Mr. Jahara A. Brown is a retired United States Air Force senior leader with over 25 years of distinguished service in global security, leadership, and organizational development. Inspired by the enduring legacy of his grandmother, Jahara serves as Chairman, leading efforts to expand access to education and empower students to reach their full potential. He holds a Master’s degree in Organizational Development and Leadership and is currently pursuing his Doctorate in Psychology, with a focus on leadership and human development. Deeply committed to mentorship, service, and community impact, Jahara is passionate about creating meaningful pathways that foster confidence, resilience, and long-term success for future generations.

Ms. Tasha L. Graham serves as the Vice Chairman for the Leanna Brown Gibson Johnson Scholarship Foundation, bringing over 18 years of experience in the medical field and a strong foundation in healthcare administration and medical business practices. She holds an Associate of Applied Science in Business Technology with a concentration in Medical Studies, a Diploma in Business Technology, a Medical Billing Clerk Certification, and an Administrative Support Assistant Certification. She is currently advancing her professional credentials by pursuing her Medical Coding Certification through the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA). Tasha is deeply committed to serving her community and passionate about mentoring and guiding youth toward positive, productive futures. She believes strongly in perseverance and lives by the inspirational quote, “In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity… Never give up!”

Mr. Lindsay “Coach LT” Thompson Jr. serves as Treasurer of the scholarship and is a retired U.S. military senior leader and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in global security operations and military working dog program management. He has led high-performing teams supporting the Department of War missions worldwide. As the founder of Knock Out K9 Inc., he applies his expertise in operations, financial discipline, and business strategy to build structured systems and develop strong leaders. Guided by a family-first philosophy, he is committed to creating generational wealth, mentoring youth, and strengthening communities through education, ownership, and leadership.

Mrs. Paola Brown serves as the foundation's Scholarship Program Manager, bringing structure, leadership, and a deep commitment to student success. A veteran with 12 years of distinguished military service, she built a foundation rooted in discipline, integrity, and service. She currently works with the Department of Homeland Security, where she has earned multiple performance awards and built a reputation for excellence in organizational development and process improvement. She attended the University of the Incarnate Word and holds an Associate’s degree in Criminal Justice, a Bachelor’s in Administration, and a Master’s in Organizational Development and Leadership, while currently pursuing a Doctorate in Business Administration with a concentration in Organizational Leadership Development. Beyond her professional and academic pursuits, she finds joy in teaching her daughter to explore diverse perspectives through learning Tagalog, art, and science, grounding her accomplishments in a deep commitment to family and lifelong learning.

Mrs. Sophia Gibson-Brown serves as the Marketing and Community Engagement Manager for the Leanna Brown Gibson Johnson Scholarship Foundation. She is a strategic communications and community engagement professional with a passion for storytelling, outreach, and service. With a Bachelor of Science in Business Management and a professional background spanning healthcare, retail, and nonprofit support, she brings strong experience in marketing, internal and external communications, and community relationship-building. Sophia currently serves as a communications specialist within the University of Maryland Medical System, where she develops engaging content, supports training and education initiatives, and leads initiatives that strengthen connection and impact. Known for her creativity, professionalism, and heart for community, she is deeply committed to advancing opportunities for others and preserving meaningful legacies. Outside of her professional work, Sophia is a proud mother of three who enjoys poetry, music, and creating memorable experiences that bring people together.

Mr. Chris “Smitty” Smith is a retired United States Air Force senior leader recognized for building high-performing teams, leading complex mission-driven operations, and developing leaders at every level. With extensive experience in leadership, contracting, strategic operations, and organizational development, he brings a disciplined, people-centered approach focused on accountability, growth, and long-term impact.

As the Foundation’s Ambassador Program Manager, Chris is dedicated to mentoring and empowering students beyond the classroom by fostering leadership, strengthening community partnerships, and creating meaningful opportunities that inspire service, resilience, and personal excellence. His commitment is rooted in building a lasting legacy that equips future generations to lead with integrity, purpose, and confidence.

Mrs. Jonquil Alexander serves as the Legacy and Engagement Coordinator for the Leanna Brown Gibson Johnson Scholarship Foundation. With four years as a Loyalty Assurance Representative at Southwest Airlines, she has built a strong reputation in customer relations, service recovery, and operational excellence. Jonquil also contributed to Southwest Airlines’ implementation of an AI-driven tool across multiple service channels, enhancing efficiency and the overall customer experience. She holds a Professional Development Certification from Southwest Airlines and a Medical Assisting Certification.

Mr. John Allen Brown is the founder of the scholarship foundation and serves as its Board Advisor, providing guidance grounded in faith, experience, and a deep commitment to family. A graduate of Wilson High School in South Carolina and one of seven children, he was raised on the values of resilience, accountability, and service. Mr. Brown built and operated his business, Open Door, while navigating personal challenges that strengthened his faith in Christ and shaped his character. Rather than allowing those experiences to define him, he used them to grow, rebuild, and pour back into his family and community. He established the foundation in honor of his mother, Leanna, whose name the scholarship carries, ensuring her legacy would never be forgotten. She was a leader, disciplinarian, and a friend who extended an open hand to all, serving as the foundation for their family’s values and purpose. His decision to create the scholarship reflects a clear mission: to open doors for others, just as his mother did for so many. As a father, uncle, and grandfather, he is involved with the foundation; his influence is both personal and foundational, directly shaping the organization's vision and impact. Mr. Brown’s life reflects perseverance, faith, and a commitment to ensuring future generations can succeed.