Meet the Members of the National Operating Committee
Yolanda Smith: Secretary
Yolanda “Vital Sign” Smith, born In Arkansas yet raised in Las Vegas, NV. As a Great Awakening member of Gamma Phi Rho Lupus Sorority, Inc. she will serve as our secretary. Yolanda not only is a member of GPR she also is actively involved with Colors of Lupus Nevada. She is a mother to three and grandmother to two grandsons. The road to her lupus, as well other autoimmune diseases began in 2008 yet wasn’t diagnosed until January 2017. She is a certified medical assistant for last 27 years. She is also the owner of Sweet 100 Catering Co., which she started back in April 2019. Her community service efforts started out with K.F.A.B.S., an organization founded during LA Riots in 1992 to current, she was youth group advisor for over 8 years
Nicole Hester: Assistant Secretary
Nicole "TAILorMade" Hester, mother of two was born and raised in Chicago, Illinois where she attended Columbia College('98). Nicole was diagnosed with Systemic Lupus during her 3rd year of undergraduate studies. She became a member of Gamma Pi Rho Lupus Sorority (line name ZERO TOLERANCE) FALL 2022 and is part of GPRLS's Advocacy & Awareness team. Nicole enjoys spending quality time with her grandson, Mason(1). She is currently pursuing her Masters in Education(EPOL)and is due to conclude her studies, FALL of 2023. Nicole is looking forward to attending her first very 1ST Founders Day, September 2023,
Sonya Elmore: Parliamentarian - Finance
Sonya Elmore is a resident of Monroe, LA. She received her Associate Degree in Applied Science in Accounting (AAS) in 1989 followed by a Bachelor of Business Administration in Computer Information System (BBA) in 1992. She was diagnosed with System Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in April 2010 and has been battling it ever since. She is also the CEO of Elmore’s Bookkeeping and Tax Preparation Services, LLC. She also sales Avon and Herbal Life. She is highly qualified and has been managing finances and doing taxes since 2000. She is also a QuickBooks Pro Advisor along with being proficient in QuickBooks and Microsoft Office. Being a single mom of three beautiful children, a son and daughter who is 13 years old and a special needs son who is 10 years old who has autism. Recently her oldest son was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She is very active in her church where she holds many positions which consist of being a Sunday School Teacher, Youth Leader, Vacation Bible School Teacher, and Choir Member. She is also a member of Gamma Delta Epsilon Incorporated, a Christian Sorority. Sonya loves spending time with her children, family, and friends along with going to the movies, listening to music, watching videos, playing video games. Sonya is a lover of God, and she believes he is able. Some of her favorite scriptures are Philippians 4:13; Psalm 34: 1, 1 Thessalonians 5:17 and Psalm 23, just to name a few. Her favorite sayings are “I may have LUPUS, but LUPUS doesn’t have me.”
Jeanette J Pizarro-Harpe: Media & Marketing
Jeanette Pizarro-Harpe is a Trailblazer member of Gamma Pi Rho Lupus Sorority, Inc. She is of Puerto Rican heritage and was born and raised in the Bronx, NY. Like her father, she enlisted in the US Marine Corps. She served during Desert Storm from 1991 -1998 and honorably discharged in 1998 as a Sgt. She earned her Technical Diploma in Network Engineering & Data Communications, her AAS in Digital Arts & Animation, and her BA in Multimedia Arts & Design. Jeanette was diagnosed with SLE in 2018. She currently lives in Texas with her soulmate, Retired (USMC) GySgt Darius Harpe; they share 5 children. She is retired from government service, ending with the Dept of the Interior, US Fish & Wildlife Service as an Administrative Officer. She is a multimedia artist and author of a memoir titled: Camouflaged Shame (Uncensored) - A Path to Redemption After Military Sexual Trauma. Jeanette sees the importance of giving back, by providing information and support where she can. She is a member of the media & marketing team for both Gamma Pi Rho and Colors of Lupus NV. She is also a member of the Women Marines Association, the Disabled American Veterans, and the Realize Foundation.
Lashawn Hamiel: Media & Marketing/Advocacy & Awareness
LaShawn Hamiel, born in Philadelphia, PA, is a Medical Assistant, Registered Nurse, and National Certified Phlebotomist. She has been working at Holy Redeemer Hospital since 2009 and is passionate about helping others and treating them with respect. LaShawn is a mother of four children and has been involved in various community activities since 2007. She was diagnosed with Lupus, cervical cancer, and Dvt's, which devastated her. LaShawn has also been a cheerleading coach and choreographer since 2007, and is an advocate for helping women and children in need. She participates in coat drives, toy drives, and back-to-school events to raise awareness of the needs of youth in the community. LaShawn's passion for pastry cooking began at 16 and she now owns Lala's D'licious Sweets and Treats and Love-By-Yuri Thrift Shop and Boutique. She serves on the board of Gamma Pi Rho, focusing on raising awareness of Lupus and the importance of everyone playing a role in finding a cure.
Ashley Riley: Media & Marketing
A native of Windsor, Connecticut Ashley began her undergraduate studies at Howard University in Washington, DC, later transferring to the University of Hartford in West Hartford, CT where she received her Bachelor of Arts degree in Criminal Justice. Ashley was diagnosed with (SLE) Lupus in 2014, after the birth of her son. In 2015 Ashley left Connecticut and relocated to Florida where she began working for the Broward County School District as a Risk Management Professional. In June 2018 Ashley was inducted into the Pi Alpha Alpha honor society and received her Master’s Degree in Public Administration from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, FL. Ashley is an active member and former Board of Director for the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc (South Palm Beach Chapter), a Lupus Ambassador for the Lupus Foundation of America, Southeast Florida Region and an Administrative Assistant for Women Business Connect. In her spare time Ashley enjoys traveling, reading, and spending time with her family and friends. Ashley believes that people are more than their diagnosis, that you can be a beacon of strength, a source of inspiration, and a reminder that even in the face of challenges, life can be beautiful. Ashley looks forward to continuously evolving with the digital landscape, creating impactful campaigns, and contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Gamma Pi Rho Lupus Sorority, Inc Media & Marketing team.
Kristi Riley: Chancellor
Kristi Riley is a resident of Durham, North Carolina. She is a retired military veteran who has completed her associates degree in paralegal studies and is currently working on her Bachelors degree in Legal Studies from American Military University in Charlestown, West Virginia. She has been married to her husband since August 2011 and is a mother to four children. Kristi was diagnosed with (SLE) lupus in November 2016, while serving in the military. She loves to educate and mentor others about her experiences with lupus and how she overcomes the impediments of her illness. Her way of coping with this disease is by keeping herself busy with law school, work, and taking care of her family. Her battle with this disease and other illnesses are continuous, however she fights daily like a true soldier. She does not let it crack her spirit, steal her energy, or break her confidence. She wants others battling the same disease to know they are not alone and that together we can fight this invisible disease. She believes knowledge is power and by being proactive and keeping ourselves informed, we can KNOW lupus and say NO to lupus.
Kendra Greenwood: Co-Chancellor
Kendra is a Virginia native currently residing in Southern California. She is a Navy spouse and mother to two girls. She started experiencing symptoms and struggling with her health in 2015 and first received a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia in 2017. It took until June 2020 for her to receive the diagnosis of lupus (SLE). In the beginning, she felt a lot of emotions about having such an illness, but through research and support groups, she found the encouragement she needed. Since being a member of Gamma Pi Rho Lupus Sorority Inc., Kendra has enjoyed being a chancellor, where she helps educate and bring in the new line of sisters to our sorority. She finds pleasure in teaching those around her about the complications of lupus and fibromyalgia. Kendra believes that these illnesses are not her limitations in life and continues to strive every day!
Rosalind Robinson: Co-Chancellor
Lupus warrior Rosalind Robinson serves as the Mentor for Gamma Pi Rho Lupus Sorority, Inc. She is a native of Jacksonville, Florida. Although, she has no children of her own, Ms. Robinson is a godmother of two beautiful young women and an aunt to an amazing young man. She received an Associates of Arts degree at Florida Community College of Jacksonville, then pursued a Bachelor of Science degree in Sociology with a minor in Psychology & Music at the University of North Florida. These educational goals led her to receive a lifetime achievement award for serving on the Board at Duval County’s Parent Teacher Association (PTSA). Before being diagnosed with Lupus, she was primarily diagnosed with another auto-immune disease called Sarcoidosis for about 3 years. She has been battling Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE Lupus) for 19 years along with other auto-immune diseases. Since being diagnosed with Lupus, she has undergone multiple life-threatening surgeries; however, by the grace of God, she is full of life and doing well. Everyday is a challenge with Lupus, but she manages no matter the circumstance.
Ti’Ocea Hagins: Co-Chancellor
Ti’Ocea Hagins, a native of Rochester, New York born and raised, but now resides in Charlotte, NC with her family. She is a mother of two wonderful sons who has become her life. She graduated from Monroe Community College with an Associates Degree in Criminal Justice and Brockport State College (State University of New York) with a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Minor in Forensic Science. Before being diagnosed with Lupus, she was originally battling another auto-immune disease called Mixed-Connective Tissue Disease and Arthritis since early 2012. She was then diagnosed with Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) in September 2018 and has been battling it ever since. She has struggled with her health since the age of 20, when she was first hit with an 18-wheeler which ultimately led to her health being a downhill battle. She has battled everything from Pulmonary Embolisms to having all her colon removed from becoming sick with C-difficile Colitis (C-diff) which became a battle to stay alive. Through all of her obstacles, trials, and tribulations, she, by the Grace of God, is still here on this earth and has lived to tell us her story through her book Surviving the Storms.
LaRhonda Yokum: Travel Coordinator/Fundraising
La Rhonda Leontyne Yokum-Guidry was born on February 1, 1970, to the union of the late Rev. & Mrs. Ronald L. Yokum. Happily married to Curtis Guidry for 21 years and has an 18-year-old son whom they affectionately call Binky, Curtis Dwayne Yokum-Guidry. A proud product of Rayne High School, Southern University A&M Baton Rouge, Louisiana State University at Eunice, and Southern University at New Orleans. A retired educator with 20 years of experience specializing in Social Studies and African American Studies was diagnosed with Lupus in 2018, which led to her earlier retirement. She became a home-based travel agent under a host agency in February 2018, starting a new career path in the travel industry before retirement. She founded Daughters of Nefertiti, Inc., an organization that caters to the needs and betterment of African American girls in grades 8 through 12. Additionally, in 2022, she started her own Host Agency. Their end-of-year season culminates with an annual Jewels of The Nile Cotillion. La Rhonda is also a member of The Order of Eastern Stars Scottish Rite. Soror Bayou is a genuine lover of people of all ages and from all walks of life who loves to travel, cook, and bake.
Jasmine Lawson: Paraphernalia
Jazz Soror Runway possess the heart of a lion and a runway walk that will turn heads. A beautiful soul who is not afraid to stand up for what she loves and what’s important! She founded her business in 2021 during the pandemic to give hope to people. Her vision was to show people that we can still follow our dreams despite adversity. Her business, The Jazz Experience, represents all of the talents and creative services God has blessed her with. She is thankful for her support system and my creative mind. Jazz was diagnosed with Lupus in 2016. Her motivation comes from her diagnosis. Jazz has great confidence knowing what she is up against, but she is continually inspiring others.
Tiffany Cason: Paraphernalia
Tiffany Cason, 34 years old, was diagnosed with Lupus in December 2018, happily married for 10 years, and has 2 loving children. Her passion is Education, where she received her degree in Early Childhood and continuing education in Human Service Administration. She Was employed through the School District of Lee County for 20 years. In October of 2023, she was blessed to become the Assistant Principal of a Private Christian School. She has a small business, Printed Blessings by TLC. This life is definitely one chosen for her by her Heavenly Father. Without Him and a great family, she would not have made it. Tiffany is extremely grateful to the Lord that he is keeping her here on earth with family, even during the hardest times with her health. She is thankful to be a part of Gamma Pi Rho Lupus Sorority Inc. and to serve in the paraphernalia department. She has a beautiful sisterhood that understands her when no one else does and accepts her just as she is. She is Soror Southern Belle.
Curtisha Ray Anderson: Paraphernalia
Curtisha Anderson was diagnosed with lupus 32 years ago at 14 years old. Through the years, lupus caused damage to her kidney, and she needed a kidney transplant. In 2017, Curtisha received a kidney transplant and is doing well. In 2022, she started The Curtisha Anderson Scholarship Foundation as an expression of her gratitude for her transplant, a way to honor her donor, and a way to give back to her community. Curtisha is an ambassador for The Lupus Foundation of America - Heartland Chapter and The United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS). She enjoys volunteering for The National Kidney Foundation, Gift of Life KC, Midwest Transplant Network, and The American Kidney Fund. Curtisha is also a proud member of Team MoKan, a community of organ, eye, and tissue recipients, donor families, and living donors, and she serves as the Minority Donor Liaison. She competed in her first Transplant Games of America in 2022 and brought home a gold and silver medal for her team. She says that her greatest accomplishment is becoming a Glamorous Gamma!
Tasha Elmore-Faulkner : Historian/Chaplain
Tasha is a Qualified Professional who works in the state of North Carolina with individuals with Intellectual Disabilities. She was diagnosed with Lupus in 2016. Tasha has a Bachelors Degree in Criminal Justice and hopes to one day open her own business of working with individuals with Special Needs. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, traveling, meeting new people and encouraging others to be their best self. Tasha has one daughter, Whitley, who is the apple of her eye.
Chandra Heard: Advocacy & Awareness Chair
Chandra serves as the Advocacy & Awareness Chair for Gamma Pi Rho Lupus Sorority, Inc. She is a native Chicagoan born and raised in Country Club Hills, IL. She commutes back and forth from Chicago to Atlanta to help her only daughter as she battles Sjogren’s syndrome, Fibromyalgia, and chronic fatigue. After graduating High School in 1990, Chandra proudly served in the United States Army for 9 years. In 2005, she joined the Order of Eastern Stars and became more active in her charity work. Like many other Lupus survivors, she cannot work due to her disabilities, so she dedicates herself to the advocacy, community work, and committees of the sorority. Having earned certifications in nursing assistant, phlebotomy, registered medical assistant, and practical nurse, she continues to pursue her passion for helping others. The day-to-day challenges of managing Systemic Lupus erythematosus for Chandra have been immensely challenging for 33 years now. Additional illnesses have developed due to this, including Sjogren's, Fibromyalgia, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and stage 4 Chronic Kidney Disease. As an advocate for herself, her daughter, and the entire Lupus community, it is imperative that she maintain her commitment to the cause. Being a member of the sorority and having a supportive family foundation gives her a sense of purpose and helps her cope with the effects of Lupus. She will continue to “Unmask the Faces of Lupus” in every capacity.
Tynesha Hall: Advocacy & Awareness
Tynesha Hall is a part of our Advocacy and Awareness Department. She has twin sons, 25, who support her and her condition. She has a fur grandbaby who is her ESA and service dog whom she lovingly calls Ms. Tyanna K. Tynesha was diagnosed with lupus in 2006 at the age of 25. Her story is a testament to the strength and resilience of individuals with chronic illnesses. Despite her struggles with lupus, she has been able to pursue her passions and create a fulfilling career as an esthetician. Her twin sons and fur grandbaby were a constant source of love and support throughout her journey. She started her makeup and lash business to continue pursuing her passion while managing her condition. Her diagnosis has only fueled her determination to help others feel confident and beautiful through makeup and lashes, and she has been able to do so through my own business. While her mobility may have declined, her passion for helping others has grown stronger. She is an active spinal cord injury support group member and is featured in the United Spinal Association of Illinois newsletter. Additionally, she is part of the Guthy Jackson Foundation, which supports individuals diagnosed with NMO. She enjoys shopping, attending church, and being a listening ear to others. Because she is fortunate to have a strong support system of family and friends, she is determined not to let her struggles with Lupus or NMO defeat her and will overcome any challenges that come my way. She hopes to inspire others to embrace their beauty and strength, no matter their challenges. Tynesha is passionate about helping others look good and showing people you can still look good with a chronic illness. Through her advocacy, awareness, and zest for life, she is Triumphant, Gamma Pi Rho’s, Soror Triumphant Diva.
Marnetta Sanders-Ennis: Silver Warriors - Charity & Community Service
Marnetta Sanders-Ennis is a native Southern Californian who was transplanted to Maryland after being diagnosed with Systemic Lupus in 1993. After suffering a stroke, Marnetta was not only told she had lupus, but she was also given the disheartening news that the life expectancy for lupus patients was about 10 years. As a wife and mother of 3, Marnetta couldn’t just sit and accept the limitations she was given. She changed her career, earning her B.S. in Hospital Administration and Planning, and M.S. in Education. She now serves as the Workforce Development Manager for Maryland Health Benefits Exchange. A lot has changed in the ‘world of Lupus’ since 1993! Since then there have been many breakthroughs and improvements in the treatment of lupus, and Marnetta is proud to be counted as a 30 year warrior and survivor! She understands the challenges facing lupus patients and is excited to serve Gamma Pi Rho as a member of the Charity and Community Service Board as well as the Co-Chair of the Silver Warriors for women 55 and over. In her role she is honored to give support and encouragement to other Lupus sufferers, whether they are just starting on their journey, or have years of experience under their belt. That’s why Marnetta is so excited about the Glammorous women of Gamma. Gamma is filled with knowledgeable, supportive and awesome women who fight for the quality of life of the Lupus Warrior.
Paula Garrett: S.E.A.L. / D.Y.M.E.S.
Paula serves as the Chair for the S.E.A.L.S. and the D.Y.M.E.S. These are additional auxiliaries connected to the sorority. She was born and raised in Lansing, Michigan. Her three greatest blessings came in the form of her amazing children, Michael, Brittanni, and Kyila-Starr. They are her pride and joy, along with her gorgeous grandbabies. She is a certified nursing assistant, phlebotomist, and registered medical assistant. Paula’s love for helping others has allowed her to work as the Director of Life skills for an outpatient treatment center. She was diagnosed with lupus on February 2, 2001. Like many other Lupus warriors, she suffered many health crises, multiple surgeries, and various treatments to save her life and keep her healthy. Just recently, she suffered a series of mini-strokes brought on by a Lupus flare. The day-to-day challenges of managing SLE (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus) have kept her researching treatments, medications, and even naturopathic remedies. Fitness has been her savior. Becoming a Committed dance fitness instructor, along with weight training, has helped to channel the overwhelming frustrations of living with Lupus. Advocating is a priority for her as well. This is a journey she could not do alone. That’s why she is grateful for becoming a member of the sorority. It has been a life-changing experience. Having a sisterhood that understands and recognizes the race we run has made her smile many days. Awareness is wealth.
Patricia Dees: S.E.A.L. / D.Y.M.E.S. - Fundraising
Patricia Dees, a native of Saint Louis, Missouri was honored to become a member of Gamma Pi Rho Lupus Sorority, Inc. in Spring 2021 as part of "The Great Awakening". Patricia is a Lupus Advocate with 14 years of service which led her volunteer work with the Lupus Foundation of America-Heartland Chapter to receive volunteer of the year. Patricia looks forward to continuing to bring awareness and shine a light on the work of Gamma Pi Rho Lupus Sorority, Inc. as a member of the Advocacy and Awareness and DYMES/SEALS committees.
Shalitha Johnson: S.E.A.L. / D.Y.M.E.S.
Shalitha is a native of the South Suburban area of Chicago. She began her battle with Lupus at the early age of 11 years old. Twenty-Two years later she is still showing others that she Lives with Lupus but it does not control her life! Shalitha has a passion for helping others understand that healthy mental health is vital in ensuring a good quality of life. Against all the odds she has faced, she obtained her Certified Medical Assistant and Phlebotomy Certification, Associate’s of Art in Education, Bachelor's of Art in Psychology and she is currently finishing her Master's of Science in Psychology. Shalitha not only battles Lupus but Sjorgrens and Rheumatoid Arthritis. She's learned through trial and error that the first step in treatment is advocating for yourself. She serves on Advocacy and Awareness and Seals and Dymes.