Math Equity – increase Math access, skills and opportunities for underserved and unserved students (K-12th grade) to the same or higher levels as other socioeconomic peers. At the Black Math Collective (BMC), it is our personal goal to make sure students understand Math at deeper levels through Algebra 2. Targeting a critical foundation in math often serves as a gateway to more advanced studies and STEM-related career opportunities.
Kimlin C. Johnson,
CEO & Board Chair
Kimlin Johnson, founder of B-RELYT, stands out as a leader dedicated to creating a significant positive change in America. This commitment is evident not only in her leadership of B-RELYT but also in her influential book, "Authenticity, Accountability & Ambitions" (AAA), which was published in August 2018.
​
Before founding B-RELYT in 2017, Kimlin had a remarkable 25-year career at the Los Angeles County Sanitation District (LACSD) in Environmental Engineering. Her time at LACSD was characterized by her innovative contributions, particularly in developing and implementing enduring policies and procedures. These contributions have left a lasting impact, demonstrating her professional acumen and dedication to effective environmental management.
​
Kimlin's true passion, however, lies in her work with B-RELYT. Under her guidance, B-RELYT has not only consistently pursued its foundational mission but also aims for greater achievements in the future. This vision is made possible through the support of an incredible Board and the generous contributions of both current and prospective donors, ensuring the organization's growth and reach.
​
A key aspect of Kimlin's ethos is captured in her favorite quote by Rodney King: "Can't We All Just Get Along?" This sentiment deeply influences her approach in both her professional endeavors and personal interactions, highlighting the importance of harmony, understanding, and collaborative effort. These values are fundamental to societal advancement and personal growth.
Stan L. Johnson, Treasurer
Stanley (Stan) has over 25 years experience as a licensed Electrical Engineer. His goal is also to empower young people with STEM knowledge and life skills based on his experience and background. Stan worked throughout the entire COVID-19 Pandemic leading a team of Engineer's.
Growing up in Compton, California, from a working-class family, he faced many obstacles in his life’s journey. However, through self-improvement, he overcame many of these obstacles to become the successful Black professional that he is today.
Stan's motto is: “Be a better person today than you were yesterday, and be a better person tomorrow than you are today!”
Edward Rice III, Ed.D.
Dr. Edward (Ed) Rice has been on the B-RELYT Board of Directors since its inception in 2017. He obtained his Bachelor’s degree from Howard University and Master’s Degree from Northwestern University. Kimlin Johnson stated, "We have been childhood friends, as our both of our parent’s were Franchise Owners in the Martin Luther King Jr. shopping center on 103rd and Compton Boulevard in Los Angeles, CA. Ed’s expertise in higher education and his relentless work ethic are vital to the community we serve.
Ed is a seasoned educator and journalist. As an educator, he has taught at the elementary and secondary levels. Ed has also served as a faculty member at Los Angeles City College and he currently holds faculty positions at Moreno Valley College and with the CalStateTEACH program. In 2018, he completed his dissertation, A Qualitative Examination of Postsecondary Education as a Remedy to Recidivism Among Formerly Incarcerated African-American Men and received his doctorate in Higher Education Administration from the University of Southern California (USC).
In addition to his work as an educator, Ed has continued to flourish as a journalist. His work has been featured in the Orange County Register, The Source and Vibe Magazines. From 2013-2015 he served as a Contributing Writer for the Los Angeles Sentinel newspaper. In his spare time Ed produces and co-hosts The Two Percent podcast (available on Apple, Spotify and Google podcasts) and spends time with his 14-year-old daughter, Amaya.
Steve F. Sichi
Steve Sichi is a long time aerospace engineering executive, currently serving as an industry consultant. After 33 years, Steve retired from the Boeing Company in 2018, where he served as Director of the Boeing Spacecraft Design Center. Since then, Steve has been consulting for space industry startups, and also involved in developing programs and mentoring for Mission to Launch, an early career skill services company. He is an active community volunteer, working with UCLA to review scholarship applications, review undergraduate research, mentor undergraduates and recent grads, and perform mock job interviews and resume reviews. He also volunteers at his church, serves on its Finance Council, has been on Los Angeles Archdiocese capital fundraising teams, and supports various local charities.
Steve’s career at Boeing spanned the areas of engineering and technology development, project management, and executive leadership. He led space development projects for NASA and major communication service providers across the US, Japan, Europe, Canada, and the UAE. He has been extensively involved in global business development and is a well-known industry speaker. He has complementary experience in hiring, skills development, training and innovation.
A graduate of St Bernard High School in Los Angeles, Steve received a BS in Electrical Engineering from UCLA and an MS in Microwave Engineering from CSUN. He was a member of the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics, holds several patents, authored numerous papers, and served as contributing author for several textbooks. He lives with his wife Betsy in the Westchester area of Los Angeles, where they raised their three children. In his spare time, he enjoys travel, ocean swimming, baking, cooking and historical research.
Elizabeth Jonas
Elizabeth Jonas is a seasoned human resources professional with over two decades of experience, particularly in union environments. She currently holds the position of Human Resources Consultant IV for a major health plan in Southern California. Her role involves conducting training sessions and addressing personnel and labor relations issues, leveraging her extensive experience in these areas.
Elizabeth's educational background is comprehensive and tailored to her field. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration, with a focus on Management and Human Resources, from California Polytechnic State University, Pomona. Furthering her education, she obtained a Master of Organizational Leadership from California Baptist University, Riverside. Additionally, Elizabeth has a Certificate in Lean Six Sigma from the University of California, Riverside, indicating her commitment to continuous improvement and efficiency in organizational processes.
A firm believer in the principles of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, Elizabeth views these values as crucial for driving positive change in any organization. She is looking forward to serving on the board of the Black Math Collective (BMC), where she plans to contribute her skills and perspectives to help the organization make a meaningful impact.
Outside of her professional life, Elizabeth enjoys spending quality time with her family. She has been married to her husband, Phil, for 33 years, and together they have three children and two grandchildren. Her hobbies include sharing experiences, dining out, and traveling, which she often does with her family, creating cherished memories together.
