MEET OUR TEAM
Nicole Elliott
Founder & Executive Director
Nicole Elliott is a Licensed Clinical Social Work Associate with more than 20 years of experience serving individuals, families, and communities in the mental health field. She recently successfully completed her clinical licensure exam, reflecting her continued commitment to growth, leadership, and excellence in behavioral health services.
After the tragic loss of her oldest child to gun violence on March 19, 2019, Nicole transformed her pain into purpose by founding The Marcus Jackson Project, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to violence prevention, advocacy, healing, and community support. Through outreach initiatives, awareness campaigns, restorative programs, and community engagement, the organization works to support individuals and families impacted by violence and trauma.
In addition to her work as a clinician, Nicole is a motivational speaker, life coach, mentor, and advocate for healing and restoration. Known for her authenticity, compassion, and ability to connect with others, she is passionate about creating safe spaces that inspire hope, resilience, healing, and change.
Driven by both lived experience and professional expertise, Nicole continues to lead with purpose while empowering others to turn pain into power and purpose into impact.
Nicole Elliott
MSW, LCSWA
Dr. Valerie Batts
Board Chair
Dr. Valerie Batts, Ph.D is a Licenced Clinical Psychologist with more than 40 years of experience working with survivors, strengthening families, and supporting efforts to revitalize communities impacted by trauma, violence, and systemic challenges. Throughout her career, she has remained deeply committed to healing-centered work, advocacy, leadership development, and empowering underserved communities.
As Board Chair of The Marcus Jackson Project, Dr. Batts brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion, and vision to the organization’s mission of violence prevention, community healing, and restorative support. Her dedication to creating meaningful change continues to inspire collaboration, resilience, and hope within the communities she serves.
Known for her leadership, wisdom, and passion for community transformation, Dr. Batts continues to be a powerful advocate for healing, equity, and sustainable impact.
Dr.Valerie
Psychologist, PhD
Markita Drew
Survivor
Markita Drew
Ma
Administrative Assistant
A dedicated mother, survivor, and compassionate professional, Markita brings strength, resilience, and heart to everything she does. As a single mother, she understands the importance of perseverance, love, and showing up for others even during life’s most challenging moments.
Known for her gentle spirit and unwavering determination, she is deeply committed to supporting the mission of The Marcus Jackson Project and the individuals and families the organization serves. Her lived experience, caring nature, and perseverance continue to inspire those around her while helping create a welcoming and supportive environment for the community.
More than anything, she is a survivor — leading with strength, compassion, and purpose every day.