Hello, my name is Jamie! I am often referred to as the Caring C.E.O. because I genuinely care! As a PROUD Petersburg, VA native, I carry forward a long and rich family legacy that has its roots in Petersburg, VA, dating back to the late 1800s. This City of Petersburg is not just my birthplace; it’s the heart of my identity, the place where my family’s story began. My love for Petersburg, VA, runs deep for its historical significance and the people who form its soul. Growing up in this once-vibrant community has instilled in me a sense of belonging and a commitment to giving back.

Welcome to The Black Resilience and Advancement through Volunteering and Empowerment (B.R.A.V.E.) Project Experience! The legal status of The B.R.A.V.E. Project is a nonprofit organization organized and operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the meaning of Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

• The B.R.A.V.E. Project’s Goal: To empower and uplift Black youth in underprivileged, underserved, and indigent communities by providing them with essential resources, support, and opportunities necessary for their success.
• The B.R.A.V.E. Project’s Purpose: To address systemic barriers and inequalities faced by Black youth through the implementation of various community services, mentorship programs, educational support, career development initiatives, and advocacy efforts.
• The B.R.A.V.E. Project’s Mission: To empower and uplift Black youth in underprivileged, underserved, and indigent communities by providing them with essential resources, support, and opportunities necessary for their success.

• Education Journey from Roots to Heights

• My education journey reflects my dedication to learning and growth. It began in the nurturing environment of Wyche’s Kindergarten and continued through the halls of Stuart Elementary (now Pleasants Lane Elementary), Blandford Elementary, and Peabody Middle School. These early years laid the foundation for my academic pursuits, shaping my passion for knowledge. Graduating from Petersburg High School in 1988 with honors was a pivotal moment, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another. Here, I embraced the values of hard work, determination, and community spirit that would guide my future.

• A series of accomplishments have marked my post-high school education journey, each a step toward realizing my mission. From Howard University, where I achieved a Bachelor of Science in Biology/Chemistry (Pre-Med) in 1993, to Norfolk State University, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1997, my thirst for knowledge knew no bounds. I further expanded my horizons, graduating with a Master of Public Administration in Healthcare Administration from Troy University in 2001 and a Master of Business Administration in Strategic Leadership/Management from V.C.U. and TUI in 2010. I’m on the brink of achieving a monumental milestone as a Ph.D. Candidate with a concentration in Public Administration with an expected graduation date of 2024. My educational journey is not just about the degrees; it’s about pursuing excellence, a testament to my commitment to continuous learning and making a positive impact.

• My education is not just a collection of degrees; it reflects my deep-rooted belief in the power of knowledge to transform lives and communities, starting with my own community, Petersburg, VA! As I continue to evolve, I remain devoted to my beloved Petersburg, VA, and its people, determined to contribute to its growth and prosperity. With a heart deeply rooted in Petersburg, VA, I’ve always strongly desired to impact my community positively. This desire is the driving force behind my mission to give back to Petersburg and all the communities I touch.

• Leading Transformation in Quality and Population Health: A Legacy of Impact

  As “The Caring C.E.O.,” I bring a unique blend of experience and dedication that resonates in every aspect of my career. With a career spanning over three decades, I stand as a true leader in the Quality and Population Health industry, not just in Virginia but beyond. I’ve been at the forefront of the healthcare industry, creating waves of positive change that ripple through communities.

• A Legacy of Leadership and Transformation

  With over 30 years as a healthcare professional and executive, my journey has been marked by a continuous commitment to excellence. From serving as Virginia’s Virginia Department of Health Program Manager overseeing Quality Assurance for every managed care organization (i.e., Aetna, Anthem, Coventry, UnitedHealth, Virginia Premier, and numerous other healthcare organizations) to assuming pivotal roles as the Vice President of Quality and Population Health at both national (Anthem Health Plan) and local (Virginia Premier Health Plan) managed care companies in the State of Virginia, my impact has been profound. In 2014, the State’s Medicaid Agency referred to me as the Top-Quality Leader in the State. 

• Pioneering Initiatives for a Healthier Tomorrow

  Throughout my career, I’ve orchestrated transformative initiatives that touch the lives of countless individuals. I’ve vetted and implemented programs, systems, and other large-scale initiatives, leaving an indelible mark on the healthcare landscape. My reach extends to doctor’s offices, health departments, immunization registries, hospitals, and nearly every corner of the healthcare realm. The driving force behind these efforts has always been to elevate the quality of life for individuals and communities.

• A Champion of Collaborative Change and the Community

  My journey isn’t just a solitary pursuit; it’s rooted in collaboration and partnerships. I’ve worked alongside patients, members, citizens, doctors, nurses, administrators, and various healthcare entities to bring about tangible improvements. I’ve stood as a bridge between healthcare professionals and the communities served, ensuring that every voice is heard, and every need addressed!

• Jamie’s profound dedication to community betterment shines through her longstanding membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Since 1995, she has been an active participant in this esteemed organization, which was founded on January 15, 1908, at Howard University in Washington DC. As the oldest Greek-letter organization established by African American college-educated women, Alpha Kappa Alpha stands as a beacon of service and empowerment. Jamie’s engagement with this sorority reflects her unwavering commitment to the principles of upliftment, education, and positive transformation. Her continuous involvement echoes her lifelong mission to create a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and communities, a testament to her unyielding dedication to fostering positive change.

• As the Founder, Chairman of the Board, and C.E.O. of The B.R.A.V.E. Project, my core mission and vision are deep-rooted in “Serving Others.” I inherently believe “serving others” is my assignment in this life. My goal is to further the quality of life and care of all who need healthcare and aid in this life while sharing my time in communities in need of services, especially the underserved communities like my home City of Petersburg, VA.

•  Again, welcome to The B.R.A.V.E. Project experience! 

  Jamie W. McPherson, Ph.D. Candidate, MBA, BSN “The Caring CEO”