Campaign Team

Lisa Garland is a bilingual health educator and social worker. She has a masters in public health and social work. She has over twelve years of experience working with young people and parents. She has worked in schools, community organizations, and government. Lisa loves gardening and photography!

Mr. Ricky L. Hart, a native of Durham County, North Carolina, weaves a unique narrative of community service, leadership, and commitment to both his local and broader societal networks. His journey, from education to military service, and civil engagement, is a testament to his
unwavering dedication to uplifting his community and fostering positive change.

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Ricky's civic engagement extends far and wide, spanning various civil organizations and advocacy groups as a lifelong member of The National Association of the 9th and 10th (Horse) Calvary Association and the N.C. Buffalo Soldiers Greater NC Chapter honors the legacy of

military service and champions the rights and recognition of veterans. His involvement in the Durham Branch NAACP, Durham Committee on the Affairs of Black People, Durham City Human Relations Committee, and Lincoln Community Health Center board chair underscores
his commitment to social justice, equality, and community empowerment.

Lauryn Hunter is a rising senior at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) studying Biology. Lauryn was born and raised in Durham, North Carolina. She enjoys listening to and singing music, helping others, and research. Lauryn is currently involved in several organizations on NCCU’s campus including; Queen In You, Eagle Sisters, REACH (Resilient Eagles Advancing Campus Health) Ambassadors, Science African American Majors Evolving, and Women in Pre-Med.

Lauryn uses her compassion and empathetic spirit both on and off campus, as she also works as a Certified Nurse Assistant (CNA). Lauryn is excited to contribute her knowledge and time to help others through Ja’Nell’s campaign!

Since founding Happy Dirt (formerly Eastern Carolina Organics) in 2004, Sandi Kronick has become a pivotal figure in promoting sustainable, organic food systems in North Carolina and the Southeast. Originally aimed at helping tobacco farmers diversify, Happy Dirt has paid millions to regional organic farmers and supported many in transitioning to organic production.

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With a BA in Environmental Studies, Sandi moved to North Carolina and began her entrepreneurial journey. She collaborated with buyers, farmers, and nonprofits to revive rural economies, provide hope for farmers, and meet market demands. A $48,000 grant helped launch Happy Dirt, which generated $240,000 in sales in its first year. Seeing a real business opportunity, they transitioned the company into a farmer- and staff-owned LLC in January 2005.

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Sandi’s achievements include the 40 Under 40 award from the Triangle Business Journal, participating in the Vital Voices/Bank of America Global Ambassador Program, and serving 14 years on the USDA’s Administrative Council for Southern SARE. She is a vocal advocate for equitable food systems and sustainability.

Sandi enjoys knowing that numerous checks are being cut for deserving farmers, witnessing the genuine appreciation and support among Happy Dirt staff, redefining sustainable business practices, and sharing her passion for healthy fruits and vegetables.

Erika Stafford-Dewalt is a microbiologist passionate about sustainable agriculture and proud to support Ja’Nell Henry's campaign for soil and water conservation. Over the course of her career, she has studied the vital role of soil microbes in nutrient cycling and ecosystem resilience and how they contribute to sustainable farming. This exploration became the catalyst for her commitment to advocating for policies such as regenerative agriculture and integrated pest and pathogen management, which enhance soil health and water quality.

In addition to her scientific endeavors, she is actively engaged in community outreach. She collaborates with local stakeholders to raise awareness and develop practical solutions for soil and water conservation. Together, we will work towards policies that preserve our natural resources and promote healthier, more resilient communities. She's excited to contribute her  expertise to Ja’Nell's campaign, ensuring that the team initiatives prioritize sustainability and benefit future generations.

Voted in the Top 10 Best Doctors in NC, DocSwiner is a family physician, 7-time best-selling author, speaker, wife and mother in Durham. She is also affectionately known as the Superwoman Complex expert and has written 2 best-selling books on the topic, which has now evolved into the #nosuperwoman lifestyle brand.

She also owns and runs Swiner Publishing Company, for authors and entrepreneurs, and Serenity Hydration and Wellness, providing IV hydration and self-care consults. Her loves are Minority Health, Women’s Health, Mental Health, DEI and Entrepreneurship. She attended Duke University and went to medical school at the Medical University of South Carolina. She speaks nationally and has appeared on news, media and as a main stage speaker at Essence Fest and Radio One’s Women’s Empowerment. She has become one of the nation’s experts on self-publishing, media in medicine, self-care, physician burnout and work-life balance.

Brielle Wright is the Program Director for the National Black Growers Council and the co-founder of The Farmers B.A.G. Both roles are near and dear to her heart because helping farmers to be profitable, efficient, and seen as valuable is a life mission. Ms. Wright enjoys helping the next generation see the value in agriculture careers and helping farmers realize they are valuable beyond measure. Brielle is located in Clayton, NC and when she is not working with farmers she enjoys time with her family, reviewing restaurants with her friends, and traveling to new places.