This Is Us

DNA RISING was founded by three proud representations of East Cleveland, Ohio. We are mothers, sisters, friends, volunteers, women of faith, employers, philanthropists, business owners and overall fabulous human beings. As die-hard native Clevelanders, our passion for the community into which we were born and raised has inspired us to ‘Do Something!’ by actively participating in the rebirth of the greater Cleveland area. We plan to become an integral part of the 'rising' of those community members who are ready and willing to move onward and upward in any and every way possible. 

  • Founder, President: Danielle Acosta, M.Ed Shaker Heights, Ohio

    Formerly a daycare owner and educator of special needs children, Danielle has over 20 years of experience in teaching, training, renovating, designing, real estate management and investment. Danielle is a dedicated wife and mother of two beautiful daughters who strives to be an example for them that they can achieve whatever they set their minds and hearts upon. She is an adventurous go-getter who has traveled the world, serving and giving every step of the way. Danielle’s huge heart and strong work ethic has opened her eyes to the vast needs in her hometown. The proud Cleveland native will stop at nothing to serve through DNA RISING and to shine a light on our incredible city. 

    Education: Shaw High School; The Ohio State University (B.S); John Carroll University (M.Ed); 

    Memberships: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Cleveland Realtist Association, Hope Worldwide, Akron Cleveland Association of Realtors, Business Volunteers Unlimited, National Association of Realtors, HopeStays

  • Co-Founder, Board Advisor: Tracie Cleveland, MBA Columbus, Ohio

    Tracie is a Board Director and an experienced IT Executive spanning multiple industries such as telecommunications, automotive, insurance and financial services. She has leveraged her diverse set of skills and talent to lead powerfully and effectively within Fortune 100 companies such as Nationwide Insurance, JP Morgan Chase and is currently a Senior Vice President at KeyBank. This fierce single mother has excelled throughout her illustrious career while forging a path for her beloved son and the next generation. Tracie’s sharp mind, caring soul and focused leadership will motivate the team as she guides DNA RISING toward the next level of service. 

    Education: Shaw High School, The Ohio State University (B.S), Baker College (MBA)

    Memberships: National Society of Black Engineers; Women in Technology International; United Way Key Club; National Black MBA

  • Co-Founder, Vice President: LaToya Smith, MBA Macedonia, Ohio

    Over the past two decades of her career in the financial services industry, LaToya has persevered against all odds, risen within the ranks of Fifth Third Bank and is currently the Vice President for Talent Acquisition. In this position, LaToya has the pleasure of attracting, acquiring, and advancing top diverse talent into the bank while also leading a team of talent acquisition consultants for Bancorp. LaToya shares her wealth of knowledge as an Adjunct Professor for Cuyahoga Community College and serves with multiple community-service organizations. This energized wife and mother of two children is an example of love, light, and power. LaToya’s diplomatic nature and compassionate soul will motivate others as she supports DNA RISING, elevating it to the community-driven powerhouse it is meant to be.

    Education: Shaw High School, Cleveland State University (B.A), University of Phoenix (MBA)

    Memberships: Delta Sigma Theta and Eta Phi Beta Sororities; United Black Fund of Greater Cleveland; Bessie’s Angels

DNA RISING

Building The foundation of home

Secretary, Kimberly Stephens, MBA

Jacksonville, FL

 East Cleveland, Ohio Native

Kimberly M Stephens is a strong believer in the statement that you must be the change you want to see. She takes pride in serving her community, with the goal of leaving the world better than she found it. She is a seasoned professional with over 35 years of experience in process, people, and technology management. During her career she has consistently demonstrated the ability to drive organizational success through seamless integration or process efficiency, team leadership, and cutting-edge technology solutions. 

Kimberly possesses deep passion for the welfare of her community as demonstrated by her involvement in several non-profit organizations. Kimberly serves on the Board of Brown Girls in the Boardroom, Board Treasurer of Girls Inc of Jacksonville, Board Secretary for DNA Rising, Mentors students through Take Stock in Children, and is a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc.

Kimberly is the mother of two adult children, and spends her free time traveling, reading, and trying new restaurants and cuisines.

Board Member, MPH., PHD candidate

Lakewood, Ohio

Michelle Edison is an accomplished and award-winning public health expert with 20+ years of experience driving innovative public health improvement initiatives. She reimagines healthcare program engagement with strategic planning across national and regional organizations, public agencies, and non- and for-profit strategic partners. She disrupts stagnant and siloed programs to reduce health disparities and reworks organizational infrastructure to drive statistically significant outcomes. Michelle champions a collaborative leadership approach to build high-performing teams and engage community partners, agencies, lawmakers, and shareholders to vision and employ actionable change. She is nationally recognized as a voice for public health in communities, maternal, infant, and family health, and policy. 

She is a mentor for the New to Public Health (N2PH) Residency Program, president of the executive board of the Alpha Chi Chapter of Delta Omega, the honorary society for graduate studies in public health, member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Inc. and is an inaugural board member and treasurer of the Cleveland Families Forward Foundation CF3), which empowers families in the St. Clair Superior neighborhood in Cleveland. 

Board Member, Air Force Veteran, B.S. Accounting

Danielle Wilson is a results-driven Treasury Management Sales Associate and U.S. Air Force Veteran with expertise in client advisory, wealth and asset management, and treasury solutions. Proven record of securing multimillion-dollar deposits, surpassing acquisition goals, and leading financial literacy initiatives that positively impact communities. Skilled in financial analysis, tax advisory, relationship management, and risk mitigation. Master of Accountancy candidate committed to delivering sustainable financial growth and operational excellence. 

Danielle is an active community volunteer supporting financial literacy and mentorship through organizations including: Values in Action 

Akron Zoo 

Goodwill 

The Haven of Rest Ministries 

The Women's Business Center & EDCI