MEET THE OFFICERS
Meet the CULYP Officers for the 2025-2026 Executive Leadership Team term.
Vice President
rashuana rainey
Rashauna Rainey is a dynamic professional with over five years of experience driving impactful marketing strategies for small businesses across various industries. She holds dual Bachelor's degrees in Marketing and International Business from the University of Cincinnati, where she developed expertise in strategic planning, digital marketing, and community engagement.
Currently, Rashauna serves as Co-Chair for the Columbus Urban League Young Professionals (CULYP) Empowerment Summit. She specializes in creating marketing strategies, managing partnerships, and securing sponsorships, all while ensuring the event's budgetary success. Her passion for empowering others through education and professional development is evident in her work with CULYP and her broader contributions to the nonprofit sector.
Driven by a desire to contribute to the greater good, Rashauna is passionate about creating impactful programs and initiatives that inspire growth and change.
President
Kendall white
Kendall was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio. He graduated from Ohio Dominican University in 2018 while majoring in Criminal Justice. Additionally, he graduated recently with his Masters in Law, Justice, and Culture from Ohio University in the Spring of ‘22. Kendall now works for Ohioans to Stop Executions, serving as Deputy Director where he oversees the day to day operations of the nonprofit organization.
Outside of work he serves as the 2nd Vice- President of Ohio Young Black Democrats and Vice-President of Columbus Urban League Young Professionals. He is a dedicated member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity (FA’19) and continues to service the communities within Columbus.
Treasurer
Jovantae Brandon
JoVantae Brandon, a licensed banker at Chase Bank, combines his financial expertise with a passion for community empowerment in Columbus, Ohio. Specializing in making complex financial concepts accessible, JoVantae extends his impact beyond his professional role through financial literacy workshops and one-on-one coaching, focusing on wealth building and protection strategies.
As Treasurer for the Columbus Urban League Young Professionals (CULYP), JoVantae has improved the organization's approach to financial management. His primary focus has been on building strong, lasting relationships with business partners, a strategy that not only bolsters CULYP's current financial health but also secures its future growth and impact. This effective approach to treasury management has positioned CULYP for long-term sustainability and expanded reach.
JoVantae's vision extends beyond immediate financial gains. He is deeply committed to creating opportunities for generational wealth, particularly within the Black community. By leveraging the business partnerships he's cultivated, JoVantae aims to expand CULYP's financial education initiatives, reaching an ever-growing number of young professionals.
Secretary
jONATHAN BROWN II
Jonathan Brown II is a versatile professional with a background in community outreach, public service, and media. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Film and Media Production from Capital University. Currently, he serves as a Legislative Analyst for the City of Columbus, where he supports Councilmember Nicholas Bankston on economic development and small business initiatives.
Jonathan’s commitment to service is evident through his work with legal non-profits, where he coordinated programs and events, managed payroll, and strengthened community engagement efforts. As a Bonner Student Leader, he contributed over 280 hours of service annually, collaborating with local organizations to foster civic engagement and social justice.
In addition to his public service work, Jonathan has a passion for media and communication. He served as a Play-by-Play Analyst and Sports Broadcaster for Capital Sports, where he covered sporting events and engaged audiences with detailed commentary. His leadership in student radio further demonstrates his ability to manage media operations and connect with diverse audiences.
With a strong dedication to community and communication, Jonathan Brown II is driven to create positive change and inspire others through his work.