Meet our Advisory Committee
We are excited to announce the members of our new advisory Committee!
Please scroll down below to learn more about each member:
Chairwoman of the Committee
& Clinical Psychologist
Dr. Pooja Datta, Ph.D.
Pooja Datta, Ph.D., is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist in the Virginia and DC area and is a MD native. She has completed training and previously worked with UT Health San Antonio, Georgetown University, and the University of Virginia. Dr. Datta is affiliated with Capital Institute for Cognitive Therapy, The George Washington University, and owns her own practice, Datta Psychological Services. She is dedicated to working with survivors of trauma and women of color in her clinical work and roles as a supervisor and in teaching.
Vice President of BetMGM Marketing, MGM Resorts
Chris Gumiela
Chris Gumiela is currently the Vice President of BetMGM Marketing for MGM Resorts International. He has spent his 16 year career working in various marketing roles for MGM Resorts. His ties to the DC area began in 2017 when he accepted the opportunity to oversee marketing at MGM National Harbor, located just outside of the city. Chris is excited to leverage his skills to help grow the opportunity that Hearts of Empowerment provides.
CEO of liftu public relations
Kristen Peifer
Kristen Peifer is a marketing and public relations strategist with over 25 years of experience. She develops and directs integrated public relations and marketing campaigns to achieve broad goals in branding, community outreach, consumer experience, and growth. Her national and international media relations experience successfully increases brand awareness while building strong reputations for clients. As CEO of LiftU Public Relations, Kristen has gone on to provide marketing, branding and communications services to NBA and NFL players and executives, and prominent companies in a wide range of industries.
Restaurateur & Entrepreneur
Scott Parker
Scott is a restaurateur and entrepreneur based in Arlington, Virginia. He works with many awesome partners to create and build companies that will have an impact in their community and beyond. Several of Scott's brands have multiple locations, encompassing 15 properties throughout Arlington and the greater Washington DC area.
holistic Wellness Ambassador, Former DC Council Candidate At Large, Executive Strategies Officer & Capacity Builder
Sharece Crawford
Sharece Crawford is a Former DC Council Candidate At Large, Holistic Wellness Ambassador, and Executive Strategies Officer. For her work in human services, Sharece has received numerous awards and distinctions including, Leadership in Youth Development & Minority Entrepreneurship by Community Connoisseurs, Honorary Census Ambassador by United Planning Organization, and honored for her Outstanding Contribution to the Ward 8 community.