Rising Scholars Staff and Board Members

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Dr. Elisa Biggers is an accomplished expert in organizational leadership, curriculum development, and diversity training, with a proven track record of success in both the public and private sectors. She holds a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership from Argosy University, a Master’s in Business Administration, and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix.

Dr. Biggers currently serves as an online DBA Chair and Adjunct Business Instructor at Belhaven University. She also served as an Accounting, Business and Economics instructor for Virginia College, and taught dual enrollment at Columbus Technical College in Columbus, GA. She has developed an array of courses and exams for various colleges, universities, and organizations. 

She is the founder of Diversified Educational Concepts LLC, through which she has provided specialized training services to multiple military bases, including Albany GA Marine Logistics Base, Camp Lejeune NC Marine Base, Cherry Point NC Marine Base, and the US Army National Guard in the Virgin Islands, where she conducted Executive Leadership Workshops for senior leaders.

In addition to her expertise in leadership development, Dr. Biggers is a certified Myers-Briggs Specialist and Microsoft Office Specialist. She has served as an Instructional Systems Designer for the Homeland Security Federal Law Enforcement Training Center since 2018, where she develops training curricula for the Federal Police. Her experience in the nonprofit sector includes providing job readiness training, job placement, and transitional support services for underserved communities and individuals with barriers to employment.

Dr. Biggers brings a wealth of knowledge in education and leadership & professional development. Her passion for fostering inclusive environments and her ability to translate complex concepts into actionable strategies uniquely position her to lead a diverse array of training processes.

Dr. Biggers continues to advance her nonprofit endeavors as the Executive Director of Positive Movements Inc. in Columbus, GA, which focus on enhancing education and career opportunities for underserved, at risk and minority communities.

Dr. Frank Silvey Czarny is a seasoned scholar-practitioner with over two decades of experience in higher education, specializing in leadership studies, organizational systems, and qualitative research. He earned his PhD in Human and Organizational Systems from Fielding Graduate Institute in Santa Barbara, California, where his dissertation, Qualitative Case Studies of Orchestrated Leadership in African-American Families Affected by Incarceration, reflected his enduring commitment to exploring the intersections of leadership, equity, and social systems.

Dr. Czarny also holds a Master of Arts in Human and Organizational Development from Fielding Graduate Institute and has completed extensive graduate work in education and applied teaching strategies. His expertise spans undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral instruction in business ethics, organizational behavior, leadership theory, and research methodology.

At the doctoral level, Dr. Czarny has chaired and served on numerous dissertation committees at the University of Phoenix and Capella University, guiding student research on topics ranging from transformational leadership to STEM education, racial equity, urban development, and organizational change. His mentorship has contributed to a growing body of practitioner-based knowledge rooted in social justice, cultural competence, and systems thinking.

As an adjunct and associate faculty member, Dr. Czarny has taught a wide range of interdisciplinary courses across the humanities, social sciences, and business schools. His teaching philosophy centers on critical inquiry, student empowerment, and applied learning, particularly in online learning environments. He is also a certified faculty trainer and workshop facilitator, having led faculty development initiatives on APA writing standards, dynamic classroom engagement, and supporting adult learners.

Dr. Czarny's academic and professional career is marked by a dedication to inclusive education, evidence-based practice, and developing leaders who thrive in diverse, complex, and evolving organizational contexts.

 Dr. JaNitta Wiley is an Information Technology Digital Marketing Specialist with a strong background in the industries of package/freight delivery and digital program marketing and development. She holds a Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) and a Master's degree in Public Administration, with focuses on Human Resources, Leadership, Business Administration, and Finance from Belhaven University. 

  She has a proven ability to lead cross-functional initiatives, design and implement effective marketing strategies, and drive measurable business growth. Her DBA research explored consumer behaviors and preferences in North Mississippi and their influence on marketing strategies for local businesses.  

In essence, Dr. Wiley is a results-oriented professional with a strong academic foundation and practical experience in driving successful marketing initiatives and program management.  She is a highly qualified professional, backed by her advanced degrees and diverse skill set.  

Dr. Ike Ugboaja serves as the Vice President of Academic Services at Clinton College with unwavering dedication. Possessing over two decades of experience in both higher education and business, bringing a wealth of expertise to his position. With a Doctorate in Business Administration, he maintains a steadfast commitment to academic excellence and student success.

Throughout his career, Dr. Ugboaja has displayed exceptional leadership, championing initiatives to enhance curriculum standards and foster a culture of innovation and learning. His vision for Clinton College transcends mere academic rigor, prioritizing holistic student development.

Motivated by his belief in education's transformative power, Dr. Ugboaja persistently strives to create pathways for student achievement, both academically and professionally. 

Under his stewardship, Clinton College has experienced significant growth and achievements across diverse fields such as Business, Cybersecurity, Healthcare Administration, and Nursing, reinforcing its reputation as an educational beacon.

As the Chief Academic Officer, Dr. Ugboaja is deeply devoted to cultivating a supportive and inclusive academic environment conducive to students flourishing. His commitment to empowering the next generation of leaders underscores his invaluable contribution to the Clinton College community.

Delores Price began her professional journey in healthcare as a medical assistant at Repro Women’s Health Clinic in Brookline, Massachusetts, in 1990. However, her passion for teaching emerged in 1998 when she was recruited as an instructor at Bryman Institute—the very institution where she had earned her certificate. Recognizing her leadership potential, she was promoted to Program Chair for the Medical Assisting Department, marking the beginning of an extensive career in education.

In 2010, Delores accepted the position of Director of Education at Medtech College in Marietta, Georgia. Over the years, she continued to leave a significant impact on students and institutions alike, working with esteemed schools such as Herzing University, Virginia College, and Miller Technical College. She is currently a Marketing Education High School teacher in Rockdale County, Georgia.

Delores has been recognized for her dedication and excellence in education throughout her career. In 2007, she received “The Game On Award” for her outstanding leadership during the absence of the Director of Education. In 2010, she was honored for Extraordinary Service and Commitment to Academic Excellence by Medtech College. Herzing University awarded her “Rookie of the Year” in 2013, acknowledging her exceptional performance in a teaching role.

Driven by a deep passion for education, Delores remains committed to empowering individuals through knowledge and skill development, ensuring they reach their fullest potential.

 Beyond her role as an educator, Delores is an entrepreneur dedicated to craftsmanship and sustainability. She is the founder of Seasons of Redolence LLC, a business specializing in handmade candles, body products, and crochet purses. Through her creative endeavors, she blends artistry with eco-conscious principles, offering unique, high-quality items to her customers. 

Deana Beauford is the Founder/CEO of “Maximizing Life’s Worth, LLC., a business that focuses on MAXIMIZING individuals’ life through Life Skills, Career Coaching, Customized Training, Self-development, Youth Coaching, Public Speaking, Workshops, and Seminars. Under her umbrella consists of 40+ years’ experience in customer service/relations, 24+ years’ experience in teaching/training, and 13 years’ experiences in Parent Youth Coaching.

Deana is a certified Train-the-Trainer and an active member of both the National Customer Service Association (NCSA) and the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AHLA). She was recognized as the 2011 Recipient of the “Top 20 Women of Influence” award by the Minority Chamber of Commerce. Additionally, she has been involved with the Georgia Adult Education Association (GAEA), Toastmasters International, and served as a board member for Family Children Services across six surrounding counties and the Bethany Adoption Agency. Furthermore, she contributes to various ministries at her church and is an alumnus of Jacksonville State University.