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Divisions are governed by U-LAUNCH: Virginia Board of Directors that meets on the 15th of the month quarterly. If you are interested in joining our board, please email board@ulaunchit.com.
Herbert Potts
Jeffery Ahmad
Deborah Jefferson
President
A retired U.S. Navy Veteran, civic leader, and entrepreneur, Mr. Potts has served as Regional Chairman of the Democratic Committee in Norfolk, Judge Advocate and Adjutant for the American Legion, and Union Manager of Local 710 Operating Engineers.
He is the founder of several successful ventures, including Fix It Build It Construction, a restaurant and mobile food service, and Kokomo’s Developers real estate company.
As Board President, he brings vision, leadership, and a lifelong commitment to empowering families and communities across Virginia through U-LAUNCH’s mission.
Linda Pearson
Treasurer
Ms. Linda Person serves as Treasurer of the U-LAUNCH: Childhood Development Homes Board, bringing valuable experience in business, finance, and community service.
An entrepreneur and tax professional, she provides fiscal oversight and trusted guidance to ensure responsible stewardship of U-LAUNCH’s resources while advancing its mission to empower educators and strengthen communities across Virginia.
Vice President
Mr. Jeffery Ahmad serves as Vice President of the U-LAUNCH: Childhood Development Homes Board, offering strategic leadership and operational expertise to advance U-LAUNCH’s mission.
With a background in business management and community development, he helps strengthen organizational systems and partnerships that promote opportunity, education, and entrepreneurship across Virginia.
Antoinette Willis
Member -At-Large
Ms. Antoinette Willis holds a B.S. in Kinesiology and Exercise Science from Norfolk State University and is a certified Pre-K–12 Health and Physical Education teacher.
With experience as a Pre-K educator and community advocate, she brings a passion for child wellness, education, and workforce readiness to the U-LAUNCH Board.
Secretary
Mrs. Deborah Jefferson serves as Secretary of the U-LAUNCH: Childhood Development Homes Board, bringing strong administrative leadership and a passion for early childhood education.
Her expertise in organization, communication, and record management helps ensure transparency, efficiency, and alignment with U-LAUNCH’s mission to empower educators and strengthen communities.
Kimberley Butler Gatling
Member -At-Large
Ms. Kimberley Butler-Gatling brings over two decades of experience in early childhood education, counseling, and human services.
An alumna of Norfolk State University, she holds a B.S. in Early Childhood Education and an M.A. in Urban Education/Counseling, and is certified as a QIDP, QMHP, and Virginia Notary. Her expertise in child development and family advocacy strengthens U-LAUNCH’s commitment to quality care and professional growth.
Johnita Rush
Member -At-Large
Ms. Johnita Rush holds an Associate Degree in Early Childhood Development and has extensive experience as a toddler and pre-K teacher.
Her hands-on understanding of child development and classroom management supports U-LAUNCH’s mission to expand access to high-quality early learning opportunities across Virginia.