Who We Are
We’re a group of African American men and women, who are committed to the youth of our communities. By offering services to enhance their overview of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HCBU), we aim to provide them with information that will help them achieve a well-rounded education along with core values.
Our purpose is to preserve the history, legacy and value of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). To raise awareness of the opportunities HBCU have to offer to educators, students, and parents. To help students navigate the college admissions and financial aid process for successful matriculation. To encourage and increase the number of disadvantaged students enrolling at HBCU.
Inspiration for F.E.L.L.O.W.S.
You might say I was inspired to start F.E.L.L.O.W.S. from the time I was in high school in the
1970s and the homicide rates were so high that my teacher had us count off in 3s and when we
finished, he told us that a 3rd of us wouldn't make it to graduation because we would die first.
My goal was to make it through high school, graduate, and attend a Historically Black College or
University (HBCU) in Durham, North Carolina -- a place I had the opportunity to visit one
summer. I still remember that first experience of being on the North Carolina Central University
(NCCU) campus and getting to know some kids there -- kids like me. I felt like I belonged, and I
felt safe there.
Although I did not graduate from NCCU, I first attended Kittrell Junior College, another HBCU,
where I played basketball and met other students who would become lifelong friends.
Six of those friends and I have kept in touch for almost 50 years, including during COVID-19,
when we connected via Zoom meetings. After George Floyd's death, we talked at length about
our shared history of escaping violence through attendance at HBCUs. We also discussed what
we could do to impact the lives of young black men so more of them would survive and thrive in
their middle-age years as we have.
F.E.L.L.O.W.S. started as an organization focused on helping young black men learn about
HBCUs and the educational, cultural, and emotional benefits of believing hope and safety are
possible and that you can be part of a community that will nurture you, where you are wanted
and feel like you belong. We have since expanded our programs to young women and to all kids
from underprivileged and marginalized backgrounds, regardless of race.
So, my lived experience as a young black man surviving a violent time and city, meeting other
young black men in junior college, staying connected with those men for decades now,
supporting each other throughout our lives, and wanting to give back in some way so that others
can survive too, that was and is the inspiration for F.E.L.L.O.W.S.
Bernard Brown
President & Founder
We extend our heartfelt gratitude and give honorable mention to all our founders, whose vision and dedication laid the cornerstone of F.E.L.L.O.W.S.. Thier pioneering efforts have shaped our mission and guided us to where we stand today. We also wish to recognize and commend those who continue this legacy by serving on our board. We thank you all for your services.
The Late John Morgan Russell, Cofounder
Murtaza Salah Latif, Cofounder
Robert N Davis, Cofounder
Will Ferguson, Cofounder
Our Founders
Meet The Team
Bernard Brown
President/CEO - Founder
Elizabeth A. Jackson
Vice President
Thomas Butler
Chairman - Board
Ron Williford
Vice Chairman - Board
Erica Bailey Paul
Secretary/Treasurer - Board
Musa Muhammad
Co/Founder - Board
Mitchell Gambell
Co/Founder - Board
Michael T. Wilson Sr.
Co/Founder - Board
Tamíka Jones-Tabbs
Special Consultant
Bernard Brown - President/CEO
Professional Summary
A wardrobe consultant for 22 years with the Men's Wearhouse.
Vice president of Spot-up sportswear east coast division. Able to donate time and effort in the development and education of young men and women through the use of basketball in their lives.
Serve as the vice president of the Church Scholarship board where we introduce the kids to colleges through tours and literature to help them in making sound decisions.
Education
North Carolina Central University: Durham North Carolina - 1975 - 1977
​Kittrell Junior College: Kittrell, North Carolina, 1972-1975 A.S. degree
​Ben Franklin High School, Philadelphia, PA Class of 1972
Career Abstract
Have been partnering with other groups and church organizations to stay involved with the youth of our community. A member of the Waldell Group which sponsors student athletes through an endowment of Fayetteville State University in North Carolina. Also gave basketball clinics at the Boys and Girls Club in Durham and Charlotte, North Carolina while attending the CIAA Basketball Tournaments for HBCU's.
Elizabeth A. Jackson - Vice President
Professional Summary
Currently working in public service within the Department of Human Service, Office of Income Maintenance.
Jewelry Consultant and Certified Diamontologist with Kay Jewelers.
​
Track and Field coach for Ambler Olympic Club from 2013 to 2019.
Education
West Chester University Pennsylvania - 2011, Professional Studies, Minors in Exercise Science and Nutrition.
Thomas Butler - Chairman
Professional Summary
Thomas Butler is an education consultant specializing in the area of “college access and
success”. Thomas is currently the Director of Advancement and Operations for the Philadelphia
College Prep Roundtable; a network of over 300 college access and success professionals and
advocates across the greater Philadelphia region. Butler has convened his network for over 30
years providing oversight of monthly meetings, annual conferences, and communication network
inclusive website, an email list, and several social media systems.
In the past, Thomas has served as Executive Director of Project GRAD Philadelphia and
Executive Director of the CORE Philly Scholarship Program where his primary responsibility was
to oversee the awarding of up to $40 million in scholarships to Philadelphia high school
graduates. Additionally he was the the Director of the Philadelphia Education Fund’s College
Access Program and Director of Admission at Cheyney University of PA.
Thomas’ professional affiliation and appoints includes:
â–ª (Philadelphia) Mayor’s Commission for African American Males
â–ª Served on the Board of Directors for the Women’s Christian Alliance
â–ª Served as a Vice-Chair for the Community College of Philadelphia’s Board of Trustees
â–ª Served as President of the Project GRAD Philadelphia Board of Directors
â–ª Served as President of the Pennsylvania Association of College Admission Counseling
â–ª Executive advisory member of the Black Male Development Symposium
â–ª Sat on the Philadelphia Academies’ Higher Education Advisory Committee
Awards
He has received numerous awards including:
â–ª 2021 National Association for College Admission Counseling’s “Gayle C. Wilson Service
to Education Award"
â–ª The Black Male Engagement (BMe) Community Leadership Award
â–ª The Legacy of Love Foundation, Inc.’s “Men Making a Difference in the Community
Award – recipient of the “Educational Excellence” Award
â–ª Phi Delta Kappa, Tau Chapter – Dedicated Service to Public Education Award
â–ª National Association for College Admission Counselors’ Outstanding Leadership in
Government Relations Award
â–ª The Congressional Black Caucus’ School District Leadership Award
â–ª Community College of Philadelphia’s Distinguished Leadership Award
â–ª The PA Association for College Admission Counseling Human Relations Award
â–ª 100 Black Men Making a Difference Award
Education
Thomas received his Bachelor’s Degree from Cheyney University and holds a Masters Degree in
Counseling in Student Affairs in Higher Education from Kutztown University of Pennsylvania.
Thomas is also a graduate of the Urban League of Philadelphia’s Leadership Institute and the
Mid-Eastern Association of Educational Opportunity Program Personnel Leadership Institute.
He is a proud member of New Birth Missionary Baptist Church and a Life Member of Kappa
Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Ron Williford - Vice Chairman
Professional Summary
Ronald Williford is the CEO/Founder of Philadelphia Financial Consultants, LLC., an independent
financial planning brokerage specializing in personal financial planning, retirement planning, small
business consulting, and tax planning. He is a featured speaker on various financial topics and is the host of the TV program “Let’s Talk Money.” He has over 38 years of experience in the financial
services industry in various positions. His motto is, “Financial planning begins with education.” He currently serves on
the boards of the Haverford YMCA, Retired Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP), Main Line NAACP
Branch (Treasurer), Making A Way International. Inc, and The Business Center (President of the
Board). Ron is a member of the Trustee Ministry of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church and is also
active in the Financial and Education Support Ministries.
Ron and his wife, Tanya Morgan-Williford, currently reside in North Wales, Pa. They are the proud
parents of Jenea Williford-Perry, Shannan Williford-Burton, and Salina Williford.
Education
Ron earned his bachelor’s degree in Economics from Villanova University.
Erica Bailey Paul - Secretary/Treasurer
Professional Summary
Began banking career right out of college and developed passion for financial literacy. Held several sales leadership positioned over the years and current position is Branch Manager, AVP at TruMark Financial's Chestnut Hill and La Salle University branches where actively services as a role model to today's future leaders.
Education
Temple University, Philadelphia, Pa - Criminal Justice, 2006
Central High School
Career Abstract
Upon graduation went to basic training in Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Completed JAG (Judge Advocated General) School becoming a paralegal. Served 8 years in the United State Army Reserves Judge Advocated Corp in the 153rd Legal Support Organization: traveling both stateside and abroad handling both criminal and civil military proceedings. Promoted to the rank of Sergeant (E-5). Active in church and currently serves as the President of the Scholarship Ministry, Has helped to start and run a startup transportation company but has now shifted to being a consultant for other startup businesses showing them to blueprint to success.
Musa Muhammad - Co/Founder
Professional Summary
10 plus years of management experience; 20 plus years of customer service experience and 7 years of supervisory experience. Ability to work on a team and independently with minimum supervision. Excellent verbal and written communication skill. Basic computer skills and experienced floor tech.
Education
DeWitt Clinton High School, Bronx, New York
Military experience with US Army Honorable Discharge
Career Abstract
Worked for GCA Services Group, Duke University Hospital and Durham VAMC in Durham North Carolina. Responsible for training 10 technician in clean room procedures. Ensured all daily schedules were completed and assignments make in a timely manner. Performed inventory and ordered all supplies. Conducted a daily safety meeting with technicians. Responsible for making the necessary changes to procedures in accordance with amendments made to documentation and guidelines.
Managed and coordinated housekeeping function for assigned University buildings Planned and conducted meetings with subordinated to ensure compliance with established practices. Evaluated and made recommendations concerning cleaning products and equipment. Ordered and maintained sufficient inventory of housekeeping supplies and equipment Managed various department functions such as hiring, performance appraisals, promotion, transfers and vacation schedules.
Mitchell Gambell - Co/Founder
Professional Summary
During the time as a student worked with community organizations Operation Breakthrough as a support specialist. United Way: gold award recipient for outstanding community service (1988). F.E.L.L.O.W.S. (co-founder) Board Member and planning committee.
Education
Kittrell College: alumnus (1973) an H.B.C.U. Basketball scholarship recipient.
North Carolina Central University Alumnus H.B.C.U. (1976) concentration Pre-law Political Science Public Administration and Music
Career Abstract
Serving in under privileged communities as a Music Director expanding the knowledge of youths in the areas of music theory and the application of woodwind instruments. Durham Public Schools - Transportation 6/13 - present
Michael T. Wilson Sr. - Co/Founder
Professional Summary
Experienced in participating in Federal regulatory and policy development projects, related to
financial accounting and reporting issues of varying complexities. Responsible for staying
abreast of changes in accounting practices and the practices Policy and regulation development
activities that include:
· The analysis of policy and strategic risks to the Farm Credit System on the basis
of economic trends and other risk factors.
· Participated in the development of policy papers, bookletters examination
guidelines, and other Agency guidance.
· Developed guidelines for chartering and other corporate approvals as well as
funding approvals:
· Provided oral and written briefings, reports, and other presentations to the CEO
and Board Members on complexed policy and regulatory development projects.
· Participated in the development of materials that address policy and regulatory
changes
Education
Southeastern University, Washington D.C. 1 Business Management BS 1992 (Honors)
Southeastern University, Washington, D.C. Financial Management MBA 2006
Kittrell Junior College, Kittrell, NC Business Administration 1974
Military
U.S. Navy SH2 January 1975 through January 1979
Tamíka Jones-Tabbs - Special Consultant
Professional Summary
A results-oriented Educator with Master's degrees in Elementary Education and Reading Education (Reading Specialist Certification, K-12) with a background in business and social services. I am strongly passionate about working with “low-income”, “urban”, “and underserved”, first-generation high school students who are attending college, and youth who are seeking direction toward a postsecondary plan.
Education
Tamíka Jones-Tabbs, MEd, MSR, is a Philadelphia native – Educator and Entrepreneur - and graduate of Virginia State University (BS), Cheyney University (Med), and Gwynedd Mercy University (MSR). Tamíka, a proud HBCU graduate, has over 20 years of leadership and professional experience in the areas of education, from Pre-K through High School, and has also earned her Reading Specialist Certification. Tamíka’s postsecondary work began with her work with GEAR UP. While working with high school students, providing college and career readiness she found her niche and educational focus. Currently working as a Dual Enrollment Educator, has enabled her to work closely with high school students and Higher Ed. stakeholders simultaneously. As an EduPreneur, she strives to establish and raise money to support high school seniors with scholarships, particularly those who accept admittance into HBCUs.
Career Abstract
Mrs. Jones-Tabbs’ special interests are Cultural Relevant Pedagogy and College and Career Readiness.