Meet the Amazing Collective
The 2026 Planning Collective for Counseling and Treating People of Colour: An International Perspective is made up of dedicated volunteers who contribute their time, experience, creativity, and leadership to the continued success of the conference.
Collective members develop forms and documents, contribute ideas, monitor communications, follow up on calls, and assist with conference planning. Each member balances this work with full-time professional responsibilities, often supporting the conference early in the morning, during lunch breaks, and on weekends.
We are grateful to welcome Cherie Staples and Angela Reed back to this year’s conference and pleased to introduce Simone Cleaves as a new member of the 36th Annual Conference Planning Collective.
Cherie Staples
Georgia
Connection to CTPOC:IP
Cherie Staples’ connection to CTPOC:IP began when she participated in the Coach Powell Youth Academy as a middle school student. Along with her friends Allison and Felix, she encouraged “Coach” to establish the College Academy, creating a space for college students to share their perspectives and contribute to meaningful conference dialogue.
Coach later became one of Cherie’s mentors, and she has remained committed to advancing the conference through technology support, organizational leadership, and planning.
Professional Contribution
Cherie is an experienced educational leader with expertise in data analysis and reporting, strategic planning, budgeting, fundraising, project coordination, and program development. She is passionate about using collaborative leadership and data-informed decision-making to strengthen organizations, improve outcomes, and support the continued growth of CTPOC:IP.
Angela Reed
Minnesota
Connection to CTPOC:IP
Angela Reed’s connection to CTPOC began through her work with the National Black Alcoholism and Addictions Council. She served as a Capacity-Building Assistance Provider and later as National Coordinator, supporting national programs and training initiatives.
Angela was also a certified facilitator for the Black Children of Alcohol and Drug-Addicted Parents curriculum. She has been connected to the conference since high school and was active in NBAC, where the founders helped shape the early development of CTPOC:IP.
Professional Contribution
Angela’s experience with CTPOC has strengthened her commitment to culturally specific approaches, community healing, and solutions that address systemic barriers. Her creativity, perspective, and leadership strengthen the Planning Collective and support its commitment to carrying the conference legacy forward.
Simone Cleaves
Michigan
Connection to CTPOC:IP
Simone Cleaves’ connection to CTPOC began when she attended the 2025 conference in Montgomery, Alabama. Inspired by the conference’s mission and collaborative spirit, she provided thoughtful feedback and demonstrated a strong commitment to quality and continuous improvement.
Her insight and dedication led to an invitation to join the 2026 CTPOC Planning Collective.
Professional Contribution
As a behavioral health compliance professional, Simone specializes in accreditation readiness, quality improvement, strategic planning, policy development, workforce development, and organizational performance.
She is passionate about helping organizations build sustainable systems, foster collaboration, and create opportunities that empower professionals while improving outcomes for the individuals and communities they serve.
Together, the members of the Planning Collective help preserve the vision, strengthen the conference, and continue the CTPOC:IP legacy.
