The Fathers’ UpLift’s United States Therapist Recruitment (USTR) Fellowship exists to increase the number of BIPOC therapists in the mental health, behavioral health, and addictions field. Each year, 14 USTR Fellows are accepted from students attending graduate schools at accredited colleges & universities in the United States of America. Below are the members of the Inaugural 2023 cohort of the USTR Fellowship, each of whom has passed a rigorous and competitive consideration process and proven themselves to be both passionate and competent to meaningfully further mental health, behavioral health, and addiction treatment and prevention for communities of color, as future practitioners of color themselves.
USTR Fellows of 2023-2024
Aaron Marcel McClain
2023 Fellow | Master of Social Work, Boston College
“He envisions a career focused on supporting individuals and communities in reclaiming their strengths, self-determination, and ancestral wisdom. Marcel’s ultimate goal is to contribute to a world where healing is central, liberation is realized, and marginalized communities are empowered to thrive…”
Addison Ford
2023 Fellow | Master of Social Work, Grambling State University
“Addison’s ultimate goal is to contribute to the development of trauma-informed systems of care on a larger scale. He envisions a future where individuals and communities have access to comprehensive support services that address the root causes of trauma and promote resilience and healing…”
Asia Hall
2023 Fellow | Doctor of Psychology, National Luis University
“Beyond her academic and clinical pursuits, Asia is a dedicated advocate for mental health awareness and destigmatization. She actively engages in community outreach programs, providing educational resources and support to underserved populations...”
Camree Agee
2023 Fellow | Master of Social Work, Alabama A&M University
“Camree’s vision for the future is to establish a nonprofit clinic in her community that offers integrated mental and medical health services to underserved populations…”
Christiana Isenard
2023 Fellow | M.S. in Mental Health Counseling, University of the Southwest
“Christiana Isenard is an accomplished educator and advocate for children, boasting a wealth of experience in the field. In addition to her dedication to teaching, she is also a published author and a researcher, delving into the complexities of mental health and the factors that contribute to harmful behaviors…”
Derrick Felton
2023 Fellow | Doctor of Social Work, University of Southern California
“Derrick’s dedication to social work is driven by his deep-rooted belief in the power of providing compassionate and comprehensive support to individuals in need. His personal experience as a disabled Army Veteran has fueled his passion for helping others navigate the complexities of life and find their path to resilience and well-being...”
James Reed
2023 Fellow | Master of Social Work, The Ohio State University
“With over 10 years of experience serving Ohio’s Medicaid population, James has developed a deep understanding of the challenges faced by vulnerable communities and has made it his mission to provide support and empowerment to those in need...”
Natalie Zermeno
2023 Fellow | Master of Social work, Simmons University
“Natalie’s primary goal is to address the inequity gap experienced by marginalized populations and ensure they have access to the social services they need. She is deeply committed to social justice and advocating for the rights of those who are often overlooked or underserved...”
Oluwatosin Folarin
2023 Fellow | M.S. in Mental Health, Austin Peay State University
“Oluwatosin’s warm and empathetic approach, coupled with her expertise in evidence-based practices, makes her a trusted resource and advocate for mental health and well-being...”
Payton Horacek
2023 Fellow | Master in Marriage & Family Therapy, University of Nebraska Lincoln
“Payton’s passion lies in creating inviting spaces where mental health and care are embraced and regarded as positive forms of healing, particularly within BIPOC communities nationwide...”
Tamanda Chitalo
2023 Fellow | Master of social work, Indiana State University
“Looking ahead, Tamanda envisions herself as a leader in her field, advocating for policy changes and systemic reforms to address the root causes of social inequalities…Her journey started in Malawi, and is now taking her to new heights as she strives to uplift individuals and communities around the world...”
Tupac Isme
2023 Fellow | Master in counseling & Psychology, Bethune Cookman University
“Recognizing the unique challenges and struggles faced by individuals who have experienced setbacks in their athletic pursuits, Tupac aims to provide support and guidance to help them become productive members of society...”