About Us
Our team is committed to making life better for others by providing the technology to do so, whether it's helping a student's education, or giving someone an opportunity to create a brighter future for themselves. We believe in giving the disadvantaged a chance to better themselves, which means everything.
Greg Powell
Executive Director
As a Business Development professional, Greg has over 40 years experience in technology sales, sales management and channel program development working with Federal, State and Local government entities and education institutions. As a Sales Manager, Greg created and implemented business plans to deliver profitable growth, while simultaneously building long term business relationships.
Brenda Powell
Outreach Director
Brenda was introduced to Laptops 4 Learning (L4L) while working as a high school guidance counselor in the Phoenix Union High School district (PUHSD). She worked in PUHSD for 11 years, guiding students in their effort to successfully navigate through high school and onto college or a career. It was as a result of one of her students needing a laptop that she connected with Laptops 4 Learning. Upon her retirement in 2018 Ms. Powell assumed the role of L4L Executive Director. Prior to becoming a high school guidance counselor, Ms. Powell worked in corporate sales for companies such as Xerox, Honeywell and TRW.
The L4L Story
In 2015, ​Laptops 4 Learning founder, Dwayne Baker, recognized the need for students he mentored to have access to technology, for educational and employment opportunities. He observed that for many students, school-sponsored technology resources were the only tools available to them to keep up with their assignments. As a veteran, Mr. Baker also wanted to help fellow veterans pursue education and employment opportunities.
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Baker formed L4L in direct response to those students he encountered, and the military veterans, who did not have the means to obtain a laptop. This initiative has evolved into a nonprofit organization focused on supplying ANY student and veteran that needs support, with this essential technology tool. Students and veterans are able to set up an account on the L4L website to solicit tax-deductible donations from family, friends, and community members. As soon as the student generates or self-funds laptop total cost, the computer is delivered.
Our Board members
Evelyn Baymon
Evelyn Baymon has been in the IT industry for 40 years. Currently, she is the Vmware Learning Manager for the Americas West. She is a graduate of Western New England University in Massachusetts, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Manufacturing/Industrial Engineering. Evelyn enjoys traveling, jazz, and spending time with her family.
Trina Curry
Trina Curry, a St. Petersburg, FL native, moved to Arizona during her U.S. Air Force career. She holds degrees in Occupational Education, Organizational Management, Divinity, and Theology. Trina has worked with Maricopa County Human Services, Arizona Women’s Education & Employment, and Homeward Bound. Passionate about God, education, and helping others, she lives in Waddell, AZ, with her husband. She enjoys reading, crossword puzzles, trivia, traveling, and adventures.
Beverly West
Beverly is a seasoned business professional with a rich background, boasting over twenty years of experience as an entrepreneur. Specializing in Organizational Leadership and Behavior, she leverages her expertise to mentor small and medium-sized businesses in the realms of finance, accounting, and human resources. Alongside her professional endeavors, Beverly shares a fulfilling life with her husband, Ross, and takes pride in raising two inspiring adult sons.
During her leisure hours, she finds joy in activities such as reading, event coordination and planning, and indulging in her passion for interior design. These pursuits serve as creative outlets that allow her to express herself fully.
Ezra Williams
Ezra Williams is an experienced professional with a unique blend of business and technical expertise. He has over 27 years of experience in the technology industry, with roles spanning engineering, product management, and sales, working with Hewlett Packard and Intel Corportation. Ezra has an undergraduate degree in Electrical Engineering from Arizona State University and an MBA from the University of Arizona. Ezra is passionate about football and has volunteered for numerous years as a coach in the local community. In addition to work and football, Ezra is also a husband and father. In his spare time, he enjoys learning Spanish, promoting financial literacy and is an avid distance runner.
Selina Canty
Selina is a graduate of Arizona State University where she earned her Bachelor of Science in Bioengineering and has over 15 years of experience in the medical device industry. In her career, she gained experience in project management, strategic planning, process development, and event planning. Selina enjoys mentoring young professionals, live music, outdoor activities and spending time with family.
Eddie Little
Eddie is Senior Director of Enterprise Operations at SwitchThink Solutions, an IT services organization. His IT experience spans over 14 years with companies such as Desert Schools Credit Union, Love Outreach Housing and Community Centers, Sherwood Food Distributors, and Fiserv Galaxy Plus. Eddie is also a Certified Coach, Teacher, and Speaker trained by the John Maxwell Company.
Susana Trasente
Susana began her career with Freeport-McMoRan’s legal team, excelling in the Global Compliance Department through her cultural insights and business acumen. Transitioning to the public sector, she fostered public-private partnerships, promoting foreign direct investment in Arizona and engaging businesses for their expertise. At the Maricopa Association of Governments, Susana educated elected officials on foreign policies and trade statistics, and managed international projects, including leading trips to Mexico and organizing high-level meetings.
Currently, Susana is the Project Manager for the Economic Development Services team at the City of Peoria, overseeing development projects and programs. She serves on several boards, including Laptops4Learning, Global Chamber Phoenix Advisory Board, Women’s Business Center, Arizona Hispanic Chamber of Commerce DATOS Committee, and the District Export Council. Susana holds a BA in Psychology from Arizona State University and an MBA from Grand Canyon University. She has been recognized with the Phoenix Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 award in 2019 and named a Rising Star by the Arizona Capitol Times in 2023.
Paul Janis
Paul is President of Janis Management, Inc., a management consultancy firm. Previously, he served as Senior Vice President and Chief Information Officer – International of TransUnion, where he was responsible for the technology space, including strategy, security, applications, operations, infrastructure and delivery. He has served in senior leadership roles with JanPro of Northern Chicago, Accenture, Exelon, and RR Donnelly & Sons. Paul volunteers with several organizations focused on small business, education and hunger.