Dr. TALITHA WASHINGTON

DIRECTOR, 

DATA SCIENCE INITIATIVE

Dr. Talitha Washington is the inaugural Director of the Atlanta University Center (AUC) Data Science Initiative, a Professor of Mathematics at Clark Atlanta University and an affiliate faculty at Morehouse College, Morehouse School of Medicine, and Spelman College. She is the Director and lead principal investigator of the NSF-funded National Data Science Alliance (NDSA) and the President of the Association for Women in Mathematics. She works across Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to increase the number of Blacks with expertise in data science and expand data science research that advocates for social justice. 

TOMMY TAYLOR JR

COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER, 

DATA SCIENCE INITIATIVE

Tommy Taylor Jr. leads the strategic planning for all communications, branding and marketing here at the AUC Data Science Initiative.  Taylor also manages the content development, technology platforms, project management, digital and social media engagement, and handles our press/media outreach.

Taylor previously worked at the National Science Foundation as the Creative Media Producer pioneering new content, media strategies, and digital outreach. There, Mr. Taylor developed content focused on re-imagining how creativity and diversity can heighten scientific videos and connect with new audiences.   His efforts resulted in recognition by Forbes Magazine for producing the nation’s “Best Science Videos”.  Additionally, Mr. Taylor is an award-winning producer/writer/artist – working on projects from BET and HBO, to the Smithsonian Institution and the Special Olympics.

Taylor enjoys merging his creative abilities with his technical background.  He earned dual degrees from Carnegie Mellon University in electrical & computer engineering (ECE), and engineering & public policy (EPP)  with a minor in performing arts.  He went on to earn an MBA in marketing and supply chain management from Howard University and Georgetown University.

MANOAH FARMER

DATA MANAGER, 

DATA SCIENCE INITIATIVE

Manoah Farmer is our data and is responsible for the management, analysis, and visualization of data within the Data Science Initiative. Mr. Farmer also manages the AUC Virtual Computer Lab.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in Applied Mathematics from Claflin University. He then earned his master’s degree in Data Science from The George Washington University. Mr. Farmer enjoys being a part of the great work the AUC DSI is bringing to the community.

Dr. H. JUSTIN BALLENGER

DEPUTY DIRECTOR, 

DATA SCIENCE INITIATIVE

Dr. H. Justin Ballenger serves as the Deputy Director of the AUC Data Science Initiative and leads efforts to generate promising practices that broaden the participation of African Americans in data science. He works across disciplines to serve the AUC, K-12 schools, and the broader community.  His research agenda is focused on K-12 data science education, STEM-focused community outreach among minority-led non-profits, and data-driven strategies for broadening participation in STEM. His experience includes developing research-grounded outreach programs that partner with community-based organizations to support data science education, STEM engagement, and design thinking for educators and K-12 students from underserved communities.  

Dr. Ballenger is also an Assistant Professor of STEM Education in the Division of Continuing Education and Professional Studies at Morehouse College.  As a researcher, instructor, and change agent, he enjoys creating equitable learning spaces that broaden pathways in data science and other STEM disciplines. 

Dr. EBONI DOTSON

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT & SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR, 

DATA SCIENCE INITIATIVE

Dr. Eboni Dotson joined our team as our Executive Assistant!  In this critical role, Dr. Dotson will provide executive-level research, operational, and administrative support to the Director and ensure the efficient operation of the AUC Data Science Initiative.

As a lifelong scholar and proactive professional, Dr. Dotson has engaged in ongoing professional development by earning multiple post-graduate certificates from universities including, John Hopkins, Stanford, and Harvard. Her recent credentials include education in COVID19-related competencies, global health safety, and health equity.

Recognizing the importance of balance, Dr. Dotson finds equal fulfillment and enjoyment through volunteering in her community. Dr. Dotson is actively involved in the Georgia Association of Healthcare Quality (GaAHQ) Board of Directors, LATech4Good Leadership Council, and Clayton State University Alumni Board of Advisors.

Dr. LATOYA MORRIS

ASST. DIRECTOR of PROGRAMS, 

DATA SCIENCE INITIATIVE

Dr. Latoya Morris serves as the Assistant Director of Programs for the AUC Data Science Initiative (DSI). In this role, Dr. Morris is responsible for working with the Director to develop, refine, and implement strategic programs that support faculty development and student enrichment activities across HBCUs. Under the vision and mission of the AUC Data Science Initiative, Dr. Morris works collaboratively with stakeholders to develop innovations in research, advance educational activities, and diversity the data science workforce. 

Dr. Morris holds a bachelor’s degree in business administration, a master’s degree in curriculum & Instruction, and a doctoral degree in Human Resource Development. Her research focuses on dynamic learning processes and using inter-organizational networks to enhance performance.