Meet the Board

  • Jessica Howe - Board President

    Jessica founded the NHAF in 2016 along with her sister and fellow board member, Meg.

    She works at Cushman & Wakefield.

    Jessica’s favorite adventure is when she had a chance to skydive in New Zealand!

  • Meg Howe

    Meg co-founded the NHAF with her sister, Jessica, in 2016.

    Meg is the owner of Alice, Ever After Books.

    Meg’s favorite adventure was taking a flying trapeze class with her friends.

  • Ruqayyah Simmons

    Ruqayyah joined the board in 2024.

    Ruqayyah works for Say Yes Buffalo and is co-founder of Black Boys Read Too.

    Ruqayyah’s favorite adventure is a trip to Columbia where she was able to visit the first ‘free town’ in the Americas, Palenque.

  • Diane Kendrick

    Diane joined the board in 2024.

    Diane is a member of the Howe family and beloved cousin of Nate. She works at the Children’s Inn at NIH.

    Diane’s favorite adventure is any adventure that involves heading to the beach!

  • Jelicia Jimenez

    Jelicia joined the board in 2024.

    Jelicia works at Say Yes Buffalo and is co-founder of Black Boys Read Too.

    Jelicia's favorite adventures include seeking out art exhibits and museums in cities she visits. Most recently she visited Basquiat exhibit when visiting Los Angeles!