Beverly Russell – Founder & President

Beverly Russell is the founder and president of ConsciousNess Youth Expressions, a nonprofit inspired by her late son’s love for reading and creative expression. A lifelong advocate for community wellness and representation, Beverly brings over 30 years of experience in public health and social work.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in social work from Norfolk State University and a master’s degree in public administration from Troy State University. Her career has included roles with Planned Parenthood (Washington, D.C.), Prince George’s County Health Department (MD), Norfolk (VA) General Hospital’s Women’s Health Unit, and Mecklenburg County Public Health.

Beverly’s work is grounded in empathy, accountability, and service—values shaped by both her professional journey and her role as a mother and grandmother. She and her husband Pierre have two grandsons and are the proud parents of a clinical researcher and an architect (deceased) whose life and legacy are honored through the organization's mission (read his story – will be linked to In Loving Memory page).

Now retired, Beverly is focused on uplifting urban youth through literacy, creativity, and voice.

Kayla Stitt – Secretary

Kayla Stitt, a proud Charlotte native and graduate of Sun Valley High in Monroe, NC, is a passionate leader and advocate for youth empowerment. Her journey began with NJROTC, where she sharpened her leadership abilities and rose to CO, organizing meaningful community events that inspired connection and growth.

Today, Kayla brings that same sense of duty and discipline to her role in security, where she ensures the safety and well-being of others with vigilance and professionalism. Whether protecting people, planning events, or guiding children, she leads with purpose.

A dedicated babysitter, certified swim instructor, skilled event planner, and aspiring yoga instructor, Kayla wears many hats with grace. She’s a confident public speaker and a tireless supporter of boys in need. In her free time, she finds joy in being a big sister to her younger brothers, always leading by example and nurturing those around her.

Tony C. Smith, Sr. – Treasurer

Tony C. Smith, Sr., is a retired mortgage banking professional with over 45 years of experience in quality control, risk management, and underwriting—from conventional loans to jumbo mortgages. A graduate of Northeastern University’s Business Management Co-op program, he also spent more than two decades specializing in finance research and fraud detection tools.

In addition to his corporate work, Tony has a long-standing commitment to mentorship and community service. He is the former president of A Few Good Men, Inc., a Union County organization supporting Black youth, and has served as a YMCA mentor, college instructor, and active member of the Urban League.

Tony is a recipient of the Greater Boston YMCA Black Achiever Award and continues to serve in faith-based leadership as a trustee and former finance chair at Rock Hill AME Zion Church, where he helped organize fundraisers benefiting youth.

Meet Our Board of Directors