Our Board of Directors


  • Board Chair

    Sharon Joseph serves as CEO and Executive Director of the Boys and Girls Club of Harlem. She has over 15 years of experience in the financial services industry as a Private Wealth Advisor and Management Consultant. Prior to joining the Boys and Girls Club of Harlem she worked at Goldman Sachs. Sharon was instrumental in the development of Harlem Lanes, the country’s first Black Woman owned and built bowling alley and family entertainment center. Sharon received her B.A. in from Tufts University and an M.B.A. from Columbia Business School. Sharon has won numerous awards and recognition for her contributions in the Harlem Community including from President Bill Clinton, Mayor Bloomberg and Governor Patterson.


  • Board Director

    Ashli Gibbs is a visionary leader and the CEO of both Blue Ninja Media Group and Silver Bull Management Group. With a degree in International Finance, concentrating in Pre-Law, Ashli brings a unique blend of financial acumen and strategic insight to her roles.

    At Blue Ninja Media Group, she drives a talented team specializing in multimedia production, branding and strategic communication. Inder her leadership, the company has established itself as an innovative powerhouse in digital content creation, skillfully harnessing the art of storytelling to engage audiences across various platforms. Ashli’s commitment to pushing boundaries has resulted in visually stunning and impactful campaigns, including eye-catching videos, compelling social media strategies, and immersive web experiences. Her leadership is dedicated to elevating brands and transforming visions into reality.

    With over two decades of experience in real estate development and finance, Ashli has a proven track record of navigating complex business landscapes and delivering exceptional results. Her expertise not only enhances the operational success of Silver Bull Management Group but also positions it as a leader in its filed.

    Recognized for her contributions to the industry, Ashli is passionate about mentoring the next generation of leaders and advocating for diversity and inclusion in the workplace. With her relentless drive and innovative mindset, Ashli Gibbs continues to shape the future of digital marketing and management, making a significant impact in both fields.


  • Board Director

  • Vice Chair

    Zevilla Jackson Preston is a registered architect with 30+ years of experience. She is principal of JP Design (JPD), a family owned and operated design/ development firm. Zevilla's primary focus is the architectural division which provides a full array of architectural services from pre-design through construction. Zevilla grew up in Harlem during the height of urban blight and abandoned buildings. This impacted her to the extent that her architectural philosophy in centered on the thoughts of economists who believe that sustainable community development is about the development of the people themselves — not just the physical plant. Hence, she engages in a design process that recognizes the interconnection of the economic, social, physical, environmental and cultural vitality of a community. Additionally, Zevilla positively contributes to the Harlem community and New York City at-large through a host of volunteer activities.

  • Board Director

    Lewiston Murray is the General Manager of the Rennaissance New York Harlem Hotel, bringing decades of experience in hospitality management to his role. Originally from Jamaica, he began his career in the industry as a Food & beverage cashier with Wyndham Hotels and Resorts before transitioning into hospitality finance. With over a decade in financial management he later moved into operations where he has excelled in leadership roles across major hotel brands, including IHG, Hilton, Wyndham, and Marriott.

    With more than 10 years of experience as a General Manager in the competitive New York City market, Lewiston was selected in July 2022 as the Project General Manager for the Renaissance New York Harlem Hotel. He successfully led the hotel’s grand opening in August 2023, overseeing operations and ensuring a seamless launch.

    Beyond his professional achievements, Lewiston enjoys sports, music, and social events. He is also a proud husband and father of three.

  • Board Director


  • Board Director

    Dr. Joseph L. Tait, a University of Pennsylvania-trained Doctor of Veterinary Medicine, has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Harlem Commonwealth Council, Inc., its subsidiaries, and affiliates from September 2004 until September 2020, when he retired. Under Dr. Tait's leadership, Harlem Commonwealth Council initiated programs that focused on investing in the human capital of the Harlem community. Among its initiatives, Harlem Commonwealth emphasized fostering the success of students in Harlem through healthcare-related scholarships to those pursuing careers in medicine, radiology and nursing; orchestrating summer internships for high school juniors and seniors in private-sector business corporations; providing adult basic education for the emerging immigrant population in Harlem; and delivering entrepreneurial training programs as well as providing revolving loans and technical skills to existing and start-up businesses.


  • Board Director