MEET OUR TEAM

Dr. Cassandra Newby-Alexander is a Professor of History at Norfolk State University and serves as the Director at the Joseph Jenkins Roberts Center for African Diaspora Studies. With a Ph.D. from the College of William and Mary, she has a significant focus on African American history and has been a member of the American Historical Association since 2000.

Chinedu G. Okala is a seasoned Professor of Art at Norfolk State University, where he has also served as Department Chair and Associate Dean in the College of Liberal Arts. He has curated impactful exhibitions like "Art of African American Artists" and "2017 Renaissance," contributing significantly to the discourse on art and culture.

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Solomon R. Isekeije is a multifaceted artist and educator. He has served in various academic roles across Virginia, including Director of the Division of Fine Arts at Norfolk State University. His work spans multiple media and has enriched both academic and community spaces.

Dr. Bernadette J. Holmes is a Professor in the Criminal Justice department at Norfolk State University and serves as the Director of the Master of Arts Criminal Justice Program. She has led research projects focused on community responses to natural disasters and has developed courses like "Environmental Crime and Justice," aiming to address social and environmental challenges.

Dr. Ashley Neal Haines serves as a Program Director for NSU's HHMI-funded Inclusive Excellence SEC^3UREs Grant and is a Professor of Biology. She focuses on fostering inclusivity within STEM fields and has led research in environmental restoration, particularly impacting the Chesapeake Bay watershed..

Dr. Robert K. Perkins is a Sociology Ph.D. holder from Norfolk State University, specializing in Urban Studies and Inequality. He has engaged in critical discussions about the experiences of Black individuals in academia and society, focusing on structural implications on equity and resource allocation.

Antonella Gloria DiTommaso is an Adjunct Professor of English at Regent University and a University Professor at Norfolk State University. With a Master of Fine Arts, she has dedicated her career to teaching English, contributing actively to the academic community since Fall 2021.

Keela A. Boose is an English Professor at Norfolk State University and a recognized Writing Consultant. Her work extends to editing and publishing, and she has a unique connection to historical narratives, enriching her approach to teaching and literary themes.

Dr. Timothy Goler is an Assistant Professor at Norfolk State University with expertise in Medical Sociology and Urban Planning. He has also served as the Director of Research at the Center for African American Public Policy. Dr. Goler is committed to policy advocacy and community engagement, particularly concerning urban older adults.