About Us

Ashley Gray, MSW, co-founder and Executive Director of E3 Michigan, brings extensive youth development experience. With a master’s degree in Social Work from Wayne State University, Ashley focuses on promoting social and emotional well-being. Leading the Behavior Interventionist Department at Waterford Public School System, she supports at-risk students and creates positive learning environments. Formerly at Starr Commonwealth, Ashley developed innovative programs to empower families. Certified in various counseling fields, Ashley ensures E3 Michigan's mission of holistic youth and family empowerment.

Dawn Stewart, Ph.D., LPC, co-founder and CFO of E3 Michigan, leverages over 20 years of experience in human services and education. With a master’s degree in Counseling from Michigan State University and a Doctoral Degree in Urban Education from Eastern Michigan University, Dawn's expertise spans counseling, program management, and executive administration. As a Program Manager for Detroit Public Schools Community District, Dawn oversees initiatives across 110 schools, focusing on youth empowerment. Previously, she served as Executive Director at Starr Commonwealth, managing programs for children and youth in the Foster Care and Juvenile Justice systems. Dawn's research focuses on African American youth in the Foster Care system, reflecting her commitment to youth advocacy. In her role as co-founder and CFO of E3 Michigan, Dawn is dedicated to creating transformative programs that empower youth and families socially, emotionally, and academically.

Sylvia Sims Gray, Ph.D., LMSW, serves as the clinical therapist for E3 Michigan, drawing from over 30 years of experience as a Professor at Eastern Michigan University, School of Social Work. With a master’s degree in social work from Michigan State University and a Ph.D. from Wayne State University in Educational Sociology, Dr. Gray has authored numerous articles in major national social work journals and is recognized as Emeritus Faculty by Eastern Michigan University. In her private practice, Dr. Gray focuses on helping individuals, couples, and families achieve their goals and strengthen relationships, bringing expertise in addressing issues such as depression, anxiety, grief, and parent-child dynamics to her role at E3 Michigan.

Brandon Gray, BSW, leads E3 Michigan’s Mentoring Program, bringing extensive experience in workforce development and youth services. With a degree in social work from the University of Detroit Mercy, Brandon's career has focused on supporting marginalized communities, particularly homeless veterans and at-risk youth. As an Employment Specialist, he successfully engages clients and establishes trusting relationships to achieve competitive employment for homeless veterans. Brandon also serves as Associate Director of Community Awareness for a local mentoring organization, organizing youth activities to expose them to the breadth of the Detroit community. Passionate about mentoring, Brandon uses his enthusiasm for music and sports to guide youth through their transition to adulthood. Through his leadership at E3 Michigan, Brandon is dedicated to empowering youth through mentorship and support.