Resident Cohorts
COHORT 1: 2024-2026
Brenna Zimmerman
Brenna Zimmerman (she/her) graduated with her MSW from the University of Maryland, Baltimore in May 2024. She chose to pursue social work because she is dedicated to serving the youth and families she works with as whole people who are the experts in their experiences. Brenna believes in a social work perspective that is firmly rooted in a strengths-based approach that uplifts clients’ resilience and is explicitly anti-racist – working to dismantle the systems of oppression that have intentionally marginalized and ostracized communities of color in the U.S. She is excited to have the opportunity to engage in school-based social work at DC Prep’s Edgewood Middle School Campus through the MOMENTUM program. She believes that schools have the opportunity to be a hub of community services to ensure that all students and their families have access to the resources they need to thrive. Outside of social work, Brenna enjoys rock climbing and coaching a competitive youth climbing team, taking long walks with her dog, and making good food with her wife.
Kira Edwards
Kira Edwards, a licensed social worker from Prince George’s County, Maryland, holds a Master’s in Social Work, Social Policy, and Social Administration from the University of Chicago and a Bachelor of Social Work from North Carolina A&T State University. She has experience with various youth-serving organizations, including Americorps, Education Forward DC, and Chicago Public Schools. Kira aims to explore the integration of mental wellness and literacy efforts for youth in a PhD program. Her interests include mental health and educational equity, youth development, and bibliotherapy. She is currently a resident social worker at DC Prep PCS.
Clarke Jamison
Clarke Jamison, an education professional with deep roots in the DMV area, holds a Master of Social Work from Howard University. She is a volleyball coach and alumni board member at Stone Ridge School of the Sacred Heart, dedicated to fostering growth both on and off the court. Clarke’s love for travel, volleyball, and tennis highlights her active spirit. She also balances her professional life with self-care practices and bartending.
Monica Davalos
Monica Davalos, a bilingual licensed graduate social worker, joined the Social Justice School in
August 2024. She holds a Master of Social Work from Howard University and a Master of
International Peace and Conflict Resolution from American University. With nearly seven years of
experience at Children’s National in D.C., she focuses on integrating school, health, community, and
home-based services to support diverse families. Monica is a resident social worker at the Social
Justice School PCS.
Herson Carillo
Herson is a licensed graduate social worker who is joining MOMENTUM. He is enthusiastic about contributing to the organization and looks forward to expanding his professional practice while making a positive impact on others’ lives. Herson is currently placed at Mundo Verde PCS.
Selene Valentine
Selene Valentine, an LMSW and Howard University School of Social Work graduate is dedicated to helping students grow and flourish. A lifelong gamer, she is passionate about integrating video games into social work. In her free time, Selene enjoys video and board games, anime, mythology, cross-stitching, tarot, and discussing her hobbies in depth.
Janet Quartey
Janet Quartey is a passionate Licensed Social Worker and Therapist, bringing four years of valuable experience in mental health. Specializing in children, families, and school social work, she thrives in building partnerships, engaging with communities, and providing exceptional services. As a first-generation college graduate with a Master’s degree from Howard University, Janet is committed to offering trauma-informed care, promoting mental health education, and championing overall well-being. When not working, Janet enjoys cooking, painting, and
shopping!
Chelsey Henderson
Chelsey Henderson is a social worker with experience in non-profit, community health, and school settings. Born and raised in Washington, D.C., and a product of DC public schools, she prides herself on advocating for the disenfranchised. Her primary interests include play therapy, expressive arts, and mental health literacy. Chelsey exemplifies resilience and dedication to the field of social work. Professionally, she is a social worker for DC public schools.
Trenton Grant
Trent X is a dedicated social worker originally from Jacksonville, FL. He is a dual HBCU graduate, having completed his undergraduate studies at Norfolk State University and his graduate studies at Howard University. Trent is committed to helping students navigate their emotional and social challenges with a holistic approach. With his many lived experiences, he brings a unique blend of skills and passion to his role.
Christopher Bonner
Mr. Christopher Bonner, a dual-degree graduate from Howard University with a
Master of Divinity and a Master of Social Work focused on mental health, is an ordained clergy
member. With experience serving the educational community in Ward 7, Washington, D.C., he is
now a MOMENTUM Resident at Howard University Middle School of Mathematics & Science. He is
also the husband of Rev. Dr. Christal L. Bell, Director of Administration and Finance at Thrive DC.
Ste’Niya Williams
Ste’Niya Williams, LGSW, LMSW is a licensed social worker in Washington, D.C. and Maryland with over six years of experience in the field. She began her career in community-based work, where she developed a deep passion for serving underserved populations. Over time, she transitioned into school-based social work, recognizing the profound and lasting impact she could make in educational settings.
For the past two years, Ste’Niya has worked closely with students with disabilities and their families, providing therapeutic interventions, advocacy, and wraparound support. Her passion lies in organizing and creating systemic processes that break down barriers and promote equity for marginalized communities.
Ste’Niya is a resident social worker currently placed at Digital Pioneers Academy. In this role, she works closely with students and families to strengthen school-family partnerships, provide individualized support, and promote student well-being. Ste’Niya is committed to creating inclusive, student-centered environments that empower young people to thrive both inside and outside the classroom. Her long-term goal is to influence policy and lead systemic change by leveraging her direct experience with children and families to address the root causes of inequity at a structural level.
Rashida Clarke
Digital Pioneers
Rashida Clarke, LICSW (She/her) is a licensed social worker, school mental health counselor, and mother who has been working with infants, toddlers, school-aged children, and their families for nine years. Throughout her professional career, she has aided in ensuring that vulnerable children and families are in safe and nurturing environments. Rashida believes that when we educate, support, and provide the necessary resources to children, we can cultivate a society where people of color can obtain equal access to the world’s vast opportunities. Rashida is also a mentor, community advocate, event planner, and program manager who supports students and clinicians in the field. Rashida is located in Arlington, VA with her four year old son Logan and her loving husband.
Megan Gordon
Megan Gordon (she/her) is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) who recently graduated from the University of Georgia with her Master of Social Work. Megan has worked in K-12 public charter schools and residential substance use treatment, where she’s done work in individual and group therapy, case management, advocacy, and research. She focuses her practice on evidence-based, trauma-informed, culturally humble, and strengths-based work, centering clients and their unique experiences. Megan’s approach to therapy includes incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), play therapy, and expressive-based therapies. Megan is passionate about meeting clients where they are to promote growth, empowerment, and mental well-being, specifically in the education system. In her free time, Megan enjoys playing music, spending time in nature, and exploring new cities.
COHORT 2: 2024-2026
Brielle Duncan
A dedicated Mental Health Specialist and Advocate with a Master of Social Work from Howard University, bringing extensive experience supporting diverse populations through counseling, case management, and community outreach. Skilled in crisis intervention and behavioral support, with a strong commitment to fostering resilience and empowerment among youth and adults. Passionate about cultivating safe, supportive environments that promote mental wellness and personal growth.
Jaya Chittams
Jaya (she/her) is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) from Fayetteville, NC. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Human Development from Howard University and her Master of Social Work from the University of Maryland, Baltimore. Jaya’s practice is grounded in trauma-informed care and integrates elements of narrative therapy and somatic approaches to help students process their experiences and build resilience. She is passionate about creating supportive spaces where young people feel seen, heard, and empowered. In her free time, Jaya enjoys traveling and spending time with her family and friends.
Alexis Wilson
Hi, my name is Alexis Wilson, and I am a Licensed Graduate Social Worker. Originally from New Haven, CT, I completed my undergraduate studies at the University of Connecticut and earned my Master of Social Work from Howard University. I am a passionate advocate committed to supporting underserved communities, and promoting holistic well-being!
Megan Gordon
Megan Gordon (she/her) is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker (LGSW) who recently graduated from the University of Georgia with her Master of Social Work. Megan has worked in K-12 public charter schools and residential substance use treatment, where she’s done work in individual and group therapy, case management, advocacy, and research. She focuses her practice on evidence-based, trauma-informed, culturally humble, and strengths-based work, centering clients and their unique experiences. Megan’s approach to therapy includes incorporating elements of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), Motivational Interviewing (MI), play therapy, and expressive-based therapies. Megan is passionate about meeting clients where they are to promote growth, empowerment, and mental well-being, specifically in the education system. In her free time, Megan enjoys playing music, spending time in nature, and exploring new cities.
Gesmina Cemesca
Gesmina Cemesca is a Licensed Graduate Social Worker from Boston, MA. With other 9 years of experience working with children and youth, she has been a strong advocate for social and emotional development in and out of the classrooms. Gesmina hopes to continue creating a safe space where students are able to express themselves freely, while working on becoming the best version of themselves.
Kelsey Morrison
Kelsey is from Vashon Island in Washington State. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Kelsey spend a lot of time in nature and growing up with a mother who taught, she spent a lot of time in schools. Kelsey graduated from Goucher College with a major in sociology and anthropology with a concentration in social justice and a psychology minor. She then went back to her hometown where she worked as an elementary school paraprofessional. Since then, she has graduated with a social work degree from Catholic University and is licensed to practice in DC. Kelsey enjoys baking, walking, journaling, and exploring new parts of the city with friends. She is excited to join the MOMENTUM team!
Kyaus Washington
Kyaus has worked in three (3) public and charter schools in Washington, D.C. prior to joining MOMENTUM, and he is excited to continue building his skillset by being in community with like minded mental health professionals who have the same passion for educational liberation, a foundational pillar for Elsie Whitlow Stokes Community Freedom Public Charter School.