Chaka Jackson is the founder of Diabetic Social and a proud type 1 diabetic. After her diagnosis, she struggled to find the information and support needed to manage her condition effectively. This challenge sparked her passion for educating and empowering others living with diabetes.

Beyond her advocacy, Chaka is a mother of two beautiful daughters Jasmine and Mckenzie. She holds a BA in Business Management and is a Master Hairstylist. She also works as a Flight Attendant for Southwest Airlines, was a former cheerleader for the Tennessee Titans, and is an active member of the Nashville Area Chamber of Commerce. Chaka is also a Board Member of Breakthrough T1D.

Her diverse background, both personally and professionally, fuels her dedication to helping others navigate life with diabetes.

Current Cardiorenal, Pulmonary & Metabolic Clinical Specialist with over 20 years experience in multiple disease states.

My motto is “When passion is your purpose it becomes your profession.” I am extremely passionate about advocating for the prevention of chronic disease.

As a Nashville Native and a graduate from Tennessee State University with a BS, emphasis in Biology & Chemistry

Former Tennessee Titans Cheerleader & NFL Pro-bowl pick

Jani Chollman is the mother of identical triplet girls and has been married for 34 years. She has worked for 24 years in education as a science teacher and a coach (Volleyball, Track, and Dance). Jani graduated from the University of TN (Knoxville) with a Bachelor of Science and a Master's in Administration and Supervision from Carson Newman University. She is honored to serve as Secretary of the Diabetic Social Board. The passion for teaching gives her the desire to help educate and spread awareness about diabetes.

Talesha Littlejohn is the founder of TDLittlejohn LLC, the newly formed consulting firm dedicated to assisting individuals establish or renew their credit worthiness and businesses and nonprofits with the establishing process. It is her mission to help individuals and organizations build and grow their personal and professional ambitions.

Her twenty plus years in the banking industry has provided resources and experience in helping people accomplish their personal and professional financial goals.

Her personal struggle with type 2 diabetes and the loss of her father who suffered with complications caused by diabetes has fueled her passion to serve as the Treasurer of Diabetic Social. It is her desire to merge her professional experience in banking and personal experience with Diabetes to help Diabetic Social spread awareness and resources to the community.

Angelina Armstrong holds a BA in Speech Communications from University of TN – Knoxville and a MBA from the University of Phoenix. She is currently a Team Manager for a large property and casualty insurance company. During her career Angelina fulfilled leadership roles in various departments, lead many projects, served on numerous committees. Having balance has been the key to Angelina’s success.

Angelina has a passion for working in the community and takes an active role in mentoring women and the youth of today. Angelina is a member of Living Word Community Church. She is an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Pi Nu Omega chapter where she held several offices, committee chairs and won regional awards. While serving on the leadership council, Angelina developed and facilitated leadership workshops and coordinated local and national events.

She was the founding President for the Ivy Enrichment Foundation and is still an active member. She is also an advisory board member for Family Roots for Life, Inc. Angelina was worked on several successful political campaigns, organizing phone banks, grassroots campaigns, and scheduling events. She is also a member of the Athena Patron Society and the National Council of Negro Women, Inc.

Tilita Shaw is a Registered Nurse for 19 years and held various clinical roles including staff nurse, clinical education, human resources and leadership. Originally from Decatur, Georgia she relocated to Nashville in 2012 with her husband Garrett and son Dylan. Tilita currently works for HCA TriStar Health and is the Director of Academic Affairs where she act as the liaison between our hospitals and secondary and post -secondary academic partners. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing from Mercer University and a MBA from Phoenix University. She is a member of Chi Eta Phi, a professional organization for registered professional nurses and student nurses representing many cultures and diverse ethnic backgrounds.

Roderick White (J.D) serves as the Director of Diversity and Community Life at University School of Nashville, pioneering the school's diversity initiatives including the first-ever DEI report and USN Bias Form. He is the Statewide DEI Representative for TAIS's Administrator Services Committee and has roles with SAIS, including as a Diversity Mentor and Accreditation Team member. Roderick has spoken at several conferences including TAIS, SAIS, NAIS, and others.

Starting his Nashville journey at Tennessee State University, he was a prominent member of the "Aristocrat of Bands." Active in local music, he's part of the Nashville Community Concert Band since 2005 and the Nashville African American Wind Symphony as the clarinet section leader. Beyond music, he taught at Olive Branch Missionary Baptist Church, coached numerous cheerleaders, and captained the Tennessee Titans Cheer Squad.

Married since 2001, Roderick and his wife have three children.

Bob Merritt is a Nashville native. He is a graduate from Vol State and the father of two daughters, Charity and Michaela. Bob has worked in hospitality for over 30 years. He was the manager at Gaylord Hotels and the Marriott Hotels. Bob is currently the Concierge Director for SkyHouse Nashville and CEO of Merits CSE (Concierge Services & Events).

Ex. Of Clients of company are:

1. Skin & Allergy Center- four locations.
2. NFL Alumni TN Chapter..

Greg Hensley Jr. is a seasoned IT professional from Knoxville, boasting over 25 years of experience in the field. He currently serves at Oak Ridge National Laboratory. A devoted father, Greg is proud to raise three daughters and one son. Driven by a passion for education, he is committed to helping those in need, particularly individuals who face challenges in accessing resources for a healthy life.

Ashley Hensley is a dedicated mother to her beautiful daughter, Briauna. With a bachelor’s degree in hand, she has spent the last 14 years nurturing young minds as a preschool teacher at Head Start in Knoxville, TN. Ashley has played a vital role in supporting Chaka through her diabetic journey since diagnosis. Passionate about health education, Ashley is committed to raising awareness about diabetes and hopes to inspire and educate many more individuals about this important topic.

Sonya Johnson is a compassionate leader with over 20 years of combined experience in education and non-profit management, dedicated to creating equitable learning environments for all students. Known for her solution-focused approach and charismatic energy, Sonya excels in fundraising, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering strong community partnerships.

Her expertise is underscored by certifications in Volunteer Management and Educational Technology, equipping her with the skills to drive impactful initiatives. Sonya's commitment to empowering students and communities has made a lasting difference, demonstrating her belief that every learner deserves access to quality education and resources.