Meet our team

Executive Director

Raquan Pride-Green

Raquan Pride-Green was born in Syracuse NY on September 16, 1983. He spent his childhood primarily in the Pioneer Homes at his grandparent’s residence in Tyler Court.

Prior to becoming the Executive Director of Blueprint 15, Raquan was the Program Manager for the Promise Zone program, which is a non-profit organization that supports students in the Syracuse City School District and their families. Raquan holds a BA of Communication Studies from the University of Rhode Island as well as a Masters in TV, Radio, and Film from Newhouse School of Public Communications at Syracuse University.

Phone: (315) 701-4061

Email: rpride-green@blueprint15.org

Director of Operations

Whitney Grandjean

Whitney Grandjean serves as the Director of Operations at Blueprint 15, where she drives operational excellence and strategic initiatives to advance the organization’s mission. Holding an undergraduate degree in Political Philosophy from Syracuse University and a Master of Business Administration from Le Moyne College, Whitney brings a blend of academic knowledge and practical expertise to her role.

A lifelong resident of Central New York, Whitney is passionate about enhancing the cultural and artistic vibrancy of the region. Her enthusiasm for art, culture, and philosophy shapes her professional approach and personal pursuits. Her commitment to both her professional and personal interests underscore a life dedicated to growth, creativity, and community engagement.

Phone: (315) 701-4062

Email: wgrandjean@blueprint15.org

Community Engagement Manager

James Williams

James Williams was born in Syracuse, NY and is a lifelong resident who grew up in the city’s east and southside. James is a Syracuse City School District graduate of Corcoran Highschool.  

Prior to becoming the Community Engagement Manager of Blueprint 15, James was the Coordinator of the PEACE, Inc. Emma L. Johnston Southside Family Resource Center, a non-profit organization that offers resources to those within the community to become more self-sufficient.  He serves as a board member of The Joe Family Foundation for Disability Advocacy. James attended SUNY Morrisville, studying Hotel and Restaurant Management. He also received credits from the University of Connecticut Family Development Credential Program, a program focused on helping individuals set and reach goals for healthy self-reliance.  

Phone: (315) 960-6045

Email: jwilliams@blueprint15.org

Lead Neighborhood Navigator

Tara Harris

A lifelong Syracuse resident, Tara Harris continues to serve her community in many ways.  A proud graduate of Henninger High School, Tara serves as a Neighborhood Navigator with Blueprint 15 and a Resident Health Advocate with the Healthy Neighborhood Partnership and RADAR at Upstate University Hospital. A 2021 graduate of the Citizens Academy through FOCUS Greater Syracuse, Tara serves on several neighborhood action committees including the City of Syracuse Urban Forestry Committee and serves as the Secretary and Vice Chair of the Pioneer Homes Tenant Association. A passionate resident advocate, Tara advocates for positive change within her community and believes that change can come from within.

Email: taratharris123@gmail.com

Neighborhood Navigator

Marquita Hetherington

 Marquita Hetherington is a highly esteemed Neighborhood Navigator, celebrated for her instrumental role in Blueprint 15 and her unwavering dedication to the FAITH Program. With a wealth of experience in community service, Marquita excels at connecting residents with essential resources and support, playing a crucial role in empowering and uplifting the communities she serves. Her deep commitment to fostering inclusivity and driving positive change is evident in every aspect of her work. Marquita’s approach is marked by a tireless effort to address the unique needs of each neighborhood, ensuring that every resident has access to the opportunities they need to thrive. Her passion for community engagement is complemented by her ability to build strong relationships and create impactful programs that make a real difference in people’s lives.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Marquita enjoys unwinding on the beach with her Kindle in hand, where she indulges in her love for reading. These moments of relaxation amidst the calming waves provide her with a much-needed respite, allowing her to recharge and return to her work with renewed energy and focus.

Phone: (315) 373-5903

Email: mhetherington@blueprint15.org

Neighborhood Navigator

Quwanka Ellerby

Quwanka Ellerby, a Blueprint 15 Neighborhood Navigator, is a lifetime resident of Syracuse, New York, and a Syracuse City School District graduate of Henninger High School. She currently works for the SCSD, serves as the Treasurer of the Pioneer Homes Tenant Association, and she is a Locally Consecrated Missionary of the Northwestern New York District. During her free time, she volunteers for different projects in and around the Blueprint 15 footprint. She goes the extra mile to make sure her neighbors get information on current events that are held by various community organizations. Quwanka has also been a devoted cheerleading coach over the last 30 years.

Email: quwankaellerb77@gmail.com

Board of Directors