Becoming the Executive Director of Urban Ministries of Wake County for DJ wasn’t just a career move but a homecoming. “I didn’t find Urban Ministries; Urban Ministries found me,” he says, reflecting on his decision to step into the role. It wasn’t an opportunity he sought deliberately but one that felt meant to be. “As I researched the services and programs UMWC provides and saw the chance to return home and impact lives in my own community, it was a no-brainer.”
The path that led DJ to nonprofit leadership wasn’t linear or planned. “It’s funny, actually,” he shares. “My pursuit of joining a nonprofit was done as a favor for a mentor of mine. But that exposure opened my eyes to how my God-given skills and passion aligned more with service to the community than the career I initially pursued.” That eye-opening experience sparked a journey spanning over two decades, during which DJ led Boys & Girls Clubs across North Carolina and Tennessee.
“As a Club alum, I found it deeply meaningful to impact kids, teens, and families in the way I was impacted,” DJ explains. “It was an ideal career path that opened so many doors and created connections and networks I still value today.” But the memories he treasures most aren’t professional milestones—they’re personal relationships. “The connections with young people I served, the professionals who became friends and thought partners, the volunteers and donors who gave so much are why this work matters.”
Today, DJ brings that same passion and people-centered approach to UMWC. Since stepping into the role, he has focused on building an organization that meets immediate needs and creates lasting solutions. “The most rewarding part of my role so far is knowing I’m prepared to impact this organization. I want to ensure that we’re producing meaningful results for our neighbors in need while also supporting the professionals and volunteers who pour their hearts into this work every day.”
DJ’s vision for UMWC is bold and forward-thinking but deeply rooted in the realities Wake County faces. “We’re in the right community at the right time,” he says. “Wake County is growing rapidly, which makes it one of the best places to live, work, and play. But with that growth comes challenges—opportunities for us to focus on those who, for whatever reason, can’t reap the benefits of that growth.” DJ sees UMWC playing a critical role in addressing issues like food insecurity, inadequate healthcare access, and homelessness. “We’ll be part of the solution to eliminate those obstacles for our neighbors in the county.”
Beyond his work, DJ stays grounded in the things that matter most to him: his faith, family, and favorite sports teams. “I’m heavily involved in my church, serving in several capacities,” he shares. “And I’m an avid sports fan—Washington Commanders, San Antonio Spurs, and UNC Basketball are my teams.” But above all, DJ’s greatest joy comes from his family. “The highlight of my life is raising three incredible kids—Raven, Ava, and Dhru—with my beautiful wife, Qiana.”
Under DJ’s leadership, UMWC is poised to grow alongside Wake County, creating new opportunities for neighbors in need while continuing its decades-long tradition of compassionate service. This role isn’t just a job for DJ—it’s a calling.
