As the Executive Director of Urban Alliance Greater Washington DC, Tamika is committed to strategically creating a sustainable pipeline of robust career experiences and opportunities for underrepresented students.

As a passionate leader, coach, mentor, and educator, she has dedicated her career to serving students in marginalized communities. For nearly 20 years, she has led college/career access, workforce development, and academic programming for students across the country. Her career began in the non-profit sector where she provided academic and mental health services to build partnerships with community stakeholders in support of families and students throughout Maryland. That role led to teaching in at-risk schools and serving in leadership roles to elevate the impact of equity and family engagement for student success. From curriculum development to launching mentorship and college access programming, Tamika has advanced the academic agenda for underrepresented students. After leaving the classroom, she worked at the University of Maryland for nearly 10 years, where she focused on closing the minority achievement gap, eradicating systemic barriers and providing equitable opportunities for students, families, and educators across the country. Through the development of culturally relevant teaching pedagogy curriculum, national professional development opportunities, and workforce development programming, she has served over 5,000 students and families. Her contributions over the years to college access and career development have been recognized locally and nationally and continues to shape her commitment to ensuring access to equitable opportunities for students! She grounds her work in the quote, “People never care how much you know, until they know how much you care”!

Tamika holds a Master’s in Human Service Administration and Clinical Psychology from University of Maryland (Baltimore) and a Bachelor’s Degree in Industrial Organizational Psychology from Lincoln University. As the recipient of a robust paid high-school internship experience, she knows first-hand the value and benefits of early career exposure, access, and representation!

Tamika is the wife of her high school sweetheart and the proud “basketball” mom to her 11-year-old “Sonshine”. She is a member of several community and professional organizations and continues to mentor youth and young professionals throughout the DMV area. Tamika loves to travel, explore new restaurants, and create beautiful experiences and memories for family and friends.