Founder & President
Chief Executive Officer
Joseph Jeffries-EL
Inspired by President Richard Nixon’s Executive Order 11458—Prescribing Arrangements for Developing and Coordinating a National Program For Minority Business Enterprise on March 05, 1969, MR EL founded FES Sports Academy as an accredited four-year, private, co-educational, non-sectarian high school chartered by the Board of Regents of The University of the State of New York on September 23, 1983 pursuing the goal of developing positive self-images for urban youth through the infusion of the principles of sport management, philosophy, principles, and organization of athletics in education into the regular curriculum. FES Sports Academy was nationally acclaimed by the US Secretary of Education for providing a unique sports-centered vehicle for teaching New York State Education Department’s mandated subjects.
Board Secretary
Linda Pearson
Founding Member, and Secretary of Minority Enterprise Career Schools' Board of Trustees. Linda boasts a robust educational background as a
retired Licensed Teacher and Librarian of the New York City Department
of Education after 26 years and extensive certifications, making her a
highly qualified professional in the field of media and educational services. Linda holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Elementary Education from Medgar Evers College and furthered her education earning a Master
of Library Science Degree in Secondary Education from Queens College. Linda's educational achievements and professional certifications reflect her dedication to the field and her unwavering commitment to providing exceptional media and educational services.
Executive Director
Chief Learning Officer
Dr. Fabiola Jean-Graham
Dr. Fabiola Jean-Graham is an accomplished educator and leader with over a decade of experience in diverse roles, contributing significantly to educational development, human resources, and community service. Her educational background includes degrees from Fordham University, St John’s Fisher College, Pace University, and SUNY College at Old Westbury. Dr. Jean-Graham has extensive experience and unwavering commitment to education and
community service.
Board Member
Chief Operating Officer
Joanne Rodriguez
Experienced and mission-driven leader with over 30 years in human services and organizational leadership, now transitioning into school administration. Adept at managing staff, driving regulatory compliance, coordinating multi-disciplinary teams, and fostering safe, inclusive learning environments. Proven record of improving program outcomes, developing staff potential, and building strong relationships with families, stakeholders, and oversight bodies.
Board Member
Chief Advancement Officer
Melvyn (Mel) J. Davis
Seasoned executive with over two decades of experience in the sports industry. Mel has demonstrated exceptional leadership in business development, strategic alliances, and marketing initiatives. Career highlights include increasing revenue and membership significantly through strategic partnerships. Mel holds advanced degrees in Counseling and Psychology, Business and Marketing, complemented by a certificate in Career Planning.
Board of trustees
Trustee-at-Large
Dr. Sharon Hedrington
Dr. Sharon Hedrington is a Criminal Justice & Law Enforcement professional with over 20 years of applicable hands-on experience. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Major Criminal Justice, a Master of Science in Major Criminology, and a Ph.D. in Criminal Law from Upper State New York University in New York City. Dr. Hedrington stands as a shining example that determination, hard work, and perseverance are the keys to overcoming any obstacle.
For the past 7 years she has been employed with Horry County School District and has been a proud member of The SCEA since 2022. She is a dedicated and passionate member of the ESP Committee, an active member of her local HCEA, and the 2024 ESP of the Year for The SCEA.