CEO

Marie Vernon is the Founder and CEO of the Legacy Foundation Corporation (LFC), a 501c3 organization dedicated to inspiring positive change in the lives of youth and young adults residing in low-wealth and underserved communities, including individuals who identify as blind, deaf and hard of hearing (DHH). Through various programs and initiatives, LFC aims to provide educational, career, and personal development opportunities to empower these individuals to achieve their full potential. Marie's passion for serving stems from her belief in the importance of equity and access to resources for all individuals, regardless of their background or abilities. Under her leadership, LFC continues to make a lasting impact, fostering a sense of hope and possibility for the future among its participants.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

With a career span over 30 years in aerospace and healthcare case management, Keith is dedicated to empowering youth with essential life skills. He supports programs that develop talents in entrepreneurship, financial responsibility, self-esteem, confidence, critical thinking, and teamwork. Committed to building future leaders, Keith brings his expertise and passion to community and professional efforts worldwide.

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

As Chief Operations Officer and Secretary of the Board of Directors at Legacy Foundation Corporation, Mandy is dedicated to empowering individuals in their professional journeys. With a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts and over 25 years of experience in Interior Design, Mandy brings creativity and expertise to her role. As a wife and mother of two teenage sons, she advocates for the empowerment of young adults and women, balancing her career with volunteer teaching of expressive dance. Mandy's background in ballet inspires a Soles for Souls social purpose program for participants of Read the Room. Committed to fostering mentorship and collaboration, Mandy is a business owner inspiring women to pursue their passions. She believes true success is achieved through uplifting others, a value she embodies in both her professional and personal life.

PROGRAM DIRECTOR, LIFE SKILLS TRAINING ACADEMY

Theresa Chapman-Boyd is a seasoned educational and career counselor, dedicated to guiding students and participants towards realizing their passions for personal and professional growth. With extensive training and experience, she believes in empowering individuals to trust themselves, fostering emotional healing and life satisfaction. Holding a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Argosy University and an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist license, Theresa excels in helping clients cultivate positive thinking and behavior for transformative change. Beyond her professional pursuits, she enjoys crafting natural beauty products, engaging in outdoor activities, and cherishing moments with loved ones.

DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST (DEAF & HARD OF HEARING)

Onya Jones is responsible for the development of employment services in the program to ensure graduates obtain and maintain competitive, paid employment. As the owner of a sign language interpreting agency for over 30 years, Mrs. Jones believes in strengthening communities by helping individuals of all backgrounds realize their potential. She emphasizes shared decision-making, flexibility, and consistency, along with cultural humility and culturally-affirming care. Her process fosters independence while allowing individuals to remain connected with the team to achieve employment and education goals, reducing stigma and disability.

DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST (READ THE ROOM)

Julianna Vernon is passionate about helping children of all ages obtain a broader world-view and learning the value of their role in it. Her experience as a high school youth mentor and as a former Registrar Coordinator at The Los Angeles Film School has prepared her for a role focused on improving equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. With a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from the University of Nevada, she brings a strong foundation in human behavior & societal dynamics to her work. Julianna is committed to developing a creative direction for the after-school pathway program that focuses on teen exploration, skill development, cultural enrichment, and community service, offering students life-changing experiences through volunteerism, career planning, world cultures, and international travel.

DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST, INTERNATIONAL PROGRAM

Relindis Mbu, a Social Impact Entrepreneur, leverages her global outlook, corporate expertise, and African insight to champion innovative solutions for her international clientele. Holding a Bachelor's in Management Information Systems from Goldey-Beacom College, Delaware, USA, and certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP) by the Project Management Institute, she founded Vijona Africa, a non-profit reshaping the narrative for young Africans. Through Vijona Africa, she empowers youth with self-worth and self-sufficiency via education. Of Cameroonian heritage but American, Relindis is an active traveler, outdoors enthusiast, and marathoner, having scaled Mount Kilimanjaro. Her mission blends entrepreneurial spirit with social impact, advocating for the potential of Africa's youth on a global stage.

DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST, SOCIAL JUSTICE

Lee Van Den Bossche is a dedicated advocate for youth empowerment, social justice, and community equity. With over 20 years of senior leadership experience, he has cultivated a diverse skillset and a deep commitment to positive youth development. Lee brings a wealth of experience in coaching, mentoring, and training, with a focus on leveraging the strengths of youth to create meaningful opportunities for growth and success. He firmly believes that young people can achieve great things when provided with relentless support and meaningful opportunities. Throughout his career, Lee has worked tirelessly to advocate for system-impacted individuals, mentoring and developing programs that uplift and empower marginalized communities. His dedication to creating equitable pathways for youth is evident in his unwavering commitment to Legacy Foundation’s mission. Outside of his work, Lee treasures spending time with his family, making tasty culinary creations, and searching for new places to read and unwind.