Meet Our Team
Celeste Banks, M.Ed.
CEO & Principal Grant Writer
Celeste Banks serves as the CEO & Principal Grant Writer at CMB Grant Consultants LLC, assuming a leadership role within the organization. She is a distinguished professional with a Bachelor's Degree in Communication and Art History from Seton Hall University, followed by the attainment of a Master of Science Degree in Educational Administration K-12 from Grand Canyon University, further enhancing her expertise in the field.
With a wealth of experience in grant composition and management, Celeste specializes in orchestrating funding solutions for educational and infrastructural ventures. Her expertise encompasses adept navigation of federal Department of Energy grants, state allocations, and grants sourced from private entities.
Celeste's prowess in the field is underscored by her remarkable track record, having successfully procured over $30+ million in grant funding for clients between 2022 and 2025.
Chi Chi Amadi
Grant Writer
Chi Chi Amadi
Ihesinachi (Chi Chi) Amadi is a global health leader with over 16 years of experience designing and implementing high-impact public health programs across Africa. As a Senior Associate Director at the Task Force for Global Health, she drives health campaign effectiveness by bridging high-level policy with on-the-ground execution.
Chi Chi has a proven track record in grant writing and resource mobilization, having secured seven major grants and managed an $8.5M+ vaccine portfolio during her tenure at the Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI). Her efforts successfully garnered global funding for immunization programs and significantly increased funding for Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) initiatives in Nigeria.
Her expertise in program implementation is demonstrated by her leadership in spearheading the adoption of the Collaborative Action Strategy (CAS) in Nigeria and Ethiopia, expanding SRH programs into Ghana, and optimizing Nigeria’s national vaccine cold chain. A skilled facilitator and strategist, Chi Chi excels at building partnerships with ministries of health, bi-lateral and international organizations, local and civil society organizations to strengthen health systems and deliver sustainable results. She holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Columbia University and a B.S. in Health Science from Georgetown University.
Dr. Robin Freeman, Ed.D
Grant Writer
Dr. Robin Freeman, Ed.D
Robin Freeman is the Director of the nationally recognized training and consultation center, UA CURRENTS, at the University of Arkansas since 2016. She's spearheaded various leadership and organizational development training programs for vocational rehabilitation groups nationwide, including facilitating city-wide discussions on race, equity, and inclusion in central Arkansas.
Robin manages national training initiatives like the Project E3 Leadership Academy Community of Practice, partnering on projects such as Arkansas PROMISE and JDVRTAC to empower individuals with disabilities. She also leads leadership programs for vocational rehabilitation professionals and provides services like event organizing, IT management, grant writing, and organizational development through UA CURRENTS.
With over 20 years of leadership experience, Robin advocates for marginalized communities and conducts research on transition age youth, disability, poverty, policy, and leadership.
Nicole Pickering, M.Ed.
Grant Writer
Nicole Pickering, M.Ed.
Nicole is an experienced educator who is enthusiastic about leveraging grant writing to help bridge the gap between aspirations and financial resources. With over 20 years in education, Nicole excels in communication, research, and project management. She holds a Bachelor's Degree from Seton Hall University and Master's Degree from the University of Scranton. Also, she is a proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Outside of work, Nicole is a devoted mother of one son, enjoys spending time with her family, exploring new restaurants, and has a deep love for music.
Rachael E. Banks, Esq.
Attorney
Rachael Banks, Esq.
Rachael has been a practicing attorney since 2004. She obtained her B.A. from Dartmouth College in 1992 and her Juris Doctorate from Rutgers Law School - Newark in 2004.
