Meet Our Team
Celeste Banks, M.Ed.
CEO & Principal Grant Writer
Celeste Banks serves as the CEO & Principal Grant Writer at CMB Grant Consultants LLC, assuming a leadership role within the organization. She is a distinguished professional with a Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Art History from Seton Hall University, followed by the attainment of a Master of Science Degree in Educational Administration K-12 from Grand Canyon University, further enhancing her expertise in the field.
With a wealth of experience in grant composition and management, Celeste specializes in orchestrating funding solutions for educational and infrastructural ventures. Her expertise encompasses adept navigation of federal Department of Energy grants, state allocations, and grants sourced from private entities.
Celeste's prowess in the field is underscored by her remarkable track record, having successfully procured over $12 million in grant funding for clients between 2022 and 2024.
Dr. Uchenna A. Onyeani, D.C.
CFO & Grant Writer
Dr. Uchenna A. Onyeani, D.C.
Dr. Uchenna A. Onyeani, D.C. is a distinguished chiropractor, dynamic public policy consultant, experienced grant writer, and passionate leader whose career has been marked by a commitment to both healthcare and community empowerment. Born in Newark, New Jersey, Dr. Onyeani received a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) degree in Biology from Rutgers University-Newark and later went on to pursue his Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from the New York Chiropractic College in Seneca Falls, NY.
With a foundation in chiropractic care, Dr. Onyeani has built a reputation for delivering patient-centered treatment that blends clinical expertise with a holistic approach to health and wellness and brings a wealth of expertise to the intersection of healthcare and public policy. His commitment to healthcare has been on display for over a decade through various charities and projects. One of his more recent projects involves complimentary scoliosis screenings for the children of East Orange, NJ in conjunction with the East Orange Department of Health under his “Stop Overlooking Scoliosis” (S.O.S) initiative through the non-profit organization, “Nuanced Wellness for Kids,” where he has written multiple grants and continues to serve today.
Dr. Onyeani's chiropractic career is further distinguished by his appointment to the New Jersey State Board of Chiropractic Examiners in 2021, where he currently serves as Board President. Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Onyeani has seamlessly merged his passion for healthcare with his passion for public policy. As a former Legislative Policy Aide for retired Essex County, NJ Commissioner Rufus Johnson, he showcased his practical engagement with public policy and further developed relationships with elected officials on both sides of the aisle. This experience equips him with insights into the intricacies of government processes, contributing to a holistic understanding of healthcare within the broader policy landscape. His influence in the public policy sphere is notable for its depth and breadth, from facilitating partnerships with key stakeholders to spearheading efforts that enhance civic engagement and social equity.
Whether he is adjusting the spine or adjusting policy, Dr. Uchenna A. Onyeani, D.C. continues to make a meaningful impact on the communities he serves, embodying the values of leadership, health, and holistic well-being. His ability to inspire change across multiple domains has earned him respect as a trusted chiropractor, thought leader, and public policy advocate.
Onyeani's diverse experiences, from chiropractic practice to public policy consulting, to grant writing, to board appointments and leadership roles, collectively make him a top-tier creative consultant in healthcare and public policy. His comprehensive understanding of government relations at the local, county, and state level as well as his understanding of the intricacies of healthcare delivery and the nuances of policy formulation positions him as an asset for those seeking innovative and effective solutions at the intersection of health and public affairs.
Dr. Robin Freeman, Ed.D
Grant Writer
Dr. Robin Freeman, Ed.D
Robin Freeman is the Director of the nationally recognized training and consultation center, UA CURRENTS, at the University of Arkansas since 2016. She's spearheaded various leadership and organizational development training programs for vocational rehabilitation groups nationwide, including facilitating city-wide discussions on race, equity, and inclusion in central Arkansas.
Robin manages national training initiatives like the Project E3 Leadership Academy Community of Practice, partnering on projects such as Arkansas PROMISE and JDVRTAC to empower individuals with disabilities. She also leads leadership programs for vocational rehabilitation professionals and provides services like event organizing, IT management, grant writing, and organizational development through UA CURRENTS.
With over 20 years of leadership experience, Robin advocates for marginalized communities and conducts research on transition age youth, disability, poverty, policy, and leadership.
Nicole Pickering, M.Ed.
Grant Writer
Nicole Pickering, M.Ed.
Nicole is an experienced educator who is enthusiastic about leveraging grant writing to help bridge the gap between aspirations and financial resources. With over 20 years in education, Nicole excels in communication, research, and project management. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from Seton Hall University and Master's Degree from the University of Scranton. Also, she is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Outside of work, Nicole is a devoted mother of one son, enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new restaurants, and has a deep love for music.
Rachael E. Banks, Esq.
Attorney
Rachael Banks, Esq.
Rachael has been a practicing attorney since 2004. She obtained her B.A. from Dartmouth College in 1992 and her Juris Doctorate from Rutgers Law School - Newark in 2004.
