BLK ED Network Welcomes New Board Member!

We are delighted to officially welcome Nico Sanders as the newest member of our Board of Directors! Nico joined us on May 9, 2024, marking a significant addition to our leadership team.

Nico's involvement with the BLK ED Network began at our inception in 2021, where he has been a steadfast supporter and advocate for our mission. His formal introduction to a potential board position occurred during a networking event in November 2023. This initial engagement led to a productive in-person meeting with Jade Nicole Neverdon Merritt, our Founder and Executive Director, and Krystle Myers, Esq., our Board Chair, on April 22, 2024. These discussions solidified Nico's role within our network and highlighted the mutual commitment to advancing the mission of empowering Black Executive Directors.

Introducing Nico Sanders

Nico Sanders serves as the President and CEO of Community Housing Associates, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing housing solutions for the homeless and mentally ill in Baltimore City. With a commitment to supporting over 150 tenants and their families through permanent supportive housing, Nico brings over 25 years of diverse experience in business, nonprofit, mental health, and consulting to his role.

Before leading Community Housing Associates, Nico held the position of Chief Compliance Officer at an Outpatient Mental Health Clinic in Maryland, where he honed his expertise in compliance and regulatory matters within the mental health sector. Prior to this, Nico served as a lobbyist, leveraging his knowledge and experience to advocate for policies and initiatives that positively impact mental health and social welfare.

Drawing on his educational background, Nico holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Marketing and Business Management from Virginia Union University, complemented by a degree in Business and Human Resource Management from the University of Phoenix. He furthered his education with an MBA from the University of Phoenix and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in public administration from the University of Baltimore.

Nico's professional acumen extends beyond his executive responsibilities. He actively engages in public relations, corporate social responsibility, business development, legislative affairs, and corporate communications services, catering to clients in the non-government/non-profit, mental health, and other industries.

Committed to making a difference in his community, Nico serves as a board member of The ARC of the Central Chesapeake Region, advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. His dedication to promoting respect, equity, and access to services aligns with his belief that under-invested communities must be empowered to drive meaningful change and equity.

In addition to his professional endeavors, Nico cherishes his role as a husband to Tracy and father to their daughter Selene. Residing in Owings Mills, Maryland, he enjoys cooking, quality time with family, and exploring new destinations whenever possible.

Nico's collaborative approach, coupled with his willingness to challenge conventional thinking, makes him an asset to the committees and boards he serves on. His ability to bridge the gap between business and residential communities reflects his commitment to fostering positive solutions and driving sustainable change.

"The role of a Board member is critical," said Jade Nicole Neverdon Merritt. "We warmly welcome Nico to the Board and are confident that his knowledge, business experience, and passion will be tremendous assets to the BLK ED Network as we strive to create environments where Black leaders can learn, grow, and thrive."

We are excited to harness Nico's extensive experience and passionate advocacy as we continue to grow and make a profound impact in the nonprofit sector. His strategic insights and deep understanding of community needs will be invaluable as we advance our mission.

Please join us in warmly welcoming Nico to our Board of Directors. We are enthusiastic about the perspectives and expertise he brings and look forward to achieving great things together.