The Board

Ella Whitehead serves as President of the Board of Directors for The Eight Effect Foundation. She is a higher education professional with a strong commitment to leadership, service, and community advancement. Ella is the Chartering President of the North Shore Section of the National Council of Negro Women (NCNW), a Trustee of the Skokie Public Library, and a member of the Skokie Community Foundation. She is also a proud member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. In her role, she provides strategic guidance and oversight to ensure the Foundation’s work remains aligned with its mission and responsive to community needs.

Lewis Jackson serves as Vice President of the Board, supporting governance, strategic planning, and organizational accountability. He is a corporate accountant with a long-standing commitment to community service, including volunteer leadership as a youth coach with the Fellowship of African American Men (FAAM). He is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. His work reflects a deep investment in mentorship, leadership development, and community engagement.

Tracy Fulce is a co-founder of The Eight Effect and a member of the Board of Directors for The Eight Effect Foundation. A Distinguished Professor of Business and Faculty Associate Dean at Oakton College, she brings expertise in leadership development, strategic planning, and governance. Tracy’s work focuses on equipping individuals to step into leadership roles and shaping programs that align vision with action.

Lionel Gentle is a member of the Board of Directors and a media producer focused on community storytelling. He is the creator of Our Unseen Roots, a platform dedicated to highlighting the contributions of Black women and others whose work strengthens the community. His perspective supports the Foundation’s commitment to narrative change and the amplification of underrepresented voices.

Esther Wallen is a co-founder of The Eight Effect and a member of the Board of Directors for The Eight Effect Foundation. She is a career strategist and leadership development professional with expertise in workforce development and coaching. Esther contributes to the Foundation’s strategic direction and supports the design of programs that help individuals translate their experience into meaningful leadership opportunities.