We are a group of community activist dedicated to increasing social awareness of issues impacting students living in marginalized communities worldwide.
Dr. Elanza is an energetic Educator and strong advocate for “Student Centered Leadership. She is also a lover of epic travel experiences and believes that travel provides the greatest learning opportunities. All her passions and interests led to the creation of the GAK Foundation.
After spending 10 years in the classroom, teaching secondary students, Dr. Wilson took a trip to West Africa along with her two nieces, a fellow teacher friend, and her sister-in-law (a retired teacher). During their travel,s the group visited the Ampenyi M/A Basic School in Elmina, West Africa. Dr. Wilson had an opportunity to engage with the students and teach a quick marketing lesson to a class. After this brief encounter, a partnership was formed with the school leadership. Months later, the foundation was formed to help build a canteen for the students at the Ampenyi M/A Basic School.
Dr. Wilson currently works as a career and technology coordinator for one of the largest school districts in the nation. In this role, she supports CTE teachers by helping them grow and develop robust teaching platforms on secondary campuses. Her efforts provide the resources to ensure that students are college or career-ready upon graduation. As a teacher, Dr. Wilson learned that the best teaching outcomes happen when students have totally immersed themselves in the learning experience. This often happens outside of the classroom, and rarely does it come from reading a textbook.
Dr. Wilson holds a doctorate degree in Organizational Leadership, a Master’s in Education, and an MBA. She has a deep passion for Entrepreneurial concepts and has enjoyed sharing her passions and experiences with her students. She continues to use her platform to promote hands-on, culturally relevant, and highly impactful learning experiences to prepare and empower the next generation of leaders. She currently resides in the greater Houston, Texas region.
Kendria L. Russell, MHS (Master of Human Services), is a dedicated educator currently teaching Criminal Justice at the high school level. With 17 years of classroom experience working with students in grades 9–12, she is deeply passionate about empowering young people through education and critical thinking development.
Ms. Russell brings over 20 years of professional experience from the criminal justice field, where she worked directly with individuals involved in the justice system, helping reform behaviors and develop essential life and decision-making skills. She is committed to passing on her industry knowledge to help students better understand the justice system and make informed choices for their futures.
In 2024, during her first visit to Ghana, Ms. Russell pursued her love for education by visiting Ampenyi M/A Basic School in Elmina, West Africa. Her experience engaging with the students left a lasting impact and inspired her to further support the school community. After learning that the school needed a canteen to provide students with a safe place to eat, protected from harsh weather conditions, she became motivated to help meet this need.
Alongside Dr. Elanza and the mission of Global Acts of Kindness (GAK), Ms. Russell supports efforts to build a foundation that provides acts of kindness and meaningful service around the world.
Her personal motto is: “I love students who love to learn.”
Veronica Bowdry, MBA, is a positive role model to many students. She serves as an Accounting Manager and an entrepreneur who has owned and operated her own accounting firm for the past 19 years. Veronica is passionate about giving back and has found her purpose in providing scholarships to deserving students — not only those with high grade point averages, but those who demonstrate resilience, determination, and heart.
Ms. Bowdry proudly serves on the Board of Directors for the GAK Foundation in the role of Treasurer. When the idea was presented to build a canteen (cafeteria) for students in Ghana, West Africa, Veronica’s immediate response was, “How much — and let’s do it.” She helped with fundraising efforts and contributed personally to ensure the project’s success.
Being a servant leader is central to who she is. Veronica’s giving spirit is a legacy passed down from her grandmother, the late Bessie L. Estes. It brings her great joy to continue that legacy through service, generosity, and opportunities that uplift others.
Carolyn Hooper brings heart, wisdom, and an unwavering commitment to serving others to her role on the G.A.K. Foundation Board of Directors. With 34 years of experience as a licensed insurance professional, she has built a career rooted in trust, leadership, and genuine care for people. Her career expands the industry from claims adjusting to risk management, safety, and consulting. Throughout her journey, Carolyn has been passionate about mentoring and guiding others to recognize their potential and step confidently into their purpose. Most recently, she has brought this same drive into the classroom as a local teacher and is currently pursuing a certification in education. She is a graduate of the University of Southwestern Louisiana (University of Louisiana at Lafayette). She earned a BA in Public Relations.
A devoted community volunteer, Carolyn believes that kindness is not just an action, but a calling. Her faith and values inspire her dedication to uplifting others and creating opportunities that empower individuals and families to thrive. She lives by the belief that when we serve others with compassion, we reflect the very best of who we are.
Carolyn embraces the words, “To whom much is given, much is required,” and carries that principle into every area of her life. Through leadership, encouragement, and a servant’s heart, she helps guide the foundation’s mission to create lasting impact—one act of kindness at a time.
10223 Broadway Street, Ste. P577, Pearland, TX USA 77584
(713) 398-6027
INFO@GAKfoundation.ORG
We’re here to listen, support, and collaborate. Whether it’s a simple question or a big idea — don’t hesitate to reach out.
