Dr. Crystal Ward has spent her life inspiring youth from all over the United States. She has served in various positions advocating for youth through roles as an educator, administrator, mentor, and volunteer with various youth-serving organizations. In her spare time, she has served as a big for Big Brother Big Sisters for the past 12 years. No matter the place, her dedication stays the same. Crystal has a passion for learning and a desire to teach by actively seeking out opportunities to help youth overcome adversity. Dr. Ward studied Educational Leadership and Policy Analysis through the University of Missouri’s doctoral program. In addition to her professional work, Crystal is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

LaFonda Cousin is an experienced talent, operations and staff experience professional who currently works as the Chief Operating Officer of a national political non-profit.  LaFonda earned her bachelor’s degree in Psychology from the University of Missouri – Kansas City, and her master’s degree in Human Resources Management from Webster University. She is also a mother, registered yoga teacher (RYT-200), and owner of a virtual yoga studio based in Allen, TX. LaFonda believes the key to impactful community progress happens through a genuine people-centered approach, social and political accountability, and educational equity. She believes that Greater Than Expectations is poised to deliver these components to youth in the Dallas area and is grateful to serve on the board of GTE to ensure Crystal's vision is a reality. 

When the opportunity to give voice to the voiceless or a fight for equity in opportunity presents itself, Will McDowell aspires to be there. Throughout his professional career as an educator he has worked to create opportunities and options for young people. He believes that it takes the collective community to move beyond the limiting mindset of rugged individualism to a place where people can work from their strengths. As a servant leader in this work with Greater Than Expectations he hopes to be part of a collective group of professionals who recognize those who have helped us and to pay that forward to our most vulnerable of populations in our foster children. He is honored serve in such a role and looking forward to engaging with you in this work to make a difference.  

Dominique Williams is a lover of Jesus Christ, devoted mother, College Advisor and entrepreneur. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Development & Family Studies and a master’s degree in Public Administration. She has worked in Higher Education for 11 years and has 8 years of working experience in Test Prep and College Advising. As a College Advisor, Dominique has worked with hundreds of students whose main goal is to get into the college of their choice. Her desire to help students excel academically, find the right college fit and obtain a financial plan for paying for college, is what birthed Education Docs. After more than 10 years of working for tutoring companies and college advising, both privately and publicly, Dominique decided to start a company of her own. Dominique is passionate and well educated on "All Things College Prep”!

Nevaeh is the Greater Than Expectations high school intern. Nevaeh Adams graduated from Lancaster High School with her high school diploma and Associate's Degree in 2023. Before departing, she created a student organization called the Early College Board of Peers that still stands to this present day. She now attends Texas Tech University. Her majors are Management with a concentration in Human Resources and Marketing. She plans to utilize her degree in the beauty industry and hopes to become a part of the C-suite of a business.