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Meet The Founder

Founder | Executive Director

Dr. Zanethia Barnett

Dr. Zanethia Barnett is a Research Fisheries Biologist with more than 16 years of experience studying aquatic ecosystems and freshwater conservation. Her work has helped natural resource managers better understand how land and water management practices affect streams, rivers, and aquatic life, leading to more effective conservation of freshwater systems. In recognition of her scientific leadership, Dr. Barnett received the Society for Freshwater Science Hynes Award as one of the field’s top early-career scientists. Raised in Estill, South Carolina, a small rural town, Dr. Barnett’s love for God’s creation began outdoors—fishing and hunting with her father, crabbing in the creek behind her grandfather’s home, and spending summers exploring the coast. These early experiences sparked a lifelong passion for the environment and shaped her calling to study and protect the natural world through both science and stewardship. Dr. Barnett pursued her education at the intersection of ecology, economics, and biology, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Economics from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, a Master’s degree in Interdisciplinary Ecology from the University of Florida, and a Doctorate in Biology from the University of Mississippi. Beyond her research, Dr. Barnett is deeply committed to exposing youth—especially those from underrepresented communities—to environmental science and aquatic biology. She serves as a mentor in the American Fisheries Society Hutton Scholars Program, guiding high school seniors and providing hands-on internship experiences. She has also developed award-winning outreach and recreational programs in partnership with the USDA Forest Service and grassroots organizations, creating opportunities for minority youth to explore aquatic environments, build confidence in STEM, and connect with nature. As the founder of Exploration of God’s Creations, Dr. Barnett brings together her faith, scientific expertise, and passion for youth development to inspire the next generation of environmental stewards. Through faith-based environmental education, she encourages young people to see science as a tool for understanding, honoring, and caring for God’s creation. Dr. Barnett resides in Greenville, South Carolina, with her husband and three children. She is an active member of Rocky Creek Missionary Baptist Church, where she serves in the youth department and leads the Praise Dance Team.

Founder Dr. Zanethia Barnett

Meet The Team

Vice Chair and Program Director Shayla Wallace

Vice Chair/Program Manager

Shayla Wallace

Shayla Wallace serves as a Managing Director at State Street Corporation, where she heads the Finance Transformation and Change Office. In this capacity, she is tasked with advancing business transformation initiatives through the implementation of effective global change strategies, facilitating business user adoption and sustainment of novel operational processes. Her role further includes the oversight of program management and the global communications and engagement strategy for the Finance division. Ms. Wallace maintains active community involvement as a member of the Junior League of Greenville County and Cedar Grove Missionary Baptist Church. She has contributed her time and expertise as a volunteer in various capacities for several nonprofit organizations located in both Charlotte, NC, and Greenville, SC. Academically, Ms. Wallace earned a Master of Business Administration from Winthrop University. She currently resides in Greenville, SC with her husband and son.

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Christian Education Specialist

Benjamin Hartage

Benjamin Hartage, a native of Wadmalaw Island, South Carolina, is dedicated to serving and leading youth through Christian education. He earned a Bachelor of Arts in Educational Studies from Belmont Abbey College, and has over 15 years of experience supporting students, families, and schools. Benjamin has served in multiple educational and leadership roles within Gaston County and Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools, including Exceptional Children’s Teacher Assistant, Behavior Modification Technician, and Football Coach. He currently serves as the Family Advocate and Transportation Administrator at University Meadows Elementary School, where he works to strengthen family engagement and student success. Called to ministry at a young age, Benjamin began teaching Sunday School at 13 and by 21 he was an ordained Deacon and licensed Minister. In 2022, he was ordained as an Elder through the Christian Covenant Fellowship of Ministries: Leadership Institute. Guided by faith and committed to lifelong service, Benjamin seeks to empower others through education, leadership, and biblical principles. Benjamin resides in Charlotte, North Carolina with his wife. He lives by the teachings of Isaiah 40:31, “They that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up on wings as eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint.”

Vice Chair and Program Director Shayla Wallace

Environmental Education Specialist

Dr. Shereitte C. Stokes, IV

Dr. Stokes has more than 15 years of experience in public health, environmental health, environmental sciences, and international affairs and development. His expertise includes but is not limited to: 1) collaborating with partners on community engagement, environmental health issues, exposure investigations, emergency response, and other environmental public health activities; 2) establishing protocols for successful program completion and advocacy efforts that includes identifying missions and goals and managing compliance with legal and regulatory requirements; and 3) managing public health programs, projects, and funding mechanisms, and evaluating programs and activities. Dr. Stokes has more than 15 years of experience designing impactful educational programs for diverse learners, leveraging technology to enhance learning and improve student outcomes, and collaborating with educators to enhance program effectiveness. Dr. Stokes has developed curricula for Introduction to Environmental Health, Environmental Policy and Ethics, and an Environmental Health Pre-Medicine Track. Dr. Stokes has completed numerous fellowship programs, including the Institute for Georgia Environmental Leadership Class of 2020/2021 and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Population Health Training Place Program. Dr. Stokes has received numerous awards – including selection to the 2024 CDC Strategic Leadership Institute Cohort 2. He received his Bachelor of Arts in Biological Sciences from Rutgers the State University of New Jersey – Rutgers College; Master of Public Health from Morehouse School of Medicine; Master of International Affairs and Development from Clark Atlanta University; and Doctor of Philosophy in Environmental Sciences from Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University.

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Secretary/Educational Coordinator

Janelle Graves Young

Janelle Graves Young is a results-driven public health professional, entrepreneur, and faith-driven leader with over a decade of experience spanning healthcare policy, health equity, wellness coaching, education, and research. She has led dynamic teams, launched successful health and wellness initiatives, and managed statewide training and policy projects aimed at improving outcomes for underserved communities. As a health and wellness entrepreneur, she generated over $140K in annual revenue and led a team of more than 230 partners. Her career includes impactful roles in public health instruction, special education, legislative research, and healthcare administration. With a proven track record in project coordination, policy development, and remote collaboration, Janelle brings a unique blend of public health expertise and strategic leadership to every endeavor. Janelle has a Master of Public Health from West Virginia University and is currently pursuing a Master of Divinity to strengthen her theological foundation and bring biblically grounded leadership to her professional, community, and ministry efforts. Recognized for her leadership and advocacy, she has received awards for legislative health research and continues to empower communities through policy, wellness, and faith-based service.

Vice Chair and Program Director Shayla Wallace

Treasurer/Chief Collaborations Officer

Zenobia Washington

Zenobia Washington is a seasoned banking professional, collaborative leader, and community advocate with over 22 years of experience in the financial services industry. She currently serves at Bank of America, where her career spans customer service, learning and development, procedures governance, and risk and business controls. Zenobia is known for her collaborative leadership style, partnering across teams and stakeholders to drive operational excellence, compliance, and talent development. She holds a Bachelor of Business Administration in Accounting from Francis Marion University and dual Master’s degrees in Finance and Accounting Management and Human Resources Management from DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management. Beyond her corporate career, Zenobia is deeply committed to community collaboration and service. She serves as a Board Member for The Academy of Goal Achievers, Site Coordinator for the Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program at Chosen City Church, and Community Involvement Relationship Manager for the LEAD for Women Employee Network at Bank of America. A devoted servant leader, she is passionate about building partnerships that create access, empowerment, and sustainable impact. Zenobia resides in Charlotte, North Carolina with her husband and two children, and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.

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Public Engagement & Activities Coordinator

Daniel Williams

Daniel Williams has a background in Psychology with a minor focus in Youth Ministry from Charleston Southern University and brings over 14 years of experience in the healthcare field. He currently serves as an Operations Manager and has spent more than eight years growing in leadership within his organization, the Medical University of South Carolina. Daniel identifies as a servant and transformational leader who seeks to create meaningful change through understanding, advocacy, and action—especially for those who may not feel seen or heard. He is passionate about being a difference maker and believes that anything worth doing should be done with excellence. Outside of work, he enjoys cooking, basketball, tennis, and bowling.

In his hands is the life of every creature and the breath of all mankind. Job 10:12

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