Richard Short has a long history of community involvement and outreach. He helped create the Opportunity Knocks program and previously served as an executive leader at Hephzibah, supporting community-based programs for children with emotional, psychological, academic, and physical needs. Richard has dedicated much of his life to education, coaching, and helping others.
Timi Akindele has extensive experience across government, education, nonprofits, and the private sector. His career has included roles ranging from the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago to the Executive Office of the President (EOP), along with service at multiple federal agencies including the U.S. Census Bureau, FEMA, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
His work has consistently focused on public policy, systems thinking, communication, and civic engagement. Academically, Timi holds both an Ed.D. and an M.S.Ed. from the University of Pennsylvania, along with an M.S. from Northwestern University.