DONORS & AWARD RECIPIENTS
The Full Circle Anti-Racism Committee is excited to grant the 2025 WNC Racial Equity Mental Health Graduate Education Fund to Tae Brown & Tiarra Braggs
We once again thank all of the individuals and organizations who made this fund possible with their generous donations, including but not limited to the following -
T Concepts Miami & The Witherby Caraballa Family,
Biltmore Psychological Services,
Dr. Susan Arnold & Dr. David Waldrep,
and Asheville Epworth Methodist Church
CooperRiis Healing Community, Hendersonville Community Co-op & Target
Matt Snyder, Sharon Young, & Evelyn Brow
T Concepts Miami & The Witherby Caraballa Family,
Biltmore Psychological Services,
Dr. Susan Arnold & Dr. David Waldrep,
and Asheville Epworth Methodist Church
CooperRiis Healing Community, Hendersonville Community Co-op & Target
Matt Snyder, Sharon Young, & Evelyn Brow
2025 Recipients
We are proud to recognize Tae Brown as a recipient of the WNC Racial Equity Mental Health Graduate School Award, a distinction granted to individuals committed to advancing racial and social justice through mental health advocacy and service in Western North Carolina.
This award will help support Tae’s studies as he begins his Master of Social Work program at the University of Michigan, with plans to return to Hendersonville, NC to serve folks in need of mental health care.
A first-generation college graduate from UNC-Chapel Hill, Tae brings more than a decade of community service and grassroots advocacy to his clinical work. From mentoring high school students through his self-founded S.W.A.G. program, to serving as a Success Coach for adult learners, Terrell has consistently demonstrated his belief in the power of connection, education, and resilience.
Deeply shaped by his personal experiences with social isolation, racial profiling, and generational trauma, Tae is committed to building a new model of care, one that integrates emotional, mental, and physical health under one roof. Together with his best friend, currently completing a pediatric residency, Tae envisions creating a “one-stop shop” for underserved families
and children, where holistic and identity-affirming care is the standard, not the exception.
His clinical interests span prenatal care, childhood development, adult mental health, and veteran services, with a special focus on pro bono work for communities that are often left behind by traditional systems of care.
Through a blend of public service, professional leadership, and lived experience, Tae is poised to make a lasting impact in Western North Carolina and beyond. His work reminds us that resilience is not only personal; it becomes collective when we are in service to others.
This award will help support Tae’s studies as he begins his Master of Social Work program at the University of Michigan, with plans to return to Hendersonville, NC to serve folks in need of mental health care.
A first-generation college graduate from UNC-Chapel Hill, Tae brings more than a decade of community service and grassroots advocacy to his clinical work. From mentoring high school students through his self-founded S.W.A.G. program, to serving as a Success Coach for adult learners, Terrell has consistently demonstrated his belief in the power of connection, education, and resilience.
Deeply shaped by his personal experiences with social isolation, racial profiling, and generational trauma, Tae is committed to building a new model of care, one that integrates emotional, mental, and physical health under one roof. Together with his best friend, currently completing a pediatric residency, Tae envisions creating a “one-stop shop” for underserved families
and children, where holistic and identity-affirming care is the standard, not the exception.
His clinical interests span prenatal care, childhood development, adult mental health, and veteran services, with a special focus on pro bono work for communities that are often left behind by traditional systems of care.
Through a blend of public service, professional leadership, and lived experience, Tae is poised to make a lasting impact in Western North Carolina and beyond. His work reminds us that resilience is not only personal; it becomes collective when we are in service to others.
Tiarra Braggs has been selected as a recipient of the WNC Racial Equity Mental Health Graduate School Award for the 2025-2026 school year, an honor that supports graduate students committed to advancing racial equity and mental health access in Western North Carolina.
This award will help cover the cost of her graduate program as she pursues a Master’s in Marriage and Family Counseling at Appalachian State University.
A dedicated advocate for marginalized communities, Tiarra brings a powerful blend of academic excellence, lived experience, and deep empathy to her work. Her work and passion reflects her commitment to addressing disparities in mental health care amongst low-income, rural populations in Western North Carolina.
Tiarra’s approach to therapy is grounded in collaboration, empowerment, and cultural sensitivity. As a Black woman navigating the intersections of race, gender, and socioeconomic status, she understands firsthand how systemic
barriers can silence voices and limit opportunities for healing. Her work is rooted in walking alongside clients while helping them amplify their own narratives and reclaim agency in their lives.
Post-graduation, Tiarra plans to remain in Western North Carolina, focusing her practice in the Hickory/Lenoir area. Her long-term vision is to build a career that increases access to affirming, identity-conscious, mental health services for those who have historically been overlooked or excluded from care.
This award affirms Tiarra's unwavering commitment to racial equity and mental health justice. We look forward to the impact she will continue to make in the lives of individuals, families, and communities across our
region.
This award will help cover the cost of her graduate program as she pursues a Master’s in Marriage and Family Counseling at Appalachian State University.
A dedicated advocate for marginalized communities, Tiarra brings a powerful blend of academic excellence, lived experience, and deep empathy to her work. Her work and passion reflects her commitment to addressing disparities in mental health care amongst low-income, rural populations in Western North Carolina.
Tiarra’s approach to therapy is grounded in collaboration, empowerment, and cultural sensitivity. As a Black woman navigating the intersections of race, gender, and socioeconomic status, she understands firsthand how systemic
barriers can silence voices and limit opportunities for healing. Her work is rooted in walking alongside clients while helping them amplify their own narratives and reclaim agency in their lives.
Post-graduation, Tiarra plans to remain in Western North Carolina, focusing her practice in the Hickory/Lenoir area. Her long-term vision is to build a career that increases access to affirming, identity-conscious, mental health services for those who have historically been overlooked or excluded from care.
This award affirms Tiarra's unwavering commitment to racial equity and mental health justice. We look forward to the impact she will continue to make in the lives of individuals, families, and communities across our
region.
DONORS & AWARD RECIPIENTS
The Full Circle Anti-Racism Committee is excited to grant the 2024 WNC Racial Equity Mental Health Graduate Education Fund to Michael Baun & Nafeesah Harrison.
We once again thank all of the individuals and organizations who made this fund possible with their generous donations, including but not limited to the following -
The Witherby Caraballa Family,
Biltmore Psychological Services,
& Dr. Susan Arnold & Dr. David Waldrep
Garrie B. Thompson III PhD, PA & Target
CooperRiis Healing Community, Hendersonville Community Co-op,
Amy Parrish, Emily Nowels, Matt Snyder, Sharon Young, & Evelyn Brow
The Witherby Caraballa Family,
Biltmore Psychological Services,
& Dr. Susan Arnold & Dr. David Waldrep
Garrie B. Thompson III PhD, PA & Target
CooperRiis Healing Community, Hendersonville Community Co-op,
Amy Parrish, Emily Nowels, Matt Snyder, Sharon Young, & Evelyn Brow
2024 Recipients
Michael Baun is a graduate student in the counseling program at Appalachian State University with a passion for supporting underserved communities, particularly veterans, first responders, and people of color. With a background in military service and a personal understanding of the challenges faced by minorities, he is dedicated to bridging the gap in mental health services for these populations.
As a first-generation American, a veteran of color, and an advocate for mental health awareness, Michael combines a personal history of overcoming adversity with professional expertise to offer a compassionate and culturally sensitive approach to counseling. Currently completing a practicum and internship at Responder Support Services in Asheville, he provides therapy for first responders, many of whom are also veterans. This experience aligns with his goal of establishing a private practice that offers affordable therapy and probono services to underserved communities, with a particular focus on veterans and first responders from minority backgrounds.
In addition to his clinical work, Michael is deeply involved in various community initiatives. As a volunteer with Service2School, he guides veterans and service members through the process of applying to higher education, helping them navigate challenges and access resources. Additionally, Michael has mentored fellow students at Appalachian State, supporting those on academic probation and helping peers develop the skills and resources needed to succeed in their studies.
A fitness enthusiast and poetry lover, Michael strives for balance by hiking, going to the gym, and writing in his free time. He is deeply committed to improving mental health care and reducing the stigma surrounding therapy, particularly within minority communities. Through his future work as a counselor, Michael aims to provide a safe, judgment free space for clients, creating an environment where they feel seen, heard, and understood.
Having lived in diverse, challenging environments, Michael understands firsthand the impact of trauma, addiction, and PTSD, especially in veterans and first responders. As someone who has witnessed discrimination and bias within the military, he is particularly dedicated to helping veterans of color who face both systemic barriers and personal trauma. Michael’s ultimate goal is to create a practice that champions inclusivity, healing, and empowerment for those who have served our country and
communities.
As a first-generation American, a veteran of color, and an advocate for mental health awareness, Michael combines a personal history of overcoming adversity with professional expertise to offer a compassionate and culturally sensitive approach to counseling. Currently completing a practicum and internship at Responder Support Services in Asheville, he provides therapy for first responders, many of whom are also veterans. This experience aligns with his goal of establishing a private practice that offers affordable therapy and probono services to underserved communities, with a particular focus on veterans and first responders from minority backgrounds.
In addition to his clinical work, Michael is deeply involved in various community initiatives. As a volunteer with Service2School, he guides veterans and service members through the process of applying to higher education, helping them navigate challenges and access resources. Additionally, Michael has mentored fellow students at Appalachian State, supporting those on academic probation and helping peers develop the skills and resources needed to succeed in their studies.
A fitness enthusiast and poetry lover, Michael strives for balance by hiking, going to the gym, and writing in his free time. He is deeply committed to improving mental health care and reducing the stigma surrounding therapy, particularly within minority communities. Through his future work as a counselor, Michael aims to provide a safe, judgment free space for clients, creating an environment where they feel seen, heard, and understood.
Having lived in diverse, challenging environments, Michael understands firsthand the impact of trauma, addiction, and PTSD, especially in veterans and first responders. As someone who has witnessed discrimination and bias within the military, he is particularly dedicated to helping veterans of color who face both systemic barriers and personal trauma. Michael’s ultimate goal is to create a practice that champions inclusivity, healing, and empowerment for those who have served our country and
communities.
Nafeesah Harrison. With over 27 years of experience supporting individuals and families impacted by mental health, substance use, and behavioral health disorders, Nafeesah has worked across a variety of settings, including group homes, substance use treatment centers, Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facilities (PRTFs), and community based programs. Her career has been dedicated to helping diverse populations, including mentally ill adults, adolescent males with behavioral health diagnoses, youth in PRTF settings, and families from a wide range of cultural, racial, and ethnic backgrounds.
Currently, Nafeesah serves as the Inclusive Connection Healing Coordinator at the Buncombe County Equity and Human Rights Office. In this role, she focuses on raising awareness around the opioid crisis, mental and behavioral health disorders, and
substance use, while providing education and resources to individuals and families, particularly within BIPOC communities. Her goal is to help bridge gaps in mental health care by making crucial resources more accessible and fostering healing within these communities.
Nafeesah is deeply committed to both her professional work and personal growth. In 2021, she became a certified yoga instructor, which has since allowed her to explore how yoga and meditation can complement mental health counseling. Her vision is to integrate these practices into both individual and group therapy settings, offering clients holistic tools to improve their mental wellbeing. She has lived in WNC for nearly 11 years and has no plans to relocate, as Nafeesah is fully invested in her current role. As she works toward becoming licensed mental health counselor, she is committed to continuing her work in the community, where she hopes to further expand psychoeducation around mental health, substance use, and behavioral health issues within BIPOC communities.
Through education, support, and advocacy, Nafeesah aspires to empower individuals and families to manage their mental health and pursue their personal goals, knowing that healing is not only possible but essential. She is committed to being part of a broader movement that brings hope and healing to BIPOC communities, ensuring they have the tools and resources neededto live healthy, fulfilled lives.
Currently, Nafeesah serves as the Inclusive Connection Healing Coordinator at the Buncombe County Equity and Human Rights Office. In this role, she focuses on raising awareness around the opioid crisis, mental and behavioral health disorders, and
substance use, while providing education and resources to individuals and families, particularly within BIPOC communities. Her goal is to help bridge gaps in mental health care by making crucial resources more accessible and fostering healing within these communities.
Nafeesah is deeply committed to both her professional work and personal growth. In 2021, she became a certified yoga instructor, which has since allowed her to explore how yoga and meditation can complement mental health counseling. Her vision is to integrate these practices into both individual and group therapy settings, offering clients holistic tools to improve their mental wellbeing. She has lived in WNC for nearly 11 years and has no plans to relocate, as Nafeesah is fully invested in her current role. As she works toward becoming licensed mental health counselor, she is committed to continuing her work in the community, where she hopes to further expand psychoeducation around mental health, substance use, and behavioral health issues within BIPOC communities.
Through education, support, and advocacy, Nafeesah aspires to empower individuals and families to manage their mental health and pursue their personal goals, knowing that healing is not only possible but essential. She is committed to being part of a broader movement that brings hope and healing to BIPOC communities, ensuring they have the tools and resources neededto live healthy, fulfilled lives.
The Full Circle Anti-Racism Committee is excited to grant the 2023 WNC Racial Equity Mental Health Graduate Education Fund to Dianna Lester and Sandrine Ingabire . It is meaningful to Full Circle ARC to provide support to Dianna and Sandrine as they move toward actualizing their dreams. We once again thank all of the individuals who made this fund possible with their generous donations, including but not limited to the following: Biltmore Psychological Services, Target, and CooperRiis.
2023 Recipients
Dianna Lester is a graduate student in the M.A.Ed. in School Counseling Program at Western Carolina University. Ms. Lester is also the proud mother of two sons and is working full time. After putting her dream of being a school counselor on hold to take care of her two sons, Ms. Lester is now in her second year of graduate school.
In her application, Ms. Lester stated, “The community needs more counselors/therapists, and it’s essential for everyone to have access and also to see others who look like them and can relate to them.” She elaborated on the need more diversity in the mental health field. She stated, “From generation to generation in African American communities, we were taught that what goes on in the house stays in the place. If you saw a therapist, you were considered crazy. Someone has to break the chain so the cycle doesn’t continue.
Ms. Lester shared in her application that she grew up in a traumatic environment that included drug use and violence such as drive by shootings. She lost her mother at age nine and indicated that her life fell apart that point. She shared, “It wasn’t until the second semester of my freshman year in high school that I got the support I needed. My school counselor was amazing; she listened to me, didn’t judge me, and supported me daily. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren't for her. My passion for school counseling stems from her and my boys. I want to be that counselor who shows up for all my students and supports them in any way I can, no matter what they bring to my office. Being accepted into the counseling program and being the only black African American female in most classes has opened a new chapter in my life. It doesn’t stop here; there are many more chapters to write in the book of my life, and mental health is a top priority in all the chapters.”
In her application, Ms. Lester stated, “The community needs more counselors/therapists, and it’s essential for everyone to have access and also to see others who look like them and can relate to them.” She elaborated on the need more diversity in the mental health field. She stated, “From generation to generation in African American communities, we were taught that what goes on in the house stays in the place. If you saw a therapist, you were considered crazy. Someone has to break the chain so the cycle doesn’t continue.
Ms. Lester shared in her application that she grew up in a traumatic environment that included drug use and violence such as drive by shootings. She lost her mother at age nine and indicated that her life fell apart that point. She shared, “It wasn’t until the second semester of my freshman year in high school that I got the support I needed. My school counselor was amazing; she listened to me, didn’t judge me, and supported me daily. I wouldn’t be where I am today if it weren't for her. My passion for school counseling stems from her and my boys. I want to be that counselor who shows up for all my students and supports them in any way I can, no matter what they bring to my office. Being accepted into the counseling program and being the only black African American female in most classes has opened a new chapter in my life. It doesn’t stop here; there are many more chapters to write in the book of my life, and mental health is a top priority in all the chapters.”
Sandrine Ingabire is going into her second year of graduate school in the Clinical Mental Health Counseling Program at Appalachian State University. She recently started her practicum and is excited about continuing her learning journey outside of class, under supervision. She has been involved in her campus NAMI Chapter, is passionate about mental health advocacy, and has received special recognition for being a leader in her community. Currently, she serves as a Resident director for one of the halls on her campus.
In her application for the WNC Racial Equity MH Graduate School Assistance Fund, Ms. Ingabire wrote the following:
“I am passionate about serving children and young adults in general, especially minorities. As a black woman, I am always shocked when I search for mental health providers in my area and can't find anyone less than an hour and a half away who is black. I’d like to provide more mental health services to minority and immigrant populations.” Ms. Ingabire speaks 5 foreign languages and stated, “I see my multilingual and overall communication skills as being vital to my work with clients from different backgrounds in the future.”
She is particularly interested in focusing on trauma and addiction issues as well as incorporating expressive arts in a way that honors and incorporates different cultural backgrounds.
In her application for the WNC Racial Equity MH Graduate School Assistance Fund, Ms. Ingabire wrote the following:
“I am passionate about serving children and young adults in general, especially minorities. As a black woman, I am always shocked when I search for mental health providers in my area and can't find anyone less than an hour and a half away who is black. I’d like to provide more mental health services to minority and immigrant populations.” Ms. Ingabire speaks 5 foreign languages and stated, “I see my multilingual and overall communication skills as being vital to my work with clients from different backgrounds in the future.”
She is particularly interested in focusing on trauma and addiction issues as well as incorporating expressive arts in a way that honors and incorporates different cultural backgrounds.
2022 Recipient
Khabonina Beresford
Ms. Beresford will earn her Master’s Degree in Social Work from Western Carolina University in May 2023. She will graduate with minors in Psychology, Sociology, and Women's Gender and Sexualities Studies. Ms. Beresford shared that she has been highly influenced by her South African roots as well as living in very different cultural environments in the United States. Ms. Beresford beautifully exemplifies a deep appreciation for serving her community as illustrated by these statements made on her application -
“In South Africa, we use the word ubuntu. It means, 'I am because we are.' My existence, my passion, and my knowledge are from communities. When I am striving to engage and hold space for healing in a community, I am living in my truth.”
Ms. Beresford hopes to one day create a community focused practice in Western North Carolina that provides holistic services to individuals and communities regarding spiritual health, mental health, and social justice healing. She also has a strong commitment to serving those with addiction issues and is in the process of earning her licensure as a Clinical Addictions Specialist and Clinical Social Worker. Ms. Beresford stated, “My dream is to help people living within the margins of society feel heard and seen.”
“In South Africa, we use the word ubuntu. It means, 'I am because we are.' My existence, my passion, and my knowledge are from communities. When I am striving to engage and hold space for healing in a community, I am living in my truth.”
Ms. Beresford hopes to one day create a community focused practice in Western North Carolina that provides holistic services to individuals and communities regarding spiritual health, mental health, and social justice healing. She also has a strong commitment to serving those with addiction issues and is in the process of earning her licensure as a Clinical Addictions Specialist and Clinical Social Worker. Ms. Beresford stated, “My dream is to help people living within the margins of society feel heard and seen.”