About Us

Executive Board Members

David A. Taylor

Founder/CEO

Provides strategic leadership and guides the overall vision and mission of the organization. Oversees operations, partnerships, and long-term initiatives that advance the work of Black Pearls of Genealogy.

David A. Taylor

Founder/CEO

David Anthony Taylor is the Founder and CEO of Black Pearls of Genealogy and the 2025 James Dent Walker Awardee of the Afro-American Historical and Genealogical Society (AAHGS). He is a member of the Sons and Daughters of the United States Middle Passage, an alumnus and moderator of the Midwest African American Genealogy Institute (MAAGI, and a recognized speaker at national conferences, universities, and leading genealogy platforms.

Email:dtaylor@thebpog.org

Terry Burks

Vice President

Supports organizational leadership and ensures the effective execution of key initiatives and programs. Assists in decision making, operations, and communication across all areas of the organization.

Terry Burks

Vice President

Terry Lynne Burks is a genealogist with a strong commitment to preserving family histories and supporting community-based research. She serves as Vice President of Black Pearls of Genealogy, helping guide operations, strengthen collaboration, and advance the organization’s mission.

Email:tburks@thebpog.org

Codia Collier

Treasurer

Manages financial records, budgeting, and reporting to ensure transparency and accountability are maintained. Oversees fiscal planning and supports the ongoing financial health of the organization.

Codia Collier

Treasurer

Codia Collier supports Black Pearls of Genealogy as Treasurer, overseeing financial operations with accuracy and accountability. She plays a key role in budgeting, reporting, and ensuring the organization’s financial stability to support its mission and ongoing projects.

Denise Jarrett

Secretary

Maintains official records, meeting minutes, and organizational documentation with accuracy. Ensures clear communication and consistent recordkeeping across all board activities.

Denise Jarrett

Secretary

Denise Jarrett serves as Secretary of Black Pearls of Genealogy, maintaining records and ensuring clear communication across board activities. She is a WikiTree USBH Co-Project Leader and host of the WikiTree #SaturdayRoundup, where she shares genealogical insights and engages audiences in family history research.

Email:djarrett@thebpog.org

Board of Directors

Kelley Kellis

Non-Profit Advisor/Grant Chair

Provides guidance on nonprofit strategy, development, and long-term organizational growth. Leads grant research, funding efforts, and strategic planning to support ongoing projects and initiatives.

Kelley Kellis

Non-Profit Advisor/Grant Chair

Kelley Kellis provides strategic guidance in nonprofit development, organizational growth, and program sustainability. She leads grant research and funding efforts, helping secure resources that support the mission and long-term impact of Black Pearls of Genealogy.

Email:kkellis@thebpog.org

Timur Davis

Governance Committee Chair

Oversees governance policies and ensures board practices align with organizational standards and expectations. Supports accountability, structure, and effective leadership across all areas of the organization.

Timur Davis

Governance Committee Chair

Timur Davis is a seasoned library executive and information professional with extensive experience in leadership, administration, and public service. Currently serving as Library Director, he brings expertise in governance, organizational management, and community engagement, supporting strong board practices and institutional accountability.

Email:tdavis@thebpog.org

Sheree Williams

Community Outreach Chair

Leads engagement efforts to connect the organization with communities and partners. Promotes awareness and builds relationships that support the mission and impact of the organization.

Sheree Williams

Community Outreach Chair

Sheree Williams leads community outreach efforts, building connections that strengthen engagement and expand the organization’s reach. She focuses on faith-based outreach, local history engagement, and community partnerships that connect people to the mission and impact of Black Pearls of Genealogy.

Email:swilliams@thebpog.org

Shannon Christmas

Genealogical Research Chair

Guides research initiatives and supports the development of genealogical resources and tools. Ensures historical accuracy and promotes inclusive research practices across the organization.

Shannon Christmas

Genealogical Research Chair

Shannon Christmas is a genealogist and the creator of the Google Chrome extension Inclusive Ancestry, designed to expand historical representation in family research. He leads genealogical initiatives and supports the development of inclusive tools and resources that strengthen research and historical accuracy across the organization.

Email:schristmas@thebpog.org