ICRI BOARD OF DIRECTORS
SHYAAM SHABAKA, BOARD PRESIDENT
With over three decades of experience in public health and sustainable urban agriculture, Shyaam Shabaka is the Founder of Eco Village Farm Learning Center in Richmond, California. His rich background includes serving as a United Nations Election Observer in South Africa and a Ford Foundation delegate. He has contributed significantly to ICRI, including over a decade as Board Chair.
CHRIS ELLISON, SECRETARY
Chris Ellison, a partner at Ellison, Schneider & Harris, specializes in energy, water, and environmental law. His expertise in energy law includes working with energy suppliers, customers, and regional reliability organizations. Chris has actively participated in Western electricity forums and has been recognized multiple times for his legal expertise.
MELANIE JONES
Melanie Jones, founder of Speak to Children, shifted from a corporate career to focus on youth character education. She integrates her program into education systems nationwide and globally, emphasizing whole-child development. Melanie holds a BA from the University of San Francisco and a Master's in Organizational Development.
SYLVIA DEWITT
Sylvia DeWitt brings a wealth of experience in performance and compliance auditing within government entities to the board. She directed audit projects as an Audit Manager for the City of Oakland. She managed the administrative support services of the Oakland City Auditor's Office and the City of Oakland Police Department. Her career includes extensive work in developing audit programs, managing staff, and ensuring compliance with legal standards. Sylvia's strategic management and analytical skills, honed over decades of public service, make her a valuable asset to the board.
LMICHAEL E. GREEN
Currently the Interim Executive Director at Food First, LMichael E. Green brings over 20 years of nonprofit management experience, focusing on equity in food and global health services. His career spans various roles in executive leadership, fundraising, marketing, and policy development. He has worked with CARE USA, Africare, The International Partnership for Microbicides, and the Lifebox Foundation. He has served in executive marketing and fundraising roles at the United Way of Metropolitan Atlanta. His pre-nonprofit experience includes a decade in marketing and positions at the Congressional Budget Office and the White House Office of the US Trade Representative. A board member of ICRI, he is also involved in educational committees and alums activities. Mr. Green holds an MBA from Duke University and a BA from Georgetown University.
MICHELLE CORLEY WING
A leading certified yoga and mindfulness educator, Michelle Corley Wing has been pioneering her It's Yoga Kids® system since 2005, blending physical fitness with mental health benefits. Featured in Yoga Journal and Parenting Magazine, she serves as an ICRI board member and holds multiple Yoga Alliance certifications. Her diverse background includes being a former Disney dancer and Microsoft employee, and she has impacted over 2 million children with her IYK® Warrior Training. Michelle's journey reflects her commitment to holistic health and education.
GIULIETTA PEZZANITI
With over 14 years in Silicon Valley's high-tech sector, Giulietta Pezzaniti is a Talent Director at Airbnb. Her HR background includes leadership development and organizational design. Giulietta also contributes to the community through her board roles and volunteer work.