Board of Directors

Founder and President:

Dr. Roya Rohani  Rad: Roya Rad's educational background is in Psychology. She holds a
Master degree in Applied Psychology and a Doctorate degree in Clinical Psychology.  She
is an author, a poet, and has a long history of volunteer work including but not limited to
public education and has been nominated for the Heroes in the fight award for her
exemplary dedication to mental health. Currently, she is a professor of psychology at
Strayer University.  

Vice President:

Leslye Gartrell: Mrs. Gartrell is a violinist, a retired 33-year veteran of the US Army, and
was a leader/soloist for the White House Strolling Strings performing for presidents and
heads of state from around the world. Leslye has extensive experience doing charity and
community work. She performs for the Red Cross, at auctions and for benefits and fund
raisers.  Leslye’s volunteer and non-profit work includes performing for the Joe Gibbs
School for Boys to raise money for wayward young men, collaboratin with the Army
Chief of Staff on charity work and volunteering for the OAR Fairfax County Jail
Program, which rehabilitates prisoners before being released from prison.

Secretary:

Valerie Taylor: Mrs. Taylor is an educational consultant for non-profits, including the
Center for Energy Workforce Development (CEWD). For the Center, Valerie focuses on
career awareness, workforce development models and processes as well as initiating and
managing partnerships with related associations, youth-focused groups, and the military.  
Before becoming an independent consultant, Valerie lead education departments for
several professional associations, including the National Rural Electric Cooperative
Association, the Society for Marketing Professional Services, the Special Libraries
Association, and the American Academy of Audiology.
Self Knowledge Base & Foundation
A non profit dedicated to public education
About Us
When people from
all walks of life
unite with a clear
and shared vision,
they promote
beauty.