Erik Nolan -Founder and Chief Executive Director

As the founder and Executive Director of programs Mr. Nolan has guided the growth of UMOJA Network for Young Men Inc. from one school in 2004 to 6 schools in 2022. His unique brand of mentoring transcends young men in grades 3 to college alumni. This unique approach sets UMOJA apart from all other mentoring programs.

Mr. Nolan’s vision is built on the work he did with the Coalition of Schools Educating Boys of Color, The Black Male Initiative of C.U.N.Y and Facing History and Ourselves.
Mr. Nolan’s hands on expertise encompasses a broad range of academic counseling encompassing a variety of academic issues.

As a program designer he has had to navigate the execution of weekly workshops, college tours, school based professional conferences, town hall meetings etc.

Mr. Nolan has proven to be most adept at bridging the work to be done with mentees and parent engagement to ensure program continuity and the necessary recruitment for program participation and school wide census.

We are grateful for Mr. Nolan’s ability to keep UMOJA Inc running by meeting with Funders and community Supporters of UMOJA Inc.

Mr. Nolan doubles as the day-to-day manager of all programs and has become acutely aware of evaluation and the need to demonstrate how UMOJA Inc is making a difference in the lives of our young men and community.

Mr. Nolan was academically trained at Virginia State University, receiving a Bachelor of Science degree, Mentoring Supervision Certificate from Fordham University, several awards and certificates for academic excellence. His most recent award is the 2022 Determined To Educate Award