Our Officers…

Donyale Stephen-Atara, Board  Chair

Donyale Stephen-Atara is a Human Resource Manager of the Order of Fishermen Ministry Educational Services Head Start program in Detroit. Ms. Stephen-Atara has over 25 years experience in local government including service as Assistant Ombudsman for the City of Detroit and Deputy City Ombudsperson. She is a retired Deputy Director of the Department of Human Resources for the County of Wayne, and former Chair of the Wayne County Head Start Governing Board. Donyale Stephen-Atara is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She is a past Chair and Secretary and National Board member of the National Congress of Black Women-Greater Detroit Chapter. Donyale previously served on Just Speak’s advisory board and as vice chair before assuming the role as chairperson.

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Candace Cooper, Esq.  Board Vice Chair

Candace Cooper is a Buyer for Visteon Corporation. She was formerly a practicing corporate attorney for KMart, and Toyota. Ms. Cooper gained considerable board experience as a school board member for five years in Bangkok, Thailand, and Shanghai, China. Her experience included governance, strategic planning,  restructuring, and advising on legal issues and compliance. Candace Cooper’s professional skills coupled with her willingness to serve as an ambassador for Just Speak is a welcomed asset to our Board of Directors.

Clover McFadden, Board Treasurer 

Clover McFadden is an entrepreneur and IT professional. Currently, Ms. McFadden is the managing director of MASH Detroit. She is also the program development and grant writer for the Midnight Golf Program, as well as a business consultant for the Cordaus Group, Inc. McFadden has over six years of leadership experience as a business coach for New Detroit Camp Enterprise. She is dedicated to serving youth in the Detroit community and enjoys mentoring and coaching local high school students.

Michele Watkins, Board Secretary

Michele Watkins has over twenty years experience in property and business management. She is a licensed real estate broker. Michele is an active advocate as a Just Speak board member. Watkins is a track coach and trainer for girls and boys of all ages. Michele loves mentoring and community service. She has been a board member for five years.

To apply to become a member of the Board of Directors, click here.