OUR TEAM

Len Ford Foundation is a visionary group of dedicated folks who believe in the goodness in all of us. They have set out on a mission to bring together other like-minded people under one common goal.... to stabilize communities by helping others.

Meet our dedicated Board of Directors. They are all committed to the mission of the Len Ford Foundation, providing affordable housing for individuals and families in need.

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

William I. Jackson, Jr.

Chairman

CEO/Founder of The SYNERGIST Consortium. The SYNERGIST Consortium is a collective of business entities that include: VURV Development LLC, OUBE and ProFolio Consultants. Experienced Chief Executive Officer with a demonstrated history of working in the venture capital and private equity industry. Skilled in Business Planning, Investor Relations, Coaching, International Business, and Asset Management. Strong business development professional graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Communication, Media Studies and Education from University of Michigan. Will oversee and coordinate private and public matters concerning fundraising, donations and grants. Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, PHI Chapter.

Robert Brown

Vice Chairman

Project Manager with extensive industry experience in the design/construction of commercial/single/multifamily conversions, housing (HUD/MSHDA) and K-12/higher education projects. Proven track record with great success in the management of multiple projects with the oversight of staff/contractors/sub-contractors and with delivering profitable projects in accordance to company financial standards. Will support Chairman and ascertain opportunities for Co-Op and Co-Housing development. University of Michigan graduate, School of Architecture. Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, PHI Chapter.

Gene Bell

Secretary

Account Management professional committed to exceptional client service and maintaining high standards. Proven ability in customer relationship development and retention. Acumen for establishing and securing repeat business, referrals and creating productive business environments contributing to successful outcomes. As National Business Development Manager for Workplace Solutions structuring core competencies that revolve around the ability to drive value to customers both financially and operationally. Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, PHI Chapter.

Wayne Lyons, II

Executive Director

As Executive Director I am tasked with identifying groups and organizations in the Greater Detroit area working with the homeless and creating synergy with private, public and educational resources. As Joint CEO at Empire For The Youth, my aim has been to impact and influence as many students as possible in a positive and productive way by shaping the mindset and thinking process of how to utilize resources and nearby support. I work to bridge gaps collectively as a means for that positive and productive change. Stanford University Graduate, BA, School of Architectural Engineering; University of Michigan Graduate, MS, School of Social Work. Member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity.

Gwendolyn D. Bush

CIO/Vice Executive Director

To proactively map out the ICT strategy and policy for the Foundation. I am making decisions regarding matters such as purchase of IT equipment from suppliers or the creation of new IT systems. Other responsibilities include leading and directing the staff. As Vice Executive Director I am assisting and organizing the duties of the Executive Director and supporting the activities of the Executive Director. As Dean of Instructional Technology at the University of Detroit Jesuit High School and Academy I work with students intensively regarding IT. Educational experience include MIT, Cornell University and other Universities. Member Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority.