
Adonai Mack
Interim President
Adonai Mack is the Senior Director of Equity Services for the Association for California School Administrators (ACSA). As Sr. Director of Equity Services, Mack focuses on increasing diversity and awareness and providing relevant equity leadership training to build capacity in cultural proficiency and educational equity. Prior to this position, Mack was the Senior Director of Federal Relations where he led ACSA’s federal advocacy activities. In addition, Mack has also served as the Director of Political Affairs and Strategy leading ACSA’s efforts to select candidates for endorsements and investments in political campaigns. Mack directed ACSA’s Political Action Committee (PAC), which has supported Democrats and Republicans, incumbents and new candidates. Mack also led ACSA’s legislative advocacy for members during ACSA’s Legislative Action Day. Mack has advocated for members of ACSA in the areas of the state budget, special education, transportation, pupil services, and preschool other areas for just under a decade.
Prior to joining ACSA, Mack was a legislative advocate at the California School Boards Association, where he focused on the issues of charter schools, facilities, retirement and professional development. He has also worked as an advocate for the Superintendent of Public Instruction, Jack O’Connell and for Governor Gray Davis in his Office of the Secretary for Education. The son of former longtime Sacramento-area superintendent, Dr. Carl Mack, Adonai has been interested in education most of his life. He attended Morehouse College in Atlanta before returning to the Sacramento area.
Mack has three children, 2 adult children, a high school child and 2 grandchildren. He spends his spare time serving on the board of a nonprofit that advocates for closing the achievement gap for African-American children and on an advisory committee for a nonprofit that specializes in advocating for children with mental health needs.
Tara Hawthorne, M.Ed
Treasurer
Tara Hawthorne is currently an employee with Fresno County Sheriff. Tara was recently endorsed by the Sheriff to become a civil committee member of the California State Sheriff’s Association. As a professional staff committee member, Tara will continue to educate herself and her colleagues in civil process. In addition to this aforementioned honor, Tara is a committee member of a Civil Forum established by Fresno County Sheriff Civil Unit. As a member, Tara is well known for giving support and responding to the needs of her colleagues. In 2015, Tara, a single mother of eight children, graduated from Fresno State with a Master’s in Education, an Option in: Higher Education and an Emphasis in: Higher Education Administration and Leadership.
When Tara isn’t handling civil business, she is volunteering at her children’s high school. Education is an important part of Tara’s life; she is a descendant of a family of educators. Tara’s philosophy places a strong value on students by fostering goals, networking, and involvement. Tara’s DIAMOND’S philosophy-Duty, Integrity, Advocacy, Mission, Opportunity, Narrative, Diversity, and Service is the many values she pledges to students. “Students are invaluable and precious. As a community, we must be careful on how we shape our students in order for them to give off their radiance.”
Vincent Bailey
Member
Vincent Bailey is a 20-year publishing industry veteran. Having worked in every capacity at such notable publications as Rolling Stone, Esquire, Vibe, TIME, Sports Illustrated, Travel & Leisure, and People, Vince brings a depth of knowledge to every project that is unmatched. In addition to being a leading expert and sought after speaker, Vince spent 10 years as instructor at the prestigious, Columbia University Publishing Course and is an active member of Magazine Publishers of America and P3-Partnership in Print Production, the leading think tank of the publishing community. Vince graduated from CUNY-New York City College of Technology with a BA-Graphic Communication Arts.
Vince is currently the Manager of Print Production and Graphic Typesetting at Alameda-Contra Costa Transit District. Over the past 20 years Vince has sat on the board of several non-profit organizations including, Valley Teen Ranch, and The United Negro College Fund-Fresno. Vince currently serves as Executive Director of Agape Enterprises Foundation through which he oversees The Alliance Magazine Workshop, an afterschool program he founded to introduce high school students to the basics of video production, broadcasting, editorial production, graphic design, project management, public speaking, and more through the publication of Alliance Magazine. In 2012 Vince founded Central Valley Sports Report (CVSR), a media resource wholly dedicated to connecting high school athletes with academic and athletic scholarships.
Tachelle Herron Lane, M.A.
Member
Tachelle Herron Lane is a visionary scholar-activist, culturally rooted educator, and fierce advocate for Black liberation through education. With over two decades of transformative work, she has dedicated her life to affirming the brilliance of Black youth and communities while radically reimagining learning spaces as sites of resistance, healing, and joy. A proud first-generation college graduate, Tachelle’s academic journey began at Laney College, where she earned degrees in Social Science, Liberal Arts, and African American Studies. She continued her education at San Francisco State University, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. in Liberal Studies with a minor in Africana Studies and a Master of Arts degree in Equity and Social Justice in Education. She is now deepening her critical scholarship as a Doctoral candidate in Educational Leadership. Tachelle has been at the forefront of California’s historic Ethnic Studies movement—playing a critical role in making it the first state to require Ethnic Studies in high schools. Her leadership spans classrooms, boardrooms, and community spaces, having served in roles with San Francisco Unified School District, SF State’s Step to College, 100% College Prep, and the Bayview Association for Youth, where she collaborated with Young Community Developers on citywide initiatives. Currently, she serves as an Academic Generalist in the California State University system, bridging K–12 and higher education with a focus on culturally responsive pedagogy, Black student empowerment, and transformative justice.
As the founder of Ain’t I A Scholar Consulting, Tachelle expands her reach nationally and globally—uplifting student voices from preschool to Ph.D. Her work reclaims educational spaces as sites of resistance, healing, and Black joy. She is the author of empowering children’s books, including All the Beautiful Colors, Capital B: When You Write About Me, and Mama’s Teachers—each one a literary offering rooted in cultural pride and affirming the lived experiences of Black youth and adults. Her leadership has been honored by the California State Senate, San Francisco Board of Supervisors, and Black Students of California United. Tachelle is also a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Tachelle also mentors youth through the Willie Mays Scholars Program, SF Achievers, Tzu Chi Foundation and supports student-led grassroots movements through initiatives like the Dreamkeepers Get Through College Program. Get Through College (GTC) Program supports 100 Black San Francisco students in successfully transitioning into and completing 2 and 4 years of college with a focus on Community colleges, California State Colleges and Historical Black Colleges. Tachelle continues to cultivate liberatory futures through keynote speaking, culturally grounded research, and organizing work steeped in love for education through liberation for all people. Her legacy is one of purpose, power, and an unshakable belief in the brilliance of Urban Black Scholars.
Dr. Marianna Y. Harris, Ed.D
Member
Dr. Marianna Harris is a leader in the field of Education. She has over two decades of on-site experience in K-12 schools. Further, Dr. Harris is a recognized expert in educational leadership and has led the training of teachers through teacher credentialing, masters and doctoral programs in both California and China. Dr. Harris created a college master’s course entitled “Urban Issues in Education” for the purpose of preparing new and veteran teachers for the unique challenges they are likely to face in an urban classroom setting. Dr. Harris’ “Urban Issues” course curriculum is constantly evolving due to the nature of the changing demographics in California schools.
Dr. Harris wrote her dissertation entitled, “A Case Study about Young African Male Achievers: Achieving a Scholar Identity,” to enlighten the education community about the nexus between some Black males and their pursuit of academic excellence. In addition, she is the Director of Education Programs and oversees the teacher preparation program (TPP) at University of California, Merced. She prepares teachers for a single subject credential, multiple subject credential and bilingual authorization in Spanish.
Dr. Harris is a lifelong learner in TK-12 teacher education and is confident that her work is preparing teachers in the Central Valley and the state of California. Dr. Harris received her BA in Education with a Multicultural/ Bilingual emphasis from CSU, Sacramento, and went on to complete a Master’s in Staff Development and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Mills College in Oakland, California. She is married to Attorney Mark T. Harris and has two sons who are also lawyers, Eric M. Harris, J.D., and Martin T. Harris, Esq.
Carmela Smith
Member
Carmela Smith is a STEM professional, community connector, author, and Smithsonian NMAAHC ambassador with a passion for technology, leadership, and mentorship. A proud Sacramento State alumna, she earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology before launching a career in Information Technology, specializing in security and coding. As a woman in STEM, she is committed to breaking barriers, fostering diversity, and mentoring the next generation of tech professionals. Known for her ability to execute projects with precision, timeliness, and ease, her family and friends affectionately call her “Sho’Nuff Mela”. With an innate passion for mentorship and empowerment, she is dedicated to helping others achieve their goals.
In June 2024, Carmela was appointed to the 52nd District Agricultural Association, Sacramento County Fair Board of Board by California Governor Gavin Newsom. Her dedication to community service has been recognized through numerous leadership roles, including being honored as an “Exceptional Woman of Color” by the Sacramento Cultural Hub in 2010. In 2015, she was appointed Chief of Staff for the National Urban League Young Professionals (NULYP), later becoming a Regional Director for the National Council of Urban League Guilds (NCULG) in 2023. She also serves as a lifetime member of the Sacrament o Chapter of Blacks in Government and actively volunteers with the National Urban League and Black Students of California United (BSCU) as a Board member.
As an Ambassador for the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture (NMAAHC), Carmela was featured on SiriusXM’s NMAAHC Dedication special in September 2016, where she shared her personal connection to the museum. Carmela’s expertise in public relations has allowed her to work with world-renowned artists and industry leaders. She secured exclusive interviews with legendary director and actor Bill Duke for his groundbreaking documentary, Dark Girls, which premiered on the Oprah Winfrey Network (OWN) in June 2013. She also facilitated multiple radio interviews to promote the film. Her PR portfolio includes collaborations with acclaimed artists such as Synthia SAINT JAMES, Charles Bibbs, and emerging talents.
Serving on the BSCU Board is a full-circle moment for Carmela — an opportunity to inspire, uplift, and open doors for the next generation. Her journey—from tech to publicity to state leadership—is proof that passion, perseverance, and purpose can break barriers. As a STEM leader and advocate, she hopes to be an example for students—especially young women and underrepresented voices in tech—to dream boldly, work relentlessly, and achieve beyond limits.
Miki Turner
Member
Miki Turner has done her best to live up to the manta of her undergraduate alma mater, Hampton Institute, which is to let her life do the singing. Turner, who spent more than 40 years as a journalist/photojournalist, is currently a full professor at the University of Southern California’s Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism, is considered to be one of the pioneering female sports journalists who helped elevate the coverage of female athletes. As a sports columnist at the Oakland Tribune, where she became the first Black female to write a regularly featured sports column at a major daily newspaper. During her sports career Turner covered pro tennis and the NBA (Lakers and Clippers). Turner has also worked at ESPN as a producer and writer, MSNBC as a columnist, AOL as an on-air personality, the NFL Network as a producer and as the West Coast senior writer for Jet magazine and Ebony.com.
Her work has been published in more than 100 magazines and newspapers and her photography has been exhibited in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, Los Angeles and Hampton, Va.; and she has curated exhibitions at USC. As a professor, Turner was the 2022 National Association of Black Journalists Educator of the Year, honored for her work in and out of the classroom for increasing opportunities for students of color to attend USC graduate programs. She was also the 2023 USC Black Alumni Association Barbara Solomon Staff and Faculty honoree, and a 2021 USC faculty mentoring award winner. Turner founded the Minority Serving Institutions Conference event, which brought hundreds of potential HBCU students to USC to explore graduate programs.
Additionally, she founded the Annenberg Cross-Cultural Student Association, an organization that works to increase cultural awareness and acceptance among students; and a mentoring program that pairs incoming students with faculty mentors. A 1976 graduate of Wyoming High School, Turner is the author of two books—the bestselling journey to the woman i’ve come to love and tomorrow; and was a 2015 prize winner in photography at Firenze Biennale in Florence, Italy. Additionally, she was honored with the Black Women in Film Network Behind the Lens award for her work in journalism.
Check out what everyone is saying...
"The BSCU Leadership Conference was a wonderful and empowering experience. The high school students were exposed to excellent speakers and had an opportunity to learn about issues that affect black youth."
Mixim Murchison
Sweetwater Union High School
"The BSCU Leadership Conference was a wonderful and empowering experience. The high school students were exposed to excellent speakers and had an opportunity to learn about issues that affect black youth."
Mixim Murchison
Sweetwater Union High School
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