At United Parks As One, our Board and Staff lead with purpose, passion, and deep-rooted connections to the Newark community. Each member brings a unique blend of expertise—ranging from education and environmental justice to grassroots organizing and the creative arts. As a result, this diversity of experience strengthens our ability to serve Newark’s neighborhoods holistically.
Together our UPAO Board and Staff drive our mission to transform public spaces into vibrant parks, playgrounds, and gardens that serve as safe, inclusive hubs for connection, wellness, and growth. Their leadership helps guide community-led initiatives, advocate for equitable access to green spaces, and build partnerships that fuel long-term impact.
Explore the individuals behind our vision—and discover how their work is shaping a stronger, more unified Newark.
Hajjah Dena Corbin is a retired Special Education Teacher with 32 years of dedicated service. She is a wife, mother, grandmother, and best-selling author of Change Balance & Flow: An Essential Oil Journey. Her book highlights her transition from a lifetime of work to embracing a balanced and fulfilling retirement, supported by the use of Therapeutic Grade Essential Oils.
Dena’s passion for community, wellness, and gardening drives her continued efforts to inspire others through her work and advocacy.
2022 Greater Newark Conservancy Nelson Mandela Freedom Award for service to the Greater Newark Conservancy and the Newark community
Selected speaker for TEDx Tara Blvd, presenting on Reframing the Idea of Gardening
Dena’s journey exemplifies a life of balance and transformation. Through her dedication to holistic wellness, environmental stewardship, and education, she encourages others to embrace personal growth and community engagement.
Richard A. Whitten, Co-President of United Parks as One, was born and raised in Newark, New Jersey. Guided by the values instilled by his working-class parents, he has dedicated his life to giving back to his community. Richard is the proud father of two children: his adult daughter, Krystle, and his school-aged son, Aaron.
His leadership and advocacy work reflect his deep commitment to creating opportunities for Newark residents and fostering connections across the community.
Dena’s passion for community, wellness, and gardening drives her continued efforts to inspire others through her work and advocacy.
Political adviser and campaign strategist specializing in Newark’s Central Ward.
Legislative aide for Cory Booker during his tenure on the Newark City Council.
Strategic roles in campaigns for:
Cory Booker (1998 Newark City Council campaign)
Dana Rone (2003 Newark School Board campaign and 2006 Newark City Council campaign)
Over 20 years of volunteer service distributing poultry to families in need.
Recognized for his work as a board member, adviser, and community ambassador through various roles, including:
Board member, Greater Newark Conservancy
Adviser, Eyes Like Mine
Community ambassador, Project Ready
Richard believes in the power of community service and giving back. Whether advocating for education, health, or political change, his work is driven by a desire to uplift Newark residents. He finds joy in mentoring young people and supporting seniors, alongside pursuing his personal hobbies of bowling, running, and cycling.
Rhenotha Ophelia Whitaker was born and raised in Newark, NJ, with family roots in Scotland Neck, NC. An entertainer and media personality, she began singing at the age of 8, inspired by Whitney Houston’s The Greatest Love of All. She has since built a career making audiences smile through TV, radio, and print media.
By day, Rhenotha serves as the Deputy Director of Clinton Hill Community Action and the Treasurer of United Parks As One. She is also a member of the Mildred Helms Park Resurrection Committee and the founder and lead writer of Full Figured Fabulous and On The Way To Fit, an online lifestyle publication.
Her leadership and advocacy work reflect his deep commitment to creating opportunities for Newark residents and fostering connections across the community.
His leadership and advocacy work reflect his deep commitment to creating opportunities for Newark residents and fostering connections across the community.
Dena’s passion for community, wellness, and gardening drives her continued efforts to inspire others through her work and advocacy.
Bachelor’s Degree in Economics, Drew University
Master’s Degree in Public Administration, Rutgers University
SAG-AFTRA and Equity actress
Professional print model with Funny Face Today Agency
Numerous accolades in entertainment and community service
Rhenotha attributes her successes to her faith and gives glory to God for guiding her life and blessings.
Elizabeth McGrady is a passionate community advocate dedicated to helping and informing others. Her work emphasizes the power of sharing knowledge and resources for collective growth.
Founding member of United Parks As One and The Friends of Nat Turner Park
Former Co-President of United Parks As One
Secretary roles in several organizations, including:
Friends of Nat Turner Park
Wynona Lipman Gardens Tenant Association
Newark Environmental Commission
Essex County Senior & Disabled representative
Design Team Member, Safety by Design Toolkit
Fallon Davis is a non-binary visionary committed to dismantling systemic disparities faced by Black and queer people of color. As a radical educator and creative scientist, Fallon channels their passion into developing equitable S.T.E.A.M. programs and pioneering queer fashion initiatives.
Master’s in Education, focus on Curriculum and Instruction with dual concentrations in:
Equity, Equality, and Justice
S.T.E.A.M.
Founder and CEO of STEAM URBAN
Creator of over eight S.T.E.A.M programs for therapeutic rehabilitation and educational systems
Trailblazer in queer fashion: Creator of the first masculine-of-center fashion show and Queer Fashion Week
Advocate for systemic change through global pilot programming and mentorship
Evelyn Fuertes, NDTR, is a bilingual Community Cancer Control Specialist who transitioned from a corporate career to serving communities in need. Her focus is on empowering individuals, particularly within the Latino community, to advocate for their health.
Nutrition & Dietetic Technician Registered (NDTR), earned in 2014
Experienced in creating evidence-based nutrition curriculums
Roles at:
Community FoodBank of New Jersey
SNAP-Ed
Whole Cities Foundation
Evelyn is recognized for her impactful work in cancer prevention and health education, championing initiatives that empower communities to live healthier lives. Outside of her professional work, she finds joy in life’s simple pleasures—relaxing with her husband and dogs, getting lost in a good book, and exploring the outdoors through hiking
Damon Rich is a designer, urban planner, and visual artist who has called Newark home for over 15 years. As a partner at HECTOR, an urban design practice, Damon works on innovative projects that combine community engagement and art.
Damon is committed to blending design and community advocacy to create meaningful public spaces.
Julia Somers is an environmental policy advocate and non-profit leader. Since 2006, she has served as the Executive Director of the New Jersey Highlands Coalition, transforming it into a leading voice for protecting natural and cultural resources.
His leadership and advocacy work reflect his deep commitment to creating opportunities for Newark residents and fostering connections across the community.
Julia’s work is driven by a passion for sustainability and the belief that natural resources are critical to economic stability and quality of life.
