CEO

Marie Vernon is the Founder and CEO of the Legacy Foundation Corporation (LFC), a 501c3 organization dedicated to inspiring positive change in the lives of youth and young adults residing in low-wealth and underserved communities, including individuals who identify as blind, deaf and hard of hearing (DHH). Through various programs and initiatives, LFC aims to provide educational, career, and personal development opportunities to empower these individuals to achieve their full potential. Marie's passion for serving stems from her belief in the importance of equity and access to resources for all individuals, regardless of their background or abilities. Under her leadership, LFC continues to make a lasting impact, fostering a sense of hope and possibility for the future among its participants.

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

With a career span over 30 years in aerospace and healthcare case management, Keith is dedicated to empowering youth with essential life skills. He supports programs that develop talents in entrepreneurship, financial responsibility, self-esteem, confidence, critical thinking, and teamwork. Committed to building future leaders, Keith brings his expertise and passion to community and professional efforts worldwide.

CHIEF OPERATIONS OFFICER

As Chief Operations Officer and Secretary of the Board of Directors at Legacy Foundation Corporation, Mandy is dedicated to empowering individuals in their professional journeys. With a Bachelor's degree in Fine Arts and over 25 years of experience in Interior Design, Mandy brings creativity and expertise to her role. As a wife and mother of two teenage sons, she advocates for the empowerment of young adults and women, balancing her career with volunteer teaching of expressive dance. Mandy's background in ballet inspires a Soles for Souls social purpose program for participants of Read the Room. Committed to fostering mentorship and collaboration, Mandy is a business owner inspiring women to pursue their passions. She believes true success is achieved through uplifting others, a value she embodies in both her professional and personal life.

PROGRAM DIRECTOR, LIFE SKILLS TRAINING ACADEMY

Theresa Chapman-Boyd is a seasoned educational and career counselor, dedicated to guiding students and participants towards realizing their passions for personal and professional growth. With extensive training and experience, she believes in empowering individuals to trust themselves, fostering emotional healing and life satisfaction. Holding a master’s degree in counseling psychology from Argosy University and an Associate Marriage and Family Therapist license, Theresa excels in helping clients cultivate positive thinking and behavior for transformative change. Beyond her professional pursuits, she enjoys crafting natural beauty products, engaging in outdoor activities, and cherishing moments with loved ones.

DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST (DEAF & HARD OF HEARING)

Onya Jones is responsible for the development of employment services in the program to ensure graduates obtain and maintain competitive, paid employment. As the owner of a sign language interpreting agency for over 30 years, Mrs. Jones believes in strengthening communities by helping individuals of all backgrounds realize their potential. She emphasizes shared decision-making, flexibility, and consistency, along with cultural humility and culturally-affirming care. Her process fosters independence while allowing individuals to remain connected with the team to achieve employment and education goals, reducing stigma and disability.

DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST (READ THE ROOM)

Julianna Vernon is passionate about helping children of all ages obtain a broader world-view and learning the value of their role in it. Her experience as a high school youth mentor and as a former Registrar Coordinator at The Los Angeles Film School has prepared her for a role focused on improving equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility. With a Bachelor's degree in Sociology from the University of Nevada, she brings a strong foundation in human behavior & societal dynamics to her work. Julianna is committed to developing a creative direction for the after-school pathway program that focuses on teen exploration, skill development, cultural enrichment, and community service, offering students life-changing experiences through volunteerism, career planning, world cultures, and international travel.