Meet our directors

Shelia LeFridge is an entrepreneur and business owner providing a broad spectrum of financial services. As a community advocate and philanthropist, she has a penchant for social action and working for a cause. She served over 15 years working inside of a foundation, ten years of which she sat in various executive board positions. She is a retired Senior Analyst with over 40 years management and administrative experience from the private sector, the Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles City Controller, and the Bureau of Street Lighting in the City of Los Angeles. Her vast experience runs the gamut including store manager, human resources specialist, university faculty, special events coordinator, crime analyst, emergency response worker, and financial professional. Shelia has a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Science and certification in Health Education. She also has a Master of Arts degree in Organizational Management. Over the past 35 years, Shelia has performed community and charitable work for many non-profits, worked on numerous political campaigns, and led several community groups. She brings to the board an exuberance for non-profit work, compassion for the welfare of impacted communities, and vision for the future of the Clarissa Manuel Foundation.

“My vision is for The Clarissa Manuel Foundation to become a highly valued community partner in the City of Long Beach and its neighboring communities, supporting education and programs that positively impact minority families.” 

Shamika Crawford brings extensive expertise to the board, playing a key role in shaping the

organization’s strategy and driving its success. Over her impressive 20-year career in

administration, Shamika has consistently shown outstanding leadership and a sharp awareness

of shifting market trends. Her background includes significant corporate governance experience

in public service and non-profit. Shamika has held leadership positions across multiple

community-serving organizations. These roles underscore her dedication to organizational

excellence.

Academically, Shamika holds an associate’s degree in paralegal studies, a bachelor’s and

master’s degree in business management, and various professional certifications. Her strong

educational background complements her professional experience. Shamika is also actively

involved in community outreach, enjoys mentoring young professionals, and supports causes

related to education, health and wellness, homelessness, and equality. Combining business

savvy, practical experience, and a passion for community involvement, Shamika Crawford is an

invaluable member of the Clarissa Manuel Foundation, ensuring it continues to lead in

innovation and quality.

Gail Johnson aims to serve, help and educate. Her grandmother, Ernestine Johnson raised her as an only child in Gardena, California. She graduated from Pius X High School, earned a BA in speech communication (CSULB) and a Multiple Subject Credential (CSUDH). Once she graduated from CSULB she began working as an Americorps Vista for an LAUSD school, and later began teaching for LAUSD. Presently, Gail works as an educator in various capacities. She focuses on working in her community.

Moreover, Gail enthusiastically works to make a difference, empower, motivate and inspire. She enjoys giving and working on projects that to help others. Gail noticed that many women she knew who achieved were members of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. In 2001, her observation inspired her to pursue and acquire membership in Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She works to strengthen the DST Long Beach Alumnae Chapter and their community service programs.

Finally, Gail decided to elevate her support and join the Clarissa Manuel Foundation (CMF) in the Fall of 2018. In 2018, Gail began as a Board of Director and worked as the recording secretary. She looks forward to helping CMF continue to grow, thrive and make a difference as the Grant Writing and Oversight Committee Chair.

Angela is an accomplished accounting professional with over two decades of experience. With a

strong foundation in Accounting, Finance, and Management, Angela has held key leadership

positions across Northern and Southern California, collaborating with both public and private

sector organizations, social service agencies, and nonprofit institutions. She is dedicated to

promoting health outcomes in diverse communities, leveraging her expertise and commitment to

drive meaningful change.

Angela joined the Clarissa Manuel Foundation, motivated by her belief in advocacy and her

desire to make a positive impact on individuals affected by diabetes, particularly those facing

barriers to information and access to its short- and long-term effects. Beyond her professional

responsibilities, Angela enjoys music, crafting, reading, poetry, volunteering, and supporting

others in need. In addition to being a lifelong learner, she is currently pursuing her Ed.D. in

Management as a Doctoral Candidate.

Tiffany Johnson is a distinguished legal executive at the International Olympic Committee, bringing a wealth of experience and dedication to her role. Her career began at the prestigious William Morris Endeavor agency, where she assisted agents representing high-profile clients, honing her expertise in entertainment and legal affairs. She later contributed her talents to the world-renowned Getty Museum, further expanding her legal acumen in the arts and culture sector. A proud graduate of Howard University for both her undergraduate and law degrees, Tiffany is deeply committed to mentorship and service, having worked to empower young women through leadership and education.

Tiffany is a staunch and loyal supporter of philanthropy and a mentor, embodying excellence and

integrity in all she does.

Horecee St.Cyr is an entertainment industry professional with a 20-year

career spanning dance, choreography, and production. She began as a

dancer and choreographer before transitioning behind the scenes to

produce award shows, live events, scripted television, and film. Credits

include the BET Awards, Soul Train Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and

Amazon Prime’s Yearly Departed. She is also an actress, having

appeared on several shows and movies, including American Horror

Story and CSI: Las Vegas. Known for her expertise in bringing large-scale

productions to life, she currently serves as the Line Producer for

NAACP+ Studios, where she continues to shape impactful and culturally

significant content. A proud graduate of Howard University, she is an

HBCU enthusiast, loves donuts and the Obamas.