Meet Our Conference Chairs

Ja'Nell Henry is a dedicated community leader and a proud native of the Bull City. A graduate of Guilford College with a BA in Spanish and Business, she co-founded Black August in the Park and the Black Farmers' Market, exemplifying her commitment to fostering community, promoting local agriculture, and supporting Black entrepreneurs. As the Executive Director of the Black Farmers' Market, Ja'Nell is at the forefront of cultivating healthy communities and empowering local businesses.

Recently elected as a Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor of Durham, NC, Ja'Nell continues to champion sustainable practices and environmental stewardship. She is a member of the Stagville Descendants Council, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, and Pi Alpha Alpha. Guided by her passion for creating spaces where others can learn, grow, and experience joy, she remains unwavering in her commitment to inclusivity, sustainability, and community empowerment.

Linda Gunn is a proud North Carolina Central University alum with an undergraduate degree in Political Science and  Masters in Public Administration graduating in 1992. After the completion of her program's six-month internship, she was blessed to begin her career in the nonprofit sector at the North Carolina Rural Economic Development Center in Raleigh, NC.  As a program officer and legislative liaison, she oversaw grants to 24 minority community development organizations (CDCs) across North Carolina. The program was due in part to the state's commitment to addressing the economic development needs in rural minority communities.

In 2000, Gunn became the Sr. Vice President for Administration at the North Carolina Institute of Minority Economic Development in Durham, NC. a position she held for sixteen years before retiring in 2016. She continues to remain active and engaged by volunteering. She is currently a member of the NCCU MPA Advisory Committee, a  member of Durham's Center for Senior Life Advisory Committee, as well as acting Board Secretary. She enjoys being a part of the organization as it works to address the needs of Durham's growing energetic older community. She has been married to Marcilen (Mars) Gunn for 45 years, has three children and is proud grandma to two boys and one girl.

Deiona Stanley is a passionate advocate for equity in public service and a proud graduate of North Carolina Central University’s Master of Public Administration program. She brings energy, vision, and a deep commitment to uplifting voices in public administration.  With a strong background in strategic communications, marketing, and public service, she has led initiatives that elevate voices, foster community engagement, and support organizational growth. Whether managing outreach campaigns, mentoring peers, or planning professional development events, Deiona brings clarity, creativity, and purpose to every project. Deiona’s leadership is rooted in service, strategy, and a genuine desire to create space for others to grow and connect. Through COMPA, she’s excited to continue connecting, empowering, and advocating for the next generation of public service leaders.

Doris Woods is an experienced administrative professional with 25+ years in higher education and healthcare, specializing in executive support, operations management, and team leadership. She is skilled in budget oversight, event planning, credentialing, and problem-solving, with strong communication and organizational abilities. Her passions are building teams and making a meaningful impact at work and in the community. Originally from North Carolina, she completed her BA at North Carolina Central University and her professional Motto is: There is always an alternative, always.

Dr. Tyrone Baines is an accomplished higher education administration and public service leader with over 50 years of experience. He began his career as a Captain in the U.S. Army Medical Service Corps in the late 1960s after earning his MSW from the University of Pennsylvania. Tyrone went on to complete his MA and PhD in Political Science and Public Administration from the University of Maryland in the early 1970s. 

For over three decades, Tyrone served in various leadership roles at North Carolina Central University, including Director of the Public Administration Program, Vice Chancellor for University Relations, and Executive Assistant to the Chancellor. He provided oversight and vision for departments including athletics, admissions, fundraising, alumni affairs, and more. Tyrone also held appointments at the Federal Executive Institute and the University of Southern California during his career. 

In addition to higher education, Tyrone has an extensive background in community service. He has served on numerous nonprofit boards of directors advancing education, economic development, and youth initiatives. His dedication to service and leadership excellence has been recognized through appointments to the Kellogg National Fellowship Advisory Board, honorary doctorates from three universities, and inductions into the National Academy of Public Administration and Alpha Kappa Mu Honor Society. Tyrone continues to consult and advise in areas of management, leadership, diversity, and community engagement. 

Favorite Personal Quote to MPA students: "Scholars, ‘Administration’ is generic. What changes is the context. It doesn't matter if it’s business, public, or not-for-profit; you can do it.