Founder
Saisha Delevoe
Saisha Delevoe is the Founder and CEO of S&Co. Consulting Services. With over 10 years of experience in higher education with a focus on recruitment and transition programming for socioeconomically disadvantaged youth, she connects people to people and passion to purpose.
Wendyvette Edwards
Wendyvette Edwards is a Post-Secondary advisor and Grant Coordinator at Palm Beach State College with education experience in K-12 and Higher education from both the Public and Private sectors. Holding a Bachelors in Family and Child Sciences – Education and a Masters degree from Louisiana State University in Higher Education Administration, Wendyvette has a genuine enthusiasm for Education Counseling, Outreach, Retention and Academic advising. She has aided students ranging from high school graduates to second time Grad school returnees in various program industries.
She is a proud AFRO-Latina, Born and Raised in the Western Rural community known as “Muck city” on the outskirts of Palm Beach County. Her upbringing is what contributes to her passion and commitment to serving disadvantaged and underrepresented student populations, helping them overcome the odds of these labels. It is her personal philosophy and testimony, that educational exposure through the guided presentation and outreach of information can transform a person’s life. She believes it is her personal mission to serve through her skills and developing expertise of students Post-Secondary transition, enrollment and success.
Rashard Johnson
Born and bred in the unforgiving neighborhoods of Miami-Dade, Rashard Johnson embodies the triumph of education over adversity. His remarkable journey from the mean streets of Miami to the hallowed halls of academia is an inspirational testament to the power of determination and self-belief.
Growing up in a tough neighborhood, Rashard faced the harsh realities of limited opportunities, surrounded by adversity. Instead of succumbing to the challenges of his environment, he chose to rise above them through the transformative power of education. With unwavering determination and an unquenchable thirst for knowledge, Rashard blazed a trail towards a brighter future. He earned his Bachelor's degree in Sport Management from Florida State University, proving that his dreams could transcend his origins. This was just the beginning.
Fueled by his relentless commitment to personal growth and his desire to give back, Rashard took his education to the next level. He obtained his Master's degree from Louisiana State University in Higher Education, equipping himself with the tools and knowledge to make a profound impact in the lives of others.
Never forgetting his roots, Rashard returned to his hometown, determined to be a beacon of hope and change for the community he loves. In collaboration with like-minded individuals, he co-founded the non-profit organization, "Project Transforming Hope, Unifying Generations." Project Transforming Hope, Unifying Generations: This remarkable non-profit initiative is a testament to Rashard's vision. The organization is designed to holistically develop students, offering guidance, mentorship, and resources that prepare them for life beyond high school. It is a symbol of hope, unity, and a brighter future for the youth of Miami-Dade.
Rashard's story is one of resilience, ambition, and an unshakable belief in the transformative power of education. From the challenging streets of Miami to the inspiring halls of academia, he has not only conquered adversity but is also dedicating his life to paving the way for others. Rashard is a living example that education can be the key that unlocks the doors to a brighter, better future for all, regardless of where you come from.
Shannon Cochran
Shannon was born and raised in Miami, FL and currently serves as Program Director of TRIO Upward Bound South Dade with non-profit organization, the College Bound Institute (CBI). She is a two-time, first-generation college graduate of Florida State University (FSU), earning her bachelors degree in Family & Child Sciences with Minors in Education and Psychology. She then went on to earn her master’s degree in Higher Education Student Affairs. While pursuing her master’s degree, she worked as a Student Engagement Graduate Assistant for the Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE) Department at FSU. There, she found her passion for working with first generation college students from low socioeconomic backgrounds, connecting them to educational resources, and promoting a sense of community through engagement initiatives and socio-emotional support. While in this role she served as the Advisor for the CARE Leadership Council, Assistant Summer Bridge Program Coordinator, Interim Student Support Services (SSS) Director, and Mentor for CARE’s Bridge to Graduate School Program. She has won awards from the department such as CARE’s Trailblazer Award, was a member of the W.E.B DuBois Honor Society, and became the first graduate student to be inducted into the CARE Hall of Fame. After her departure from Tallahassee, FL she returned to her hometown Miami, FL and began working as a Senior Academic Advisor for Psychology and Behavioral Neuroscience students at Florida International University (FIU).
Outside of her work experience, Shannon is an entrepreneur and CEO of a skincare company named Pores UV Love, founded in 2021. After graduating from Beauty School in 2020 obtaining a Skincare Specialist license, she began promoting good energy and holistic wellness, creating a skincare brand that connects Mind, Body, Skincare. As a hobby, she enjoys being in nature, traveling, reading, and spending time with family. To conclude, if she could give advice to anyone it would be to “Fail Forward”, because if you are not willing to fail, then you are not willing to succeed.
Melissa Brown
Melissa Brown, currently residing in Tampa, is the Assistant Director of Development for Parent and Diversity Initiatives at the USF Foundation and a licensed Realtor, serving the Tampa Bay Area and beyond. Prior to this, she dedicated over 6 years at Florida State University's Office of Admissions, playing a pivotal role in supporting underrepresented and first-generation students in their higher education journey. As a Senior Admissions Officer, she also assessed international freshman applications. Originating from South Florida, Melissa's commitment to community service is commendable. Between 2008-2020, she actively participated with Big Brothers Big Sisters of America. She also held the position of Social Media Chair for the Annual St. Jude Walk/Run in Tallahassee, volunteered for Omega Lamplighters, Inc., the Walk to End Alzheimer's, among other community services.
In 2017, Melissa founded P.A.G.E. (Promotion for Awareness and Generational Engagement). Through this initiative, she curated annual showcases at nursing homes and senior living facilities, fostering a bond between the youth and senior citizens. This endeavor was a tribute to her late grandmother, who battled Alzheimer's and Dementia.
As a proud member of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, Melissa has also been an active contributor to the BelievelnMe Foundation, Inc. since 2019. While she enjoys exploring new places, with Cuba topping her list, and indulging in diverse culinary experiences, Melissa's primary motivation is her two younger siblings. She constantly strives to set a precedent for them, instilling the belief that they can achieve any dream if they trust in their potential.