About

Dr. Mary Lee

Ph.D Education, M.Div, Ordained Pastor

Our History

Founder, CEO

NCI is the brainchild of Dr. Mary Lee – born out of her personal experience, innate understanding of business and ability to serve all people.

Her track record as a business and grant/funding consultant is incomparable, resulting in winning proposals in the tens of millions of dollars. She is a skilled communicator, instructor, and project leader.

Dr. Mary Lee actively participated in Barack Obama’s Presidential Campaign and worked in both of his Inaugural Committees. While campaigning, she felt the energy of inclusiveness that she only witnessed during the times of President John F. Kennedy and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in her teenage years.

Dr. Mary Lee’s drive and determination are seeds planted by her parents. Her father never learned to read or write, instead working in southern plantations from the age of six, whereas her mother, who finished the 12^th grade in a southern school, did not officially graduate due to Jim Crow laws. Yet, they both valued education and contributed in every way to support Dr. Mary Lee’s efforts in learning and development.

Dr. Mary Lee’s life is the history and driving force behind NCI. She firmly believes in economic equality for all and understands that knowledge is Power.

The Problem

Those hit the hardest by economic downturns are ordinary people living in moderate to low-income communities throughout America. Black people within these communities are further disconnected from the mainstream recovery strategies and stimulus initiatives. Their economic and social positions bar opportunities for inclusivity. Stimulus initiatives for building businesses are not reaching 2% of Black, aspiring entrepreneurs throughout the USA, resulting in thousands losing their homes, jobs, businesses, and in many instances, their family during economic crisis.

Our Solution

NCI on the Ground

NCI efforts are underway to amplify grassroots, economic efforts. Our network is extensive, operating via hundreds and thousands of individuals, small businesses, churches, and non-profit organizations in communities nationwide.

We are the catalyst, ensuring access to strategic planning, organization, development, and management oversight to entrepreneurial efforts for a period of five (5) years from the start of services. Thereby, assisting individuals in growing self-sufficiently.

Join the Community

Our Dynamic

Our Team

Willie Harris

VP of USA & International Management

As Vice President of Neighborhood Commerce Institute, Willie D. Harris is a dedicated consultant responsible for developing and implementing strategies that optimize NCI’s operations; ensuring the efficient allocation of resources; and executing the power of teamwork while collaborating to create an environment that encourages state-of-the-art thinking, continuous learning, and organizational success. He has a strategic mindset; a wealth of leadership training and experience; and a strong commitment to community development and advancing economic growth and sustainability. Willie is an experienced Senior Executive that has served in various roles within the federal government for over 30 years. Within the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), he has served as a Director of Operations, Program Manager, Biologist, Regulatory Official, Researcher, Trade Compliance Specialist, Phytosanitary Specialist, Canine Handler, Plant and Animal Health SME, Investigator, Biotechnology Regulator, Animal Welfare leader, and Wildlife leader working within diverse program areas of the USDA’s Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). In his last federal role as Regional Director for USDA’s Wildlife Services program and a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES) core of federal employees, Willie was responsible for managing half of the U.S., encompassing 983 employees and a $94 million dollar budget to resolve wildlife conflicts to allow people and wildlife to coexist

Cheri Avant

VP of Engineering

As Vice President of Engineering, Cheri Avant brings a wealth of technical expertise, leadership skills, and a passion for innovation to Neighborhood Commerce Institute. Cheri has a strong background in the IT Engineering industry and is skilled in IT Solutions, Information Security, Qualitative Research, CAD, MES, Cybersecurity, Cloud Computing, and much more. Cheri demonstrates a track record of success in leading and managing engineering teams and overseeing the development of complex projects, managing budgets, and ensuring timely delivery of high-quality solutions.

Domonique McMullen

Chief Executive Officer

As CEO of Neighborhood Commerce Institute, Domonique McMullen is driven by a deep commitment to creating positive social change and improving the lives of those in underserved communities. With a track record of successful leadership, Dom brings a strategic vision and an unwavering dedication to building legacies and creating generational wealth. As CEO, Dom is committed to ensuring that NCI operates with the highest standards of governance and ethical practices. By effectively communicating NCI’s goals and achievements, Dom is cultivating strong support networks and forging strategic partnerships that amplifies NCI’s mission of economic sustainability. In addition to his leadership responsibilities, Dom actively engages in advocacy efforts to raise awareness and leverages his expertise in business & community development to tackle the challenges faced in underserved communities, create innovative solutions, and inspire others to join in the mission of driving positive change in our communities and beyond.

Dr. Kofi Appiah Okyere

Chief Financial Officer

Dr. Kofi Appiah Okyere, Ph.D, Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and Chartered Mergers & Acquisitions Professional (CMAP) is operating as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Neighborhood Commerce Institute. For 17 years, Kofi has served as the current Professor of Accounting Practice at Whitman School of Management- Syracuse University. Kofi has taught both undergraduate and graduate courses such as Doctoral Seminar in Accounting, Financial Accounting, Special Topics in Financial Reporting & Corporate Governance, Accounting Information Systems, and Managerial Accounting. He has participated in major conferences and presentations such as European Accounting Association Annual Conference, American Accounting Association Annual Meeting, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Center for Financial Research, World Risk and Insurance Economics Conference, plus many more. Professor Appiah Okyere focuses on corporate governance and financial reporting, managerial incentives, financial statement quality, and financial disclosure. As Chief Financial Officer of NCI, he brings a wealth of financial expertise, a commitment to financial stewardship, and plays a vital role in ensuring NCI’s financial sustainability and effectiveness.

Amber McLaughlin

Chief Operating Officer

Amber McLaughlin is a dedicated and accomplished professional serving as Chief Operating Officer and the right hand to the President of the prestigious Neighborhood Commerce Institute. With an innate passion for entrepreneurship, social impact, and a commitment to excellence, Amber brings fresh experience in strategic planning, organizational management, and program implementation. Amber’s leadership, coupled with her exceptional communication and problem-solving skills, empowers the team to deliver impactful initiatives and effectively address the challenges faced by the community. As COO, Amber plays a pivotal role in guiding the organization towards its mission ensuring transparency and fostering collaborative partnerships for sustainable success.

Orlando Avant

Corporate Attorney-at-Law

As Corporate Attorney-at-Law for Neighborhood Commerce Institute, Orlando Avant, with 26+ years in providing legal counsel and guidance, is dedicated to leveraging his expertise to ensure compliance and support NCI by navigating complex legal landscapes and facilitating its success. Orlando is highly skilled in strategic planning, legal research, negotiation, commercial litigation, contract negotiations, civil litigation, arbitration, legal writing, and real estate. Orlando actively engages with the organization’s leadership to provide legal advice and support in matters ranging from contracts and agreements to intellectual property and risk management. He is committed to proposing effective strategies that safeguard NCI’s interests. Orlando is proud to contribute to NCI’s mission-driven work of economic sustainability by providing sound legal counsel and ensuring that the organization operates ethically, responsibly, and in compliance with the law.

Shain Hymon

Chief of Technology

Shain Hymon is on a mission to raise up an entire class of people who are historically disadvantaged. As Chief of Technology of Neighborhood Commerce Institute and owner of Next Level Global Solutions, Shain is pushing empowerment through technologies to improve the communities way of living. In collaboration with NCI, Shain and Next Level Global Solutions will help close the racial wealth gap while also helping the entire working class of consumers to achieve financial stability and overall long term sustainable success. Shain is creating an ecosystem using smart technology to make educational work programs revolving around financial literacy training and advertising and will deliver sound solutions through patented technologies and strategic partner collaborations.

Dr. Michael Neba

Director of Information Systems, Consulting

Dr. Michael Neba, PhD. is the Director of Information Systems, Consulting for Neighborhood Commerce Institute. Dr. Neba has over 30 years in the Information & Technology (IT) industry. His skills include IT Management, IT Director, IT Strategy, Program Management, Visio, and Business Analysis. Dr. Neba is responsible for overseeing NCI's information technology systems and strategies. He plays a crucial role in leveraging technology to enhance cybersecurity and oversees the maintenance and efficiency of NCI's IT infrastructure.

Apostle Dr. Claude M. Tate

Director Faith-Based Initiative

Apostle Dr. Claude M. Tate is a revered spiritual leader and a catalyst for transformative change within communities. As the Director of Faith-Based Initiatives at NCI, he combines his deep spiritual insights with strategic leadership to drive meaningful impact. Dr. Tate studied Business Administration at Virginia State College (Virginia State University) and later earned a doctorate in Theology from ECUA. With a divine calling 42 years ago, Dr. Tate was ordained to preach the gospel. His unwavering commitment to God, serving the marginalized, and empowering the vulnerable has made him a trusted figure in communities across the nation. Dr. Tate founded the Solid Rock Radio Broadcast in 1983 and have ministered the Word of God over several stations that span across 80 nations. He is also the founder of Faith Bible Institute, which trains leaders to impact the world. Apostle Tate has served as the Institutional Chaplain of the Haynesville Correction Center, winning approximately 700 men to Christ. Over the past 42 years, 28 ministers have been licensed, 10 ordained under his leadership, and 1 Pastor affirmed to Apostleship. Dr. Tate has authored 14 books, in which his first book, “Are You Ready for the Rapture?” was published ad released in 44 nations around the world. He has also produced 5 inspirational moments for the I AM Television Network (reaching 7 million people) and has launched the Solid Rock Television Broadcast that is streamed across the world. In his role as Director of Faith-Based Initiatives at NCI, Apostle Dr. Claude Tate passionately leads a team that designs and implements innovative programs, bridging the gap between religious principles and community development. His charismatic presence, profound understanding, and steadfast commitment to God exemplifies his unwavering dedication to inspire and lead, guiding communities towards unity, empowerment, and spiritual enlightenment.

Dr. Curtis Longs

Chief of Psychological Health Care Management

Dr. Curtis Oliver Longs, M.D., is an experienced Adult, Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist based in Southfield, MI. With a strong educational background including a Doctor of Medicine degree from Wayne State University, Dr. Longs has extensive postgraduate training in Adult Psychiatry, Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, and Psychiatric Administration. He is board eligible in Adult & Child-Adolescent Psychiatry and Neurology. Throughout his career, Dr. Longs has held various positions, including Medical Director roles. He has worked in prestigious institutions such as Detroit Medical Center, Children's Hospital, and Harbor Oaks Hospital. Dr. Longs has also been actively involved in professional associations, including the American Medical Society, American Psychiatric Association, and The Black Psychiatrists of America Association. Currently, Dr. Longs serves as the Owner of Behavioral Health Associates, PLLC, a private practice office, where he specializes in Adult, Child & Adolescent Psychiatry. He is dedicated to providing compassionate care and conducting research in the field. Dr. Longs is also involved in nonprofit work through L.L.S.M. Behavioral Health Initiatives, a 501C organization. In addition to his professional commitments, Dr. Longs is a member of various alumni associations and community organizations. He has made significant contributions in the field of psychiatry, particularly in working with children and adolescents. Dr. Longs continues to serve the community and make a positive impact through his expertise and dedication.

Arwah Mbarak

Wellness Consultant

Arwah Mbarak, is an internationally trained corporate lawyer and self-taught coder, who is amalgamating her passions for law, technology, and wellness traditions to share a new framework for success; one that is rooted in joy and watered with ease. Arwah intimately understands the necessity to curate an accessible, restorative space catering to individuals honoring their life paths set in high-stress environments. Arwah is a 200-hour Yoga Alliance instructor and certified coach and brings a wealth of cross-cultural experiences as a Kenyan Yemeni. As NCI’s Wellness Consultant, Arwah is committed to providing guidance and support in developing wellness strategies and promoting a culture of well-being throughout the organization. By fostering this culture of wellness, she will enhance productivity, engagement, and satisfaction among staff and volunteers, ultimately leading to greater impact in the communities that NCI serves.

Dr. Don Tynes

Chief Medical Officer

Reverend Don J. Horakhty Tynes, MD, F.A.C.P., is the Chief Medical Officer of Moncrease & Associates, LLD. Rev. Dr. Tynes is an ordained minister, an Associate Professor of Internal Medicine, and was the recipient of The Wayne State University Medical (WSUSOM) Alumni Association Distinguished Alumni Award in 2018. Dr. Tynes and Dr. Carolyn King are Co-Founder of the WSUSOM and the Michigan State University “Reach Out to Youth Program” that targets Detroit students age 7 to 11 years old who aspire careers in medicine and their parents. This program, over its 31 year history has over 7000 students who have participated with many becoming physicians, nurses, pharmacists and other health professionals. Dr. Tynes is an alumnus of the WSUSOM Post Baccalaureate Program, WSUSOM, and of the Internal Medicine/ Pediatric Residency Program at WSU Affiliated Hospital. After fulfilling his National Health Service Corp obligation in the Benton Harbor, MI area, Dr. Tynes chose to remain there and open his private practice. He serves as Benton Harbor, MI Director of Public Health and the Medical Director of the Benton Harbor Health Center. Dr. Tynes also serves as Medical Director, Limb Preservation at the Save The Leg Program at DMC- Detroit Receiving Hospital. Dr. Tynes during the COVID-19 pandemic has emerged as a leader in prevention and early intervention in combating this deadly disease. He is becoming a nationally and internationally recognized expert on the outpatient treatment of the COVID-19 virus.

Hamud Mbarak

Creative Consultant

Hamud Mbarak is a legal counselor, public speaker, and poet. He is a Creative Consultant that equips Neighborhood Commerce Institute to be agile and innovative. Hamud brings a unique blend of artistic vision and strategic thinking and works collaboratively to amplify and elevate NCI’s brand presence, engage communities, and helps to build a more compassionate and equitable world.

Dr. Anita Moncrease

Chief of Health Care Project Management

Dr. Anita Moncrease, MD, MPH, is the President of Moncrease & Associates, LLC, Professor of Pediatrics and Internal Medicine at Wayne State University School of Medicine (WSUSOM) in Detroit, Michigan, the Historian of Hartford Memorial Baptist Church (HMBC) and the Herstorian Detroit Branch of the Association for the Study of African American Life and History (ASALH). Dr. Moncrease is a native Detroiter. Dr. Moncrease obtained her medical degree from Wayne State University School of Medicine in Detroit, MI. She completed a residency in Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at Wayne State University Affiliated Hospitals. She attended Harvard University in Boston, where she earned a Master's Degree in Public Health, and was one of the first three persons to complete the Harvard/Commonwealth Fund Fellowship in Minority Health Policy. Dr. Moncrease’s research interests are in the areas of Minority Health, Health Policy and African American History. She has done clinical research and is published in the areas of hypertension, hyper cholesterol, breast and cervical cancer screening in African American Women. She has also done in-depth research in health disparities; Childhood Obesity, Asthma, and Youth Violence. She is recognized as an authority on the History of Black Alumni of Wayne State University School of Medicine; the history of Black Hospitals in Detroit; and on the History of Black Medical Schools and Departments in the United States. Dr. Moncrease is a former Medical Director of Adolescence Health at the Detroit Department of Health and Wellness Promotion; and Associate Program Director of the WSUSOM Internal Medicine and Pediatrics Residency Program. She held leadership position on the design and implementation on projects such as the City of Detroit/Wayne County response to Hurricane Katrina, the Detroit-Wayne County Health Authority, Super Bowl XL (chaired Detroit’s Response for the Homeless and Detroit’s Warming Centers Initiative) and the City of Detroit Youth Violence Initiative, Dr. Moncrease has served at Health Resources Services Administration as the Acting Director of the Division of Data and Analysis for the Midwest Cluster (10 states including Michigan) and the Director of the Division of Health Professions Diversity for the United States, Puerto Rico, Guam, and the Virgin Islands.