An entrepreneur, digital strategist, and mentor, I believe the only path to success is to continue creating sustainable, user-friendly solutions for Clay and Group (C+G) clients. I have developed a new approach for elevating each brand and online visibility to engage with purpose and lead in greatness.
I founded C+G in 2008 to be a resource for student organizations and academic departments who lacked the funding to invest in marketing strategies. Over the years, my clientele has expanded to entrepreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits in three countries.
Along with my four part-time business partners, I have maintained C+G part-time while serving in digital roles. JaRel concurrently leads the digital and production operation at Hip Hop Caucus and has managed digital campaigns at Public Citizen, the Center for a New American Security, and Edelman Public Relations.
I hold a master’s degree from Georgetown University and a bachelor’s degree from Kent State University. I am an active member of several organizations dedicated to liberation for communities of color and minority-owned businesses.
At any given time, you can catch me working diligently at a coffee shop, dancing my life away at a studio or local club, exploring a new family-friendly venue with my son, or meeting with a C+G client.
While most people shy away from heights, I embrace them. I’ve jumped out of a plane, and I’m a huge fan of roller coasters. You can say that’s why I’m so comfortable taking clients to new heights.
I was born and raised in Western Pennsylvania, which means I’m a Steelers, Pirates, and Penguins fan! Pittsburgh doesn’t have a basketball team, so I’m Celtics fan from the Paul Pierce era.
I was a licensed bartender for the better half of my 20’s. The things I’ve heard at Bar Louie and Buffalo Wild Wings can rival any taxicab confession.
I play three instruments: trombone, saxophone, and piano.
I occasionally like posting a photo or two on Instagram as a part of the #BlackGayDads community.
