Jomal Vailes, Founding Executive Director at STRIVE Atlanta

Jomal is committed to closing the access gap for families and children of color. As Chief Philanthropy Officer for Communities In Schools of Georgia, Jomal worked closely with its President and Board of Directors to lead the statewide agency’s resource development strategies focused on expanding philanthropic investments and agency visibility. Jomal, a Certified Fundraising Executive (CFRE), is no stranger to advocating for vulnerable populations. Vailes previously served as Chief External Affairs Officer for The Center for Working Families (Annie E. Casey Foundation, Atlanta Civic Site), overseeing fund development, communications and strategic partnerships as part of its Family Economic Success and Two-Generation portfolios. An accomplished leader focused on achieving outcomes and impact, Jomal has served Atlanta’s nonprofit community for more than 20 years including roles as Manager of Corporate and Foundation Relations for Georgia Aquarium, and Manager of Community Engagement and Diversity Programs for the world-renowned Atlanta Symphony Orchestra.

Jomal is a candidate for the MA in Philanthropy from LaGrange College, and holds a BS in Organizational Leadership from Valdosta State University after matriculation at Morehouse College. He lives in Atlanta with his wife and three daughters.