Board of Directors
Our Board Of Directors
Rona Harris
Assistant Financial Officer
Rona Harris is a seasoned human services professional, wellness advocate, and community development leader with over two decades of experience empowering individuals and revitalizing communities. Since 2023, Rona has provided invaluable volunteer services to Becoming Esther, bringing her extensive knowledge and passion for systemic change to the organization’s mission.
Rona currently serves as the Community Development Revitalization Manager at NeighborGood Partners, a nonprofit dedicated to advancing financial literacy, housing stability, and community engagement. Her career spans impactful roles as a psychiatric social worker, employment coordinator, and housing specialist—each reflecting her commitment to holistic, people-centered support.
Academically accomplished, Rona holds multiple associate and bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice, a master’s degree in human services, and a certificate in Marriage and Family Systems. She is a Licensed Bachelor Social Worker (LBSW) and certified as both a Community Health Worker and Peer Support Supervisor.
A recognized leader in mental health and wellness, Rona co-authored Promoting Burnout Prevention Through a Socio-Ecological Lens with Delaware State University professors and has developed training programs to combat burnout among community workers. She has presented at major conferences, including the Delaware Domestic Violence Coalition Conference, sharing her expertise in stress management and wellness.
Rona is also a skilled grant writer, having secured funding ranging from $5,000 to $95,000 for youth programs, opioid outreach, and capacity-building initiatives. Her strategic insight and dedication to community transformation make her an essential force behind Becoming Esther’s growth and impact.
Nesta Felix
MBA
A proud native of St. Lucia and a lifelong advocate for youth, Nesta Felix brings passion, purpose, and a powerful presence to Becoming Esther, Inc.. As the Executive Director and Founder of NewFlex Youth Programs Inc. in Mt. Vernon, NY, Nesta has dedicated her life to creating opportunities for underserved youth through mentorship, leadership development, and sports.
Her impactful work has earned national recognition, including being named Black History Month Person of the Year by CBS 1010 WINS and a Good Morning America Holiday Hero in 2014. With a Bachelor of Arts in English and Prelaw from Iona College and an MBA from Monroe College, Nesta blends academic excellence with real-world leadership.
A former collegiate athlete in basketball and volleyball, Nesta went on to coach championship-winning teams at both the high school and college levels, earning the title of Coach of the Year in her division. Her athletic background fuels her dynamic approach to youth empowerment, combining discipline, teamwork, and confidence-building.
Nesta is also the author of the Shakas Books Series, a collection of children’s literature that reflects her love for storytelling and her deep appreciation for classic literature, including the works of Shakespeare.
Nesta inspires girls to dream big, lead boldly, and pursue their full potential—on and off the court.
Dr. Aisha Ryan
MSPT, DPT, CMTPT
Dr. Aisha Ryan received her Bachelor of Science in Exercise and Sports Science from the University of Delaware. She also obtained her Master of Science & Doctorate degrees in Physical Therapy from Columbia University’s College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York
City. In 2005, Dr. Ryan established ALL Therapy, a private physical therapy practice in Middletown, Delaware. Dr. Ryan’s interest in Physical Health & Wellness stems from her years of formalized dance training and experience performing with a dance troupe domestically and internationally.
Dr. Aisha Ryan was crowned Mrs. Delaware America 2019. She represented Delaware in the Mrs. America pageant to reach the top 15. She was the first-ever Mrs. Delaware finalist to make it to the top 15 in the national competition.
Dr. Aisha Ryan is married to Nick Ryan and is the devoted mother of 3 wonderful children: Two girls
(13 and 11) who have also competed and won pageant titles, and a son (10). When Dr. Aisha Ryan is
not treating patients, she enjoys traveling and spending time with her family.
Gwendolyn Green
Chief Development Officer & Event Manager
Gwendolyn Green is a seasoned business owner and manager with over 20 years of experience in the retail industry. As the founder of The Movie Depot, Inc., she has successfully served thousands of clients, consistently meeting deadlines and maintaining high standards of customer service.
From 2011 through 2013, she worked for the Girls Scouts of Chesapeake Bay as a volunteer. Her role involved visiting various middle schools and high schools to introduce girls to the Girl Scouts. She organized presentations and activities to engage the students and encourage their participation in the program.
In 2013, she took the initiative to start her own troop for some of the girls at Stanton Middle School. As the troop leader, she was responsible for planning meetings, coordinating activities, and providing mentorship to the girls. She is proud to say that she is still in contact with many of these girls today, most of whom have graduated from college.
Outside of her professional life, Gwendolyn enjoys spending time with her family and exploring the great outdoors. Gwendolyn also has a passion for cooking and often experiments with new recipes in her kitchen. Additionally, she is a movie enthusiast, which inspired her to start The Movie Depot, Inc.
Cassandre Clermont
Cassandre Clermont is a dynamic leader, community advocate, and proud daughter of Haitian immigrants. Born in Brooklyn, NY, and raised in Northern New Jersey, Cassandre’s journey is deeply rooted in resilience, cultural pride, and a steadfast belief in the power of education and opportunity.
Currently serving as the General Manager of AMC Theatres in New Jersey, Cassandre brings over 15 years of leadership experience in the entertainment industry. Her career at AMC began as a crew member and evolved through dedication, mentorship, and a passion for people development. Her exceptional leadership has earned her numerous accolades, including AMC’s General Manager of the Year (2022) and the prestigious People Award (2024).
Beyond her professional achievements, Cassandre serves as the Co-Chair of AMC’s African American Council, where she leads initiatives focused on professional development, mentorship, and advocacy for the African American community. Her work in this space reflects her broader mission: to create inclusive environments where individuals from all backgrounds can thrive.
Kourtney Montanez
Chief Financial Officer
Kourtney Montanez is a trailblazing financial leader and the youngest Branch Manager in M&T Bank’s history. Currently serving as Vice President and Senior Branch Manager, Kourtney brings a wealth of financial expertise, strategic insight, and a deep commitment to community empowerment.
As the Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, Kourtney oversees the organization’s financial planning, budgeting, and fiscal sustainability. Her leadership ensures that the organization remains financially sound while expanding its impact and reach.
With a strong background in banking and financial services, Kourtney is known for her innovative approach to financial management and her ability to drive growth through sound fiscal strategy. Her role at M&T Bank and within the non-profit sector reflects her passion for creating pathways to economic empowerment and financial literacy, especially for underserved communities.
Kourtney’s dedication to excellence, coupled with her pioneering spirit, makes her an invaluable asset to the organization’s mission and long-term vision.