Our Team

Jamauri Bogan, a former student-athlete at Western Michigan University (WMU), is widely recognized for his exceptional leadership and community service. He earned the Humanitarian Award at the 2019 Famous Idaho Potato Bowl and was featured on Fox Sports Detroit for his financial literacy and leadership program at Loy Norrix High School. While pursuing his MBA and playing football, Bogan co-founded Nekton Investments in 2018, honing his expertise in decision-making, capital raising, and relationship-building within the real estate sector, consistently delivering impressive returns to investors.

Bogan’s professional trajectory accelerated during his tenure at Hollander Development, where he advanced from intern to partner, ultimately co-founding Edison Community Partners. He played a key role in securing three LIHTC awards for affordable housing projects. In 2020, Bogan launched Bogan Developments, a real estate company focused on inclusive communities, completing a $4.5 million project in partnership with the YMCA. The company is currently advancing Phase II of Zone 32 while exploring additional opportunities in Michigan. Bogan also serves on several boards and has been honored with the Chamber’s Choice Alumnus of the Year Award (2022) and the Haworth College of Business Emerging Leader Alumni Award (2023).

Eric B. Cunningham is a dedicated leader and public servant with deep roots in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Known for his commitment to community service, civic engagement, and economic development, he has made significant contributions both locally and statewide. His work in housing equity has earned recognition from multiple State of Michigan administrations, and he currently serves on the Statewide Housing Plan Equity Advisory Committee. In addition, he co-chairs the Housing Ecosystem Committee for Region 8, helping to shape impactful housing policies and initiatives.

As a founding member of the Kalamazoo Contractors and Developers Connect (KCDC) and the Calhoun Builders Connection (CBC), Eric has been instrumental in fostering collaboration and growth within the local construction and development sectors. His professional experience includes over two years as an Underwriter and Program Officer at Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), where he has worked on advancing equitable housing and community development projects for underserved communities.

Eric holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business and a Master’s degree in Public Administration. His educational background, combined with 15 years of service to the State of Michigan and two terms as a Kalamazoo City Commissioner, equips him to advocate for policies promoting inclusivity and growth. He is also a partner in “Run This Town Kalamazoo” (RTT), a thriving community initiative, and is deeply involved in youth development, including as Head Coach of the Kalamazoo Northside Rocket Football team. His passion for empowering the next generation and building strong communities remains a hallmark of his career.

Dwayne Powell Jr., a seasoned business executive and community leader from Kalamazoo, MI, brings a wealth of experience in community development, economic empowerment, and business innovation. 

Dwayne’s extensive background includes roles at Old National Bank and PNC Bank, where he spearheaded initiatives to promote financial literacy, empower underserved communities, and pioneer minority small business development programs across Michigan and Indiana. His efforts have been recognized nationally, particularly for enhancing the bank’s Community Reinvestment Act (CRA) performance and launching innovative programs like Benton Harbor’s first-ever small business pitch competition.

Earlier in his career, he significantly contributed to local economic development as the Neighborhood Business and Special Projects Coordinator for the City of Kalamazoo. He co-founded key initiatives such as the Greater Kalamazoo Business Resource Group (GKBRG) collaboration, the Kalamazoo Small Business Fund, and the Kalamazoo Black Business Expo, all of which have provided vital support to local businesses.

A graduate of Western Michigan University, Dwayne holds a Bachelor of Business Administration and continues to further his education in community and economic development. Throughout his career, he has been deeply involved in the community, serving on multiple boards and actively engaging in initiatives that promote inclusive economic empowerment.

Born and raised in Kalamazoo, Eric Wimbley is a proud graduate of Kalamazoo Central High School. After attending Kalamazoo Community College, Eric earned a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Siena Heights University.

Eric served six years in the U.S. Army Reserve and dedicated 25 years to the Michigan State Police, retiring as a Post Commander. Following a distinguished career in law enforcement, Eric transitioned to youth development and education, serving as a high school teacher, Director of Safety at Kalamazoo College, and CEO at Pretty Lake for a total of twelve years.

Throughout Eric’s career, a commitment to community service has been paramount, reflected in Eric’s involvement with multiple boards and community service groups over the past three decades.

Daniel is a 4x founder and has been angel investing for the last 10 years. After starting his career as a software developer, Daniel founded Newmind Group, an IT managed services company in Kalamazoo, Michigan. Under his 10-year leadership, Newmind Group earned a spot on Inc. Magazine’s 500 fastest-growing companies list and was recognized for its exceptional culture with the University of Michigan Center for Positive Organization’s Positive Business Award in 2015.

Daniel transitioned from day-to-day operations at Newmind to focus on mentoring founders and investing in startups. His leadership journey continued with key roles in product and partnerships at Blue Medora and ObservIQ. As an angel investor, Daniel has built a diverse portfolio, including notable companies like Rickshaw (acquired by DoorDash), Babylist, Worklytics, and as an LP at Earl Grey Capital.

Beyond his professional life, Daniel is an avid adventurer, often found backpacking, snowboarding, scuba diving, and exploring international destinations.

An administrative and operations leader with nearly 20 years of executive experience and over two decades of service in the non-profit sector. A graduate of Centura College with a degree in Healthcare Management and a Certified Executive Assistant, Terry brings a comprehensive skill set that includes conflict resolution, human resources, office management, project coordination, and philanthropy. His career has been defined by a commitment to operational excellence, strategic support, and advancing mission-driven work.

In his current role as Administrative Operations Manager at Kalamazoo Forward Ventures, Terry plays a pivotal role in optimizing internal processes, supporting leadership, and ensuring organizational efficiency. Known for his professionalism, adaptability, and dedication to service, he continues to make a meaningful impact in every environment he serves, fostering collaborative cultures and driving results that benefit both teams and the communities they support.