About Us

The life of a nation is secure only while the nation is honest, truthful, and virtuous.

About the Douglass Leadership Institute
The Douglass Leadership Institute (DLI) is a national education 501 (c)3 nonprofit that does Christian work based on the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass. DLI supports the strength of the Black family, sensible criminal justice reform, and economic and educational opportunity for all.

DLI provides uniquely tailored programs and resources to a network of like-minded pastors and faith leaders across the country so that men and women of faith can be equipped to lead positive change in their communities, as well as on the state and national level.

Executive Leadership

Bishop Garland Hunt

President

Rev. Kevrick McKain

Executive Vice President

Senior Leadership

Arnold M. Culbreath

Arnold M. Culbreath

Director of Ministry Engagement
Catrina Frison

Catrina Frison

Executive Assistant
Kevin McGary

Kevin McGary

Director of Donor Development
Shenika Terrell

Shenika Terrell

Executive Assistant to Bishop Garland Hunt
Torrey Snow

Torrey Snow

Director of Digital Marketing

Board of Directors

Keith Frasier, Chairman

Adam Harrell, Vice Chairman

Julia Nelson, Secretary  

Albert Strong, Treasurer

The Founder

The Late Bishop Dean Nelson
The Late Rev. Nelson founded the Douglass Leadership Institute in 2015 to equip faith leaders, especially in the African American community, to apply Biblical values and principles to public life and the marketplace. DLI equips men and women of faith for civic engagement and leadership to bring about positive community change through forums, pastor roundtables, policy briefings, and many other outreach events. Rev. Nelson grew DLI into a nationwide network that affirmed and embraced a more complete understanding of the Black American Christian perspective and experience

100

Events Held

700

Churches Served

3,500

Leaders Trained

400,000

Doors Knocked

1,500,000

Voter Guides Distributed

testimonials

Chris Broussard

I am honored to support, endorse, and partner with the Douglass Leadership Institute. It’s work in criminal justice reform and strengthening the Black family, two issues of paramount importance to the liberation of African-Americans, is rooted in the Christian tradition of the great abolitionist Frederick Douglass.

Chris Broussard

Fox Sports Analyst
Dr. Alveda King

The Douglass Leadership Institute is a fantastic organization. I am proud to support the great work of righteousness and justice throughout America.

Dr. Alveda King

Alveda King Ministries
Tony Perkins

Douglass Leadership Institute under Dean Nelson’s leadership is a great ally in the battle for the heart and soul of America as they equip Christians with the practical tools they need to impact the culture for Christ.

Tony Perkins

President, Family Research Council