N. Janice Essien

Nnene Janice Essien  is a people and culture, organizational development, diversity, equity and inclusion professional with over 16 years of experience in implementing strategies that make an impact. Her work includes the development of equitable organizational policy and practices, compensation and benefits, recruitment, technology implementations, innovative wellness practices, training and development, and team member relations.

She deeply believes in fostering effective workplace relationships, self-awareness, continuous learning/re-learning and wellness as keys to success. Janice currently serves as Director of People and CUlture for Borealis Philanthropy and previously served as the Chief of People Operations and Culture at Movement Voter Project; the Director of Human Resources at FWD.us and the Chief of Talent, Diversity and Inclusion at Friendship Place.

She finds happiness and purpose in creating new, tailored, and innovative practices that help people thrive. She always strives to level the playing field and helps people say the unspoken to build true and effective relationships.

Janice is a 2nd generation immigrant proudly hailing from Nigeria via Baltimore, Maryland. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Social Work from Morgan State University and her Master’s degree in Human Resources Development from Towson University. She holds certifications in human resources and coaching (PHR, SHRM-CP, ACC). Two beautiful humans call her mom and she enjoys slow traveling, scratch cooking, dancing, and designing clothing and decor for events.