The Minds

Dr. David J. Wallace is more than just a consultant; he is a dedicated culture influencer and the visionary behind Awakening Minds Consulting. With a strong commitment to justice, Dr. Wallace, a former educator, school administrator, and published writer, is transforming the discourse on racial and social justice through impactful ventures and innovative research. Dr. Wallace began his career as an elementary school teacher in Brooklyn, New York, then held the role of instructional leader at a K-6 school in Miami. He then went on to become an Assistant Professor of Teacher Training, and eventually a Campus Dean at Relay Graduate School of Education.

After years in education and the non-profit space, Dr. Wallace decided to explore a different business venture- pioneering advocacy for occupational well-being, driven by his unwavering dedication to promoting positive change. He decided to create Dream House Lounge- a mental and spiritual wellness lounge located in the Central Business District of New Orleans. Dr. Wallace cares deeply about amplifying culture and community, and continuously looks for ways to champion wellness.

Dr. Wallace earned a bachelor’s degree from Morehouse College, a Master’s in the Art of Teaching from Relay GSE, and an Educational Doctorate from St. Thomas University. His dissertation research focused on teacher self-efficacy through the lens of Relay GSE Teaching Residency. Dr. Wallace is currently co-creating an EdTech platform that matches cultural bearers with schools to deepen students educational experiences.

Aileen Tejeda was born and raised in the South Bronx and discovered her passion for education and social justice during her years as a teacher and coach at her alma mater, Aquinas High School.  She received a BA from Georgetown University in English with a minor in Theology and Theater and an Ed.M in the Education Policy and Management Program at the Harvard Graduate School of Education.  She is proud of being a first-generation college graduate and was most inspired by the strong women in her family, fantastic city schools, and education organizations where she has worked.  Aileen brings 12 years of experience working in and with schools as a teacher, leader, and coach. 
 
Currently, Aileen works as a consultant, DEI coach, and adjunct professor supporting K-12 and higher education organizations.  She has experience teaching general pedagogy courses with a focus on Exploring Teacher Identity, Culturally Responsive Teaching, Teacher Mindsets, and Restorative Justice.  
 
Aileen is driven by social justice, learning from and empowering young people, and the intersection of wellness, technology, and education in service of Black and Latinx communities.

Tirrell Barronette brings a unique blend of expertise to the table, drawing from a robust foundation in investment banking and a rich background in K-12 and higher education operations. As a former Goldman Sachs Investment Banker, he honed my skills in financial analysis, risk assessment, and strategic decision-making, consistently upholding a commitment to excellence.

Beyond Wall Street, Tirrell ventured into the entrepreneurial landscape, co-founding and successfully exiting a consumer products startup, before delving into the operations domain at Apple. Subsequently, he found his calling in the dynamic realm of education, channeling my financial acumen to optimize operations, drive efficiency, and elevate educational institutions' quality. Tirrell’s been privileged to contribute to the growth and success of K-12 schools and graduate-level programs through data-driven strategies and fostering collaboration, most notably at Uncommon Schools and Relay Graduate School of Education.

Presently, he is immersed in the world of education and technology, consulting with educational institutions while developing and supporting startups that harmonize technology operations and development. This exhilarating journey allows Tirrell to leverage his extensive experience to shape the operations and growth of innovative, mission-driven organizations. His path is defined by adaptability, a profound passion for problem-solving, and an unwavering commitment to catalyzing positive change. Tirrell is genuinely excited about the possibilities ahead and the chance to leave a lasting mark in the realms of education and technology.

A Free, Courageous, Authentic woman who helps high achieving black women take a breath so they can release the weight of the world and lean into a life of radical self love, freedom, and abundance! Marica uses immersive group EXPERIENCES and breathwork to help women:

• RECONNECT with the divinity inside themselves

• RELEASE old ways of being that disrupt relationships & connection

• CENTER their strengths in serving their community

With a past career as a VP of Finance and some work in public service, Marica often sacrificed her mental and emotional well-being due to the glass ceilings, societal box(es), and pressures to “make the parents proud.” This is why Marica is committed to supporting black women in leading from a place of pleasure and ease. Marica seeks to create supportive community spaces that disarms individuals of the discomfort of talking about money, relationships, emotions, and everything in between helping individuals foster self compassion and allow for true holistic transformation.