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Our Team

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President and Executive Director

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AYESHIA GARRETT

PRESIDENT & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, COALITION ON URBAN GIRLS

                  Our girls are facing critical human rights challenges that require immediate attention. Inspired by the legacy of Sherida Morrison, the Founder of the Coalition on Urban Girls—Chicago, we must recognize the vital role of girls in our society, reject any notion of their disability, and prioritize their needs through education, advocacy, and policy change.

 

In today's digital age, social media presents unique challenges for girls, heightening safety concerns and societal pressures.  Our girls are in a state of emergency! They are navigating safety risks, unrealistic beauty standards,gender-based violence, mental health issues, and other inequities that impact their quality of life.

 

As a Coalition, we are ready to ask tough questions, partner with institutions, and empower community-driven research focused on girls-centered solutions. Our goal is to ensure a healthy and safe future for all girls in Chicago and beyond.

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Steering Committee

Our Steering Committee is responsible for planning and execution related to the organization's mission and consists of leaders representing multiple constituencies such as public health agencies, government agencies, social services agencies, educational institutions, and researchers. 

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JAMILA TRIMUEL

CHAIR,STEERING COMMITTEE, FOUNDER OF LADIES OF VIRTUE

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DEIDA K. MASSEY

VICE CHAIR, STEERING COMMITTEE | FOUNDER & CEO OF REEL BEAUTY

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KELLY FAIR

FOUNDER OF POLISHED PEBBLES

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JENNIFER MCINTYRE

SR. PROGRAM SPECIALIST, FEEDING AMERICA

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MEGHAN MORGAN

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GIRLS IN THE GAME

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SHERIDA MORRISON

FOUNDER OF DEMOISELLE 2 FEMME, COALITION ON URBAN GIRLS, FEMME FOUNDATION & HOPE NETWORK FOR GIRLS

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CHERESA PURNELL

FOUNDER/CEO OF THE YOUNG WOMEN PROFESSIONALS LEAGUE

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YOLANDER A. RIVERS

EXECUTIVE ADMINISTRATOR, REEL BEAUTY

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DR. KISHA ROBERTS - TABB

FOUNDER/CEO OF SOCIAL BUTTERFLY FOUNDATION, OWNER OF ROBERTS-TABB ASSOCIATES, LLC, HUMAN TRAFFICKING/GENDER RESPONSIVE SPECIALIST FOR COOK COUNTY JUVENILE COURT

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La'KEISHA GRAY-SEWELL

FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF GIRLS LIKE ME PROJECT, INC.

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DR. CAROL WASHINGTON

CEO at EMPOWERED2SERVE, Dr. C. Rochelle Ministries

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SHATINA EDWARDS

FOUNDER OF M.E.A.N. GIRLS EMPOWERMENT

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CAMESHA JONES

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SISTA AFYA COMMUNITY MENTAL WELLNESS

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DR. BRITTNEY AUTRY COLE

FOUNDER, CENT(HER)ED COLLECTIVE GRILS

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DOMINICCA WASHINGTON

FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF SHE CHICAGO

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DARRYCA "DARA" BRIM

CO-FOUNDER & EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, FOCUS FAIRIES MENTORING

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KHALIAH MARSH, LCSW

PROGRAM MANAGER, BUILD CHICAGO - BUILDING GIRLS 2 WOMEN

Interns

At CUG, our interns are more than just students—they’re emerging professionals, innovators, and future leaders. Through hands-on experience, mentorship, and real-world projects, they gain the skills and confidence needed to excel in their careers. We take pride in fostering a supportive and dynamic learning environment where interns contribute meaningful work, bring fresh perspectives, and grow alongside our team.

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SABA MOHIUDDIN

Clinical Psychology Doctoral Student, Adler University | Chicago

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ABIGAIL RIGAZIO

MA Art Therapy Program

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GRACE PAUSMA

Clinical Psychology Doctoral Student, Adler University | Chicago

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