About Us
Hi, my name is Elois Wilson, President of Black Resources, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Davenport, IA. In 2004, I set out to create a central resource where our community could easily find information, opportunities, and one another. Since then, we’ve published multiple editions of our directory, and now, we’re proud to bring it online.
Our mission is to empower African Americans by supporting Black businesses, partnering with community organizations, promoting cultural events, and inspiring volunteerism. Our hope is that through increased visibility, we will begin to foster harmony and equity between all ethnicities.
Let’s continue this journey together, connecting with, celebrating, and empowering one another.
Meet Our Team
Theresa Jones, Secretary
Theresa is an experienced mortgage industry leader with more than 30 years of expertise in loan origination, branch management, and sales leadership. She currently serves as a Sales Manager at Loan Depot, specializing in FHA, USDA, VA, Jumbo, and other residential mortgage products. Before joining Loan Depot in 2017, she held leadership roles at Inland Bank and Trust and CrossCountry Mortgage, and previously worked with Security National Mortgage, Allied Home Mortgage, and Simplicity Mortgage. A Rock Island High School graduate and former Augustana College student, Theresa brings deep local roots and a strong commitment to financial empowerment, equitable access, and supporting individuals through major life decisions.
Leslie Meade,
Treasurer
Leslie Meade is a lifelong Quad Cities resident with more than 40 years of experience as a hairstylist and business owner. A graduate of Rock Island Senior High and Sharon Doran’s Academy, she has built a career focused on helping others feel confident, supported, and uplifted. Her work reflects a deep commitment to personal care, meaningful connection, and strong community relationships. Leslie has served on the board since its inception, driven by her belief in compassion, service, and creating spaces where people feel valued.
She brings strengths in community engagement, relationship building, and service‑centered leadership. A founder and longtime member of The Word Church, Leslie has led the Greeters Ministry for 15 years, fostering a warm and welcoming environment for all.
Brenton Earl,
Member
Brenton Earl is an entrepreneur, business architect, and community minded leader based in Moline, Illinois. With more than three decades of experience in high‑risk business development, strategic branding, and startup consulting, he has built a strong reputation as a creative force in the Midwest. He is the founder of DeucesWild22 Premium Gourmet Dippi’N Sauces. Brenton’s background spans ecommerce, retail, advertising, graphic design, and real estate consulting, and he also serves as a venture capitalist supporting early-stage businesses. He holds a Master of Divinity, a BA in Law, and an Associate of Fine Arts, and remains committed to uplifting his community through entrepreneurship and service.
Coy Jackson,
Member
Coy Jackson is a Professional Coach, Author, and Adjunct Professor at Black Hawk College with more than ten years of experience helping individuals improve their fitness, performance, and long-term health. As the head coach and owner of Quiet Strength Health & Performance, he provides evidence informed coaching focused on strength, durability, and sustainable progress. Coy has worked with high level athletes, individuals overcoming chronic back pain, and adults seeking confidence and consistency in their health. He also coaches youth athletes in strength, power, and movement development. Coy holds a degree in Exercise Science from Western Illinois University and earned his MA degree in Nutrition and Human Performance from Logan State University.
Dwayne Hodges, Member
Dwayne Hodges is a pastor, certified addiction counselor, educator, and community advocate with a long‑standing commitment to social justice and equitable treatment. Having experienced both foster care and penal systems, he has transformed adversity into a lifelong mission of empowerment through advocacy and education. Dwayne is the owner of QC DUI Services in Rock Island, providing evaluations and outpatient treatment across the Quad Cities, and the founder of the Quad Cities Minority Expo, a nonprofit promoting cultural diversity and community uplift. He holds an BA in Psychology with a minor in Christian Counseling from Liberty University and is pursuing a master’s degree to become a Licensed Professional Counselor.
Linda Barnes,
Member
Linda Barnes, MPA, is a seasoned public servant and municipal finance leader with more than 35 years of experience in public administration, budgeting, and community engagement across the Quad Cities. She retired in 2023 as Finance Director for the City of Rock Island, where she oversaw financial operations, long term planning, and organizational accountability. In 2025, she was elected Alderwoman for Ward 3, continuing her commitment to transparent and community‑focused governance. Linda holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of Illinois Springfield and has served with organizations including United Way, the MLK Jr. Community Center, the Rock Island County NAACP, and the Rock Island Human Rights Commission.
Dr. Yolanda Grandberry Pugh, Member
Dr. Yolanda Grandberry‑Pugh is an accomplished educator and administrator with nearly two decades of service in the Rock Island–Milan School District. A Rock Island native, she has built her career as a secondary English teacher and instructional leader committed to academic excellence, equity, and student advocacy. She now serves as Dean of Students at Rock Island High School, a role that reflects her leadership and dedication to students and families. Dr. Grandberry‑Pugh also serves on the United Way Quad Cities Board and the Rock Island Public Library Board, contributing to regional efforts focused on education and community well‑being. She is recognized for her expertise in student support, culturally responsive practice, and collaborative leadership.
Paula Taylor, Volunteer Recruiter
Paula Taylor serves as BRI’s Volunteer Recruiter, bringing more than 30 years of professional experience to the organization. Before joining BRI, she built a distinguished career at John Deere Harvester Works, specializing in training, instructional design, and cross‑functional team development focused on process improvement and cost reduction. Her background in organizational development and facilitation provides a strong foundation for building effective volunteer programs and supporting BRI’s long‑term goals. Paula is committed to preparing and supporting volunteers who help advance the organization’s mission and believes deeply in the power of service to strengthen communities. She holds a BA in Secondary Education from Drake University and an MA in Instructional Design and Technology from the University of Iowa.
