MAROON - Key Persons
Back in 2016, New Orleans native, Jade Brown Russell set out on a mission to develop solutions for the systemic inequities in policies and programs across the Southeast Louisiana region. From government to corporate sectors, Jade's work is grounded in providing systemic, sustainable and equitable reform through equity, legal, and governmental relations consulting services.
Jade's philosophy on building an equitable ecosystem includes a multi-strategy approach to include dismantling systemic racism, promoting racial equity and building the capacity of people for economic and social resilience.
Through her personal entrepreneurial journey, one recurring theme became apparent: Black Americans have never had an equal ability to reap the benefits of business ownership.
Frustrated with the lack of representation for Black Americans and safe spaces to build community, Jade came up with a concept to build a home for changemakers to foster innovation, collaborate with like-minded people and embrace equity. The goal of Maroon is simple: build more black-owned business through a community of kinship, alliance and power.
Job Titles:
- CEO
- President and CEO of Operations
Jawan Alexander President and CEO of operations of Maroon's portfolio companies including Maroon Workspace, Maroon Technologies, and Maroon, Inc., its nonprofit organization. She is a local educator and the former Chief of Schools for New Schools New Orleans, a nonprofit organization that serves as a strategic partner and is committed to delivering on the promise of excellent public schools for every child in the New Orleans area. Her appointment takes effect on April 15, 2022.
Dr. Alexander brings more than 25 years of management experience to this role, including significant executive leadership experience in major non-profit organizations. Her experiences as an educator include serving as a classroom teacher, district administrator, State Department (RSD) official, advisor/consultant, and school leader. Dr. Alexander also helped found Collab Lab, an organization committed to providing guidance and support to school leaders. In 2020, Jawan co-founded The Power of Colour Network, a mentorship program for aspiring and current doctoral students interested in researching aspects of educational leadership and applying best practices.
"I am absolutely honored to join Maroon as we prioritize, identify and connect Black- and Brown-owned firms and leaders to meaningful opportunities for equitable outcomes," Alexander said. "I am committed to working with our stakeholders, the Board, partners, and staff to execute the bold vision of this organization."