Ciera Garrison is the Student Success Coordinator for the Higher Education Prison (HEP) Program at the University of West Georgia, a business owner, and the founder of The JunneBug Foundation. She is dedicated to supporting individuals and families experiencing premature loss through community-based grief programs, mentorship, and advocacy. Combining her expertise in grief, nonprofit leadership, and social research, Ciera creates spaces for healing, empowerment, and resilience, centering compassion and transformative storytelling in all her work.

Mali Wilson has experienced loss and grief from a very young age, and he understands how the absence of support and resources can steer youth toward harmful paths. Motivated by his own experiences, he is committed to guiding young Black boys toward self-love, resilience, and positive life choices, serving as the mentor and example he wished he had in his own youth.

Cathy N. Harrell is a seasoned business and management consultant with over 30 years of experience in the food service industry and diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. She is the founder of DreamVision Diversity & Inclusion Consultants and serves as board chair of The JunneBug Foundation, helping organizations and families navigate change, build inclusive teams, and foster resilience.

Description Junne’s Papa, Robert is the Deputy Assistant Director for Management and Programs in the Coronavirus Division at the CDC, a retired U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel, and founder of Smart Growth Forsyth County, with a lifelong passion for environmental advocacy, Aikido, and family.

Donnella Cranford is an ordained minister, retired educator, and lifelong mentor who founded and led Women After God’s Own Heart (WAGOH) Ministry for 25 years, empowering others through faith, education, and service. She has served as a Title I administrator in Fulton County, GA, received multiple humanitarian awards, and continues to inspire her community through ministry, teaching, and outreach.

Junne’s Godmother Dekki is a certified Mammography Technologist with 18 years of experience in breast imaging, having worked at major healthcare institutions including Emory, Piedmont, and the Medical College of Georgia. She is also a dedicated community advocate, serving on the DEI Council at Piedmont Medical Center.

Stephany Bautista is a financial advisor in Georgia who helps families navigate their financial journeys with care and transparency. Having experienced personal loss, she is passionate about supporting others through grief and contributes to organizations that create space for healing.