Dr. Christopher L. Edwards is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and Research Psychoneuroendocrinologist. Dr. Edwards served as the Medical Director of the Biofeedback Laboratory and Pediatric Neuropsychology Service, and Director of the Chronic Pain Management Program within the Pain and Palliative Care Program at Duke University Medical Center. He also served as a faculty member with several clinical appointments in the Department of Psychiatry, Division of Medical Psychology and Department of Medicine, Division of Hematology at Duke University Medical Center. In addition to the above, he served an appointment in the Durham Veterans Hospital, the Duke Pain and Palliative Care Center, and the Duke Comprehensive Sickle Cell Disease Center. Dr. Edwards’ research continues to primarily focus on three areas: (1) psychoneuroendocrine issues associated with chronic pain; (2) neurocognitive decline in patients with chronic illness; and (3) methods for recruiting populations of diverse subjects into clinical trials. Dr. Edwards is the author of close to 300 publications, book chapters, encyclopedia entries, and related scientific communications. He is very involved in the community as an advocate for racial equality and the promotion of minority health. The history of Dr. Edwards work has primarily been the focus on clinical diversity among African Americans with chronic illnesses. We are elated to have him serve our organization.
Glenda Lawrence-Knight, Psy.D.
Dr. Knight is a graduate of Fayetteville State University with a bachelor's degree in the field of Psychology & Walden University with a master's degree in Psychology where she was inducted into the National Honorary Society (Psi Chi). She earned a Doctor of Psychology in 2007 where she was honored Magna Cum Laude from CalSouthern University. In 2004, Dr. Knight also graduated Valedictorian from a three-year Community Fellows Leadership Program. She has 25 years of a proven record of achievement in the Human Service field. Dr. Knight is a wife, mother, an Executive Certified Life Coach, a Certified Victim Practitioner, a Certified Meditation Instructor and serves on several multidisplinary teams and committees. Dr. Knight believes in giving back to the community and for this reason, she volunteers for several organizations. She served as a 15-year veteran volunteer/mentor for the Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) and Y-Pals formerly Big Brothers/Big Sisters. She possesses a passion in empowering the lives of others while increasing self-sufficiency, especially with youth by which she unselfishly developed TIPS, INC. Dr. Knight hobbies includes fishing, research, and writing. She is a member of several organizations to include Psi Chi National Honorary Society, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. & Order of the Eastern Star, PHA. She completed her first novel entitled: Twisted Paths: An Authentic College Experience under the premise of, "He who knows not from whence he has come, cannot know where he is going." In collaboration with her adult son, an ADHD guide is now underway with anticipated release in the latter months of 2024 along with other independent self-help publications. Dr. Knight specializes in clinical wellness & resolution management. Dr. Knight is also a Motivational Speaker. According to audience feedback, she provides stimulating uplifting presentations that tends to linger in the minds, hearts and souls of attendees for both adults and youth. Book her today under the Contact link.
Ronda Dunning earned a Master of Science in Rehabilitation Counseling, Medical College campus of Virginia. She has certification as a School Counselor from East Carolina University (ECU). She possesses 25 years of experience in the Mental Health field (MR/DD). Currently, she serves as an Elementary School Counselor and Independent Mental Health Contractor.
Brittney Lawrence is a locs hairstylist in the DMV area. She is the proud mother of three and enjoys quality time with her family. Her hobbies include creative expression through hair, poetry and sketching.
Leteshia Mercer earned a Bachelor & Master's Degree in Forensic Science from Fayetteville State University (FSU). Currently, she serves as a Graduate Residential Assistance. Her hobbies include internet surfing and downtime. Leteshia also serves as the liaison between the board and the Junior Advisory Committee. One of her greatest charitable contributions is with the Order of the Eastern Star, St. Mary's Chapter #12, Order of the Eastern Star, PHA.
Christopher Levon Edwards, PhD, BCIAC, IABMCP
Chief Executive Officer, CEO
Chief Clinical Consultant
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
JUNIOR ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Joia Chance is a graduate of East Carolina University where she completed her Bachelor of Arts degree in Psychology. Her hobbies include reading, traveling, internet surfing and spending time with friends and family. She possesses excellent time-management and multitasking skills.
Alexandra Knight is the founder of the Lady ^ Mentoring Program. She is a fashion designer entrepreneur and is pursuing a career as a cosmetologist. Alexandra has completed three children's books & is working on publication. She loves being with her family, hanging out with friends, writing and internet surfing. She also loves her active pit bull, Bella.
Chairman of Board of Directors
Tyronda Whitaker serves as the Chief Operating Officer (COO). She resides in Tarboro, NC. She is a graduate of Southeast Halifax High School. She also graduated from the University of Maryland with a Bachelor of Science degree in Social Science. Currently, Tyronda is pursuing a second bachelor's degree in Gerontology. She has four lovely handsome young men by which one has led her to be an avid fan of the Indianapolis Colts!!! GO TYQUAN!!!! Tyronda has over 12 years' experience in the long-term care industry and has spent the past 8 years in the capacity of long-term care social worker in a skilled facility. She now serves as a Regional Long Term Care Ombudsman. She enjoys spending time with her family, reading, traveling, and shopping. Tyronda knows the importance of having someone to serve in the gap and act as parent, guide, and mentor. So, she wishes to return the favor by being an inspiration to others.
Elder Gloria Carter, Vice Chair is a native of Wilson, North Carolina. She was educated in Wilson public schools. She attended Shaw University, Raleigh, NC, where she received a Bachelor’s Degree in Sociology and Psychology. She furthered her studies at Georgetown University, Washington, DC, in the area of Contract administration. She also received a Bachelor’s of Theological Studies from the Sure Foundation Theological Institute of Seminole Florida. She received her Master’s of Religious Education degree from United Christian College, Goldsboro, North Carolina. She retired after 32 years as a Senior Contracts Specialist from the Department of Defense, the Department of the Navy, Washington, DC. Elder Carter currently serves as an Associate Minister at Faith Temple United Holy Church. She also serves as the armor bearer of her Pastor Dr. Ernestine H. McGee.
Amber Barnes graduated from high school in 2005. She received a degree in Criminal Justice Technology in spring 2007 from Edgecombe Community College. In 2009, she obtained a Bachelor of Science degree cum laude from Barton College in Criminal Justice and Criminology. In 2013, Amber received a Master of Arts in Human Services concentrating in Marriage and Family from Liberty University. Currently, Amber and her husband are proud business owners in Edgecombe County, Tarboro, North Carolina. Amber is in pursuit of an advanced degree, Doctor of Psychology at CalSouthern University. She enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
