Behind the Work

Alexandria Washington is the CEO/Managing Principal of The BIG Agency, where she and her team serve as the go-to brand architects for clients across the country — employing over 30 young Black and Brown creatives. Previously, Washington served over a decade as a broadcaster in a number of cities from coast to coast — and still serves as an award-winning radio personality with Bradford Media Group, and TV host with a resume of media titans such as TMZ, Fox News, Viacom and Radio One. 

Washington is a graduate of The University of Alabama, where she earned her bachelor degree in public relations, and her MBA from the historic Philander Smith University, graduating at the top of university’s inaugural cohort with honors.

Cyril Djoukeng is a talented attorney, and litigation counsel for Verizon in Washington, DC. Cyril’s professional experience spans 10 plus years in the law industry, and brings that voice to the High Street Equity Partners team as a Venture Fellow. Cyril is instrumental in due diligence, and team deal flow, with key insights about online marketplaces, and the future of work. Cyril is intent on building the economy through venture capital and higher education. He is a graduate of Nicholls State, and received his J.D. from the University of North Carolina Law School.

As a distinguished surgeon-scientist with dual board certifications in Surgery and Clinical Informatics, I bring a unique blend of medical expertise and entrepreneurial acumen to the advisory board of our venture capital firm. My innovative software, Midas+ Live™, utilizes predictive analytics across electronic medical records to forecast patient complications in both hospital and outpatient settings, a technology later acquired by Affiliated Computer Services (a Xerox company). Additionally, my contributions to medical device development, such as utilizing venous waveforms for patient monitoring, have been licensed to Fortune 500 companies like Baxter International.

Currently serving as an Associate Professor at UAMS with multiple appointments across various departments, I hold leadership roles in clinical informatics, innovation, and technology transfer. With a prolific publication record and a history of securing extramural funding from prestigious organizations like the National Institutes of Health, I am deeply entrenched in both academic research and practical application. My commitment to technology and entrepreneurship extends beyond academia, as I serve as an advisor to several healthcare startups and provide specialized coaching to executives in the healthcare software industry. By leveraging my multidisciplinary expertise, I aim to foster diversity of thought within our advisory board, driving impactful investments and shaping the future of healthcare innovation.

Dr. Sachin Nagrani is a distinguished figure in the healthcare sector, recently serving as the Medical Director of Heal. With a robust background in medicine, his career is characterized by a commitment to innovative healthcare delivery and patient-centric services. At Heal, Nagrani has been instrumental in redefining home healthcare, focusing on accessibility, efficiency, and comprehensive care. In 2023, Heal was acquired by Humana.

Nagrani's expertise lies in integrating modern technology with traditional medical practices to enhance patient experiences and outcomes. Under his leadership, Heal has emerged as a pioneer in offering on-demand healthcare services, seamlessly blending in-person visits with telemedicine. His approach emphasizes preventive care and personalized treatment plans, ensuring that healthcare is not only accessible but also tailored to individual needs.

With a deep understanding of the healthcare landscape, Nagrani is a strong advocate for using technology to bridge gaps in healthcare delivery. His vision and strategic direction have been pivotal in establishing Heal as a model for innovative, patient-first healthcare services. Nagrani's leadership continues to drive advancements in home healthcare, making a significant impact on the way healthcare is delivered and experienced.

Joel Kanter, President of Windy City, Inc. since 1986, is a seasoned investment professional with a diverse background in both the public and private sectors. His career is marked by his tenure as President and CEO of Walnut Financial Services, Inc., a publicly traded company specializing in financing small to medium-sized businesses in particular Healthcare companies. Under his leadership, Walnut Financial grew significantly, eventually IPO’d and culminated in a successful $400 million sale to Tower Hill Capital Group in 1999.

Kanter's early career included impactful roles in government and legislative affairs. From 1978 to 1980, he served as a Legislative Assistant to Congressman Abner J. Mikva, contributing to federal criminal code reform efforts. He then advanced to Special Assistant at the National Association of Attorneys General from 1980 to 1983, where he played a key role in legislative initiatives for environmental protection, including the Clean Air Act and the Clean Water Act.

From 1983 to 1985, Kanter was the Staff Director of the House Rules Committee's Subcommittee on Legislative Process, actively involved in Democratic Party policy development and debate format innovation. Following this, he served as Managing Director of The Investors' Washington Service, advising major corporations on the impact of federal decisions on markets.

In the corporate realm, Kanter has held board positions in several public companies, including Magna-Labs, Inc. and WaferGen, contributing to advancements in medical and biotechnological fields. His involvement extends to private companies like Fibralign Corporation and First Wave Technologies, innovating in medical devices and healthcare solutions.

Dr. Fernando Porter is a private practice owner and HealthTech executive serving as the Medical Director of Privia Health. Dr. Porter is known for his innovative approach to medical practice management and patient care. His tenure at Privia Health is marked by a commitment to enhancing healthcare delivery through cutting-edge technology and patient-centered strategies.

Prior to joining Privia Health, Dr. Porter was a Partner and Medical Director at GoWell Urgent Care. In 2013, he worked as a physician with MedStar Health. During that time, he joined Health Tech start-up Doctor on Demand as the Medical Director to help launch and support the expansion of its telehealth practice. 

Porter's leadership at Privia Health has been instrumental in the development and implementation of advanced healthcare models that prioritize patient engagement and high-quality care. His expertise in integrating technology with traditional healthcare practices has played a pivotal role in modernizing patient care services, making them more accessible and efficient. With a keen focus on collaborative care models, Porter has been a driving force in fostering a network of healthcare professionals dedicated to delivering coordinated and comprehensive care. His vision for healthcare is one where technology, efficiency, and patient satisfaction converge to create an optimal care environment. 

Under Porter's guidance, Privia Health has emerged as a leader in innovative healthcare solutions, setting new standards in patient care and medical practice management. His forward-thinking approach and dedication to excellence continue to shape the future of healthcare delivery at Privia Health.

Adrian Jordan is the Plan President of Amerigroup DC, a subsidiary of Fortune 100 Elevance Health and Medicaid Managed Care Organization for over 500,000 Washington, DC residents. Adrian’s tenure at Amerigroup DC is marked by innovative strategies and a commitment to transforming healthcare delivery. With a focus on integrating advanced technology and patient-centric services, Jordan has been pivotal in steering the company towards new heights in healthcare management. In this role, he is dedicated to serving members enrolled in the DC Health Families Program (DCHFP), the Healthcare Alliance Program (Alliance), and the Immigrant Children’s Program (ICP). Jordan's leadership is defined by his commitment to addressing Social Determinants of Health, such as housing, poverty, transportation, and food access, through data-driven and outcome-based strategies that promote health and wellness.

Before his current role at Amerigroup DC, Jordan made significant contributions to the healthcare industry as a Senior Government Relations Director for Anthem Inc. (now Elevance Health). His expertise in public affairs was further honed during his tenure at Anthem Inc., where he played a pivotal role in shaping healthcare policies and budgets. His earlier experience includes serving as a key budget and policy analyst for the Council of the District of Columbia’s Health and Human Services cluster.

At Elevance Health, Jordan's leadership is characterized by his dedication to enhancing patient outcomes through innovative health solutions. He has been a driving force behind the adoption of cutting-edge technologies and practices that improve healthcare accessibility and efficiency. His approach to healthcare is holistic, ensuring that every initiative under his guidance not only meets current healthcare needs but also anticipates future trends and challenges.

Under Jordan's guidance, Elevance Health has emerged as a frontrunner in the healthcare industry, setting benchmarks in patient care and health management. His forward-thinking strategies and unwavering commitment to excellence continue to shape the future of healthcare delivery at Elevance Health.

Rayshun Williams has close to ten years of professional experience in this new 21st century economy. He is a Venture Fellow for High Street Equity Partners, and is driven by cutting-edge technology and the movement of money. Rayshun is a graduate of Morehouse College with a Financial Management Services degree, and has served as a Sales and Business Analyst in financial forecasting, reporting, market analysis, business process analysis and other professional capacities. Rayshun’s venture capital expertise is exhibited through his passion for finance, online gaming and marketplaces, and researching the economics of Black family legacies.

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Shannon McFarland is a Publicist and Venture Associate in the Urbana-Champaign and Atlanta, GA areas, focusing on news and community development. Her experience includes publicity for academic and youth development providers, professional athletes, entrepreneurs and e-commerce brands. Shannon is the lead for communications and content strategy at High Street Equity Partners.

Shannon has served as a college sports coach, media coordinator, director of women’s basketball operations and freelance publicist in top 10 sports markets. She received her bachelor’s degree in Public Relations Management and her Master’s in Recreation and Sports Management before founding communications studio Champion Diaries Management. She brings media, operational, and event support to organizations, institutions, athletes, and businesses, impacting communities in cities like Chicago, Atlanta, Miami.

Currently, Shannon is on the Board of Directors for youth sports league First String, Inc, women, student and family support group Dream Girls Academy, and leads operations for STEAM Genius, a STEM ILLINOIS extension, driving innovative technology in teens as Interim Site Supervisor at the Don Moyer Boys & Girls Club.

Shannon is passionate about literacy, news, framing exceptional concepts of storytelling, and designing positive social engagement experiences– Whether in real life or online. She studies yoga, loves to read; celebrate, and collects magazines.

Natasha Valley joined High Street Equity Partners in early 2021, as a Venture Associate to identify new investment trends and opportunities, perform due diligence, and create an ecosystem for founders. She is a trend-setting brand strategist who has led creative marketing, digital media, social media, and public relations strategy for world-class athletes, entertainers, influencers and brands.
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Natasha grew up in England with American parents, which gave her a global view of sports, entertainment, and business, and lit her flame for branding. After receiving a Bachelor's & Master's from Florida A&M University in 2009, she began increasing the profitability of brands
through strategy and storytelling.
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In the past few years, she’s joined the founding team of three incredible tech startups. At KiddieKredit (an app designed to teach children about the credit system through activity completion and reward redemption), Natasha is the Head of Brand Strategy. She is the Chief Marketing Officer at Soulace, a virtual therapy app for Black people with Black providers. Natasha also served as the Chief Marketing Officer at THE MOST (a startup disrupting the hair care space with tech enabled tools for women with textured hair) for a year.
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It was 2020 when she founded a Strategic Communications agency called “atus” to empower startups, professional athletes, and other amazing brands.
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and lives in Houston, TX.

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Jessica Grant is a seasoned venture capital Chief of Staff with over a decade of experience in business operations and development for NGOs and venture-backed startups. Her global career has centered on designing growth systems and implementing strategic visions that have propelled organizations towards making a lasting impact. With a sharp focus on the internal review process and due diligence, Jessica has played a pivotal role in expanding business models to fit international markets. She is particularly passionate about closing the wealth gap through innovative, inclusive solutions.

A Maryland native, Jessica lived abroad for 12 years and has recently returned to the DMV area. Jessica earned her B.S. in Sociology from Clemson University, where she first cultivated her commitment to global change. Her extensive experience, both domestically and internationally, has made her an expert in leveraging business operations to drive meaningful, sustainable success.

George Darden is a software product executive with professional experience in corporate restructuring, performance improvement, and consulting Startups, Private Equity, Venture Capital, and Strategic Buyers within multiple industries (e.g., Aerospace & Defense, Digital, Energy & Utility, FinTech, Healthcare, HighTech, IOT, Media & Entertainment, Real Estate, and Retail). Throughout George’s career, he’s been charged in cost reduction, scaling organizations, IT strategy, software development, organizational design, product development, enterprise architecture, financial accounting, and process and performance improvement for various companies. George is a strong technologist who puts the right people and processes in place, loves to have fun, and brings diverse viewpoints on system thinking, design thinking, strategy, human capital, and economics to High Street Equity Partners.

Dr. William Bowser serves on the Investment Committee for High Street Equity Partners, leading quantitative research in commodity and financial markets with 15 years of experience.

Dr. Bowser obtained a Doctorate degree in Applied Economics from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign in 2012, and also holds the Certificate in Quantitative Finance– The global standard in Financial Engineering.

He is the founder of alternative investment management company Aje Quantitative Capital as an experienced economist and data scientist, and held prior roles in academia and at international research institutions. Dr. Bowser previously led quantitative analytics for Freddie Mac’s Single Family Credit Portfolio Strategy, where he developed stochastic risk based capital algorithms and other proprietary predictive analytics tools for their credit derivatives business.

Currently serving as the Data Science Manager for Fannie Mae, Dr. Bowser leads their fintech product research and innovation alongside an amazing team of data scientists. He lives in Washington, D.C. (with his family), is a fellow of Nassau Street Ventures (or special interests, groups, etc), and works to (create a world view of High Street’s value).

Tristan Wilkerson is General Partner of High Street Equity Partners, focusing on investor relations, capital raising, and portfolio performance.

He is an experienced policy professional, angel investor, and entrepreneur with demonstrated success in both the public and private sectors. Tristan has raised more than $10MM in funding for civic and economic mobility projects from philanthropy, and high net worth individuals. He founded Think Rubix, a culture-first public affairs firm, growing the professional services venture into a seven-figure company year-over-year.

Tristan currently serves on the board of the Little Rock Technology Park Authority, and he chairs the Foundation for Social Impact – a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization purposed to expand entrepreneurial ecosystems. He’s a former Congressional aide managing a portfolio aimed at improving economic conditions in distressed communities and expanding access to healthcare and technology.

He is a native of Little Rock, AR and a graduate of the historic Little Rock Central High School. He holds a degree in political economics, a certification in nonprofit management, and studied business administration at the Fogelman College of Business and Economics. He’s a wine and culinary enthusiast and frequenter of Washington, DC where HSEP is based.

Mitch is a multi-disciplinary business executive, investor, and advisor. Prior to High Street Equity Partners, Mitch was Chief Operating Officer and Partner at DSI – an enterprise SaaS technology company and consultancy. From 2011 - 2021, Mitch was an angel investor and previously co-founded Eye Street Investments, an angel investor network. In addition to serving on several private company boards, he is actively involved in a number of philanthropic and nonprofit endeavors. Mitch is from Washington, DC and lives in the Historic Fort Lincoln neighborhood with his wife. He is guided by his faith and family values, and passionate about entrepreneurship, sports, and live entertainment.