about us
The Visionaire Foundation Inc. is a 501 © 3 non -profit organization that was founded in 2019 by Debra Owens, its CEO. The organization’s success is emboldened in providing programs and initiatives that strategically meets the needs of underserved populations in the Atlanta Metro and surrounding areas, as well as promoting a forward-thinking approach that leads individuals to thrive positively in order to impact their communities.
The Visionaire Foundation Inc. realizes that systematic biases, oppression and economic disenfranchisement creates a reality that is challenging for our targeted community. Consequently, our programs and initiatives are tailored to resuscitate underserved populations by providing an awareness and opportunities for our participants to obtain life skills training and financial resources to overcome these systemic influences.
our team
Dr. Debra Wright Owens
President
Dr. Debra Owens, a native Mississippian, is an empowerment advocate, executive coach, speaker, author, and minister. She is the Founder/CEO of Encore Empowerment International, LLC, a business management consulting firm that specializes in top tier business and personal development solutions, training and development, and conflict resolution (mediation and arbitration). She is a founding member and President of The Visionaire Foundation, Inc (nonprofit organization), a global visionary movement dedicated to enhancing the lives of others through education, knowledge and selfless service. She has over 38 years of professional career experience, having served in management and leadership capacity for 35 years. She is a US Army veteran, and holds a PhD in Business Administration (Management) and a Master’s in Public Administration. She is a light and positive energy - full of vision, dreams and purpose. Dr. Debra has two amazing adult children, two grandchildren, family and friends - whom she truly adores.
Sharon Gipson
Vice President
Sharon Gipson is a retired federal government attorney with nearly 40 years of legal experience, specializing in labor and employment law. An experienced litigation attorney and legal strategist, she represented federal agencies in complex workplace disputes, including matters before administrative tribunals and arbitrators. Throughout her career, she also provided legal advice to organizational leaders and developed strategies for resolving challenging legal matters. Her professional background includes training and experience in mediation and arbitration, reflecting her commitment to thoughtful problem-solving, effective communication, and the resolution of disputes. She also has extensive experience teaching and advising others on legal rights and responsibilities. Beyond her legal career, Sharon remains active in her church and community, where she enjoys opportunities to serve, teach, and encourage others. Her interests include writing, creative pursuits, and exploring the possibilities of artificial intelligence in business, education, and the arts. As Vice President of The Visionaire Foundation, Inc., Sharon brings her professional experience, commitment to service, and passion for helping individuals discover their purpose and actively pursue their vision.
Curtis Luke
Marketing & Growth Director
Curtis is highly experienced in researching and implementing new target market initiatives and developing strategies to meet established goals and achieve desired outcomes. He is recognized in democratic leadership positions and proven aptitude to build consensus with cross-functional teams and maintain open lines of communication. Curtis is a strategic leader consistently leading by example in driving motivation among members and encouraging maximum potential, performance, and dedication in team.
Elaine Johnson
Treasurer
Elaine Johnson is a native of Philadelphia. She has been a Georgia resident for the past 14 years. She has a career in accounting that has spanned Fortune 500 to Not-For Profits. Her greatest joys are her children and grandchildren. She also enjoys charitable work such as Christmas Kindness and Foster Care of America.
Adrienne Gray
Secretary / Technology Director
After a fulfilling 34-year career as an IT specialist with the federal government, Adrienne is enjoying retirement and embracing the interests that bring her joy. A proud native of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, she earned a B.A. in English from Spelman College and is a contributing author of Life, Vision, Purpose: A Collective Perspective From Five Visionary Authors. Her creativity shines through AEG Craft Designs, the small business she founded to share her love of sewing and crafting, as well as her personal blog, adieink.com. These days, Adrienne enjoys nurturing her business, writing, and spending time with her two adult children.