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Meet Our Team
Allison Voegtlin, IGS, GDL
Business Development Associate*
Ally Voegtlin is an experienced business development professional with nearly four years of experience supporting mission-driven organizations in their efforts to grow sustainably and equitably. She has led and contributed to a wide range of business development activities, including proposal writing, capture strategy, partner engagement, and marketing. Ally has worked across sectors to support teams in identifying funding opportunities, building collaborative partnerships, and developing responsive, equity-centered proposals. She is passionate about advancing community-driven work and brings a strong commitment to inclusive practices, strategic thinking, and cross-functional collaboration.
Aquilah Nelson, MPH
Project Coordinator*
Aquilah is a healthcare and equity strategist with experience supporting population health programs, digital initiatives, and provider focused engagement strategies. She has an ability to drive satisfaction, retention, and adoption by aligning internal teams and executive stakeholders. Beyond frameworks and deliverables, she leads with a belief that systems should be accountable to the people most impacted by them.
Deitre Epps, MS, LLD (h.c.)
President & CEO R.A.C.E. for Equity
Deitre Epps is a globally experienced leader in equitable systems change, community engagement, and results-based accountability. As Founder of R.A.C.E. for Equity, she brings over two decades of experience guiding organizations in centering people with lived experience, advancing racial equity, and transforming data into meaningful change for people and communities.
A graduate of Howard University and Coppin State University, Deitre holds a Master’s degree in Human Services Administration. In 2024, Deitre received an Honorary Doctor of Laws (LL.D.) from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.
Deitre’s work is grounded in the belief that real impact requires collaborative action. She partners with governments, philanthropies, and community-based organizations to build equity-centered systems that are driven by the people they serve. Through culturally grounded strategy and storytelling, she helps turn insight into action, ensuring communities are not only heard but empowered to lead. She brings a deep understanding of intercultural intelligence, helping organizations navigate cultural complexity with humility, insight, and respect.
Jennifer Vessio
Accounting Specialist*
As a member of the Finance Team at RACE for Equity, Jennifer Vessio draws on her strong accounting background to support the organization's mission of advancing health equity through data-driven strategies and community engagement. She is deeply committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of her work.
Lydia Nakavuma, MBChB, MPH, PMP
Program Manager*
Dr. Lydia Nakavuma, (MBChB, MPH, PMP) is a health equity and cross-cultural development consultant with over 10 years’ experience spanning clinical care, public health, and health care quality improvement. Trained as a physician in Uganda, she brings experience in project management, Results-Based Accountability, intercultural development, and equity-centered strategic planning.
Zachary J. Epps, MBA
Vice President of Development and Strategy
Zachary J. Epps (he/they) serves as Vice President of Development and Strategy, leading planning, partnerships, and team collaboration to advance data-informed, equity-driven change. With experience in youth leadership, government advocacy, and organizational capacity building, Zachary brings empathy, energy, and strategic focus to every partnership. Outside of work, they enjoy family time, serve on a local school board, and coach youth sports.
*Independent Contractors
Our Values
At RACE for Equity, our values are the foundation of everything we do. They guide how we engage with our partners, approach our work, and contribute to meaningful, sustainable change. These core principles reflect our deep commitment to equity, learning, and community impact.
Purpose
We are driven by a deep commitment to meaningful, community-centered change. Our work is grounded in the belief that lasting impact comes from centering the voices, needs, and strengths of the people and communities we serve.
Integrity
We uphold honesty, transparency, and accountability in every relationship and decision. We build trust with our partners by following through on our commitments and aligning our actions with our values.
Empathy
We listen deeply and honor the lived experiences of those most impacted by the work. By creating space for authentic voices and perspectives, we foster understanding, inclusion, and equitable solutions.
Growth
We embrace continuous learning, innovation, and reflection as essential drivers of meaningful progress. We are committed to evolving alongside the organizations and communities we support.
Excellence
We hold ourselves to the highest standards, delivering work that reflects both our passion and professionalism. Through careful attention to detail and a focus on measurable results, we strive for meaningful, lasting impact.
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