Board Members – Tu Organics Foundation

Board of Directors

Founder & Executive Director - Mariatu Tu Browne

Mariatu Tu Browne is a first-generation doctoral scholar, licensed cosmetologist, business professor, and social entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in the beauty industry. Born in Sierra Leone, she immigrated to the United States as a child and built a purpose-driven career rooted in resilience, education, and service. She is the Founder and Executive Director of the Tu Organics Foundation, where she leads initiatives expanding access to cosmetology education, entrepreneurship training, and workforce readiness for underserved women. Mariatu also teaches business at Chaffey College and is pursuing her Doctor of Business Administration at University of La Verne, with research focused on updating and modernizing cosmetology curriculum to advance economic empowerment.

Entrepreneurship Advisor - William Donohoo

PROFESSOR OF ENTREPRENEURSHIP William (Bill) Donohoo has had a half century career in business, operating in managerial and executive positions with both large and small companies. During his career he started or helped to fund eight companies, one of which was listed on the New York Stock Exchange. He graduated with an MBA from the Harvard Business School. After retirement from industry, he began a second career teaching in the Cal State University system at Cal State San Bernardino and at Cal State Long Beach. He was a full time lecturer in Strategy and. Entrepreneurship for over 15 years.

Communication Coordinator - Georgina To’a Salazar

MARKETING AND COMMUNICATION COORDINATOR Georgina To’a Salazar, PhD, is a skilled marketing and communications professional with a strong background in content creation, digital marketing, and strategic storytelling. As Marketing & Communications Coordinator at the Tu Organics Foundation, she develops compelling narratives and manages multi-channel campaigns to promote the Foundation’s mission of empowering underserved individuals through education and entrepreneurship. Georgina holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering from the University of California, Irvine, and a BS in Chemical Engineering from Stanford University. She is the founder of Redwood Scientific Communications, which provides writing and editing support for developing scientific manuscripts, grant proposals, and feature articles. Based in San Diego, she is passionate about using her communication expertise to support philanthropic initiatives and drive social change.

Treasurer - Joe Nazzal

TREASURER Joe Nazzal is an experienced accountant and business owner with a strong background in finance and taxation. As the founder of Tier 1 Accountants LLC, Joe specializes in helping individuals and businesses navigate financial planning, tax strategy, and compliance. With a passion for community development, he brings his expertise in financial management to support the nonprofit sector, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strategic growth. His commitment to financial integrity and sustainable business practices makes him a valuable asset to the board.

Administrative Director - Rhea Chavez

Rhea Chavez newly appointed Secretary dedicated to educating and empowering women rebuilding their lives after abuse, incarceration, and human trafficking. Her leadership is informed by personal resilience and decades of service. A survivor herself, Rhea has dedicated her life to supporting marginalized populations through both professional and volunteer roles. She has worked as a medical professional and deputy sheriff, serving homeless populations across Los Angeles, and supporting underprivileged and gang-affected communities. Rhea’s work also includes housing development initiatives and direct support for survivors of human trafficking. Now based in Pahrump, Nevada, where she has lived for 17 years, she continues her advocacy through the arts as Treasurer and Director of a local nonprofit theatre company. In her role as Secretary, Rhea ensures organizational clarity, accountability, and compassionate leadership—helping create pathways for women to heal, learn, and thrive.

Community Advisor - Donna Corey

Assistant Executive Director, SWCREDA Rural Business Advisor, Nevada SBDC Donna Corey brings years of experience and passion to her role as a Community Advisor for the Tu Organics Foundation. She serves as the Assistant Executive Director of the Southwest Central Regional Economic Development Authority (SWCREDA), supporting Nye and Esmeralda Counties, and as a Rural Business Advisor with the Nevada Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Since 2017, Donna has empowered rural entrepreneurs by helping them start, grow, and sustain their businesses. Her diverse background includes: • Owning an automotive repair shop • Working in construction and solar energy development • Organizing large-scale community festivals • Teaching 2nd through 12th grade in a one-room schoolhouse Her hands-on experience and deep understanding of rural communities make her an invaluable asset to the Browne Foundation’s mission of empowering women and underserved populations through education and entrepreneurship. Donna’s collaboration with the Foundation supports strategic initiatives that foster community revitalization, economic growth, and career advancement in rural Nevada. When she's not working to uplift others, Donna enjoys singing and surrounding herself with the color green—a perfect match for her dedication to growth and renewal.