Board of Directors

The youngest daughter of loving dedicated parents, Ms. Johnson is very familiar with what it means to sow into the children in a community. Receiving inspiration from her family has been pivotal in her goal to create a safe and harmonious learning environment for children.  Dr. Charlotte Metoyer, her Early Childhood Education Professor, friend, and mentor at National Louis University encouraged her to be a professional educator and advocate for children and their families. 

Always seeing education as an attainable goal, Ms. Johnson holds multiple professional accomplishments and accolades. Her first post-secondary degree was an Associate of Arts from Harold Washington College.  She went on to receive a Bachelor of Science, in Early Childhood Education from Chicago State University, credentials in Infant Toddler level 4 and 5, ECE level 4 and 5, Illinois Director level 1 credential and is CPR/First Aid certified. Her academic experience, and work ethics have greatly benefited the educational system. The programs, and organizations that she has worked with impacted the lives of both children and their parents. She continues to enjoy a long and distinguished career in education having taught students for more than 21 years and been employed as a Child Care-Assistant Director for 3 years she has worked with many prestigious private and community childcare agencies in the City of Chicago, and currently continues to enhance her skills as a Developmental Therapist serving children ages 0-3 years old for Early Invention. 

Ms. Johnson has elevated her career goals after having put her finger on the pulse of her passion; it was a natural progression to step forward and provide a much-needed service to her community.  In August 2023, the nonprofit organization Ezekiel Early Childhood Development Center will launch and open its doors to all of the things a parent dreamt of for their child.  

“I have a tremendous love for children and a standard place on learning and I believe education is the key to success for young children.”

Laneta Johnson

CEO & Founder | Business Influencer | Entrepreneurial Strategist

Noelle Curtis is a dynamic and seasoned business leader, widely regarded for her

entrepreneurial expertise, strategic acumen and people-centric approach in both

nonprofit and for-profit sectors. With a keen eye for operational excellence, financial

analysis, and industry-agnostic research, Noelle is a business influencer who thrives

in navigating complex business landscapes. She is proficient in organizational

operations, asset management, investor relations and domestic and international

business development, with a strong understanding of government oversight.

As the former Director of Credit to Capital at Chicago Sunshine Enterprises, Noelle

managed approximately $2M under her leadership, driving impactful initiatives and

strategic plans. She played a pivotal role in the expansion and now serves as the

Fund Manager of Credit to Capital’s Community Micro Equity Fund Program, a key

initiative that further solidifies her reputation for driving innovation in financial

services.

Before her role at Chicago Sunshine Enterprises, Noelle demonstrated remarkable

entrepreneurial success as the owner and operator of Pretty Dapper P.C., a Chicago-

based day spa. There, she achieved a consistent 25% annual profit margin,

significantly outperforming the industry average of 8%, while emphasizing client

retention and operational efficiency.Noelle's previous experience also includes serving as the Business Development

Manager at New Covenant CDC, where she facilitated the successful allocation of

over $1M in disaster relief and operational funds to community-based businesses.

She further honed her skills in dynamic marketing strategies and program

development during this time.

Her most recent venture, Bisi Blvd. Inc., is a hybrid SaaS/Fintech company she

founded to design, develop and market innovative, industry-agnostic digital

operational tools for start-ups, further showcasing her versatility and commitment to

empowering emerging businesses.

Noelle holds a Bachelor of Arts in Communications Media Studies from DePaul

University as well as numerous licenses, including Illinois Real Estate Broker, Illinois

Esthetician & Nail Technician, alongside certifications in Technology & Software

Development, Supply Chain Management, Corporate Finance, Aviation and

Agricultural Operations. Her extensive credentials reflect her multi-disciplinary

expertise, allowing her to bring a unique and well-rounded skill set to her

entrepreneurial endeavors.

Beyond her professional success, Noelle finds balance in her personal life, thriving as

a wife and mother, which grounds her and fuels her dedication to making a lasting

impact.

Career Highlights:

• Former Community Micro Equity Fund Manager, managing a $1.5M start-up

investment fund

• Member of the Notre Dame Global Partnership for Poverty and

Entrepreneurship Partnership

• Loan Committee Member, The South Side Community Federal Credit Union

• Member, Small Business Majority Rapid Response Coalition

• Coached over 100 small business owners

• Supported the access of over $2M in operating capital for small business

Micketa Warner holds a Bachelor’s in business management from National Louis and a Master’s degree in early childhood administration from National Louis University. She is currently pursuing an EdD in Educational Leadership. She has been in the Education field for 15 years. She works in Higher Education as an Admission advisor. She also worked in Elementary school as a building substitute for preschool to eighth grade. She has worked in Early education for the last 5 years, as a Site Director, with an Illinois Director credential 1. She also worked as a Quality Improvement Specialist where she worked with EHS HS EHS CCP PI PFA funders to maintain fiscal and vouchering through these funding sources. Her mission is to help children and families through education and advocating for black and brown people. She is currently working as GHC Healthy and Safety Manager, which aligns with her goal to help programs with making sure children and families are whole and safe.